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Road Trip from Miami, FL to Austin, TX via Nashville, TN
Planning a Florida to Texas Road Trip is a perfect way to experience the diverse landscapes, fascinating culture, and Southern hospitality that define this region of the United States. From sunny Florida beaches to the rolling hills of Georgia, and from the lush woodlands of Tennessee to the wide-open plains of Texas, each leg of this adventure offers its own distinct appeal. Whether you’re traveling with a camper or by car, you’ll find countless opportunities to explore historic sites, enjoy regional cuisine, and uncover hidden gems along the way.
Below is a detailed guide to all the major stops, routes, and attractions you can expect to enjoy on this memorable road trip. This route was driven with our 2013 Ford F150 XLT towing a 2019 Jayco Jayfeather X213 from coast-to-coast in 2024; with many adventures along the way! We’ll include campground and park information for travelers hitting the road in an RV, local dining suggestions for food enthusiasts, and references to official websites where you can learn more about each location.
Overview of the Route
This route weaves through a tapestry of states, taking you from Florida to Georgia, up toward Tennessee and Kentucky, across Arkansas, and finally into the heart of Texas. Along the way, you’ll pass through iconic cities such as Memphis and Nashville, as well as smaller towns like Hopkinsville, Kentucky, and Forsyth, Georgia. The journey also includes stops at scenic parks like Montgomery Bell State Park and Hot Springs National Park. The final leg winds through the great state of Texas, offering stops in places like Lake Whitney State Park before reaching major urban centers like Austin and Houston.
Here are the main stops featured in this travel guide:
• Fort Lauderdale (starting points in Florida)
• Orlando/Kissimmee KOA near the world-famous theme parks
• Forsyth KOA Journey in Georgia
• Montgomery Bell State Park near Nashville, Tennessee
• Hopkinsville, Kentucky
• Memphis, Tennessee
• Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas
• Lake Whitney State Park in central Texas
• Dobie Valley RV Park in the Austin area
• Houston, Texas
You can adapt the length of your journey depending on how long you want to stay in each location. From short weekend sprints to multi-week explorations, the Deep South has plenty of adventures to offer any traveler.
Starting in Florida: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando
Florida, known for its sunny climate and beautiful coastlines, is a fantastic starting point for your adventure. Since Florida is a popular travel hub, it makes sense to pick up your RV (or rental car) in or around Miami and Fort Lauderdale. We purchased our Ford F150 XLT in New Smrna Beach, FL and the 2019 Jayco Feather X213 travel trailer outside of Tampa, FL. We also had logistics of obtaining a Virtual Mailbox and car insurance to register and tag the vehicles. This area offers ample rental agencies, major airports, and quick access to highways.
Highlights in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale Area
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• Sunny beaches of Fort Lauderdale
• Famous Miami neighborhoods such as Little Havana and Wynwood
• Everglades National Park within driving distance
• Vibrant nightlife and dining
• Buc-ees gas stations
For official information about Everglades National Park, visit the National Park Service website.
Traveling from Miami/Fort Lauderdale to Orlando
The drive from the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area to Orlando is typically three to four hours (approximately 235 miles from Miami to Orlando via the Florida Turnpike). This highway offers a direct and convenient route.
In Orlando, you’ll find some of Florida’s most famous attractions:
• Walt Disney World Resort including EPCOT
• Universal Orlando Resort
• SeaWorld Orlando
• International Drive dining and entertainment
Since our route highlights an RV-friendly approach, one of the popular places to stay is the Orlando/Kissimmee KOA. This well-equipped campground offers full-hookup sites, clean facilities, and close proximity to the theme parks (and car dealerships!). You can learn more at the KOA website.
Atlanta, Georgia: Gateway to Southern Charm
Leaving Orlando behind, you’ll head north on Interstate I-75 toward Atlanta, Georgia. We stayed at the KOA Forsyth. This small town is located about an hour south of Atlanta and is a convenient overnight stop. At the Forsyth KOA Journey, you’ll find peaceful campsites and the chance to recharge before tackling more miles on the road. In addition to clean, well-kept facilities, Forsyth KOA is near:
• Atlanta attractions including the Coca-Cola museum
• Local restaurants offering Southern comfort food
• Historic sites in downtown Forsyth
• Easy access to Macon and nearby state parks
Driving from Orlando to Forsyth spans roughly 340 miles. We stopped at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park for an overnight stop near the GA/FL border, and to first experience sub-zero freezing temperatures in the trailer. If time allows, consider stopping in Gainesville, Florida, or Valdosta, Georgia, for quick side excursions—both cities have unique dining and cultural experiences.
Exploring Tennessee: Montgomery Bell State Park and Nashville
Continuing north from Forsyth, you’ll move toward Tennessee. After crossing into the Volunteer State, you can veer west around the outskirts of Nashville, or dip into the city to enjoy the sights and sounds of Music City.
Montgomery Bell State Park
Located about 40 minutes west of downtown Nashville, Montgomery Bell State Park provides an excellent blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Encompassing nearly 4,000 acres of forest, lakes, and hiking trails, this park appeals to both nature enthusiasts and families looking for scenic relaxation.
• RV sites with electric and water hookups
• Hiking trails around Lake Acorn
• Canoeing or kayaking on the park’s waterways
• Picnic areas and pavilions
For official information and reservations, visit the Tennessee State Parks website.
Nashville’s Musical Heritage
If you decide to explore Nashville during your stop, don’t miss:
• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
• Ryman Auditorium
• Live music on Broadway
• The Gulch and 12South neighborhoods for trendy dining
Nashville’s vibrant nightlife and legendary music scene cater to all tastes, and you can easily spend a day or two here. This city is also brimming with historical sites like the Hermitage, Andrew Jackson’s former home, and the Parthenon in Centennial Park.
Detour to Kentucky: Hopkinsville
From Montgomery Bell State Park, the route heads northwest into Kentucky. Although you might expect farmland and rolling hills, Hopkinsville boasts a surprising variety of cultural and outdoor attractions. Some highlights around Hopkinsville include:
• Trail of Tears Commemorative Park
• Casey Jones Distillery for local whiskey tours
• Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park
If you have time, a stop at Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area—about an hour west—offers 170,000 acres of nature, wildlife refuges, and scenic drives. You can learn more about Land Between the Lakes at the official recreation area website.
Memphis, Tennessee: Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Heading southwest from Hopkinsville, your next major city is Memphis. Known as the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Memphis is a must-visit destination for music lovers. Fans of Elvis Presley will want to tour Graceland, and those interested in American cultural history shouldn’t miss the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel.
Additional must-see Memphis attractions:
• Beale Street for live music and barbecue
• Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded
• The Peabody Hotel’s famous duck march
• Rendezvous BBQ or Central BBQ for iconic Memphis flavors
For RV travelers, look for campgrounds located just outside the city limits or use day parking options for exploring downtown Memphis.
Arkansas Adventure: Hot Springs National Park
Leaving Memphis, you’ll cross the Mississippi River into Arkansas. After about three hours on the road, you’ll find Hot Springs National Park—a unique destination that merges history, geology, and relaxation. Known for its thermal springs and historic bathhouses, the Hot Springs area draws visitors seeking both spa experiences and the beautiful outdoors.
• Stroll along Bathhouse Row, featuring restored bathhouses from the early 20th century
• Take a dip or enjoy spa treatments at Buckstaff or Quapaw Bathhouses
• Hike through the park’s wooded trails for panoramic views
• Check out the Mountain Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area
For more information, visit the Hot Springs National Park website. Consider staying in or around Hot Springs National Park for at least one night to fully appreciate the historic downtown and natural scenery.
Journey into the Heart of Texas: Lake Whitney State Park
As you leave Arkansas, you’ll make your way into Texas. One highlight on this route is Lake Whitney State Park, located north of Waco and south of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Known for its clear blue waters and limestone cliffs, Lake Whitney is a favorite spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.
• Spacious RV sites with water and electric hookups
• Trails for hiking or mountain biking
• Boat ramps and fishing piers
• Ranger programs for kids and families
Check the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department website for up-to-date information on closures and campsite reservations.
Austin Area Stop: Dobie Valley RV Park, Dripping Springs
Continuing your Florida to Texas Road Trip, head further south to the Austin region. A recommended overnight spot is Doble Valley RV Park, located near Fitzhugh Road. Staying in this area puts you close to the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country and the lively attractions of Austin.
Exploring Austin
• Live music venues on 6th Street and Red River
• Texas State Capitol tours
• Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park
• Rainey Street Historic District for unique bars and food trucks
For a taste of the outdoors, consider detouring to places like Hamilton Pool Preserve or Pedernales Falls State Park. Each location showcases the Hill Country’s rugged canyons, flowing rivers, and swimming holes—perfect for cooling off in the Texas heat.
Final Stop: Houston, Texas
Your concluding destination is Houston, the largest city in Texas by population and an epicenter of cultural diversity, world-class museums, and NASA’s iconic Johnson Space Center. Having traveled so far across the Southern states, you’ll find a contrast of sleek modern architecture and traditional Texan charm here in Houston.
Things to Do in Houston
• Space Center Houston to explore NASA’s history
• Museum District for the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts
• Buffalo Bayou Park for kayaking and skyline views
• Authentic Tex-Mex, barbecues, and global cuisine
Houston’s sprawling layout can lead to heavy traffic, so plan your city visits accordingly. There are plenty of RV parks and campgrounds scattered around the metro area, making it easy to find a home base near your top attractions.
Sample Itinerary Suggestions
Although every traveler’s schedule and interests vary, here is a rough guide for allocating time at each destination:
• Miami/Fort Lauderdale: 2–3 days
• Orlando/Kissimmee: 3–5 days (especially if you plan to visit multiple theme parks)
• Forsyth, Georgia: 1 night
• Montgomery Bell State Park/Nashville area: 2–3 days
• Hopkinsville, Kentucky: 1–2 days
• Memphis, Tennessee: 2–3 days
• Hot Springs, Arkansas: 2–3 days
• Lake Whitney State Park: 1–2 days
• Austin area: 2–4 days
• Houston: 2–4 days
Adjust based on your personal travel pace, budget, and interests. Some segments may only require an overnight stay if you prefer to push forward quickly, while others—like Orlando, Nashville, or Austin—can easily fill a week if you want a deep dive into the local culture.
Tips for a Smooth Road Trip
• Plan your driving times
Many segments of this trip exceed 200 miles. To avoid fatigue, plan rest stops every two to three hours.
• Check weather conditions
The Deep South can experience severe weather changes, particularly during hurricane season (June to November in the Atlantic and Gulf coasts).
• Stock up on essentials
Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee have numerous grocery stores and big-box retailers, but always have water, non-perishable snacks, and a first-aid kit on board.
• Stay flexible
Road conditions, construction, and traffic can alter your plans. Build in extra travel time so you’re not rushed.
• Monitor RV hookups
Use apps and websites (such as KOA or Reserve America) to confirm campground availability ahead of time, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Immerse in local culture
Don’t just pass through towns—stop at roadside fruit stands or local diners to meet friendly residents and learn about regional traditions.
Regional Food Experiences
One of the joys of a Florida to Texas Road Trip is sampling the region’s diverse cuisine:
• Florida
Key lime pie, Cuban sandwiches, fresh seafood.
• Georgia
Classic Southern fare like fried chicken, biscuits, and peach cobbler.
• Tennessee
Nashville hot chicken, Memphis barbecue, and Southern meat-and-three diners.
• Kentucky
Bourbon-infused dishes, southern barbecue, and the famous Hot Brown sandwich.
• Arkansas
Catfish, fried pies, and barbecue with a tangy sauce twist.
• Texas
Brisket, Tex-Mex, chili, and kolaches (a pastry adopted from Czech settlers).
Stopping at local eateries is one of the best ways to experience each state’s unique flavor. Many small towns host festivals celebrating everything from peaches to barbecue, so check local event calendars if you want to join in the fun.
Historical and Cultural Highlights
• Civil Rights History
Visit the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis and explore civil rights landmarks in cities like Nashville and Atlanta.
• Music Heritage
Nashville is home to country music, Memphis to rock ‘n’ roll, and Austin to countless genres thriving in a vibrant live music scene.
• Frontier and Pioneer Sites
For historical reenactments or pioneer museums, keep an eye out for small-town heritage centers across Georgia, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
• Spanish and French Influence
Florida’s history includes Spanish colonization and influences in architecture and cuisine. Similarly, French heritage remains strong in some parts of the Deep South, especially around Louisiana and the Mississippi Delta, which could inspire a detour to New Orleans if you have extra time.
References and Resources
• Florida State Parks for additional Florida destinations
• Georgia State Parks for possible stops near Forsyth
• Tennessee State Parks for Montgomery Bell and beyond
• Kentucky Tourism for exploring Hopkinsville
• Memphis Travel for official Memphis visitor information
• National Park Service – Hot Springs for planning an Arkansas visit
• Texas Parks & Wildlife Department for Lake Whitney and other state parks
• Space Center Houston for Johnson Space Center information
These websites offer the most accurate, up-to-date details for hours, fees, and reservations. Road trip planners should check them periodically for special alerts or seasonal closures.
A Florida to Texas Road Trip through the Deep South promises an incredible blend of natural wonders, musical heritage, historical significance, and diverse culinary traditions. Whether your goal is to visit family-friendly attractions in Orlando, soak up the blues in Memphis, unwind in the thermal waters of Hot Springs, or savor authentic Texan barbecue, each stop brings fresh perspectives on America’s Southern states.
Take the time to wander off the main roads, chat with locals, and explore lesser-known attractions. Each detour can reveal a hidden gem, such as a small-town diner serving up legendary pie or a scenic overlook you’ll never forget. The key to enjoying a long-distance road trip is pacing yourself—allowing for both adventure and relaxation. In the end, you’ll have countless stories and unforgettable memories to share.
Safe travels, and enjoy every mile of your journey from Florida to the Lone Star State.
