9 Must-Visit Attractions on Your Next Road Trip From Atlanta to Orlando

If you live in a city that's not too far from a neighboring state you'd like to visit, driving is often better than flying. Take the Atlanta to Orlando drive, for instance. This Georgia and Florida road trip only takes about seven hours straight through, but the beauty of the drive is getting to see fun roadside attractions on your way down. It's only around 440 miles, and is practically a straight drive down Interstate 75, providing you ample access to charming small towns, local restaurants, museums, parks, and more.

If you live in the Peach State, why not bring the family on an epic Georgia road trip to Florida? Sure, your final destination might be Disney World, Universal Studios, or the other theme parks in Orlando, but there are so many natural wonders, historical sites, and fun things to do along the way. Skip the flight, save some money, and make some memories at these nine road trip attractions from Atlanta, Georgia, to Orlando, Florida. Pack your bags and enjoy the journey!

What to Know Before Starting Your Atlanta to Orlando Road Trip

As mentioned, we're partial to taking I-75 South to the Florida Turnpike. There are plenty of other ways to get to Orlando from Atlanta, but we find this is the easiest and hits all of the major attractions we'll list below. For reference, here is the road trip map that includes our nine must-see destinations.

The best time of year to embark on this trip is likely spring or fall. Winter can get crowded as many people travel down to Florida to escape the snow in the Northern U.S. Summer is entirely too hot, though, if you're willing to brave the scorching temperatures, you might notice less traffic and crowds at each stop. Bring cash with you or invest in an E-ZPass so you can get through toll roads easily. And make sure you pack all the road trip essentials: snacks, water, sunglasses, hats, sturdy shoes, and a good road trip playlist.

Stop #1: The Museum of Aviation, Warner Robbins

Typically a stop on historic Georgia road trips, the Museum of Aviation on the Warner-Robbins Air Force Base in Georgia is a must-stop in our book. It's a free aviation museum that features over 90 different unique aircraft and missiles—perfect for plane lovers or history buffs in your family.

Visitors usually spend a few hours exploring the exhibits and displays at this museum, learning all about the retired military aircraft and the history of aviation in the Peach State. It's super kid-friendly and a fantastic place to visit if you're on a budget. For more information about this exciting adventure, visit the website for the Museum of Aviation.

Address: 1942 Heritage Blvd, Robins AFB, GA 31098

Stop #2: Fish n’ Pig Restaurant, Macon

After a few hours of driving, you'll likely work up an appetite. Stop in Macon, Georgia, for a meal at Fish n' Pig Restaurant, where you can get both hickory-smoked barbecue and fresh seafood all in one place. Feast on a low country boil complete with seasoned shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage, and potatoes, crispy, comforting hush puppies, hickory-smoked pulled sauced pork, and wash it all down with a glass of sweet tea. It's Georgia cooking at its finest.

The best part? You'll get picturesque views of Lake Tobesofkee as you dine. Waterfront views follow you indoors, by the bar, or outside on the large covered deck. If you stop by for dinner, you might even catch live music at Will's Banstand right at the restaurant! You'll never want to leave, but the meal will keep you satisfied for the rest of your drive. Hours are Tuesday to Thursday, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m.

Address: 6420 Moseley Dixon Rd, Macon, GA 31220

Stop #3: Ellis Bros. Pecans, Vienna

A Georgia to Florida road trip would not be complete without a roadside stop for fresh produce or nuts, right? After all, Georgia is known for its juicy, ripe peaches and yummy roasted pecans. In fact, the state is the top pecan grower in the country! Our favorite place to find them? The Ellis Bros. Pecans storefront in Vienna. This shop became popular thanks to some creative billboards along I-75 featuring the slogan, "We're Nuts (to sell this low)," and has been a must-stop roadside attraction since.

Ellis Bros. Pecans has been running off a family-owned orchard since 1944. Since the shop's products are direct from growers, you'll get high-quality pecans at an affordable price. Find all sorts of flavor combinations that make for epic road trip snacks, including large and small pecan pieces, sweet trail mix, and even ice cream! It's a nostalgic roadside stop for several Georgians.

Address: 1315 Tippettville Rd, Vienna, GA 31092

Stop #4: Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area, Valdosta

Looking to stretch your legs after all that sitting in the car? Stop at the Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area in Valdosta, Georgia, one of the last stops before you cross the border into Florida. This park is a beautiful place to get out and immerse yourself in the stunning Georgia nature. A highlight is the 1-mile boardwalk that winds through the mossy trees, leading to a tall observation tower perfect for birdwatching and surveying the landscape.

Past visitors have mentioned spotting deer, bald eagles, herons, and even baby gators and snakes relaxing in the marshy land below. AllTrails users mention bringing along bug spray as it can get buggy out on the trail, and plenty of sun protection as portions of the trail don't provide shade. If you're road tripping in winter, the weather should be nice and mild.

Address: 4649 Knight Academy Rd, Valdosta, GA 31605

Stop #5: Big Shoals State Park, White Springs

At last, you've made it to Florida! Valdosta is only about 50 minutes from White Springs, Florida, where you'll stop at Big Shoals State Park to take in the natural scenery. This state park always makes the list of stops for Florida road trips, so it's a must for this drive, too. Beyond simply being gorgeous, it's also home to the Suwannee River and the largest whitewater rapids in the state!

Big Shoals is located just one mile east of White Springs, Florida, off of US 41. Once you arrive, plan to spend a few hours hiking in the area—our favorite trails include Big Shoals and Woodpecker Trails—and make sure you have proper hiking footwear and gear in case it's muddy and slippery. Along the way, you'll take in the sights of limestone bluffs and roaring river rapids, which only experienced kayakers are encouraged to conquer. Entrance fees are $4 per vehicle; the park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset.

Address: 11330 SE Co Rd 135, White Springs, FL 32096

Stop #6: Butterfly Rainforest, Gainesville

Next up is the beautiful Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville, Florida. This living exhibit features hundreds of free-flying butterflies and birds of many species, in the most peaceful and beautiful habitat. Walk along the path in the atrium filled with tropical trees and plants, and let butterflies gently land on you as you pass through. It's an amazing place to bring the kiddos—they'll love spotting all the different types of wildlife.

While many of the museum's exhibits are currently closed for renovation, they are expected to reopen in fall 2026. Which is perfect if you're hoping to make a winter Florida day trip later this year! In the meantime, visit the nearby Kanapaha Botanical Gardens or the Harn Museum of Art if you're hoping for something indoors.

Address: 3215 Hull Road SW 34th Street and, Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611

Stop #7: Devil's Den, Williston

Devil’s Den in Williston, Florida, is quite possibly one of the coolest road trip attractions from Atlanta to Orlando. The spring is stunning in and of itself, but guests can also swim in the vast underground cave by appointment only. There's even an option to tent or RV camp near this magical freshwater spring, so you can spend the night before getting back on the road rested and refreshed.

Before jumping in, you'll need to sign a waiver at the check-in desk. If you have your diver's certification, you can bring diving gear to explore the depths of the natural cave. Snorkelers can rent flippers and life vests from staff, as well. But of course, you're more than welcome to bring your own gear. This mystical prehistoric cave feels like something out of a fairytale—you can't miss it!

Admission is $48 for divers and $30 for snorkelers for a 90-minute session. Learn more information on the spring's website.

Address: 5390 NE 180 Ave, Williston, FL 32696

Stop #8: Mojo's Grill, Ocala

Just 30 minutes southwest of Williston is the rural Florida town of Ocala, where you'll find the final food stop on this road trip itinerary. Mojo's Grill is definitely a hole-in-the-wall restaurant, but its scrumptious roadside eats beg to differ. This locally-owned eatery has become a community staple for its funky, eclectic decor and emphasis on hospitality.

Order popular menu items like the creamy spinach and artichoke dip or fried pickles to start, the fish and grits or jammin' jambalaya for entrees, and a Florida classic for dessert: Key Lime Pie. You won't regret pulling up a chair to this local gem. The combination of Cajun, southern, and Sunshine State meals makes it a fantastic road trip stop.

Both Ocala locations of Mojo's are open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Address: 2015 SW 17th St, Ocala, FL 34471-1276

Stop #9: Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards, Clermont

Finish out your trip with a crisp glass of white wine at Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards in Clermont, Florida. This stop is right before you reach Orlando, and is the perfect pick-me-up for the 21+ road trippers on their way to Central Florida. Lakeridge opened its doors in 1989 and boasts 127 sprawling acres of grape vines that make exquisite red and white varieties.

While visiting this lush winery, enjoy a guided wine tasting and tour of the property, or drink a glass at your leisure outside on their patio, where you can take in views of the rolling countryside. Tours last around 45 minutes and take place every half hour, Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Purchase a bottle or other unique gifts at the gift shop afterward.

Learn more about tour pricing and retail shop hours on Lakeridge's website. A few hours spent here will be a reward for all that driving!

Address: 19239 US-27, Clermont, FL 34715

Why Driving Is Better Than Flying For This Special Georgia-Florida Trip

Sure, flying would be much quicker and easier than driving from Atlanta to Orlando, but there's nothing better than a road trip that lets you experience all that both Georgia and Florida have to offer. Most roadside attractions are free or low-cost, are family-friendly, and offer a variety of fun activities no matter the time of year.

Make sure you have your route planned out before embarking on this seven-hour road trip, and be sure to note any extra stops you'd like to take along the way, like campsites, hotels, or rental homes if you're hoping to stretch in into a multiple-days trip.

What do you think about these nine roadside attractions from Atlanta to Orlando? Are there any more you'd add? If so, consider planning out your road trip today! Check out our full list of the best road trips to take in Georgia for more inspiration, along with other Florida natural wonders worth checking out.