Key West, FL → Orlando, FL

Your drive from Key West to Orlando takes you on one of Florida's most transformative routes, spanning approximately 359 miles over six hours of driving. You'll begin by heading north on the Overseas Highway (US Route 1), that iconic string of islands and bridges connecting the Keys to the mainland, before transitioning to Florida's Turnpike near Florida City. From there, the journey becomes a straightforward push northward through the state's interior, primarily following the Florida Turnpike and Interstate 4, which will carry you directly into the heart of Central Florida and your Orlando destination. This route offers an interesting contrast between coastal departure and inland arrival, showcasing the dramatic differences in Florida's geography and development patterns.

As you leave the Keys behind and cross onto the mainland, you'll notice the landscape transform from the shallow, mangrove-lined waters of South Florida into the flat, expansive terrain of the Everglades region and beyond. The drive is remarkably flat throughout—Florida's elevation changes are minimal, so you won't encounter any challenging grades or mountain passes. The first portion takes you through the agricultural heartland of southern Florida, where vast sugarcane fields and cattle ranches dominate the scenery. Once you reach the turnpike proper near Miami's southern suburbs, you'll pass through increasingly urbanized sections, including the greater Miami metropolitan area, before the landscape opens up again into the rural stretches of central Florida between West Palm Beach and Orlando.

The drive includes several notable towns and cities worth noting for navigation and potential breaks. You'll skirt past the sprawling Miami metropolitan area, pass near Lake Okeechobee's vast waters, and move through smaller central Florida communities before reaching Orlando's urban zone. The journey transitions from urban congestion around South Florida to more rural, open stretches in the middle sections, then becomes increasingly developed again as you approach Orlando's theme park corridor and downtown area on Interstate 4.

For the most pleasant driving experience, plan this journey during Florida's cooler months from November through March, when temperatures are moderate and humidity is lower. Summer months bring intense heat, afternoon thunderstorms, and heavier traffic, making the drive more challenging and potentially longer. Early morning or evening departures help you avoid peak traffic periods, particularly around the Miami and Orlando metropolitan areas.

The 359-mile drive from Key West, Florida to Orlando, Florida takes approximately 6h 1m under normal conditions. Weather along this route can vary significantly, especially along coastal regions where fog and marine weather can impact visibility. Route Outlook helps you find the safest time to travel by showing you weather conditions at every point along your route, timed to when you'll actually be there.

Common Weather Hazards on This Route

• Severe thunderstorms and flash flooding (spring and summer)
• Hurricane and tropical storm impacts (June through November)

Seasonal Driving Considerations

Coastal weather on this route can shift quickly. Marine fog is common during morning hours, especially in spring and fall, reducing visibility to near zero. Hurricane season (June through November) can bring extended road closures and dangerous conditions. During fair weather, coastal routes offer scenic driving — but always verify conditions with live traffic cameras before heading out.

Best Time to Drive Key West to Orlando

For medium-distance drives like this 359-mile route, consider starting in the early morning to arrive before afternoon storms develop. Check the 7-day forecast above to find a day with favorable conditions along the entire route.

Driving Strategy

A 359-mile drive from Key West to Orlando takes a significant part of the day. Plan at least one fuel and rest stop along the way. If your route crosses elevation changes or state lines, expect weather conditions to shift mid-trip. Monitor the segment-by-segment forecast rather than just checking destination weather. Starting early in the morning typically avoids afternoon storm development and rush-hour congestion near urban areas.

Frequently Asked Questions