Orlando, FL → Key West, FL

Your 359-mile journey from Orlando to Key West is one of America's most geographically dramatic drives, taking you from central Florida's interior all the way to the southernmost point of the continental United States. You'll primarily follow US-441 South out of Orlando, which eventually merges with the famous Overseas Highway (US-1) as you approach the Florida Keys. The entire route takes approximately six hours of driving time under normal conditions, though you should allow extra time for traffic in urban areas and potential construction zones that are common in the Keys.

Starting from Orlando, you'll traverse some relatively flat terrain characteristic of central Florida's landscape before the geography begins to shift noticeably as you approach the southern portions of the state. The drive takes you through charming smaller towns like Yeehaw Junction and through the expansive agricultural regions of South Florida before the terrain becomes distinctly more tropical. Around the Miami area, you'll experience some moderate urban congestion, particularly on I-95 if you use alternate routing, but once you merge onto the Overseas Highway near the southern tip of the mainland, the drive becomes more scenic and manageable.

The true highlight of this route emerges once you reach the Florida Keys, where US-1 transforms into a spectacular causeway-lined drive featuring countless bridges connecting the individual islands. You'll pass through recognizable keys including Key Largo, Islamorada, and Marathon, where the landscape becomes almost entirely aquatic, surrounded by water on both sides of the road. This section is relatively free of significant elevation changes—the Keys are famously flat—but the unique environment and gradual transition from mainland to open water make this portion genuinely memorable.

The best time to tackle this drive is during Florida's winter months, roughly November through March, when temperatures are comfortable and humidity is manageable. Summer driving can be intensely hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms complicating travel conditions, especially in the Keys where limited alternate routes mean any weather delays significantly impact your journey. The Keys themselves see seasonal tourism surges, so if you're driving during peak vacation times, expect heavier traffic as you approach Key West.

The 359-mile drive from Orlando, Florida to Key West, 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 Orlando to Key West

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 Orlando to Key West 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