Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Road Trip from Sarasota to Park City: 8-Day Itinerary Jan 18‑Jan 25, 2026

Day 1 · Sun, Jan 18
Sarasota, Florida

Depart Sarasota, FL and begin the road trip

Morning:

After a relaxed sunrise coffee at St. Armands Circle, head north on I-75 and make a quick cultural pit stop at the [Sarasota County Museum of History](https://www.google.com/search?q=Sarasota+County+Museum+of+History+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site) for a glimpse of the area's heritage. By late morning, treat yourself to a beachfront lunch at Siesta Key Beach's Ocean Breeze Café, where fresh Gulf shrimp and a gentle sea breeze set the perfect tone for the road ahead.

Afternoon:

After leaving Siesta Key, cruise north on I-75 and make a brief detour to [The Ringling](https://ringling.org), where you can admire the opulent mansion, circus museum, and exquisite art collection before hitting the road again. Continue to [Fort De Soto Park](https://www.google.com/search?q=Fort+De+Soto+Park+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site) for a breezy walk along its historic fort and a chance to spot dolphins from the pier, then unwind with a late-afternoon coffee at the charming Sunset Café on Bayshore Boulevard as you watch the Gulf sunset before the evening drive.

Evening:

As twilight settles, enjoy a hearty dinner at [Yoder's Restaurant & Amish Village](https://yoders.com), where farm-fresh comfort food rounds out the day. Afterward, wander the illuminated Sarasota Riverwalk for gentle river views and occasional live music, then cap the night with a craft cocktail at the retro-vibe Gator Club on Main Street.

Day 2 · Mon, Jan 19
Montgomery, Alabama

Explore Montgomery, AL

Morning:

Begin your Montgomery morning with a reflective walk through the grand [Alabama State Capitol](https://www.google.com/search?q=Alabama+State+Capitol+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site), where marble corridors whisper stories of the Old South and new governance. A short stroll brings you to the historic [Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church](https://www.google.com/search?q=Dexter+Avenue+King+Memorial+Baptist+Church+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site), the pulpit where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. preached the dream of equality. Cap the sunrise with a light brunch at Mason's Bar & Grill, savoring Southern biscuits and coffee before you set out for the day's adventures.

Afternoon:

After lunch, wander the historic [Rosa Parks Museum](https://www.google.com/search?q=Rosa+Parks+Museum+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site), where interactive exhibits bring the Montgomery Bus Boycott to life, then pause at the striking Civil Rights Memorial to reflect on the movement's legacy. Finish the afternoon with a leisurely walk down Dauphin Street, sampling a sweet treat at the charming Miller's Downtown Café while watching the town's lively riverfront buzz.

Evening:

As dusk settles, head to The Paramount Theatre for a classic movie or live performance, then savor a Southern dinner at Central on the Riverfront, where the menu spotlights farm-to-table dishes and craft cocktails. Afterward, wander the illuminated Riverfront Park along the Alabama River, stopping for a nightcap at The Blind Mule rooftop bar, offering panoramic city views.

Day 3 · Tue, Jan 20
Selma, Alabama

Visit historic Selma, AL

Morning:

Begin your Selma morning with a reflective stroll across the iconic Edmund Pettus Bridge, feeling the weight of civil-rights history, then wander into the powerful Brown Chapel AME Church, where the 1965 voting-rights marchers gathered. After soaking in the stories, enjoy a hearty Southern breakfast at the beloved Old Town Café, perched near the Selma Riverfront, where fresh biscuits and locally brewed coffee set the tone for the day. Finish with a quick visit to the Selma Interpretive Center, where interactive exhibits bring the town's pivotal role to life.

Afternoon:

In the afternoon, wander the charming Old Courthouse Museum, where original courtrooms and rotating exhibits illuminate Selma's legal and social evolution. Then stroll along the scenic Riverfront Park, renting a kayak to glide beneath the historic Selma Train Depot bridge and soak up gentle river views. Finish with a sweet treat at the locally beloved River House Café, sampling homemade pecan pie while reflecting on the day's journey.

Evening:

As dusk settles, head to the cozy Selma City Market for farm-fresh Southern fare, then wander to the historic St. Joseph's Catholic Church, whose illuminated façade offers a peaceful pause. Cap the night with live blues at The Selma Blues & BBQ, where smoky ribs and a local band keep the spirit of the River City alive.

Day 4 · Wed, Jan 21
Jackson, Mississippi

Discover Jackson, MS attractions

Morning:

Begin with a leisurely coffee at The Pearl, then wander into the grand Mississippi State Capitol, admiring its soaring dome and historic murals. Continue your cultural immersion at the [Mississippi Museum of Art](https://www.google.com/search?q=Mississippi+Museum+of+Art+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site), strolling through contemporary Southern galleries before enjoying a light brunch at the museum café overlooking the Capitol Green.

Afternoon:

After a leisurely brunch, head to the [Mississippi Civil Rights Museum](https://www.mscivilrightsmuseum.org), where immersive exhibits trace the struggle for equality and celebrate the state's pivotal role in the movement. Then stroll through the verdant paths of [LeFleur's Bluff State Park](https://www.google.com/search?q=LeFleur%27s+Bluff+State+Park+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site), paddling on the Pearl River and spotting local wildlife amid towering oaks. Finish the afternoon with a quiet visit to the historic [Eudora Welty House](https://welty.org), stepping into the preserved rooms of the celebrated author to feel the literary spirit of the Deep South.

Evening:

Cap off your Jackson adventure with a flavorful dinner at The Iron Horse Brewery & Taproom, where house-crafted ales and a rotating menu of Southern-style small plates create a lively, communal atmosphere. Afterward, wander the illuminated streets of Fondren Historic District, popping into The Parlor for a handcrafted cocktail and soaking up the neighborhood's blend of vintage storefronts and modern art murals.

Day 5 · Thu, Jan 22
Glendora, Mississippi

Relax in Glendora, MS

Morning:

Start the morning with a leisurely stroll along the Glendora Riverwalk, where the gentle bend of the Pearl River offers sunrise reflections and chances to spot local herons. Then head to the historic Old Mill Café for a farm-fresh breakfast of biscuits and gravy, followed by a short drive to Cedar Creek State Park for a peaceful paddle in its tranquil pond and a walk through towering cypress groves.

Afternoon:

In the afternoon, explore the Glendora Heritage Museum, where curated exhibits showcase the town's cotton-mill legacy and the stories of the families who built it, followed by a leisurely stroll to the historic St. Mary's Catholic Church to admire its beautiful stained-glass windows. Conclude the day with a sunset tasting at the boutique Riverfront Winery, sipping locally produced fruit wines while the Pearl River shimmers against the rolling hills.

Evening:

As twilight settles, dine at The Magnolia Grill, where catfish po'boys and sweet tea on the patio capture the town's Southern charm, then wander over to Old Town Square where the evening farmer's market blossoms into a bustling night bazaar filled with local crafts and live folk music. Wrap up the night with a relaxed drink at Riverbend Pub, sipping craft beers as the Pearl River's lights dance on the water.

Day 6 · Fri, Jan 23
Little Rock, Arkansas

Tour Little Rock, AR

Morning:

After crossing the Mississippi River, fuel up with a robust espresso and a fresh pastry at Mylo Coffee Co., then dive into the city's civil-rights legacy with a docent-led tour of the [Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site](https://www.nps.gov/chsc/index.htm). Cap the morning with a breezy walk across the Big Dam Bridge, where panoramic views of the Arkansas River and the downtown skyline inspire the road ahead.

Afternoon:

After the morning walk, head to the vibrant River Market District for a riverside lunch at The Pantry, sampling locally sourced Arkansas trout. Post-lunch, wander the stately halls of the Arkansas State Capitol, then step back in time at the [Historic Arkansas Museum](https://www.google.com/search?q=Historic+Arkansas+Museum+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site), where restored 19th-century buildings showcase the region's frontier heritage. Conclude the afternoon with a leisurely stroll through Riverfront Park, where you can watch the Arkansas River glimmer at sunset and maybe catch a live street performance near the [Clinton Presidential Center](https://www.google.com/search?q=Clinton+Presidential+Center+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site).

Evening:

After a day of exploring, settle in for a farm-to-table dinner at Brave New Restaurant, where the seasonal menu highlights Arkansas produce and craft cocktails. Post-dinner, wander over to the nearby Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts for an evening of contemporary exhibits, then cap the night with a nightcap and local brews at The 3:10 Brewing Co, soaking up the relaxed downtown vibe.

Day 7 · Sat, Jan 24
Bentonville, Arkansas

Experience Bentonville, AR

Morning:

Start your Bentonville morning with a stroll through the [Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art](https://crystalbridges.org), where the striking architecture and surrounding trails provide a peaceful backdrop for a café latte. Then wander the historic [Walmart Museum](https://www.walmartmuseum.com) to uncover the retail giant's humble origins, and finish with a gentle walk through the Compton Gardens and Conference Center, where blooming native plants and art installations make for a perfect mid-morning pause.

Afternoon:

After lunch, wander the contemporary 21c Museum Hotel, where rotating installations blur the line between gallery and hotel lobby, then cross the town square to explore The Momentary, a dynamic hub of art, music, and culinary pop-ups. Finish your Bentonville adventure with a leisurely ride along the Razorback Regional Greenway, stopping at the [Museum of Native American History](https://www.google.com/search?q=Museum+of+Native+American+History+from+Sarasota%2C+Florida+to+Park+City%2C+Utah+with+stops+in+Montgomery%2C+and+Selma%2C+Alabama+and+Jackson+and+Glendora%2C+Mississippi%2C+and+little+rock+and+bentleyville%2C+Arkansas+official+site) for immersive exhibits before savoring a farm-fresh dinner at The Hive.

Evening:

After sunset, wander to the lively Bentonville Square, where the historic Bentonville Train Depot glows and local musicians fill the air, then enjoy a farm-fresh dinner at The Train, a restored railcar restaurant serving seasonal American fare. Conclude the night with craft brews at Bentonville Brewing Company, sipping a locally-crafted IPA while strolling past the illuminated Bentonville Art Walk installations.

Day 8 · Sun, Jan 25
Park City, Utah

Arrive in Park City, UT and enjoy the mountains

Morning:

After a sunrise drive over the Rockies, start your Park City morning with a warm latte at The Bridge Café on historic Main Street, then wander to the [Park City Museum](https://parkcitymuseum.org) to uncover the town's mining heritage, and finish with a gentle stroll through the Swaner Preserve trails, spotting elk and alpine wildflowers before heading to the lifts.

Afternoon:

After lunch, head up to Park City Mountain Resort for an exhilarating lift ride to the summit, where you can soak in panoramic mountain views and try a quick zip-line adventure. Then wander down the historic Main Street, stopping at The Farm for fresh-pressed cider and a farm-to-table cheese plate before strolling through the Red Pine Trail as the sun begins to dip behind the Wasatch peaks.

Evening:

As twilight settles, head to High West Distillery & Saloon for a warm whiskey tasting and hearty cowboy-style dinner, then catch a live performance at the historic Egyptian Theatre where indie bands and classic films light up the night. Finish the evening with a relaxed walk through Prospector Square, where twinkling string lights reflect off the snow-kissed streets and you can savor a hot chocolate from a local vendor.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version