Four-Day Road Trip Itinerary: Sarasota, Bradenton, Tampa & Everglades National Park

Day 1: Sarasota Hotspots

Sarasota, FL

8:00AM

Breakfast at Another Broken Egg Cafe

Start your adventure with a delightful breakfast made from local ingredients at Another Broken Egg Cafe.
Located downtown with convenient parking options available.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Siesta Key Beach

Relax at the stunning Siesta Key Beach, renowned for its soft sands and beautiful water.
Only a 20-minute drive from the cafe to the iconic beach.
FREE, 2 hours

11:30AM

Cultural Exploration at The Ringling

Immerse yourself in art and history at The Ringling, a complex featuring an art museum and beautiful gardens.
A quick 15-minute drive from the beach will take you right to The Ringling.
USD25, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Aloha Seafood

Indulge in fresh seafood at this local gem known for its casual atmosphere and delicious menu.
Just a short 10-minute drive from The Ringling.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Stroll through Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Enjoy the tranquil beauty of tropical plants and scenic views at these stunning gardens.
A quick 5-minute drive will bring you to the Gardens.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Sunset at Lido Key Beach

Unwind and watch the sun dip below the horizon at Lido Key Beach, a perfect way to end the day.
Just a 10-minute drive from the Gardens will take you to the beach.
FREE, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Columbia Restaurant

Savor authentic Spanish cuisine at the historic Columbia Restaurant, a must-visit in Sarasota.
Located downtown, just a 15-minute drive from Lido Key Beach.
USD40, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening Walk at the Sarasota Bayfront Park

Take a leisurely after-dinner walk along the bay at the beautiful Bayfront Park.
Only a 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
FREE, 1 hour
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Day 2: Bradenton Adventure

Bradenton, FL

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sunrise Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this beloved local diner known for its friendly service.
Enjoy a 20-minute drive from Sarasota to reach Bradenton.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore the Riverwalk

Take a scenic stroll and enjoy the art installations along the picturesque Riverwalk.
Located nearby; park at the Riverwalk to start your exploration.
FREE, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the South Florida Museum

Learn about the history of the region through exhibits and the planetarium at this engaging museum.
A short 5-minute walk from the Riverwalk.
USD20, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Fish Hole

Enjoy a casual lunch with fresh seafood at this popular waterfront eatery.
Drive just 5 minutes from the museum to the restaurant.
USD25, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit De Soto National Memorial

Explore the scenic memorial and learn about Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto's journey.
A short 10-minute drive will get you to the memorial.
FREE, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Manatee Village Historical Park

Step back in time at this open-air museum featuring old structures and artifacts from early Florida.
A quick 10-minute drive from De Soto Memorial.
FREE, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Tampa

Enjoy the scenic drive into the vibrant city of Tampa.
It’s around a 30-minute drive from Bradenton to Tampa.
FREE, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Tampa Riverwalk

Walk along the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk, lined with parks, cafes, and art installations.
Plenty of parking available at various locations along the Riverwalk.
FREE, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Ulele

Dine at Ulele, which offers unique dishes influenced by native Florida cuisine within a stunning riverside setting.
Location is easily accessible from the Riverwalk.
USD35, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Explore Ybor City

Discover the charm and bustling nightlife of Ybor City, with its historic buildings and vibrant scene.
A short drive of around 10 minutes gets you there.
FREE, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discovering Tampa

Tampa, FL

8:00AM

Breakfast at The 3 Coins Restaurant

Start off with a classic American breakfast at this family-owned diner famous for its friendly service.
Easily accessible from most areas in Tampa.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Spend your morning at Busch Gardens for thrilling rides and fun wildlife experiences.
Get there via a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD100, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the Park

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many dining options within Busch Gardens itself.
Available on-site for convenience.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Tampa Bay History Center

Learn about Tampa’s rich history through exhibits and interactive displays.
A short drive of around 15 minutes to the center.
USD15, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Bayshore Boulevard

Take a peaceful walk or bike ride along the stunning Bayshore Boulevard, a popular local spot.
Short drive from the History Center; parking is available.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Columbia Restaurant in Ybor

Savor the flavors of authentic Spanish cuisine at another location of the famous Columbia Restaurant.
A quick drive back to Ybor City.
USD40, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Tampa Bay Sunset

End your day enjoying the sunset along the waterfront, making for a beautiful photo opportunity.
Find a good spot along the water in Ybor or downtown.
FREE, 1 hour
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Day 4: Everglades Ultimate Experience

Everglades National Park, FL

7:00AM

Drive to Everglades National Park

Start your adventure early, heading straight to the Everglades to maximize your day.
It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Tampa.
FREE, 1.5 hours

8:30AM

Breakfast at a Local Diner

Grab a quick breakfast at a local diner near the park entrance for a hearty start.
Simple options close to the park entry.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Enter Everglades National Park

Pay the entrance fee and begin your exploration of this stunning natural wonder.
Head to the park entrance, where you will pay the entry fee.
USD30, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Everglades Boat Tour

Join a guided boat tour to explore the majestic wilderness and spot wildlife like alligators and birds.
Boat tours available close to the entrance.
USD50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch Picnic in the Park

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst nature, taking in the sights and sounds of the Everglades.
Pack a lunch before heading to the park or purchase from a local vendor nearby.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Anhinga Trail

Take a leisurely walk along the Anhinga Trail, renowned for its wildlife viewing opportunities.
A short drive or walk from the main area of the park.
FREE, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center

Learn more about the Everglades through exhibits and information at the visitor center.
Located within the park, it’s easy to find.
FREE, 1 hour

3:30PM

Wildlife Photography

Spend the late afternoon capturing the beauty of the Everglades’ landscapes and wildlife.
Find serene spots throughout the park for great photo opportunities.
FREE, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Everglades Restaurant

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a local spot near the park, reflecting on the adventures of the past few days.
A local restaurant close to the park exit.
USD30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Stargazing in the Everglades

End your road trip with some stargazing, taking in the mysterious beauty of the night sky.
Find a quiet area away from light pollution within or near the park.
FREE, 1 hour
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