Optimized Coastal Drive from Buffalo, NY to Nalcrest, FL with Scenic Stops and 9-Hour Driving Days

Day 1: Long Drive & Rest

Buffalo, NY to Raleigh, NC on June 6, 2025

6:30AM

Breakfast at Tim Hortons, Buffalo, NY

Start your journey with a quick breakfast at Tim Hortons, known for its coffee and pastries, open from 6:00AM.
USD10, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Departure from Buffalo, NY

Begin the approximately 9-hour drive southwest towards Raleigh, NC via I-90 and I-77.
Free, 9h

12:00PM

Lunch Break in Roanoke, VA

Stop for lunch at Local Roots, offering fresh farm-to-table dishes, open from 11:00AM to 9:00PM.
USD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Stretch and Fuel at a Gas Station

Pause for a fuel stop and stretching to stay refreshed for the remaining drive.
USD20, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Arrive and Check-in at Marriott City Center, Raleigh, NC

Settle in and rest after the long drive, preparing for the next day.
USD160, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Brewery Bhavana, Raleigh, NC

Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with delicious dim sum and craft beer, open until 10:00PM.
USD40, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Coastal Drive & Historic Site

Raleigh, NC to St. Augustine, FL on June 7, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast included with your hotel stay, available from 6:30AM.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Departure for St. Augustine, FL

Continue your drive straight south on I-95 for about 9 hours toward the historic city of St. Augustine.
Free, 9h

12:30PM

Lunch Break in Savannah, GA

Stop for lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room featuring southern home-style cooking, open from 11:00AM to 3:00PM.
USD25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Stretch Stop at a Rest Area

Take a short break to stretch and refresh before continuing the drive.
Free, 15 minutes

5:30PM

Arrive and Check-in at Best Western Historic Bayfront, St. Augustine

Relax and get ready for an evening walk and dining experience in the historic district.
USD150, 30 minutes

6:15PM

Visit Castillo de San Marcos

Explore this captivating historic fort before it closes at 7:00PM. Learn about St. Augustine's rich history.
USD15, 45 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Columbia Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine in one of the oldest restaurants in Florida, open until 9:00PM.
USD40, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Final Short Drive & Relax

St. Augustine, FL to Nalcrest, FL on June 8, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Blue Hen Café

Start your morning with a delightful breakfast featuring locally sourced dishes, open from 7:00AM.
USD20, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Departure for Nalcrest, FL

Enjoy a shorter, comfortable drive of about 2 hours to your final destination in Nalcrest.
Free, 2h

10:00AM

Arrival and Relaxation in Nalcrest

Welcome to Nalcrest! Spend your day enjoying lakeside views and peaceful community vibes.
Free, Ongoing

10:30AM

Explore Lake Weohyakapka

Take a walk around Lake Weohyakapka for a relaxing nature experience, perfect for reflection and calm.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nalcrest Restaurant

Grab a casual lunch at the local restaurant offering a variety of American comfort dishes, open until 3:00PM.
USD15, 30 minutes

12:45PM

Leisure at Community Pool

Unwind by the community pool in the afternoon, enjoying the tranquility and warm Florida weather.
Free, Ongoing