4-Day Scenic and Cool Road Trip from Florida to Denver

Day 1: Florida to Tallahassee

Orlando to Tallahassee, Florida on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Se7en Bites

Enjoy a hearty Southern breakfast at this popular Orlando bakery, open from 7:30am to 3pm. Don't miss their delicious biscuits and gravy or breakfast sandwiches.
USD15, 1h

9:15am

Scenic Drive to Tallahassee

Head northwest on I-75 and then I-10, passing through lush countryside, forested areas, and warm temperate zones - a cool and green route avoiding the hot coast.
USD20 (Gas), 5h

2:30pm

Lunch at Kool Beanz Cafe, Tallahassee

This eclectic, artsy restaurant offers creative American fusion cuisine with plenty of cool indoor and outdoor seating, perfect to refuel upon arrival.
USD25, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park

Open until 8pm, these beautiful gardens offer cool walking trails with seasonal blooms and a tranquil lake, perfect for relaxing and stretching after the drive.
USD5, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Madison Social

A trendy spot known for fresh seafood and craft cocktails. Open until 10pm, it’s a great place to unwind in Tallahassee's cool evening atmosphere.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Tallahassee to Birmingham

Tallahassee, Florida to Birmingham, Alabama on June 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Black Dog on the Square

Enjoy creative Southern breakfast dishes in downtown Tallahassee, open from 7am. Try the chicken and waffles for a hearty start.
USD18, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Birmingham

Travel a scenic 4.5-hour drive west on I-10 and US-231, passing through forested hills and rural Alabama, keeping temperatures cooler inland.
USD25 (Gas), 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Highlands Bar and Grill

A James Beard Award-winning restaurant serving upscale Southern cuisine. Open for lunch from 11am to 2:30pm, popular for seasonal dishes.
USD40, 1h

2:30pm

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Open until dusk, these extensive gardens offer shaded trails, cool ponds, and beautiful blooms. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy the mild afternoon.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Civil Rights Institute Tour

Explore engaging exhibits on civil rights history. Open until 5pm, so start your visit promptly for a compelling afternoon.
USD15, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at El Barrio

Enjoy vibrant Latin American-inspired tapas in a cozy setting, open until 10pm. A cool spot to end the day in Birmingham.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Birmingham to Little Rock

Birmingham, Alabama to Little Rock, Arkansas on June 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Big Bad Breakfast

Known for farm-fresh ingredients and southern staples, this spot opens at 7am in Birmingham and is perfect for fueling up before a long drive.
USD20, 1h

8:30am

Scenic drive through Memphis

Drive northwest on I-22 towards Memphis for a quick look at the Mississippi River and musically historic landmarks before continuing to Little Rock.
USD30 (Gas), 5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Central BBQ, Memphis

Open from 11am, this famed barbecue joint offers slow-smoked meats and traditional sides, a must-visit while passing through Memphis.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Drive to Little Rock

Continue west on I-40 enjoying scenic ridges and cooler hill country landscapes that become more mountainous.
USD20 (Gas), 2h30m

5:00pm

Walk the Big Dam Bridge Trail

One of the longest pedestrian bridges in the US, ideal for an evening stroll with beautiful river and city views. Open year-round, sunset is spectacular.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Pantry Restaurant

Classic comfort food served in a charming Little Rock eatery, open until 8pm. Great for relaxing and enjoying local flavors.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 4: Little Rock to Denver

Little Rock, Arkansas to Denver, Colorado on June 19, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Mylo Coffee Co.

Start with a quality coffee and light breakfast to energize for the long trip. Opens at 6am in Little Rock.
USD12, 30m

6:30am

Drive to Denver

A long but scenic drive of about 13 hours on I-40 and then north on I-25 through Oklahoma, Kansas, and into Colorado. Pass through the rising Rockies for refreshing cool mountain air.
USD80 (Gas), 13h

12:30pm

Lunch Stop in Amarillo, Texas

Enjoy a quick lunch at The Big Texan Steak Ranch, known for their legendary steak offerings and open from 11am to 9pm.
USD25, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner in Colorado Springs at Four by Brother Luck

Savor innovative Colorado cuisine showcasing fresh mountain ingredients. Open until 9pm, great way to enjoy fresh air and local flavors before final leg to Denver.
USD40, 1h

8:00pm

Arrive in Denver

Complete your scenic road trip with a relaxing evening in the Mile High City, enjoying cooler mountain temperatures and vibrant city life.
Free, Rest
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