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Tips for Driving from Chicago To Florida

Discussion in 'General Yachting Discussion' started by PhilG57, Dec 14, 2012.

  1. PhilG57, Dec 14, 2012
    #1
    PhilG57

    PhilG57 New Member

    Joined:
    Nov 26, 2006
    Messages:
    29
    Location:
    Chicago area
    We're thinking about driving from Chicago to the Tampa/St. Pete area of Florida in January. Google maps suggests I-65, I-24, then I-75 and about 20 hours. Are there any pros or cons to this route and is 20 hours a reasonable time? We'd probably stop for a night with friends near Bowling Green, KY on at least one of the trips.

    Thanks.
  2. jlplatts, Dec 15, 2012
    #2
    jlplatts

    jlplatts Member

    Joined:
    Aug 6, 2010
    Messages:
    36
    Location:
    St. Pete FL
    We drive from Denver to Tampa. We cover most of the route you show, picking it up east of St. Louis around Mt. Vernon. The roads are good, fuel and lodging options are numerous, rest areas can be sparse through most of that section except for I-75 through Florida. We try to make our way through Atlanta during off peak times because traffic there can be a killer. We have hit traffic in Nashville, so if timing works I would try to avoid rush hour there, but it is nothing like Atlanta. Depending on the time of year, you probably want to watch the weather and avoid winter storms. For us, from Denver to Tampa is just under 30 hours including stops, so 20 for you is probably not a bad estimate from Chicago. Enjoy the journey.
  3. Bishop6042, Dec 15, 2012
    #3
    Bishop6042

    Bishop6042 New Member

    Joined:
    Jul 15, 2012
    Messages:
    20
    Location:
    Tampa, FL
    I have made the trip back and forth from Indy to Tampa several times. 20 hours from Chicago should be pretty accurate. The route you have listed is pretty sound as well. Atlanta is your only real hurdle and if you aren't hitting it at rush hour, you should have no problems going through it. If you think you are going to hit rush hour, take 285 around Atlanta, it may not save you a lot of time, but it will save you a lot of headache.