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Thankful on a Tankful: 8 South Florida Destinations Worth the Drive This Autumn (2024 Edition)

Posted at Wed, Nov 20, 2024 8:30 PM
As autumn settles over South Florida in 2024, it’s the perfect time to hit the open road and explore the region’s beauty, history, and adventure. Whether you’re behind the wheel of the fuel-efficient 2024 Ford Escape Hybrid or cruising in a spacious Ford Expedition, Mullinax Ford has you covered for a season of unforgettable drives. These eight South Florida destinations offer the perfect escape this fall—and the best part? They’re all reachable on a single tank of gas!

everglades aerial view

1. Everglades National Park Take in the untamed beauty of the Everglades as the summer heat gives way to cooler, more comfortable weather. With plenty of opportunities for airboat rides, hiking, and wildlife watching, it’s the ultimate autumn adventure. Drive Time: About 1.5 hours from Miami Must-See: Shark Valley’s 15-mile loop for biking and sweeping views from the observation tower.

coral castle museum

2. Coral Castle Museum 2024 marks another year of intrigue at the Coral Castle in Homestead, where visitors can marvel at the massive hand-carved limestone structures. Learn about the mysteries behind this engineering marvel that still baffles scientists today. Drive Time: Around 40 minutes from Miami Must-See: The famous 9-ton gate, a feat of engineering that defies explanation.

naples botanical garden

3. Naples Botanical Garden Celebrate autumn in full bloom at the Naples Botanical Garden. This 170-acre tropical paradise is the perfect escape, offering seasonal flowers, art exhibitions, and events throughout the fall. Drive Time: Approximately 2 hours from Fort Lauderdale Must-See: The butterfly house and the new 2024 Garden Sculpture Trail.

aerial view of the florida keys

4. The Florida Keys Nothing says “road trip” like the drive to the Florida Keys. In 2024, explore the newly expanded offerings at Key Largo and Islamorada, including updated snorkeling tours and waterfront dining experiences. Drive Time: About 1.5 hours from Miami Must-See: The recently revamped Dolphin Research Center in Islamorada.

vizcaya museum gardens

5. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Miami’s Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a timeless destination, blending European-inspired architecture with breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay. This year, the estate has added new interactive exhibits about its history. Drive Time: 20 minutes from downtown Miami Must-See: The updated audio tour highlighting the estate's connection to Miami’s growth.

aerial view of peanut island

6. Peanut Island This hidden gem near West Palm Beach is an island adventure waiting to be discovered. With clear waters for snorkeling and fascinating historical sites like JFK’s bunker, Peanut Island offers something for everyone. Drive Time: About 1 hour from Fort Lauderdale Must-See: Guided historical tours available for fall 2024.

kayaking on the big cypress national preserve

7. Big Cypress National Preserve Explore one of Florida’s natural treasures at Big Cypress, where autumn weather makes hiking and wildlife spotting more enjoyable than ever. Drive Time: Around 1 hour from
Naples Must-See: New eco-friendly visitor center exhibits and guided night hikes in 2024.

airboat riding in sawgrass recreation park

8. Sawgrass Recreation Park Embark on an airboat ride through the Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park. With cooler weather, fall is the perfect season to explore the unique ecosystem of South Florida’s wetlands. Drive Time: 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale Must-See: Evening airboat tours for an unforgettable Everglades experience.

Get Road Trip Ready with Mullinax Ford Before you hit the road this autumn, ensure your Ford is in top shape for the journey. Stop by any Mullinax Ford location for a quick tune-up, oil change, or tire check. And if you’re in need of a new vehicle for your adventures, explore our 2024 lineup of Ford vehicles, from the fuel-efficient Maverick Hybrid to the versatile Ford Explorer.

Whether you’re chasing sunsets in the Keys or uncovering history at Coral Castle, these South Florida destinations promise adventure, relaxation, and memories to be thankful for this fall. Pack your bags, fill up your tank, and let your Ford take you there!For more travel inspiration, car care tips, and the latest Ford updates, visit the Mullinax Ford of West Palm Beach blog.

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