Top 5 Summer Road Trip Destinations from Tallahassee in Your Kia

Quick Overview

Tallahassee is one of the best home bases in Florida for a summer road trip – crystal springs, Gulf beaches, historic towns, and even underground caverns are all within a few hours’ drive. This guide rounds up five of our favorite getaways, how far each one is, and the Kia models that make the drive comfortable, efficient, and fun for the whole family.

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Few cities put this much variety within easy reach. From a quick morning drive to a springs swim to a longer haul to a historic coastline, North Florida is built for summer exploring. Before you pack up, it’s worth making sure your ride is ready, and if you’re thinking about an upgrade, the new vehicle specials at Werner Kia are a great place to start. Here are five trips worth taking this summer.

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs, and at roughly 15 miles from Tallahassee, it’s the easiest escape on this list. Spend the morning swimming in the cool, clear water or take a riverboat tour to spot manatees, alligators, and birds. It’s the perfect low-effort day trip when you just need to beat the heat.

About 76 miles away, St. George Island delivers quiet, uncrowded Gulf beaches and a laid-back state park, while neighboring Apalachicola serves up fresh oysters and small-town charm. It’s an ideal overnight or long-day beach trip – bring the coolers and beach chairs, because there’s plenty of cargo room in the right Kia.

Around 100+ miles west, the Emerald Coast is famous for its sugar-white sand and turquoise water. Panama City Beach brings the family attractions and lively boardwalk, while the nearby 30A communities offer a more relaxed, boutique beach vibe. It’s a longer drive that rewards you with some of Florida’s most photogenic shoreline.

Make the drive east on I-10 and US-90 to reach the nation’s oldest city. St. Augustine pairs historic forts, cobblestone streets, and museums with its own stretch of Atlantic beaches – a great mix for families who want more than just sand. It’s the longest trip here, so comfort and fuel efficiency really pay off.

Looking for something different? Florida Caverns State Park near Marianna is the only state park in Florida offering public cave tours, with cool underground formations that are a welcome break from the summer heat plus hiking and the Chipola River up top. At roughly an hour away, it’s an easy, unexpected day trip.

The best road trip starts with the right vehicle. For big family hauls, the three-row Telluride and Sorento offer space and comfort, while the Carnival MPV is hard to beat for passenger and cargo room. Want efficiency for longer drives? Kia’s hybrids and the all-electric EV9 stretch your budget at the pump or plug. Not sure which fits your family? Our guide to the top Kia models for road trips in the Florida Panhandle can help, and the Sportage is a versatile pick for smaller groups.

What’s the closest beach to Tallahassee?
St. George Island, about 1.5 hours (roughly 76 miles) south, is one of the closest true Gulf beaches, with quiet sand and a state park. The Emerald Coast beaches near Panama City Beach are about two hours west.

What are good day trips from Tallahassee?
Wakulla Springs (about 25 minutes) and Florida Caverns State Park near Marianna (about an hour) both make excellent half-day or full-day trips that don’t require an overnight stay.

Which Kia is best for a family road trip?
It depends on your crew. For maximum space, look at the Telluride, Sorento, or Carnival; for efficiency on longer drives, consider a Kia hybrid or the EV9. Browse the full new vehicle lineup to compare.

Can I take a road trip in an electric Kia?
Yes – EVs like the EV9 are road-trip capable, but it’s smart to plan charging stops along your route in advance. Range and charging times vary by model, conditions, and charger type.

Before you hit the road, make sure you’re driving the right Kia for the adventure. Explore current new vehicle specials, value your trade, or contact our team to find your next road trip companion. Werner Kia is at 2755 W. Tennessee Street in Tallahassee, proudly serving Panama City, Valdosta, and the Florida Panhandle. Call (855) 791-3014 to schedule a test drive.

Drive times and distances are approximate and vary with route, traffic, and conditions. Destination details, hours, access, and seasonal closures are subject to change; confirm with the park or attraction before you go. EV driving range and charging times vary by model, configuration, weather, and charger type; plan charging stops in advance. Vehicle availability, pricing, and offers (including new vehicle specials) are subject to change and may not be available at the time of inquiry; see Werner Kia for current details.