Driving Time between Anaheim, California and Tampa, Florida

A picture depicting driving

Road Tripping: A Guide to Driving from Anaheim, California to Tampa, Florida

Are you daydreaming of warm sand between your toes, palm trees, and a salty sea breeze? Look no further than Tampa, Florida! But first, you need to get there. No matter if you're moving to Tampa to start a new job or to explore sunny Florida, driving from Anaheim, California, can be a long and tiring journey. However, with a bit of planning, you can turn the drive into a fun adventure! Here's what you need to know:

Fastest vs. Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Anaheim to Tampa is I-10 E and takes just over 35 hours to drive the approximate 2,500 miles. That being said, you may choose to take a slower but more scenic route. Take the Pacific Coast Highway, which offers gorgeous ocean vistas, or Route 66, which is rich in Americana and history. These routes take longer, but can be more enjoyable, especially for sightseeing along the way.

Distance and Time-Based on Traffic

Regardless of the route you choose, there are multiple factors that can affect the amount of time you'll spend in the car. Peak traffic will increase your driving time by several hours. While driving at off-peak times (early mornings, weekdays, and avoiding holiday weekends) can reduce your driving time by several hours. The approximate driving times are:

  • Fastest route - 35 hours with normal traffic, 40+ hours at peak traffic times.
  • Pacific Coast Highway route - 49 hours with normal traffic, 60+ hours at peak traffic times.
  • Route 66 route - 45 hours with normal traffic, 55+ hours at peak traffic times.

Route Options and Drive Times

If you're looking to get from Anaheim to Tampa quickly and efficiently, you might want to stick with the I-10 E. The Pacific Coast Highway is a little slower, but offers a beautiful scenery parallel to the ocean. Route 66 may be the best choice for history buffs, but you'll need to deal with a bit of a diversion to get to it first.

Driving time is expected to vary. Choosing to drive on I-10 E, Anaheim to Phoenix can be up to eight hours, and Phoenix to Tampa can take around three days. Alternatively, the Pacific Coast Highway will take you around six days to arrive in Tampa, and Route 66 will take you about four days.

So get your playlists ready, car snacks, and an adventurous spirit, because road tripping is all about embracing the journey, not just the destination. Whether you are moving, visiting family, or starting a new job, a cross-country journey can be a fun and memorable experience. Pack your bags, fill up your tank, and let's hit the open road!