Orlando, best known for its theme parks and bustling tourist attractions, offers more than just roller coasters and fireworks. Beyond the city’s entertainment hub lies a wealth of beautiful, scenic drives perfect for manual car enthusiasts. Orlando and the surrounding Central Florida area boast winding roads, serene lakes, and stretches of lush greenery that offer the perfect backdrop for an enjoyable driving experience. From picturesque landscapes to winding roads that challenge manual drivers, here are some of the best scenic drives in the greater Orlando area for car lovers.
1. Lake Apopka Loop Trail
Located just northwest of Orlando, the Lake Apopka Loop Trail offers a beautiful drive through the wetlands and natural wildlife areas surrounding the lake. This 15-mile scenic drive is filled with winding turns and stunning views of Lake Apopka, making it ideal for manual car lovers who enjoy controlling their gear shifts on an exciting route. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as alligators and native birds as you drive through this picturesque part of Central Florida.
2. The Green Mountain Scenic Byway
Running through the rolling hills and farmland near Clermont, the Green Mountain Scenic Byway is a popular route for drivers seeking a more rural escape from Orlando. This 45-mile stretch provides sweeping views of lakes, hills, and citrus groves, and is especially beautiful during sunset. The Byway’s winding roads offer manual drivers the perfect opportunity to experience the thrill of shifting gears through sharp curves and gradual climbs. With its beautiful scenery and varied terrain, this drive is a must for any car enthusiast in the area.
3. Black Bear Scenic Byway
Venturing slightly northeast of Orlando, the Black Bear Scenic Byway offers a dynamic drive through the Ocala National Forest. Known for its winding roads and natural beauty, this scenic route is perfect for manual drivers looking for an exhilarating challenge. The Byway is named after the Florida Black Bear, which can sometimes be spotted in the area. The route takes you through forests, lakes, and natural springs, offering plenty of scenic stops along the way. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend adventure, the Black Bear Scenic Byway offers an unforgettable driving experience.
4. Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail
About an hour’s drive from Orlando, the Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail is a picturesque route that takes you through canopies of oak trees, salt marshes, and coastal views. The 30-mile loop is filled with opportunities to enjoy both natural and coastal scenery, as it passes through parks and beachfront areas. The winding roads along this trail make it an exciting drive for manual car enthusiasts, and you can stop along the way to visit state parks and enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean.
5. SR 46 to Wekiva River and St. Johns River
State Road 46, running from Sanford to Mount Dora, offers a scenic drive through rural areas and alongside the Wekiva River. This peaceful route provides views of Central Florida’s natural landscapes, including rivers, wetlands, and forests. Manual car drivers will appreciate the rolling hills and the mix of long straightaways and curves. The drive is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset, and it’s a great way to explore Central Florida’s countryside while enjoying the road.
6. Sugarloaf Mountain Road
Located near Clermont, Sugarloaf Mountain Road is one of Central Florida’s highest points and offers a thrilling drive for car lovers. With steep inclines and sharp turns, this road is perfect for manual car enthusiasts looking for a challenge. The scenic route takes you through rolling hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s also a popular spot for cyclists and motorcyclists, so be mindful as you navigate the road’s sharp curves.
7. Route 441 to Mount Dora
For a scenic drive that combines both natural beauty and charming small towns, take Route 441 from Orlando to Mount Dora. This route is filled with rolling hills, lake views, and stretches of farmland. Once you reach Mount Dora, you can explore the town’s historic district, filled with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Manual drivers will enjoy the varied terrain along Route 441, and the journey to Mount Dora provides a relaxing yet scenic escape from the city.
Conclusion
Orlando might be famous for its bustling city life and tourist attractions, but it also offers plenty of scenic drives that are perfect for car lovers. From the natural beauty of Lake Apopka and Ocala National Forest to the rolling hills of Sugarloaf Mountain and beyond, there’s no shortage of routes that provide both stunning views and exciting driving experiences for manual car enthusiasts.
If you’re ready to hone your manual driving skills while exploring Orlando’s scenic roads, book a lesson with Manual Driving Academy here. Our expert instructors are eager to help you master the art of manual driving so you can fully enjoy Orlando’s best scenic routes.
