Biketoberfest & Key West

Upon the arrival of all tour participants, we gather to extend a warm welcome, providing an opportunity for everyone to meet and enjoy some refreshments. The evening’s agenda includes introductions, fostering camaraderie, and setting the tone for the upcoming adventure. For those who are up for it, an optional American-style dinner awaits on International Drive, offering a delightful start to our journey. If the energy lingers, a nearby local bar provides the perfect spot for additional socializing and relaxation.

(Driving day 1: 172 km/107 miles)

The day begins with an informative meeting, providing a platform for the introduction of all tour participants and leaders. In this session, we delve into the details of the Bikeweek & Florida Keys tour, covering essential information about the journey, safety rules, and traffic regulations. Following the meeting, we embark on a trip to collect our bikes, ensuring everyone is well-prepared for the upcoming adventure with late-year models and comprehensive insurance.

Once everyone is geared up and ready on their bikes, we kick off the Biketoberfest & Key WSest tour. Orlando fades in the rearview mirror as we venture eastward, immersing ourselves in a unique blend of history and exhilarating motorcycle routes. Taking it slow initially, we allow everyone to acclimate to the driving conditions and temperature, navigating backroads to reach Daytona “Biker” Beach, where we join the world’s coolest “mini” Biker festival; Daytona Biketoberfest.

Our first notable stop of the day is at the legendary Sopotnick’s Cabbage Patch Bar, a venue that originated as a simple fruit shop on the corner and has since become a major Bikeweek destination. Here, we witness the famous cabbage wrestling, where participants vie for glory. The atmosphere is further enhanced by bike shows, shopping opportunities, and an abundance of fun. Following this, we head to downtown Daytona Beach, cruising along the iconic Main Street and capturing memories beneath the renowned Daytona “Biker” Beach sign. The journey unfolds with excitement and camaraderie as we dive into the heart of the Bikeweek festivities.

(Explorer & Fun day)

Savor every moment at the renowned Biketoberfest. We highly recommend immersing yourself in the plethora of events and exhibits at International Speedway and Destination Daytona, home to the world’s largest Harley Davidson dealer, Bruce Ross Meyer. Here, soak in the fantastic atmosphere and revel in the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts.

Embark on our day by navigating the famous “Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail,” a 50 km double loop road that winds through some of the most picturesque and diverse landscapes in Northeast Florida. Following this scenic adventure, we make our way to Bruce Ross Meyer’s expansive showroom, covering an impressive 109,000 sq. ft. Enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst the Harley Davidson ambiance. On our return journey to Main Street, we make a stop at another legendary spot—the Iron Horse Saloon—where you can bask in the atmosphere and connect with fellow bikers. Concluding the day, we cruise down the iconic Main Street in Daytona Beach, joining thousands of other bikers for an unforgettable experience.

(Driving day 2: 254 km/159  miles)

As we bid farewell to Daytona Beach and the world’s largest “mini” motorcycle event, our Florida adventure begins.

Our journey takes us south on Highway 1, tracing the path of the legendary coastal highway A1A. Brace yourself for a spectacular drive along the ocean, where the breathtaking views will set the tone for the adventure ahead. Our first noteworthy stop is Cape Canaveral, home to the renowned “Kennedy Space Center,” an iconic hub of space science exploration. As we continue our coastal drive, the beauty of the ocean accompanies us, creating a mesmerizing backdrop.

Our day concludes with an overnight stay in Vero Beach, offering a peaceful reprieve before we delve deeper into the wonders of Florida.

(Driving day 3: 303 km/190 miles)

Get ready for a day filled with fantastic driving along the beautiful Coastal Highway A1A. Our route takes us through West Palm Beach, known for its charm and elegance, to Fort Lauderdale—an American counterpart to Venice, characterized by numerous marinas and boats. Fort Lauderdale is not just a city; it’s a massive party and holiday resort that promises lively experiences.

Take a moment to relax on the beautiful beaches, soaking in the sun and scenery, before we continue our journey south to Miami. Known for being the backdrop to many film and television shows, including the iconic CSI: Miami and Miami Vice, the city is a vibrant cultural hub. As the day comes to an end, we’ll spend the night in the famous South Beach, Miami, indulging in the city’s unique atmosphere.

(Driving day 4: 271 km/172 miles)

Embark on a truly unique driving experience today as we take on the “Overseas Highway 1.” This iconic route spans over 42 bridges, connecting several tropical islands in the mesmerizing Florida Keys. Our journey will lead us through famous cities like Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Big Pine Key, culminating in our arrival at Key West—the southernmost point of the United States. With its proximity to Cuba, just 140 miles away, and a length of 6.4 km, Key West, or Cayo Hueso in Spanish, is a remarkable destination.

Upon reaching Key West, we’ll have some time to enjoy lunch and immerse ourselves in the local atmosphere before checking into the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore the vibrant Duval Street, known for its lively ambiance. Whether you choose to relax by the pool, soak in the sun at the beach, or delve into the unique charm of Key West, you’ll find endless possibilities. As the day winds down, we’ll gather for dinner and refreshing drinks at Sloppy Joe’s, one of America’s most famous bars.

(Explorer & Fun  day)

Make the most of your day in Key West! The island’s history is rich with maritime adventures, starting as a trading post and evolving into a hub for wreck fishing and debris rescue. The treacherous reefs off Key West have witnessed numerous shipwrecks throughout history. Local residents played a crucial role in rescue missions, saving sailors, passengers, and valuable cargo. While some tales suggest locals might have contributed to these mishaps, the Key West Shipwreck Museum captures the fascinating stories of these maritime adventures.

Key West, often regarded as the jewel of the Florida Keys, stands as the natural endpoint for Overseas Highway 1. Historically, the island has been a refuge for dissidents, intellectuals, and hippies. It is renowned for its association with Ernest Hemingway and exudes a carefree and relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture a photo at the marker designating “America’s most southern point.”

You have various options to enhance your day, such as sailing, deep-sea fishing, water scooters, a visit to Ernest Hemingway’s home, exploring the Key West Lighthouse, or immersing yourself in the island’s many museums and beaches. The day is yours to shape and enjoy.

(Driving day 5: 399 km/249 miles)

Get ready for another unforgettable day! Our journey begins with a return trip on the fantastic “Overseas Highway 1″, winding through the heart of the Atlantic and leading us back to the mainland. From there, we set our course on another iconic road, the Tamiami Trail, guiding us through the Everglades, where encounters with alligators and snakes await.

The Everglades, designated as a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site on December 6, 1947, spans a vast 6104 square kilometers, covering approximately 20% of the original wetland. This unique ecosystem boasts a variety of rare plants and animals, making it a sanctuary for biodiversity. The park is particularly renowned for its alligators, and we’ll have the opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close during a thrilling airboat ride into the heart of the Everglades.

As we return to solid ground, we’ll have the chance to savor a local delicacy—genuine alligator meat—at a nearby restaurant during our lunch stop. Continuing along the Tamiami Trail, our journey unfolds amidst spectacular scenery, with the Everglades offering a captivating backdrop. Keep an eye out for alligators along the roadside as we make our way to our final destination for the day: Naples. Note: Exercise caution and refrain from making any unplanned stops in this area to minimize the risk of encounters with alligators.

(Driving day 8: 271 km/170 miles)

Get ready for an exhilarating day of driving along Florida’s west coast! Our journey begins as we make our way to Fort Myers, famously known as “The City of Palms.” The city boasts a rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Our next stop is the Muscle Car Museum, a haven for classic car enthusiasts, where you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at countless iconic muscle cars that have left an indelible mark on automotive history.

Continuing our adventure, we head to St. Petersburg, a city with a breathtaking entrance characterized by large bridges and stunning views. We’ll enjoy a delightful lunch in the harbor, soaking in the ambiance and scenic beauty. As we proceed north, our route takes us through charming coastal towns that exude warmth and liveliness.

Our final destination for the day is Clearwater, where we’ll explore some local bars that promise to be extraordinary and unique. Clearwater, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for an evening of entertainment and relaxation. Get ready to experience the best that Florida’s west coast has to offer!

(Driving day 9: 198 km/123 miles)

As we near the conclusion of our thrilling Florida adventure, today marks our final day on the road. It promises to be another delightful riding experience as we continue our journey along fun coastal roads, heading towards our endpoint in Orlando.

Upon reaching Orlando, we return our vehicles, bringing our road trip to a close. We’ll check into a hotel conveniently located on International Drive, right in the heart of all the activities and close to various attractions. This evening, we gather for a farewell dinner, reminiscing about the incredible experiences shared on this unforgettable adventure through Florida. It’s a time to celebrate the friendships made, the roads conquered, and the memories that will stay with us for a lifetime.

Farewell to Biketoberfest and the Florida Keys Tour! It’s time to bid adieu to the sun-soaked roads, the vibrant atmosphere, and the memories we’ve created together. As a group, we’ll embark on a shuttle ride to the airport, reflecting on the fantastic ride, the camaraderie, and the joy of exploring Florida’s diverse landscapes.

We extend our heartfelt thanks for choosing to tour with JoyRides. Your adventurous spirit and enthusiasm have added to the success of this journey. We wish you a safe and pleasant trip back home, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you on another one of our tours—whether it’s in the US, South America, Asia, Oceania, or Europe. Until we meet again on the open road, take care and safe travels!

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Note: Due to the time difference, travelers from Europe will arrive home on the date or day following their departure from the US.

Additionally, please be aware that this program serves as a guideline for the activities and experiences on the tour. While deviations may occur, we assure you that our dedicated tour leaders will make every effort to execute the program as described, to the best of their ability and considering the circumstances. We are consistently working to enhance the program, so you may encounter positive surprises along the way. Your understanding and flexibility are greatly appreciated.