Ahhh…the Florida Turnpike. We love it, we hate it. If you are heading into Florida for fun, sun or bowl games, you most likely will hit the turnpike at some point. My Florida Turnpike Rest Stop Review covers the first plaza you see as you enter the turnpike heading south, and it’s the last one you will see as you exit heading north.
When you are on the Florida Turnpike, you will notice fairly quickly that you are relegated to the turnpike’s service plazas for restrooms, etc.
These may not be part of your car ride scavenger hunt card game, but they are the reality of life on the road in Florida!
As a tailgater, I am in the car A LOT. Finding nice, clean, safe facilities is a thing for me. So much so that I feel compelled to share my findings with you! Florida roads are always busy for summer travelers AND in December/January with Bowl Game traffic and snow bird arrivals.
Florida Turnpike Rest Stop:
Okahumpka Service Plaza
The Turnpike Service Plazas used to be really hit or miss. Very baseline and institutional, facility wise. So, imagine my surprise when I arrived at the Okahumpka Service Plaza! I was in the last three hours of a solo 2,377 road trip (that’s right!) and this rest stop was a welcome surprise.
It’s a one stop shop: gas, restrooms, fast food and a market.
Restrooms are large with adequate changing areas for your littlest travelers.Of course, my home state entices you with brochures on every theme park, aquatic adventure and beach getaway! Hey, it’s Florida!
The market was nice and operates like an upgraded convenience store. The fish tank on the interior entrance of the market was a big draw for families who needed to stretch their legs. I had not started My 12 Week Weight loss Challenge when I rolled thru, so I grabbed a diet soda and gummy sour worms, my go to “on the road” snack! That’s another story for another day, my friends.
Once inside, there’s fresh fruit, coffee and anything else you may need for the road!
Finally, the Okahumpka Service Plaza offered several fast food options and ample dining spaces. The entire facility was exceptionally clean and ideal for a family stop. The flat screen tvs provided Florida weather updates and other informational tips.
The gas prices were not too elevated – yay!
If you are on the Turnpike, the Okahumpka Service Plaza is a great rest stop. And, if you find yourself at a rest stop and see someone taking pictures (why in the world?!?) it’s probably me!
Safe travels!
heather
SHOP THE TRAVEL CENTER
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