Do we need to worry about afternoon rush hour (in Miami?) on a weekday driving from Orlando to the Florida Keys? Is there a better route than the Florida Turnpike to route 1?

Driving in Miami is horrible at any time of the day!

The turnpike, then the turnpike extension is your best bet.

The keys are fabulous, enjoy it!

There always seems to be some much construction and delays going on in Miami. I am not sure what would be the best time to avoid the traffic. Maybe midnight, lol. There is also some construction going on in the Upper Keys. Just slow down and enjoy the sights.

I just noticed you have two posts, same subject. Don't know if you saw my suggestion from the other post so I will re post here just in case...

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There is always traffic in the Miami/South Florida area. Take the Turn Pike to Florida City and then just out of town take Card Sound Road. It pulls off to the left just as you are leaving FC. If you want to miss all the traffic and see some of the state take US-441 around be east side of the big lake and then US-27 and Krome Ave (SR-997) to Florida City and then on down. If you would like to make a little better time you could take the Turn Pike to Yeehaw Junction and pick up US-441 there.

Although the turnpike has lots of traffic it is still your best bet. If you can time it so that you pass by the Miami area at noontime or late in the evening it may be easiest. On a weekday the route thru the keys is OK although there is construction as has been noted and there are many areas of reduced speed limits. The further south you travel the nicer the views. Enjoy.

Thankyou. That was very helpful although a little discouraging. At least we know what to expect though.