Is there a bus to Tampa?

Yes, Greyhound offers service from St. Louis to Tampa with transfers.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 18 hours.

What is the best route?

I-64 East to I-75 South is the most direct path.

Yes, there are direct flights from St. Louis (STL) to Tampa (TPA).

Tampa is generally safe, but stick to well-lit, populated areas in the tourist districts.

Wentzville

Tampa

Driving

Wentzville to Tampa

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Wentzville to Tampa covers approximately 1,150 miles. You will head south through Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia before entering Florida. The primary route involves taking I-64 East to I-75 South. Expect a driving time of approximately 18 hours. This is a popular route for travelers heading to the Gulf Coast, so plan for multiple overnight stops.

Total Distance: 1,850 km driving distance; 1,600 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-64 and I-75 is the fastest route, taking 18 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most economical choice at roughly $190 in fuel.

Compare Wentzville to Tampa Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

18 hours

Avg Price

$170-$250

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

I-64 E to I-75 S through Nashville, Atlanta, and Ocala.

Atlanta traffic is a major bottleneck; try to pass through at night or mid-day.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Atlanta and Tampa traffic can be very heavy; plan your travel to avoid peak rush hours.
Rest Stops
Atlanta and Ocala are good places to stop, but consider staying in suburbs to avoid downtown traffic.
Weather
Tampa is hot and humid; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Tolls
Florida has many toll roads; consider getting a SunPass for easier travel.
Navigation
Use a GPS with real-time traffic updates to navigate the complex highway systems in major cities.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
This is a very long drive; plan for at least one overnight stop to stay safe.
Vehicle Check
Check your tires and cooling system, as the heat and distance are demanding on vehicles.
Emergency Kit
Carry extra water and a first-aid kit, as some stretches of I-75 are quite remote.
Speeding
Georgia and Florida state police are very active on the interstates; watch your speed.