Pleasanton, KS to Clearwater, FL: A Cross-Country Haul

From the Flint Hills to the Gulf Coast

The drive from Pleasanton, Kansas to Clearwater, Florida spans approximately 1,650 miles (2,655 kilometers) and takes 24–26 hours of pure driving time—typically a 3-day trip with overnight stops.

Primary Route: I-35 South → I-40 East → I-75 South

1. I-35 South from Pleasanton through KC, Oklahoma City, Dallas/Fort Worth
2. I-20 East from DFW to I-49 South (Shreveport) or I-30 East to I-49 South
3. I-49 South to I-10 East (Lafayette, LA)
4. I-10 East across southern Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida Panhandle
5. I-10 East to I-75 South (near Lake City, FL) → Clearwater

Alternative: I-35 South → I-44 East → I-57 South → I-24 East → I-75 South

Through St. Louis, Memphis, Nashville, Atlanta. Similar distance/time; more mountainous terrain (Ozarks, Appalachians).

Practical Planning

• Day 1: Pleasanton → Dallas/Fort Worth area (~450 mi, 7 hrs)
• Day 2: DFW → Mobile, AL / Pensacola, FL area (~550 mi, 8.5 hrs)
• Day 3: Gulf Coast → Clearwater (~300 mi, 4.5 hrs)

Considerations

Traffic in DFW, Houston (if I-10), Atlanta (if I-75), and Tampa Bay. Hurricane season (Jun–Nov) affects Gulf Coast. Spring break / winter snowbird season increases FL traffic. Budget $250–$350 fuel (one way, 25 mpg avg).