If this is your 1st time to the area, definitely go with the 417. If you have been on I4 before and/or are familiar with driving in the US, then take the I4. If you have kids, there is more to keep a look out for and keep 'em interested in what is to come. Going past Universal/Sea World etc. gets the excitement going. Also takes their mind off from the 1 hour drive from Sandford to that area.