Top 11 Road Trips In Jacksonville

Nathan Jahnke

2 min read

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21-12-2024

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Jacksonville, Florida, offers a fantastic starting point for numerous exciting road trips. Whether you crave coastal cruises, historical explorations, or natural wonders, the surrounding areas cater to diverse interests. Here are eleven captivating road trips you can embark on from Jacksonville:

Coastal Escapes

1. St. Augustine & the A1A Scenic Byway: A short drive south leads to America's oldest city, St. Augustine. Explore its historic streets, visit the Castillo de San Marcos, and enjoy the charming atmosphere. Continue south along the scenic A1A for breathtaking coastal views. This trip is perfect for a long weekend getaway, offering a blend of history and stunning scenery.

2. Amelia Island: Journey north along the coast to Amelia Island, known for its pristine beaches, charming town of Fernandina Beach, and historic architecture. This relaxed destination provides a tranquil escape from the city, ideal for a calming weekend retreat.

3. Daytona Beach: Head east along I-95 to Daytona Beach, famous for its wide, hard-packed sand beach perfect for driving on. Beyond the beach, explore the Daytona International Speedway and other attractions. This trip is perfect for a day trip or a longer stay depending on your interests.

Inland Adventures

4. Ocala National Forest: Escape the coast and head inland to explore the Ocala National Forest, a vast expanse of natural beauty featuring springs, lakes, and hiking trails. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this trip offers a refreshing change of pace.

5. Gainesville & the University of Florida: A short drive west takes you to Gainesville, home to the University of Florida. Explore the vibrant college town, visit the university campus, and discover local attractions.

6. Tallahassee & the State Capitol: Further west lies Tallahassee, Florida's capital city. Explore the historic state capitol building, visit museums, and delve into the state's history and government. This is an excellent option for a history buff.

Further Afield

7. Savannah, Georgia: A longer road trip, but well worth it, is the journey to Savannah, Georgia. Explore its historic squares, antebellum architecture, and charming waterfront. Plan for a multi-day trip to fully appreciate this captivating city.

8. Charleston, South Carolina: Another longer journey, but a rewarding one, is Charleston, South Carolina. This historic city boasts beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, and a vibrant culinary scene. A trip here should include at least two days to explore its numerous attractions.

9. Orlando & Theme Parks: Although a well-known destination, a road trip to Orlando from Jacksonville allows you to experience the magic of the theme parks at your own pace. Be sure to plan for multiple days to fit in all the parks and attractions.

Nature & Relaxation

10. St. Marys, Georgia: A short trip across the state line into Georgia brings you to St. Marys, a charming coastal town with a laid-back atmosphere and opportunities for kayaking and exploring Cumberland Island National Seashore.

11. Crystal River & Manatee Encounters: A drive to Crystal River offers a unique opportunity to swim with gentle manatees in their natural habitat. This trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and requires pre-planning to book tours and accommodations.

These road trips offer a diverse range of experiences from Jacksonville. Remember to plan your routes, book accommodations in advance (especially during peak season), and enjoy the journey!