Take a road trip to these awesome spots!
Sometimes you just need a mini-vacay to keep things fresh. We get it! That’s why we’ve curated this ultimate guide to fun and unique day trips from Jacksonville FL you can do to keep things adventurous during your week. Want to roam with the horses or take a dip in some crystal-clear springs North Florida has so much nature and wonder to explore you’ll never run out of fun experiences and destinations.
So pack light because these road tips and day trips from Jacksonville are all about some bite-sized adventure…
Take the ferry and head to Cumberland Island for a day of whimsy and wonder! This once-upon-a-time vacation island for the wealthy Carnegie family is now open to explore. Check out the ruins of a seaside mansion built in 1884 and burned down in 1950. Cumberland also has one of the only feral herds of horses on the Atlantic that remains untouched by the outside world. About 200 horses roam the lands, living off the rugged beachside terrain.
Jekyll Island has so much to offer from shopping, beaches, Golden Isles visitor tours, acres of wilderness and so much more! Places we recommend include:
Talbot Island State Park includes seven parks and if you’re into bird watching photography, and exploring nature, this place is for you! You can go hiking on Blackrock Trail, go on kayak tours, adventure down to Boneyard Beach and so much more!
Almost 200 acres of pure, natural Florida, Osceloa National Forest is rife for exploring and getting in touch with your inner Floridian. Dense forested woodlands and diverse ecological swamps are untouched by humans in this scenic park. This day trip is also coated with history! Check out the Olustee Battlefield Trail to experience what Civil War soldiers lived through.
If you’re lucky you can catch the annual battle reenactment in February for a historic and entertaining look at the Civil War and its toll on Florida.
Find a mini oasis in this incredible day trip! Right around the corner from Devil’s Den you can find Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens. These botanical gardens used to be a quarry and now it has been transformed into a magical place. You’ll be able to explore waterfalls, koi ponds, wildlife, tons of flowers and so much more! Exploring these grounds could take a few hours, so be sure to bring a bottle of water and a picnic if you’d like!
Dogs are welcome, just be sure to let the owners know beforehand.
Right around the corner from Devil’s Den is Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens. These botanical gardens was once a quarry but now its a magical place!
A spectacular hike in Florida, Ravine Gardens has many features that makes it unique and worth the day trip! The lush park comes to life in the spring when all the landscaping comes alive. A guided-tour tram ride will takes visitors past 100,000 of azaleas planted. Hit Ravine Gardens at its peak coloring, which is February or March, during the annual Florida Azalea Festival. Additionally, the park has two picturesque suspension bridges and waterfalls for that perfect photo-op moment.
This park has been around since the 1880’s and takes you on an adventure into another world outside the Florida palms and beaches and into a mini rainforest!
Check out our experiences while visiting our top 6 Florida springs! Each one was so worth it so we hope you can check each one off your bucket list too!
This spring pours out to Lake George, the largest of the St. Johns River Chain of Lakes, and you can get here by boat! Don’t worry, the boats stay out of the swimming area and you can also drive here to enter. Make sure you get a picture with the infamous palm that resides there!
Paddle through crystal clear waters at this beautiful State Park! Experience natural Florida at it’s best with Silver Springs. From gorgeous scenery to incredible wildlife, there’s much to see and do. If you don’t feel like paddling upstream, catch a ride on the iconic glass bottom boats to see the springs like never before.
Pro-Tip: keep your eyes on the trees for an unusual sight in Florida – wild monkeys!
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Float down a natural lazy river at this hidden gem! Kelly Park is a gorgeous natural spring that’s perfect for Summer fun! Enjoy the short river run, and flow out into a large pool of crystal clear water. The perfect solution to a hot Florida day, take a dip in Kelly Park’s gorgeous waters.
This park is home to spring-fed rivers, lush canopies and cool swimming holes! The Blue Hole Spring is amazing to snorkel and explore, plus you may even see otters or beavers lurking around. There is so much to do at this wonderful State Park!
Constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Juniper Springs is a place where you can swim, picnic, adventure through trails, and more! With palms and oaks surrounding a beautiful spring, this one is a little less than a two-hour drive and so worth it for a day trip!
If you’re thinking about taking a pilgrimage to one of Florida’s mystical springs, we’ve got you covered. We’ve created a list of unique springs around Jacksonville that you can plan your weekend around!
Fernandina is such a lovely place to visit and perfect for the family! From experiencing history at Fort Clinch State Park to enjoying delicious brunch at Beach Diner, this is one of the best day trips from Jacksonville. You can also stay at Greyfield Inn if wanting to stay for the whole weekend. This mansion is a must-see! The grounds, landscape and everything about this place is breathtaking.
With 13 miles of beautiful beaches, the freshest seafood and so much more, Amelia Island is a must for a weekend getaway! Whether you want to take some kayaking excursions, golf at the top golf islands in the world or have a spa day with your significant other, there’s something for everyone here.
Looking for the perfect day trip or weekend getaway Flagler Beach is the perfect option! It’s close enough to home, but far enough away to feel like the perfect vacation. How would we spend the day First, we’d grab a cup of coffee from Sip and Surf Coffee or Yes Coffee Co. and then walk along the beautiful beach! We’d explore all there is to see (and take cute photos while we’re at it!) and then check out the Funky Pelican for some delicious bites!
Yes, Savannah is just about two hours away from Jacksonville! If you haven’t made a weekend out of this cute little southern town already, it’s time to change that. From trendy boutiques, ghost tours and historic sites, this place is one of our favorite spots to get away! We recommend:
This iconic building is a great addition to your day trip to St. Augustine! In the heart of historic downtown, explore an extraordinary museum offering an immersive experience of art, architecture, and history. Formerly called the Hotel Alcazar, the museum is located in a stunning Gilded Age resort hotel with breathtaking views!
But, there’s tons to explore in St. Augustine! From the San Sebastian Winery to the Castillo San Marcos, immerse yourself in astonishing history and rich culture!
Whether you’re off to the races or just want a mini-vacay, Daytona is a great spot for a getaway! Tour the Daytona International Speedway, take a trip to the beach, and enjoy some delicious food for the perfect adventure just a couple of hours away from Jacksonville! Watch our video to experience our perfect day trip to Daytona!
Are you a lover of all things space and science Take a road trip to the Kennedy Space Center to explore all of the awesome scientific advancements in space exploration! With fun, interactive displays and awesome exhibits, this is the perfect way to escape the Florida heat in an exciting and educational way! Pro-tip: Plan your visit to see a launch!
Photo credit Aerial Tallahassee
Whether you’re a college football fan, love thrilling nightlife, or have a heart for the outdoors, both Tallahassee and Gainsville have something to offer you! Enjoy natural springs just a short drive outside of town, party it up at College Town (sidenote: all roads lead to Palace) in Tally or the Social at Midtown in Gainesville, or catch a football game in the flesh!
Stuff To Do In Tampa Bay
We may be biased but our friend over at Stuff To Do in Tampa Bay have the best things to do in their city! Whether you are wanting to visit for a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game or wanting to enjoy a night out in Ybor City, they have you covered when it comes to a Tampa Bay Road Trip.
With 5 estate venues featuring art, history, and extraordinary architecture, the Ringling Museum offers beautiful backdrops and stunning exhibits both inside and out! The Ca’ d’Zan, one of the 5 venues, was built by John Ringling and his wife Mable as their summer home in Sarasota. This is why the museum hosts a circus history exhibit!
📍5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Photo credit Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Get up close and personal with your favorite marine animals at the Clearwater Aquarium! Specializing in rescue, rehab, and release, this Aquarium allows you to meet rescued animals, and learn about Florida’s wildlife through experiences and exhibits.
Photo credit Fairgrounds St. Pete
Embark in an indoor adventure with the Fairgrounds St. Pete experience! This immersive art exhibit creates a weird world worth exploring – celebrating the weird and wonderful Florida we all love. See if you can piece together the mystery that surrounds the Mermaid Star Hotel and see our home state in a new light!
Photo credit Anna Maria Island
This barrier island is known for its white sandy beaches and stunning crystal clear waters, making it a perfect tropical weekend getaway from Jacksonville! Spend your days soaking up the Florida sun or enjoy the adorable town full of history, arts and culture, and amazing waterfront dining options. Add this 7-mile strip of land to your must-visit list this Summer!
Stuff To Do In Orlando
We also have friends over in Orlando that would love to show you the best things to do in their city! Whether you are like us and love visiting for a trip to Disney or are looking to cheer on your favorite team from the stands at one of their sports venues, they have you covered when it comes to an Orlando day trip.
Photo credit Visit Mount Dora
This adorable central-forida town is full of delicious culinary experiences (wheck out WAVE Sushi!) and fun shopping opportunities. Mount Dora is a quaint town with loads to do – we recommend kayaking along the Dora Canal or checking out the sights around Lake Dora! With tons of town festivals and farmers markets, there’s always something going on during the weekend!
Photo credit Wave Sushi
Visit Wave Sushi in Mount Dora for creative sushi that’s totally worth the drive! From iconic creations like Sushi Pizza to Sushi Tacos, and mouthwatering rolls, everything on their menu is worth a try! While the dishes might seem a little gimmicky, the freshness of the fish and the delicious flavors say otherwise! Be sure to make the road trip to Wave Sushi for aesthetic eats!
📍301 N Baker St U 100, Mt Dora, FL 32757
Enjoy cook-your-own fondue specialties at this intimate and rustic Casselberry restaurant! This local favorite eatery is totally worth the drive just outside of downtown Orlando whenever you visit Central Florida. With craft cocktails, monthly specials, and tons of cheese, this is a fun and creative spot to check out!
📍1016 Semoran Blvd. Casselberry, Florida 32707
Photo credit Visit Miami
This South Florida city is known for its vibrant nightlife, popular sports teas, and gorgeous sandy beaches and stunning skyline views. From its incredible cultural scene and delicious food to unique activities there is so much to explore in this iconic city!
Photo credit Miami Slice
This iconic pizzeria is a must-visit while you’re in Miami! While their menu may not be extensive, it sure packs a serious punch of flavor! Using fresh, gourmet ingredients like truffle cream, hot honey, and fresh mozzarella, you seriously can’t go wrong with any of these slices! Plus, with a storefront in Las Vegas, you know this pizza shop is seriously yummy!
📍1335 NE Miami Ct. Miami, FL 33132
This gorgeous Florida resort city is set against an unbelievably beautiful backdrop of a barrier island. Take in beautiful west coast (of Florida) sunsets and iconic architecture at the Don CeSar Hotel, and adorable wildlife at this beach!
Looking for white sands and crystal clear blue water? It’s literally in the name – Clearwater beach is the perfect candidate for a weekend getaway! There is also plenty to do in the area, like exploring the inviting small-town atmosphere, dining out at delicious restaurants, and even going to visit the Clearwater Aquarium!
Photo credit Suncoast Aerials
Another spot to visit for a relaxing getaway is Siesta Key! This 8-mile-long island is made up of quartz-sand, creating stunning white beaches and crystal clear water! Enjoy tons of fun outdoor activities, from fishing and kayaking to parasailing and swimming!
Take a trip to the Emerald Coast and visit Destin! This area has so many gorgeous beaches featuring incredible colored water and soft sandy shores. With plenty of beautiful nature trails to explore, delicious places to eat, and fun water activities, Destin is a must visit for all!
This adorable beach town is known for its gorgeous sandy shore and stunning architecture! Located on the Florida Panhandle, Rosemary Beach is a perfect destination for your next aesthetic vacation. Offering award-winning restaurants and great shopping opportunities, we can’t think of a better place for a getaway!
This snack shack offers tons of delicious drinks and tasty bites! Located in St. Pete Beach, visit this seaside bar before or after your beach day for the ultimate summer itinerary. Offering breakfast, sandwiches, and salads, plus beer and cocktails, we can’t think of a better spot to be beachside sippin’!
📍6300 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
Home to awesome live music, yummy bites, great drinks, and good times, Saltwater Hippie is the ultimate beach bar! Enjoy tasty cocktails out in the summer sun at this fan-favorite location in Madeira Beach.
📍15042 Madeira Wy, Madeira Beach, FL 33708
Name a more iconic beach bar, we’ll wait. Flora-Bama is a world famous beach bar that has been a honky tonk landmark since 1964. With amazing drinks, waterfront views, and 5 stages for live music, be sure to visit this beachside staple and sip on a Bushwacker next time you’re near the Florida line!
📍17401 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, FL 32507
While this spot isn’t technically a beach, the vibes are immaculate so we couldn’t not include it! Located in the heart of Orlando, Evermore Resort offers beachy good times and delicious cocktails for the perfect central Florida seaside escape!
📍1590 Evermore Wy, Orlando, FL 32836
Photo credit Bud and Alley's
This beachside eatery and bar has an amazing atmosphere, refreshing drinks, and a delicious menu! Located in Seaside, Florida, Bud & Alley’s is named after an iconic dog and cat duo. A fan-favorite among locals, be sure to check out this laid-back spot for yummy dishes and good times!
📍2236 E W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Spend your afternoon on island time with Ellie Mae’s Tiki Bar! Located right along Florida’s iconic Space Coast, you can catch rocket launches while sipping on refreshing drinks and enjoying tasty bites. From Wine Wednesdays to a Bloody Mary Bar on Sundays, plus live music and trivia nights, there’s always something going on at Ellie Mae’s.
We recommend: any of their incredible tacos paired with the can’t-miss street corn! Be sure to check out their weekly specials, which always feature delicious and creative new dishes handcrafted by the chefs!
Enjoy an elegant atmosphere at this gorgeous waterfront restaurant! With a delicious menu full of fresh seafood dishes and a locally sourced raw bar, we can’t recommend this tasty and stunning eatery enough!
📍400 Pensacola Beach Blvd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
📍5323 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Photo credit Ormond Garage
This tasty craft brewery and American eatery is the perfect stop along your way to Florida’s Space Coast!
📍48 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Every passenger prncess needs a drink in their hand in order for it to be considered a true road trip! Check out some of our fave spots for a coffee in Florida!
This gorgeous beach is another scenic destination located along Florida’s panhandle! With stunning sunsets along the gulf and beautiful white beaches, be sure to visit this awesome location next time you find yourself on the west coast of Florida!
With fun party spots and famous beach bars, Pensacola is more than just its stunning ocean views! With fun nightlife, yummy restaurants, and other must-visit locations, Pensacola Beach has got it all!
Head to Seaside for an amazing getaway at a dreamy resort community on the Gulf of Mexico! With charming pastel-colored bungalows and long sandy beaches, this is the perfect escape from everyday life. Shop at adorable small businesses, dine at delicious restaurants, and enjoy hiking trails and costal life in Seaside!
Explore Florida’s Space Coast and visit Titusville! Watch thrilling rocket launches, paddle through old Florida on the Indian River, and get up close and personal with some awesome wildlife all in one place! If you’re visiting during the Summer months, you’ve absolutely got to try out a nighttime kayak adventure to witness the glowing bioluminescence. The water lights up a bright neon blue whenever you touch the water, and it’s truly an awe-inspiring experience!