Jacksonville

It’s better in the app

Download. Join. Explore.

Download. Sign in. Explore.

Day trips from Jax

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…

Our experience at Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens

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!

Natural Springs

Top 6 Florida Springs

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!

Silver Springs

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!

Kelly Park

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.

Want to know about more Natural Springs in Florida

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!

More Day Trips From Jacksonville

Flagler Beach

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!

St. Augustine - Lightner Museum

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!

Daytona

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!

Kennedy Space Center

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!

College Towns

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!

The Ringling Museum

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

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.

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!

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!

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!

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

Colorado Fondue

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

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!

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

St Pete Beach

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!

Clearwater 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!

Siesta Key

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!

Destin

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!

Rosemary Beach

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!

Beach bars

Post Card Inn

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

Saltwater Hippie

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

Flora-Bama

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

Evermore Resort

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

Bud + 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

Ellie Mae's Tiki Bar

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!

The Grand Marlin

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

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

Fuel your road trip

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!

Amelia Island Coffee

📍Amelia Island

Learn More

Patrona Coastal Cafe

📍St. Pete

Learn More

Flamingo Coffee

📍Jacksonville - Murray Hill

Learn More

Citrus Coffee

📍Clermont

Learn More

Willa’s Provisions

📍Tampa

Learn More

The Robinson Room

📍Orlando

Learn More

Pumphouse

📍West Palm Beach

Learn More

Nautilus Coffee Co

📍Tavares

Learn More

Ragga Surf Cafe

📍Marineland

Learn More

Yes Coffee Co

📍Flagler Beach

Learn More

Santa Rosa Beach

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!

Pensacola Beach

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!

Seaside

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!

Titusville

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!

The weekend is calling

Experience Jacksonville like never before!

Curated by

Duval Native | Sunshine State ☀️ | Aspiring Plant Mom 🌱

Discover more