6 Fun Day Trips You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL

Around Jacksonville, FL there are some genuinely excellent day trips you can take. To narrow down the brilliant options, the following is a list we’ve made detailing our favorites.

6 Fun Day Trips You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL

1. Blue Springs State Park

This is a beautiful 2600 acre part of the St John’s river, with crystal-clear blue waters, natural beauty, and exciting wildlife. We recommend visiting here during manatee season and looking out for the West Indian manatees that glide through the water in the springs. We believe this is a great spot to swim, kayak in, or book an ecological tour to make the most of this stunning scenery. The waters are pretty warm, which is an added bonus!

2. Amelia Island

Only 30 miles from Jacksonville, Amelia Island is a paradise for birds and holiday-seekers alike. If you’re outdoorsy, we advise you to head to the white-sand beaches such as Fernandina Beach and watch the gorgeous sunset rippling over the water. For a more cultural experience, the more inhabited part of the island has enlightening art galleries, a relaxed small-town to explore, and historic saloons. The island also hosts festivals and has rolling grass golf courses.

3. Palatka

For a more historically immersive experience, we love Palatka’s preserved town with homes and churches dating as far back as the 1800s. This small town is packed with cultural gems for art lovers; there’s a blossoming creative scene. We advise going on a tour of the Palatka murals or visiting the galleries to see art aplenty. If you prefer nature, there’s the nearby Ravine Gardens State Park, which displays two awe-inspiring ravines and thriving plant life.

4. Ichetucknee Springs

We adore Ichetucknee Springs for its family-friendly atmosphere; the interconnecting transparent waterways are beloved by swimmers and tubers alike. Nearby stores are selling affordable tubes so that everyone can get in on the fun. In addition, these clear springs are bordered by well-established trees, making the whole area feel like a luxurious natural spa. You can soak up the sun by splashing about in the water here or search the trees for swooping birds.

5. Big Talbot Island State Park

Another attractive option is this state park, which has a road running through it, perfect for inline skaters, cyclists, and handicapped visitors. We advise keen birdwatchers to head here because Big Talbot Island State Park preserves many exciting bird species flitting about in the wetlands. Suppose you want to see the island from the water. In that case, you can take a kayaking tour led by a knowledgeable guide that can give you a unique natural perspective.

6. Cedar Key

This is a laid-back destination for those seeking a traditional holiday, renowned for its fishing opportunities and seafood restaurants. In addition, the Cedar Key Museum State Park, home to a Native American shell mound believed to be around 1,800 years old, is a beloved tourist attraction for families.

From taking a dip in crystal-clear springs to photographing a mural embellished town, the area around Jacksonville provides magnificent opportunities for enjoyable trips. Visit us at Tom Bush BMW to get the reliable car that can get you to these beautiful locations!

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