Wind in your hair, the countryside rolling by, and your tunes playing on the radio. Nothing beats a scenic drive, no matter which time of the year it is. Read on as we discuss four spectacular routes you can take in and around Jacksonville, FL.
Four Wonderful Scenic Drives in the Jacksonville, FL Area
Cruise Down the A1A Ocean Islands Trail
Looking for a beach-side drive that takes you along some of Florida’s incredible eastern seaboard? Look no further than the famous A1A, an up-to-31-mile stretch that conducts you across some of the best beachfront spots like South Jacksonville Beach and Fernandina Beach. Along the way, this route treats you to marshes, woodlands, and all the wildlife within.
There are plenty of pit stops along the way, too; you’ll find no end to waterfront dining. And if you want a bit of history to top things off, consider taking the Saint Johns River Ferry–one of the oldest in Florida, and in continual operation since as far back as 1874.
State Road 116: Your Path to Fort Caroline and Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Fort Caroline is only one of Jacksonville’s incredible national parks and is only one stop over on this brief 8-mile passage. It’s home to a replica fort in honor of the French Huguenots refugees who fled there. Along the way, you will get a glimpse of the Ribault Monument and a very Instagrammable drive beneath the shade of canopy trees. You’ll then end up in Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, one of Jacksonville’s must-view city locations with plenty to explore for the whole family.
It may be relatively short, but there is a ton to see here. Even if you do nothing other than roam around in your BMW XM, it’s an excellent way to spend a Sunday or two.
New Berlin Road up to Cedar Point Road
Ever wanted to knock out a national, state, and city park all in the same day? This route will satisfy that itch. It’s only 7 miles long, and takes you through more of the woods, marshes, and wetlands that Florida is so well known for. Birding enthusiasts, pay attention: Pumpkin Hill Preserve is part of this journey and gives you access to a pristine 4,000 acres replete with local species for your observation.
Tree-Lined Neighborhoods along Riverside Avenue
Florida is home to some of the oldest buildings in the United States, both from its French and Spanish colonizers and later settlers. Take this quaint neighborhood drive and enjoy some charming riverfront districts. Some of the architecture you’ll spot has been there since the Great Fire that ravaged downtown Jacksonville in 1901. The city of Jacksonville even provides a self-guided tour so you can make a checklist of all the historic homes in the area.
It’s time to get yourself a BMW that lets you cruise these Sunday drives in style. Visit Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville in Jacksonville and take advantage of our latest offers.
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