By leah jones
Jacksonville is Florida’s most populated city and the largest by landmass in the contiguous US. It’s known for arts, food, nature, attractions and more.
This city is also the neighbor of plenty of other fascinating places to explore. Here are some awesome day trips from Jacksonville, FL.
The nation’s oldest city (50 minutes from Jacksonville) offers historic landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos, beautiful Spanish architecture, museums, alligator swamps and beaches.
Amelia Island, 40 minutes from Jacksonville, is a barrier island known for its quaint downtown, nature and relaxed atmosphere. It's home to the historic Fort Clinch State Park and American Beach.
Get to the pristine Cumberland Island in about an hour drive from Jacksonville plus an additional ferry ride. Here you can watch wild horses, visit unspoiled beaches and explore historic ruins.
Big and Little Talbot Island State Park offer hiking, birdwatching and views of the coast that are ideal for nature lovers. Get to these nature preserves in just 30 minutes.
Visit Gainesville (1.5 hours from Jacksonville) and the Florida Museum of Natural History. Don't forget to pop by the Butterfly Rainforest, as well as Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
Get to Savannah in about a 2.5 hour day trip from Jacksonville. This Southern gem is famous for its historic squares, riverfront views and excellent dining. If you're feeling brave, try out one of many adventure-filled ghost tours.
Explore one of the most significant wetlands in North America through guided boat tours, kayaking/canoeing, hiking and wildlife spotting. Get there in about an hour from Jacksonville.
Daytona Beach is known for its International Speedway, white-sand beaches, the Daytona 500, Jackie Robinson Ballpark and other family-friendly attractions.
Blue Springs State Park is a popular spot for seeing manatees in winter and enjoying swimming and kayaking in warmer months. Get there in about a two-hour day trip from Jacksonville.
Silver Springs State Park is another of the many beautiful spring locations in Florida. About two hours from Jacksonville, it offers glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking and lush landscapes.
Flagler Beach is a quieter beach destination with retro vibe, waterfront restaurants and free to visit beaches. You can visit this city in about a 1.25 hour day trip from Jacksonville.