A family who takes adventures together, stays together!
The kids are out of school. Now is a wonderful time for family road trips, and if you’re based in Jacksonville, Florida, you’re in luck. This vibrant city is ideally located for both short day trips and longer adventures. From historic towns to beautiful beaches, there are plenty of destinations to explore. Here are some fantastic road trip ideas that will help you create unforgettable family memories this summer.
Day Trips from Jacksonville
St. Augustine, Florida
Distance from Jacksonville: 41 miles (about 1 hour)
St. Augustine is a charming historic town and the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and family-friendly attractions, it’s a perfect day trip destination.
Fun Ideas:
- Castillo de San Marcos: Explore this 17th-century fortress with its well-preserved bastions and cannon demonstrations. Kids will love the history and the chance to roam the expansive grounds.
- St. George Street: Walk along this historic street lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Don’t miss the Oldest Wooden School House and the Colonial Quarter.
- St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park: See alligators, crocodiles, and a variety of other animals. The zip line over the alligator enclosures adds a thrilling twist!
- Ripley’s Believe it or not Museum
- St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Fernandina Beach, Florida
Distance from Jacksonville: 36 miles (about 45 minutes)
Located on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is known for its charming Victorian architecture, pristine beaches, and relaxed atmosphere.
Fun Ideas:
- Fort Clinch State Park: Visit this historic fort and enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park’s beach is also perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Historic Downtown: Stroll through the historic district with its unique shops, eateries, and the Fernandina Beach Museum.
- Amelia Island Museum of History: Learn about the island’s intriguing history, from Native American inhabitants to Spanish and British settlers.
Gainesville, Florida
Distance from Jacksonville: 71 miles (about 1.5 hours)
Gainesville offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it a great day trip option.
Fun Ideas:
- Florida Museum of Natural History: Discover exhibits on Florida’s natural heritage, including fossils, Native American artifacts, and a butterfly rainforest.
- Kanapaha Botanical Gardens: Stroll through these lush gardens featuring a variety of plant collections, including bamboo and herbs.
- Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park: Explore this unique geological formation and enjoy a nature walk around the sinkhole.
Silver Springs State Park, Florida
Distance from Jacksonville: 100 miles (about 2 hours)
Silver Springs is famous for its crystal-clear springs and beautiful natural surroundings.
Fun Ideas:
- Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Take a ride on a glass-bottom boat to see the underwater springs and marine life.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Rent a kayak or canoe to explore the serene waters of the Silver River.
- Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: Enjoy the park’s trails and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including manatees, alligators, and a variety of birds.
Longer Road Trips
Savannah, Georgia
Distance from Jacksonville: 140 miles (about 2.5 hours)
Savannah is famed for its picturesque streets, historic homes, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s an ideal destination for a longer road trip, offering plenty of family-friendly activities.
Fun Ideas:
- Forsyth Park: Enjoy a picnic, play on the playgrounds, or simply relax under the shade of the massive oak trees draped with Spanish moss.
- Savannah Historic District: Take a trolley tour to explore the beautifully preserved historic district, including stops at notable sites like the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace and the Mercer-Williams House.
- Savannah Riverboat Cruises: Experience the city from a different perspective on a scenic riverboat cruise along the Savannah River.
Charleston, South Carolina
Distance from Jacksonville: 200 miles (about 4 hours)
Charleston offers a mix of historic charm, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine. It’s a wonderful place for families to explore and enjoy a range of activities.
Fun Ideas:
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum: Tour the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier and other historic ships. It’s an educational and exciting experience for kids and adults alike.
- Charleston City Market: Visit this bustling market to shop for local crafts, foods, and souvenirs.
- Waterfront Park: Relax at this scenic park with its iconic pineapple fountain and lovely views of the harbor. It’s a great spot for a family picnic.
Helen, Georgia
Distance from Jacksonville: 390 miles (about 6.5 hours)
Helen is a charming Bavarian-style village nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a unique cultural experience and outdoor activities.
Fun Ideas:
- Anna Ruby Falls: Hike to these stunning twin waterfalls located in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
- Tubing on the Chattahoochee River: Enjoy a fun and relaxing tubing trip down the river, a popular family activity in Helen.
- Alpine Village: Explore the quaint shops and restaurants in Helen’s picturesque downtown, and don’t miss out on some authentic German cuisine.
Asheville, North Carolina
Distance from Jacksonville: 460 miles (about 7.5 hours)
Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and beautiful mountain scenery.
Fun Ideas:
- Biltmore Estate: Tour America’s largest home, explore the beautiful gardens, and enjoy the various family-friendly activities on the estate.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Take a scenic drive along this famous parkway, with opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and stunning mountain views.
- Downtown Asheville: Wander through the eclectic downtown area, filled with art galleries, unique shops, and great restaurants.
Up the Eastern Seaboard
For families looking for an extended road trip, traveling up the eastern seaboard offers a variety of exciting destinations.
Key Stops:
- Wilmington, North Carolina (380 miles, about 6 hours): Explore the historic district, visit the Battleship North Carolina, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
- Virginia Beach, Virginia (530 miles, about 8.5 hours): Relax on the sandy shores, visit the Virginia Aquarium, and stroll along the famous boardwalk.
- Washington, D.C. (710 miles, about 11.5 hours): Discover the nation’s capital with its numerous free museums, historic monuments, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Down to the Florida Keys
Distance from Jacksonville to Key West: 490 miles (about 8 hours)
A road trip down to the Florida Keys is an unforgettable adventure, with stunning scenery and unique stops along the way.
Fun Ideas:
- Miami (350 miles, about 5.5 hours): Stop in Miami to enjoy its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and attractions like the Miami Zoo and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
- Key Largo: Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours.
- Marathon: Explore the Turtle Hospital, where you can learn about sea turtle rehabilitation and even see some turtles up close.
- Key West: In Key West, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, enjoy water sports, and watch the famous sunset celebration at Mallory Square.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a short day trip or a longer journey, there are plenty of fantastic destinations within reach of Jacksonville, Florida. Each offers unique experiences that will help you create cherished family memories.
At Memory Lane Jacksonville, we understand the importance of preserving these special moments. As you embark on your summer adventures, consider capturing your memories with photos and videos. When you return, we can help you digitize and organize your media, ensuring your family’s memories are preserved for generations to come. Safe travels and happy memory-making!
