Most of us live in Jacksonville because we like what the city has to offer. But every now and then it can be nice to get away and explore a different environment — and a day trip is a perfect way to do so in the midst of a busy schedule.
That’s why we’ve come up with a list of a few cool places that are just a few hours away from the First Coast, making them easy day trip destinations.
Approximate travel time from center of Jacksonville: 30-45 minutes.
Perhaps the most obvious choice for a day trip from the First Coast area is just a little bit south in St. Augustine.
The “oldest city in America” boasts a number of historical relics worth checking out. The Castillo de San Marcos is a massive fort located downtown that was constructed in the 1600s and used for over 200 years by various governments for various purposes; it’s now designated as a national monument. Likewise, an old Spanish fort by the name of Fort Matanzas was restored and also designated a national monument. The Fountain of Youth Park is also a popular tourist destination. Several tours of the historic areas of the city are available for visitors.
The city offers more than just history as well. Visitors can explore the nearby St. Augustine Beach, or take a stroll through the many downtown shops. The city also features a location of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, the nearby World Golf Village and Hall of Fame, and the Alligator Farm featuring an obstacle course with zip-lines. The nearby outlet malls, visible from I-95, are always packed. A day in St. Augustine can be capped off by visiting the many local establishments that routinely offer live music, a thriving aspect of the city’s culture.
