Jacksonville Florida, USA Travel Guide
Several compelling destinations sit within easy day-trip distance from Jacksonville, offering different facets of Florida and Georgia.
St. Augustine: Approximately 40 miles south (45-60 -minute car ride), oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement.
Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach: Approximately 35 miles north (45-60 min drive), Victorian-era architecture, pristine beaches, Fort Clinch State Park.
Gainesville: Approximately 70 miles southwest (1 hour drive), home to the University of Florida with natural springs nearby.
Escape the city for natural beauty, from coastal reserves to inland springs.
Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Research Reserve): Expansive coastal ecosystem south of Jacksonville near Ponte Vedra Beach.
Ocala National Forest: Florida's only national forest, approximately 1.5-2 hours southwest.
Explore historical sites and cultural enclaves beyond Jacksonville's city limits.
Castillo de San Marcos: A massive, well-preserved 17th-century Spanish stone fortress. A National Monument.
Fort Clinch State Park: A well-preserved 19th-century brick fort on Amelia Island with living history demonstrations and panoramic views.
Home to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Florida. An ideal extension for families or theme park enthusiasts.
NASA's historic launch headquarters, offering an inspiring look into space exploration. A full day is needed for its various exhibits.
Savannah, Georgia, a historic city known for itits attractiveness and distinct Southern hospitality, lies within a convenient distance for an extended visit.
Savannah offers charming squares, antebellum architecture, and a rich historical atmosphere.
Experience a new cultural flavor from Florida, with renowned Southern hospitality.
A scenic route from Jacksonville south to iconic Florida destinations.
An inland route exploring natural springs and world-renowned theme parks.
Consider combining several destinations for a more comprehensive regional experience.
For those seeking more beach time, water sports, and an unique island vibe.
Continue north to explore Georgia's Golden Isles (Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island).
All these destinations are easily accessible by car. Amtrak train service for Orlando. Flights from JAX for quicker travel.
Navigating Jacksonville and the areas around it is straightforward with various transportation options available.
The most flexible way to explore Jacksonville and its day-trip destinations. Major rental companies available at JAX airport.
Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) bus service covers much of the city. The Skyway provides free elevated rail service downtown.
Uber and Lyft operate throughout Jacksonville. Taxis are available at the airport and major hotels.
Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze are highly reliable for driving instructions and traffic updates.
The My JTA app offers real-time bus tracking and schedule information for public transit.
Pick up free tourist guides at the airport or visitor centers for maps and attraction details.
