“Day-Tripping” listings
-
CASTILLO DE SAN MARCOS
The only existing 17th-century fort in North America dates back to Florida’s Spanish colonial era. Open every day except Christmas, it covers 20.5 acres. (07/2010)
53 miles southeast of Jacksonville St. Augustine
904-829-6506
nps.gov/casa/index.htm -
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER
There’s a lot to see at NASA’s Florida base: the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame, an exhibit on the Hubble telescope, an astronaut memorial and even a Shuttle Launch Experience, in which you’ll experience a simulated lift-off. (05/2010)
162 miles direction of Jacksonville SR 405, Cape Canaveral
321-449-4444
kennedyspacecenter.com -
STEPHEN FOSTER FOLK CULTURAL CENTER
This museum and park—literally down by the Suwannee River—is pink with azaleas this time of year. Visit to check out memorabilia from its namesake folk songwriter. (03/2010)
11016 Lillian Suanders Dr, White Springs, FL
386-397-2733
floridastat...ephenfoster -
FERNANDINA BEACH, FL
This waterfront village on Amelia Island is known for its shrimping fleet, Victorian-era architecture and lighthouse. While you’re strolling around town, be sure to visit the Palace Saloon, the state’s oldest operating bar. (01/2010)
24 miles northeast of Jacksonville
fbfl.us -
RODMAN DAM AND RESERVOIR
Two hours south of Jacksonville, you'll fi nd a dam and reservoir created during construction of the ill-fated Cross-Florida Barge Canal project, suspended in 1971. This rich habitat survived the abandoned effort and now teems with fi sh and birds. (12/2009)
80 miles south of Jacksonville
www.rodmanreservoir.com -
HISTORIC ST. AUGUSTINE
Visit the nation's oldest city to explore colonial architecture, shop for trinkets and find out what coquina is (hint: the walls of Castillo de San Marcos are made out of it). This month, the city will be decorated with lights as part of its Nights of Lights Festival. (12/2009)
40 miles southeast of Jacksonville
www.ci.st-augustine.fl.us -
ST. AUGUSTINE ALLIGATOR FARM ZOOLOGICAL PARK
Open since 1893, this historic farm features a large collection of alligators, crocodiles and other reptiles, and has also become a sanctuary for birds. Considering its pedigree, it's a true piece of "Floridana." (02/2009)
42 miles south of Jacksonville • 999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL
904-824-3337
www.alligatorfarm.us -
CUMBERLAND ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE, GA
Known for its abundant shore birds, sea turtles, dune fields, salt marshes and historic buildings, this barrier island is a delightful getaway. No cars are allowed on the island, which is only accessible by ferry and boat. (01/2009)
40 miles north of Jacksonville
www.nps.gov/cuis -
ST. SIMONS ISLAND, GA
It may be winter, but St. Simons Island is lovely year-round. Take off your shoes and stroll down the white sand beaches, see the stunning view from the St. Simons Lighthouse, or rent a bike and explore the gallery-packed streets (12/2008)
75 miles north of Jacksonville
www.explore...sisland.com -
ICHETUCKNEE SPRINGS STATE PARK
Yearning for the great outdoors? Rent an inner tube and float down the chilly but pristine Ichetucknee Springs, where you'll pass wild orchids, otters, turtles and the occasional gator. (11/2008)
85 miles west of Jacksonville • 12087 SW US Hwy 27, Ft White, FL
386-497-4690
www.floridastateparks.org -
HIGH SPRINGS, FL
Called "the friendliest town in Florida," High Springs boasts pristine waters for swimmers, underwater caves for divers, and antique shops for history buffs. Its fifth annual Fall Festival takes place Oct. 18. (10/2008)
91 miles southeast of Jacksonville
386-454-3120
www.highsprings.com -
OLD FLORIDA MUSEUM
Try your hand at lassoing, play colonial games and write with feather pens at this hands-on museum showing how Florida has changed through its 400-year history. (09/2008)
36 miles southeast of Jacksonville 254-D San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL
800-813-3208
www.oldfloridamuseum.com
