Every year, millions of visitors flock to visit Florida. That’s partly because of the area’s stunning natural beauty. Keep reading to find out about some of the best scenic drives you can enjoy around Jacksonville, FL.
5 Amazing Scenic Drives to Take in North Florida
1. Arlington State Road 116
You don’t necessarily have to leave the city to enjoy a beautiful scenic drive. Arlington State Road 116 takes you past beaches and past historic sites like the Ribault Monument. Keep your eyes peeled for Fort Caroline, a reconstruction of a 16th-century fort on the banks of the St. John’s River.
Start from the intersection of Mt. Pleasant Road & Fort Caroline Road and finish up at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park. At the endpoint, you can enjoy the park facilities, including walking trails and a splash park. This is an eight-mile drive that should take around 15 minutes.
2. Florida State Road 13
Florida State Route 13 runs alongside the St. Johns River. It’s packed with old homes and historic towns, providing lots of photo opportunities. This drive is dotted with fishing piers, so bring your rod and stop for a while!
The drive should take around 30 minutes each way. Begin on the Acosta Bridge near the downtown area and turn back at the small community of Spuds. When you’re making a long drive like this one, a vehicle like the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SE can allow you to travel in luxury!
3. Old Dixie Highway
Old Dixie Highway showcases the best of Florida’s natural beauty. The road is shaded by old oaks and palm trees. The Halifax River also runs alongside the road in places.
To reach the Old Dixie Highway, travel south from Jacksonville on the 95. Then take the route to Burlow Creek State Park before returning home. Bulow Creek State Park is another great place for a break if you have the time, offering nature trails and a lake.
4. To Amelia Island
Amelia Island is a beautiful spot in Florida. And the drive to this Sea Island is packed with gorgeous sights too! Avoid the freeway and take the slow route along the First Coast Highway. Enjoy the views as you roll past tidal marshes and maritime forests, with plenty of wildlife to be seen in the trees.
Take a little extra time at the end to enjoy the island. There are clean, pristine beaches studded with sand dunes. If you arrive in the daytime, you could take a swim in the ocean or enjoy a little sunbathing. In the evening, these beaches offer the perfect spot for a walk, especially if you can watch the sunset.
With a great vehicle, you can enjoy drives around the beautiful North Florida. Pay a visit to Tom Bush Volkswagen today for a test drive.
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