Dec 8, 2022

The wonderful year-round weather of Jacksonville, FL means it doesn’t get too cold in winter. But you can still enjoy some festive Christmas cheer and excellent winter activities in and around town. Here are four of your best options.

4 Fun Winter Activities You Can Drive to Near Jacksonville, FL

Dazzling Nights at the Botanical Gardens

On November 27th, head to Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for an incredible light-filled treat for all the family. Stroll along a meandering route that takes you through the lovely gardens decorated with all kinds of fantastic displays.

There’s a vast canopy of Moroccan lanterns to pass under, a tunnel of giant, twinkling stars, a forest of lasers, and even an 8,000-square-foot maze of lights to get lost in. There’s also a giant sparkling Christmas tree and the air is filled with Christmas music to get you into the holiday mood. You’ll find the Botanical Gardens at 1445 Millcoe Rd, Jacksonville.

A Southern Christmas Tree Farm

At this extensive Christmas tree farm, you can stroll along rows of Christmas trees, choose your own tree, and even cut it down yourself. It’s a unique and memorable way to bring your children closer to nature during the festive season.

After finding the perfect tree, meet the animals at the on-site petting zoo, and then enjoy the deer train and hay rides. Finish up your day by warming up beside a roaring fire, sipping hot chocolate, and eating tasty fire-roasted s’mores. You can find this charming tree farm just to the north of Jacksonville, at  274000 Murrhee Road, Hilliard. Enjoy the short drive there in your cozy 2022 Mazda 3 Select Fwd with its finely controlled heating system.

Old Town Trolley Night of Lights Tour

For one of the most spectacular winter light displays in all of Florida, visit the Old Town Trolley Night of Lights Tour in St. Augustine, a short drive to the south of town. In this lovely historical town, which happens to be America’s oldest city, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking award-winning light show that’s been rated one of the top ten light shows in the entire world by National Geographic Magazine.

You can walk freely around town, taking it all in. Or, if you’d prefer a guided evening tour through a wonderland of three million sparkling lights, book a row of seats on their trolley tour. You can catch the trolley at the Visitor Information Center, 10 West Castillo Drive.

Ice Skating at Community First Igloo

This spacious outdoor ice skating rink offers tons of fun for beginners and experienced skaters alike. It’s available all year round, but everyone knows winter is the best time for showing off your skills on the ice. You’ll find the rink at 3605 Philips Highway, Jacksonville.

In amidst your winter fun, pay a visit to Tom Bush Mazda. We’ve been serving the drivers of Jacksonville and the surrounding area since 1974.