Thanks to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, there are no shortage of scenic drives in Jacksonville, FL, from gorgeous meanders down the shore-lined AIA Highway to beautiful drives into the interior of the state, where you’ll find huge trees wreathed in Spanish moss. Your 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata is the perfect sophisticated and sporty ride to get you there with exceptional driving and an integrated entertainment system.
4 Scenic Drives You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL
1. River Road Historic District
You’ll find the River Road Historic District less than half an hour outside of Jacksonville in nearby Orange Park, and it’s well worth the short drive. This part of Florida is full of historic buildings, lovely glimpses of the inland St. John’s River, and plenty of unique old-growth southern trees. It’s also a unique drive because it takes you inland to see a whole new side of the Sunshine State.
2. Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park, at 2601 Atlantic Avenue in nearby Fernandina Beach, is less than an hour from Jacksonville, and the scenic drive out there is absolutely stunning, especially when you get closer to the park. From the trees draped in Spanish moss to the bucolic fields and countryside, you’ll see it’s a lovely, peaceful drive, and you’ll get to enjoy the historical fort at the end.
3. AIA Highway
Arguably one of the most incredible drives in the entire state, the AIA Highway drive goes down the Atlantic Ocean, starting in Fernandina Beach and ending at Turner Butler Boulevard. Expect stunning views of the pristine ocean, windswept beaches, and candy-colored houses on your way down. If you’re looking for a gorgeous slice of sand and sea, and you want to see it from your car, the AIA Highway is an excellent choice.
4. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
Travel less than an hour away to Georgia’s Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, at 2700 Suwannee Canal Road, and enjoy the best of northern Florida and southern Georgia. With plenty of ancient trees, wildlife, and beautiful nature the whole way out, the drive out to this refuge is a splendid way to spend the day. Plus, you can explore the preserve itself and see all of Georgia’s incredible flora and fauna.
Enjoy some of the top drives in this amazing part of the Sunshine State. You don’t have to go too far to find somewhere gorgeous to go cruising, and you can even hit up a few fun hotspots on the way. To get to these four incredible drives and see the best of the state, you’ll need some excellent wheels. Stop in and see us at Tom Bush Mazda and check out our great inventory today.
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