Having lived in Jacksonville most of my life, I can remember a time when the speed limits on the highways were not as high as they are now. It always seemed to take forever to get somewhere when on vacation, even via the interstate. Fortunately, the turn of the century brings more technology to the road trip, and anyone in the Jacksonville area looking for a quick getaway will be happy to know that the city isn’t so big that they can’t go anywhere for a day.

So if you have a weekend to spare and are looking for a change of scenery, a day trip to North or Central Florida provides the fun and relaxation you want. You won’t have to spend much time in the car, and there’s always something to look forward to, coming and going. Here are some suggestions for your itineraries:

San Agustin: Depending on where you are in Jacksonville, you’ll need a minimum of forty-five minutes to an hour to get to the oldest city in the country. Here you can tour the historic Castillo de San Marcos, which protected this part of the new world from marine invaders, then enjoy a stroll through the historic district and enjoy the eclectic shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Secluded areas of the beach also provide serenity that stays with you on the journey home.

Gainesville: Contrary to popular belief, there’s more to this town than the Florida Gators. Historic downtown Gainesville offers a great opportunity for leisurely lunches and antique hunting. Nature lovers can visit the lush Kanapaha Botanical Gardens or Marjorie Kinnan Rawling State Park for an intimate nature walk. Depending on where you are in Jacksonville, getting to Gainesville can take between an hour and an hour and a half via I-75.

amelia island: For the adventurer, Amelia Island is the perfect North Florida getaway. Kayaking, nature walks, fishing, and exploring historic Fort Clinch are just a few of the activities that await you here. Then you can enjoy some of the best seafood on the East Coast as you watch the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean. Amelia Island is less than two hours from most of Jacksonville, and some parts are so compact that you may not need your car for most of the day.

Nature and history, fine dining and romantic scenery are yours for the price of a short drive from Jacksonville. Take a weekend and enjoy a neighboring city for a refreshing and exciting mini-vacation.