Thinking of a road trip or day excursion before the kids head back to school? You’re not alone!
According to GSTV, approximately 83% of their viewers who have summer travel plans will be using a personal or rental vehicle as their preferred method of transportation.
GSTV also says that 58% of those travelers have a domestic beach or resort as their #1 destination. With that in mind, here are a few lesser-known places perfect for a quick visit, a day trip, or a week-end escape. Just in case you need to get away from those who are getting away!!
- Princess Place Preserve
2500 Princess Place Rd., Palm Coast, Fl.
1,500 acres of Old Florida charm situated along the Matanzas River and Pellicer Creek. Featuring primitive camping and cottages; hiking; fishing; canoeing; equestrian campsites and trails; wildlife viewing; and interpretive exhibits. Admission is free. For details call (386)-313-4020 or visit Princess Place Preserve.
- River to Sea Preserve
9805 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Marineland, Fl.
River to Sea begins at the beach of the Atlantic Ocean and continues west to the Matanza River. Take one of the walking trails to the beachside boardwalk – and bring your canoe or kayak! Camping and fishing are allowed and pets are welcome. The preserve is open from dawn until 11 pm and admission is free. Info available by calling (386) 313-4020 or visiting River to Sea Preserve’s site.
- Florida Agricultural Legacy Learning Center.
7900 Old Kings Rd N., Palm Coast, Fl.
The “Ag Museum” proves that learning can be fun! The goal is to offer a rewarding experience for those discovering the history of agriculture in Florida. Group tours focus on everything from Timucuan Indian and Spanish Colonial Programs to Dirt Detectives and Freedom Seekers! Horseback lessons and a horseback riding camp are available as is a unique program tailored specifically for home-schoolers. Visit Florida Agricultural Legacy for details.
- Cumberland Island via ferry from St. Mary’s Georgia.
Walk among the Dungeness Ruins – the remains of a mansion built by Thomas Carnegie; see the feral horses and loggerhead turtles; explore on your own or with an experienced guide. Plan a day trip, bring your supplies for camping; or stay at the luxurious Greyfield Inn with its freshly-prepared picnic lunches; formal, gourmet dinners; serve-yourself bar; and guided wilderness tours. Pricey, but worth it! For park information, call (912) 882-4336. For the Greyfield Inn, call (904) 261-6408
- St. Augustine Wild Reserve
5190 Farm Creek Rd., St. Augustine, Fl
A Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice winner, and the recipient of Best Animal Encounter and Best Group Outing awards, the St. Augustine Wild Reserve is a must-do! Founder Deborah Warrick has created a sanctuary for unwanted exotic animals like leopards, jaguars, African lions, wolves, and bears. It’s just a short ride from downtown St. Augustine, visitors are welcome, but tours must be scheduled in advance. Visit St. Augustine Wild Reserve or call (904) 940-0664 to book yours!
- Silver Springs State Park
Located in Marion County, about a 90 minute drive from St. Augustine, Silver Springs State Park is probably best known for its spectacular glass-bottom boat tours! You can also enjoy camping, hiking, and kayaking; visit the Silver River Museum and Cracker Village – and take in a drive-in movie at the near-by Ocala Drive-In! Who knows? You might just run into Ocala resident John Travolta! For park information, visit Silver Springs or call (352) -236-7149. For show times at the drive-in, call (352) 629-1325.
