Explore the Best Day Trips Near Jacksonville, Florida

Explore the Best Day Trips Near Jacksonville, Florida

Perfect Escapes Just a Drive Away from Your Vacation Rental

Staying in one of our Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation homes in Jacksonville puts you in the perfect spot to explore some of the best day trips and getaways near Jacksonville, Florida. Whether you're looking to dive into local history, enjoy scenic beaches, or indulge in outdoor adventure, these nearby destinations offer unforgettable experiences — all within easy driving distance.

🌴 1. St. Augustine – America’s Oldest City

Distance: ~40 miles south of Jacksonville

Step back in time in St. Augustine, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the U.S. Known for its historic charm and Spanish colonial architecture, you can visit iconic sites like the Castillo de San Marcos, stroll the shops and cafes along St. George Street, or relax on Anastasia Island’s scenic beaches.

🏝 2. Amelia Island – Historic Charm Meets Natural Beauty

Distance: ~30 miles north of Jacksonville

Amelia Island is a gem on Florida’s northeast coast, offering a mix of pristine beaches, maritime forests, and a quaint historic downtown. Spend your day kayaking, biking, or golfing, or tour Fort Clinch State Park and the Amelia Island Museum of History.

⚓ 3. Fernandina Beach – A Quaint Victorian Seaside Town

Located on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is a picturesque coastal town filled with Victorian-era architecture, boutique shops, and fresh seafood restaurants. Relax on the beach, explore the historic district, or enjoy a boat tour through the island’s waterways.

🌊 4. Ponte Vedra Beach – Luxury by the Sea

Distance: ~20 miles southeast of Jacksonville

For a touch of luxury, head to Ponte Vedra Beach, known for its upscale resorts, championship golf, and peaceful coastline. Perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, or spa days, it’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking rest and recreation.

🌿 5. Gainesville – Nature, Culture & College Town Vibes

Distance: ~70 miles southwest of Jacksonville

Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville offers a vibrant mix of nature and culture. Visit the Florida Museum of Natural History, hike through Paynes Prairie Preserve, or explore the city’s unique shops and eateries in downtown Gainesville.

🎢 6. Orlando – World-Famous Theme Parks & Entertainment

Distance: ~2 hours south of Jacksonville

Take a magical day trip to Orlando, home to top attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld. It's the perfect getaway for families looking to create lifelong memories in Florida’s entertainment capital.

🏖 7. Daytona Beach – Where Speed Meets the Sea

Distance: ~90 miles south of Jacksonville

Famous for its wide sandy beaches and Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach combines seaside fun with motorsports excitement. Enjoy the boardwalk, explore the Daytona Beach Pier, or soak up the sun on the coast.

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✨ Make the Most of Your Stay with Rental Destination Relaxation I or II

When you stay at Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation, you're not just booking a comfortable and family-friendly vacation rental — you're unlocking access to some of Florida’s top attractions and hidden gems.

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family adventure, or a quick solo retreat, these nearby destinations offer something for everyone.

Book your Jacksonville vacation rental today and start planning your perfect Florida getaway!

👉 Visit us at www.vacationrentaldestinationrelaxation.com

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Best Downtown Jacksonville, Florida Restaurants & Bars

🍽️ Downtown Jacksonville’s Best Restaurants & Bars

If you're staying at our Jacksonville vacation rentals, you’re just minutes from some of the city’s top dining and nightlife. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, or a rooftop view, downtown Jax has something for everyone.

Top Downtown Jacksonville Restaurants

• Bellwether (100 N Laura St) – A rising star for smart dishes like shrimp & grits and Hong Kong waffle-fried chicken. Perfect for foodies looking for bold flavors.
• River & Post (1000 Riverside Ave) – A seafood-forward pick with a rooftop lounge and incredible river views. Ideal for sunset dinners.
• Town Hall (Central Downtown) – Seasonal small plates, wine, and cocktails in a community-focused kitchen setting by Chef Tom Gray.
• The Little Stove (56 N Central Park Plaza) – A classy daytime option with Italian-trained culinary flair and rotating daily menus.
• BB’s Restaurant & Bar (San Marco, just over the river) – An award-winning staple known for its comfort food, quality drinks, and welcoming atmosphere.

Best Bars & Nightlife in Downtown Jacksonville

• The Elbow (Bay St Corridor) – A district packed with over 20 venues including dive bars, cocktail lounges, and music halls. Perfect for bar hopping.
• The Volstead (115 W Adams St) – A cozy speakeasy with vintage vibes and expertly crafted cocktails. Don’t miss their whiskey specials.
• Dos Gatos (123 E Forsyth St) – Known for lively crowds, karaoke nights, and creative cocktails in a fun, upbeat setting.
• Sidecar – A casual hangout that pairs great drinks with wood-fired pizza from V Pizza.
• The Parlour, Spliff’s Gastropub, The Circuit Arcade Bar, Hardwicks, Locals’ – Local favorites offering unique drinks, live DJs, and even retro games.

🎉 Sample Downtown Night Crawl

1. Start at River & Post with a rooftop cocktail and scenic views.
2. Head to The Volstead for a vintage speakeasy experience.
3. Hit Dos Gatos for some energetic nightlife and karaoke.
4. End at Circuit Arcade Bar or Spliff’s for late-night fun and local brews.

💡 Insider Tips

• Live music fans: Visit Breezy Jazz Club or check out local acts in The Elbow.
• Early lunch? The Little Stove and BB’s are excellent choices for brunch and midday dining.
• Adventurous? Explore nearby San Marco for even more food options, or extend your trip to Jacksonville Beach’s bar scene.

From rooftop lounges to hidden speakeasies, downtown Jacksonville offers the perfect night out for guests staying at Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation. All of these spots are just a short drive away from our Jacksonville vacation rental homes.

Ready to explore Jacksonville’s food and bar scene? Book your stay with us and enjoy the best of Downtown Jax!

Short-Term Rentals vs. Hotels: Why More Travelers Are Booking Vacation Homes for Comfort, Space & Experiences

Why Are More Travelers Choosing Short-Term Rentals Over Hotels?

If you're planning your next getaway, you're probably weighing the choice between booking a hotel or a vacation rental. At Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation, we’ve seen a clear trend: more guests are booking short-term rentals over traditional hotel stays—and for good reason.

Let’s explore the benefits of short-term rentals vs. hotels and how new travel offerings like Airbnb Experiences are changing the game.

✅ 1. More Space and Privacy Than Hotels

Short-term rentals offer far more room than the average hotel room. Whether you're staying at our Jacksonville, FL vacation homes or our Smyrna, GA rental near Truist Park, you’ll enjoy:

• Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms
• Private kitchens, dining rooms, and living areas
• Quiet neighborhoods for a peaceful retreat
• Patios, balconies, and workspace options

Perfect for families, groups, work travelers, or couples looking to stretch out and relax in a real home.

✅ 2. Amenities That Make Travel Easier

One of the top benefits of a vacation rental is the home-style amenities that hotels often lack:

• Fully equipped kitchens (great for families and longer stays)
• Free high-speed WiFi and Smart TVs
• In-unit washer and dryer
• Pet-friendly and kid-friendly setups
• Free, convenient parking

These extras help travelers save money and feel more at ease—especially when staying more than a few nights.

✅ 3. Live Like a Local

Our vacation rentals are located in safe, residential neighborhoods with easy access to local restaurants, cafes, and parks. You’ll enjoy:

• Morning coffee at nearby local spots
• Quick drives to top attractions
• Quiet, comfortable surroundings

Unlike hotels located in busy, commercial areas, short-term rentals let you experience your destination like a local.

✅ 4. Airbnb Experiences Are Replacing Hotel Perks

In the past, hotels had an edge with their concierge services and guided tours. But Airbnb has responded with Airbnb Experiences—a growing collection of authentic, locally hosted activities you can book with your stay.

These experiences include:

• Guided city tours and food tastings
• Hands-on art and cooking classes
• Yoga on the beach or in the park
• Historical walking tours and more

Guests no longer need a hotel concierge to access the best of a destination.

✅ 5. What Our Guests Are Saying

Guests who stay at our Braves Battery Central property in Smyrna or our Rental Destination Relaxation I or II properties in Jacksonville often mention how much they appreciate:

• Having separate bedrooms and common areas
• Cooking breakfast before heading out
• Enjoying peaceful evenings after exploring the city
• The convenience of being close to top attractions

Whether it's a family vacation, business travel, or weekend getaway, short-term rentals provide more value, comfort, and personalization.

✨ Book the Best of Both Worlds

At Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation, we combine the comfort of a fully equipped home with access to immersive experiences that make every trip memorable.

Ready to plan your next stay?

Browse our listings in Jacksonville, FL and Smyrna, GA today!

🔗 Visit Our Website
📍 Stylish, family-friendly vacation rentals
📍 Convenient locations near top attractions
📍 Designed for travelers who want more

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FIFA World Cup Coming to Atlanta 2025 & 2026

FIFA World Cup 2025 is Coming to Atlanta!

June 16th, 19th and 22nd, 2025 | Mercedes-Benz Stadium | Atlanta, Georgia

Experience the Excitement of World-Class Soccer in Atlanta

Atlanta has officially been named one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2025, and the city is buzzing with excitement. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans across Georgia and the Southeast to witness the global soccer spectacle at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

What to Expect in June 2025

• Multiple high-profile international matches in Atlanta
• Fan zones, concerts, and cultural celebrations across the city
• Special events in and around The Battery Atlanta and Centennial Olympic Park
• Unbeatable dining, entertainment, and nightlife experiences

Where to Stay Near the Action

Looking for comfortable and convenient lodging? Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation offers top-rated short-term stays near The Battery Atlanta and Downtown Atlanta. Enjoy modern amenities, quick access to locations, and friendly hosts ready to make your World Cup trip unforgettable.

Book Your Stay Now »

Plan Ahead – Be a Part of Soccer History

The World Cup is expected to draw millions of fans from around the world. Be sure to purchase your tickets early, plan your travel routes, and secure your accommodations in advance. Atlanta is ready to welcome the world!

#FIFA2025 #WorldCupAtlanta #AtlantaEvents2025 #SoccerInAtlanta #VisitAtlanta #MercedesBenzStadium

Published by Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation

⚽ FIFA World Cup 2026 Is Coming to Atlanta!

The excitement is building! The FIFA World Cup 2026 is heading to the United States—and Atlanta has officially been selected as a host city. This global sporting event will bring the world’s top soccer teams, fans from across the globe, and unforgettable energy to our vibrant city.

🏟 Where Will the World Cup Be Held in Atlanta?

Matches will be held at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium, located in downtown Atlanta. With its cutting-edge retractable roof and capacity of over 70,000 fans, it’s the perfect venue for the world’s most popular sport.

📍 Stay Nearby in Comfort – Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation

If you’re looking for a relaxing, clean, and conveniently located place to stay during the World Cup, our Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation properties in Smyrna, GA, are just a short drive away from downtown Atlanta and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

• ✅ Fully furnished vacation homes with modern amenities
• ✅ Located near The Battery Atlanta for shopping, dining, and Braves games
• ✅ Easy access to transit and highways to downtown and stadium events
• ✅ Perfect for families, couples, and international travelers

🎉 What to Expect During World Cup 2026 in Atlanta

Atlanta is planning fan zones, cultural celebrations, concerts, and pop-up soccer events across the city. Whether you have tickets to a match or just want to be part of the atmosphere, it’s an incredible time to visit Georgia’s capital.

📅 Travel Tips for the 2026 World Cup

• 📍 Book your lodging early – demand will be high
• 🚗 Plan transportation ahead of time (MARTA, rideshare, or park-n-ride options)
• 🎫 Stay updated on ticket sales and match schedules from FIFA

🌍 Be Part of History

The FIFA World Cup is more than just a tournament—it’s a worldwide celebration of unity, talent, and passion. Atlanta is proud to be part of it, and Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation is proud to welcome guests from all over the world.

Ready to book your stay for the World Cup? Contact us today and be part of Atlanta’s global moment.

🏡 Stay with comfort. Stay with care. Stay at Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation.

Book Your Stay Now »