6 Road Trip Secrets: Jacksonville To Savannah

Driving along the East Coast from Jacksonville, Florida, to Savannah, Georgia, you're not just traversing through two historic cities; you're embarking on a journey through time, nature, and culture. This road trip is ideal for anyone eager to immerse in the Southern U.S. charm, savor culinary delights, and indulge in the serenity of coastal landscapes. Here are six well-kept secrets to make this journey unforgettable.

Secret 1: The Fernandina Beach Journey

The adventure begins with a slight detour, just north of Jacksonville in Fernandina Beach. Here's what you should do:

• Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach: Stroll through this town, which oozes charm with its Victorian architecture. Don’t miss The Palace Saloon, America's oldest continuously operating bar, for a unique drink experience.
• Amelia Island State Park: Explore this natural retreat for hiking or just enjoy the panoramic ocean views.

<p class="pro-note">🔎 Pro Tip: If you're an early bird, watch the sunrise from the Fernandina Beach pier. The sky's colors are simply mesmerizing.</p>

Secret 2: Fort Clinch and the Wild Horses

As you leave Fernandina Beach, consider stopping at:

• Fort Clinch State Park: Visit this historic fortress for a glimpse into Civil War history. But the real gem here is:
  • The Wild Horses: Look for the wild horses roaming freely in the park, a sight as enchanting as it is rare.

**Table: Essential Information for Fort Clinch**
| **Feature**           | **Details**                                                                 |
|----------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Location              | 2601 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL                                     |
| Hours                 | 9 AM – 5 PM, daily                                                          |
| Entry Fee             | $6 per vehicle                                                             |
| Highlights            | Fort tours, hiking, bird watching, and spotting the majestic wild horses    |

Secret 3: The Freshest Shrimp at Cumberland Island

Once in Georgia, don't miss Cumberland Island:

• Shrimp Boat: Dockside shrimping boats offer the freshest catch you'll ever eat. Talk to a local shrimp boat owner or someone at a marina to get the scoop on where the best boats to buy from are located.
• Island Tour: Take a ranger-led or self-guided tour of this National Seashore to learn about its rich history and see its famous wild horses.

Secret 4: Culinary Delights in Savannah

Your journey culminates in Savannah, where foodies find heaven:

• Forsyth Park: Enjoy a picnic with local specialties like pimento cheese or Savannah-style crab cakes.
• Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room: Experience Southern comfort food at its best with communal table dining.
• The Olde Pink House: For an upscale dining experience, this historic house offers fine dining with live jazz.

<p class="pro-note">👨‍🍳 Pro Tip: Reserve well in advance for popular restaurants like Mrs. Wilkes’ to ensure you get a seat.</p>

Secret 5: Hidden Spots for Photo Enthusiasts

Both cities offer picturesque spots, but here are some less-known locales:

• Highway 17: The drive from Jacksonville to Savannah along Highway 17 offers quaint small towns, historic sites, and vast marshlands.
• Midway, Georgia: A gem off the beaten path, this town features beautiful old homes and the historic Dorchester Academy.

<p class="pro-note">📸 Pro Tip: Visit Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah at dawn or dusk for the best lighting conditions to capture its eerie beauty.</p>

Secret 6: The Return Journey

Heading back to Jacksonville, consider:

• Jekyll Island: This former retreat for America's elite has become a public island with a rich history, bike paths, and stunning beaches.
• The Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor: Experience the heritage of the Gullah/Geechee people, descendants of Africans who were enslaved on the rice, indigo, and Sea Island cotton plantations.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Look for events like the Gullah/Geechee Seafood Festival to fully immerse in this unique culture.</p>

In summary, this road trip from Jacksonville to Savannah isn't just about covering miles; it's about uncovering the beauty in the details, the stories behind the scenery, and the flavors of the South. It's an adventure that will leave you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the region.

We encourage you to take your time on this journey, delve into these secrets, and perhaps discover even more on your own. And for those who wish to explore further, our website offers plenty of other road trip itineraries and travel guides.

<p class="pro-note">📹 Pro Tip: Document your journey, not just for memories, but to share your experiences with others, perhaps inspiring their next adventure.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What's the best time of year for this road trip?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) offer pleasant weather without the peak tourist season crowds.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can you recommend accommodations along the route?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Consider booking the Elizabeth on 37th for a historic Savannah stay, or The Addison on Amelia Island for a quaint beachfront experience. Both offer charm and Southern hospitality.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What are must-see attractions in Jacksonville?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Explore the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens for art lovers, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for families, or the historic Kingsley Plantation for a cultural experience.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>