There is so much to see, do and discover on Amelia Island but sometimes a day of off-island exploration is just what you need. Check out these five places that are just a hop, skip and jump away. We're day tripping, y'all!
1.
CONNER'S A-MAIZE-ING ACRES
Fun-filled days at the beach are always great but why not load up the family and head out to the country for a fun-filled day on the farm? Hilliard, Florida is a mere 30 miles from Amelia Island and yet a world away. At Conner's A-Maize-ing Acres, you can experience a cow train, basket ball toss, corn hole, courtyard activities and the farm animals at Lottie Bell's Hen House. On May 7, enjoy
Spring Farm Day & U Pick Sunflowers. Admission is $7 plus tax per person (23 months and under are free). Sunflowers & Buds are $2 each (while supplies last). In addition to spring sunflower days, other magical days of the year include Easter Egg-stravaganza and October Fall Farm Days. It's no wonder it's an a-maize-ing place to go!
Photo Credit: Deremer Studios
Address: 19856 County Road 121, Hilliard, Florida 32046
2.
The Blueberry Ranch
In case you weren't aware, blueberries. are. life. Those little morsels of juicy sweet nutritious goodness are considered a superfood and pack quite the healthy punch. Sure, you can buy them in the grocery store but wouldn't it be much more fun to pick your own? Just up the road in Yulee is The Blueberry Ranch, a local family owned blueberry and vegetable farm specializing in organic regenerative biological/sustainable practices. Blueberry season is quickly approaching (typically late May through the summer) so be sure to check their
facebook page or give them a call to see when "you pick" season begins. Regular Farm hours are Fridays & Saturdays, 9am to 3pm (only during you pick season).
Photo Credit: The Blueberry Ranch
Address: 852042 US Highway 17 Yulee, FL 320972.
3.
THE CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is the largest fine arts museum in Northeast Florida. The Cummer was established in 1958, when art collector, garden enthusiast, and civic leader Ninah M.H. Cummer bequeathed her art collection and riverfront home to create a wonderful museum and gardens for the public to enjoy. Families can explore the museum and grounds together and afterwards, grab a bite to eat in The Cafe where seating is available in the Café, on the patio, or in the Museum's historic gardens.
Photo Credit: The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
Address: 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32204
4.
Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
Lions, Tiger and Bears, oh my! For a family adventure like no other, escape to the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens where you can interact with people, wildlife and the environment all in one fell swoop. This multiple award-winning zoo has the only walking safari in northeast Florida and is constantly adding new exhibits and educational experiences for young and old to enjoy. Their latest additions, Land of the Tiger and African Forest, are just two of the many reasons the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has been labeled a world-class establishment.
Photo Credit: Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
Address: 370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218
5.
MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY
The Museum of Science & History, or MOSH, is the most visited museum in Jacksonville. Located on the Southbank Riverwalk, MOSH specializes in interactive science and local history exhibits for all ages. Indulge your imagination with a live animal show, or explore distant galaxies in one of their planetarium programs. There's always something to peak your interest on one of the three levels of exhibits.
Photo Credit: Museum of Science & History
Address: 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207