Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Orange Park

"A true hidden gem in the Arlington neighborhood of Jacksonville, Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens is a perfect respite from the city. Immerse yourself in the walkway that circumnavigates a two-acre lake, or learn from the 100-labeled signs that identify local plants. Head to the arboretum to reflect, or work up a sweat."

"The Jacksonville Arboretum is an award-winning botanical garden located in the city of Jacksonville. Spanning twelve acres, the stunning gardens offer seven unique trails with many different types of wildlife and fauna. The natural beauty of this location makes it a great place to find some peace and quiet."

"The Jacksonville Arboretum is a 120-acre urban woodland for the family to enjoy with over 3 miles of trails. This beautiful park is maintained by volunteers and continues to improve each year. Benches are located along the trails for a little pause or to use to stretch your legs during a vigorous walk."

"A 60-acre freshwater lake (fishing, kayaks, pedal boats and canoes). Kids splash park (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Camping facilities (RV and tent camping, and rustic cabin rentals. Scenic trails designed for both biking and hiking."

"Nestled near the northern end of the nearby Anastasia Island is the slender, striped tower of the St. Augustine Lighthouse station. Erected in 1874, it makes for a striking sight with its Maritime Museum offering a fascinating look at the history of the lighthouse, its keepers, and the numerous shipwrecks that occurred along the coast. Rising 165 feet into the air, the black and white striped lighthouse stands out delightfully against its surroundings with epic views on offer from atop its tall tower."

"Go climb 219 steps up the lighthouse and take in the panoramic views of St Augustine. Sunset is a great time to go!. The museum is interesting too!"

"Another of the best things to do in St Augustine is to explore Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archeological Park. This archaeological site in the city claims to be the landing site of Ponce de Leon, a Spanish explorer who came to the Americas in search of the fabled Fountain of Youth in the early 16th century. It’s evolved into a rather unusual tourist attraction within the city, and while there’s little factual basis behind the park and its supposed archaeological finds, it’s still a unique place to visit."

"This is the site of the ancient Indian village of Seloy, but popular legend says Ponce de Leon arrived here in 1513 in search of magical waters that could keep him young and vigorous. While the story may be a myth, it's still fun to drink from the fountain at this garden-like park hoping for a miracle. Beyond the fountain, you can walk around the pretty grounds and learn about the first Indian inhabitants and see colonial re-enactors build camps and fire muskets."

"Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, Augustine|Courtesy of St. Augustine VCB. The Fountain of Youth Discovery Park marks the spot where the Spanish explorers Pedro Menéndez de Avilés and Ponce de León came ashore. Archaeological digs are on-going, and discoveries at the site include a springhouse, landmark cross, saltcellar and artifacts remaining from an ancient Native American village."

"This pooch-popular playscape is Jacksonville’s largest, with 42 acres of all kinds of terrain for Rover to run on, splash around in and crawl over. Open daily, the park does require a small fee for a single day visit or you can purchase an annual membership. People and their pups are welcome to stay well after dark (and past regular visiting hours)."

"For anyone with a four-legged friend that needs to socialize, there are ten off-leash dog parks in Jacksonville. The best of these is Dog Wood Park off the I-95 near Southpoint. Not only are there 42 acres of grass, woods and a lake for your pup to explore, there’s also an agility course, a dog washing station and lots of fun obstacles."

"A dog’s heaven, Dog Wood Park is 42 acres of the fenced-in, off-leash dog park. Inside of the park is a lake for feline friends to swim in, an agility course, and obstacles to challenge Fido. Though the park does have a membership, daily visitors are welcome."

"The ecosystems on Cary State Forest are varied and include longleaf pine/wiregrass, mesic flatwoods, wet flatwoods, sandhills, basin swamps and cypress domes. Wildlife species found on the forest include: white-tailed deer, wild turkey, bobcat, otter, alligator, great horned and barred owl, wild hog, pileated woodpecker, yellow-throated vireo, pinewood tree frog and various venomous and non-venomous snake species."

"Florida’s second established state forest, Cary State Forest is comprised of Flatwoods, marshland, and a sandhill. With hiking and horseback riding trails, primitive camping, and the chance to see wildlife, Cary State Forest is a true outdoorsman’s dream. Nearly 13,500 acres, heading to Cary State Forest means leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city; something everyone needs from time to time."

"Tideviews Preserve is located at the end of West 1st Street and Begonia Street, west of Mayport Road. Tideviews Preserve consists of 8 acres of passive parkland. Tideviews offers a scenic view of the Intracoastal Waterway, 2500 feet of trail and boardwalk, restroom facilities, canoe launch, scenic overlook, a fishing area and public parking."

"Take in this scenic view while strolling down the boardwalk pier for amazing views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Located in Atlantic Beach, this preserve is open til dusk."

"2 St. George StreetRight in the heart of St. Augustine, this little St. George donut shop serves up custom mini donuts that are perfect for when you just need a quick snack. Munch on a donut made just for you with a variety of crumbles, sprinkles, sugars, and toppings – then grab some hot coffee or cocoa to round it off.www.facebook.com/Auggies-Mini-Donuts-822940964710037"

"Came here for the first time yesterday and had to bring my family to it the next day. Super delicious and made to order!. The donuts melt in your mouth an..."