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Although Florida is widely known for Disneyworld and other theme parks, there are a lot of amazing destinations you can visit that are off the beaten path. If you're in the Palm Coast area and looking for some amazing road trips, we've some awesome destinations to add to your bucket list. more Siesta Key Beach While Florida is well known for its endless coastline, Siesta Key Beach is widely known for being one of the prettiest beaches in the world. First, the white quartz sand stays cool on a blazing hot day, and it complements the turquoise waters ever so perfectly. The coastline is immaculate. It's a road trip that people of all ages can enjoy and will leave you slightly more relaxed, and bronze. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park You've probably read about mermaids or seen them in movies, but have you ever seen one in real life? Well, now is your chance! This enormous waterpark features underwater mermaid shows that attract visitors from all over the country. It also provides visitors with an array of outdoor water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. If you're lucky, you might even see some manatees as you're out paddling on your kayak. Kennedy Space Center This incredibly important historical monument was the place that launched America's bravest astronauts into the great unknown. This mind-blowing complex offers an array of artifacts and interactive exhibits which include watching a real rocket launch. Visitors also have the opportunity to sit down with a NASA astronaut and ask questions about their experiences in a spaceship and outer space. Everglades National Park You can't talk about a road trip in Florida without mentioning the Everglades National Park. It's one of the state's most important untouched natural grasslands and is home to thousands of species of birds, fish, and reptiles. Airboat tours will take you through the tall grass and swampy waters, so be sure to keep your camera ready to snap pictures of alligators coming up to the surface. The friendly and knowledgeable tour guides will provide you with important information about this ecosystem. Ichetucknee We know this one may not be the easiest road trip destination to pronounce, but we promise the trip will be worth it! If you want to beat the heat, head to the spectacular crystal springs in Ichetucknee Springs State Park and paddle or tube-float along the six-mile canal. If you're in the mood for something a little more adventurous, an area of the park called Blue Hole Spring offers guided cave diving with professional divers. St. Augustine A day trip to the oldest city in America, St. Augustine, is the perfect place to take in some extraordinary views of ancient architecture and important historical landmarks. The town itself is stunning and original, featuring cobblestone roads, antique-style cafes, and its centerpiece, the Castillo de San Marcos (St. Marco's Castle). Visit Palm Coast Ford today for the best deals on new and pre-owned Ford vehicles.

The pristine Faver Dykes State Park borders Pellicer Creek that flows into the Matanzas River and provides nature lovers with 1,500 acres of tranquil beauty to explore. Between the towering pines, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy an array of exciting activities. Here you can take a scenic hike along the banks, canoe down the creek, have a picnic in the shade, or camp under the trees. more 1. Hiking Four scenic nature trails wind through the hammocks, oaks, and longleaf pines along Pellicer Creek. Hikers and bikers are often treated to glimpses of bobcats, deer, river otters, and an abundance of birds along the trails. The Picnic Area Nature Trail Take a leisurely stroll for half a mile between longleaf pines and turkey oaks. The trail offers striking views of the salt marsh and the creek. The Campground Nature Trail This shady half-mile trail snakes through the hammock and offers spectacular views of Pellicer Creek. The Pine Loop Trail The trail connects to the longer Hiram Faver Trail and winds through the grassland, past wildflowers, saw palmettos, and blueberries. The Hiram Faver Trail Walk for 2,6 miles on this shady trail to the overlook at Pellicer Flats. There are benches scattered along the way for a breather and to appreciate the magnificent scenery. 2. Boating, Canoeing, and Kayaking Explore the calm waters of Pellicer Creek, a mix of salt and freshwater, on the canoe and kayak trail, or paddle down to the Pellicer Flats and the Matanzas River. From the water, you can observe an abundance of bird and marine life. The park has a boat ramp for small boats, canoes, and kayaks and offers boat rentals. 3. Fishing Pellicer Creek salt marsh is one of the most pristine tidal wetlands on the east coast of Florida. It is a popular fishing spot for both saltwater and freshwater fish. Sheepshead, snook, spotted seatrout, and black and red drum can be hooked from the fishing dock. You can angle for beam and large-mouth bass closer to the creek headwaters. 4. Birding Birds are plentiful, and over 100 bird species can be seen during the spring and fall migrations. Here birdwatchers can spot birds on the nature trails or from a boat. Be on the lookout for wood-warblers, eagles, and falcons along the nature trails. If you are taking a boat, canoe, or kayak out, watch out for wading birds such as heron, ibis, egrets, and wood storks. 5. Picnicking Enjoy a peaceful picnic under a canopy of tall longleaf pines along the shores of Pellicer Creek. The picnic spot has tables, grills, and two covered pavilions close to the fishing dock. 6. Camping There are 30 campsites for RVs and tents tucked away between the greenery in the shade of the hardwood hammock. The sites all have water and electricity, picnic tables, grills, and fire circles. The campsite also has restrooms with hot showers. The primitive camping area has a fire circle and a pit toilet. The site offers enough space for 50 campers. Bring your family, your friends, and your dog too, and experience a wide range of exciting outdoor activities the park has to offer. Contact Palm Coast Ford today. We offer a wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles at competitive prices.

About one hour away from Jacksonville lies Florida's newest city, Palm Coast. City life and nature go hand in hand here. Watch dolphins playing in the ocean and spot manatees in the waterways. We explore the top reasons to love living in Palm Coast, FL. more 1. Beaches With more than 19 miles of cinnamon-colored sand and unspoiled natural beauty in the area, locals are spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches. Just minutes from town is Flagler Beach. With its relaxed vibe, it is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the sun and water. At Flagler, the central pier is where you can watch the surfers catch some of the best waves on the east coast. Jump in the water and enjoy it yourself as there's plenty of surf shops and hire stores. Take a peaceful stroll underneath the canopy of picturesque oak trees as you explore Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. There are several short trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. Take a picnic and finish your trip on the beach with a spot of sunbathing and sandcastle building. 2. Nature Surrounded by 70 miles of saltwater and freshwater canals, located just minutes from the beach and coexisting in harmony with Floridian foliage and wildlife, Palm Coast is truly rooted in nature. With its typically warm climate, there is a wealth of opportunities for activities like hiking, biking, jogging, kayaking, swimming, fishing, wildlife spotting…the list is almost endless. Graham Swamp Preserve consists of more than 3,000 acres of protected wilderness, most of which is open to the public to enjoy. The park is popular with hikers, fishermen, naturalists, and all outdoor enthusiasts because of its wealth of local plants and animals that inhabit the park. There's also a seven-mile-long mountain biking trail. Other parks in the city include Long Creek Nature Preserve, Pellicer Creek, Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve, and just out of town lies the Tomoka State Park. 3. Golf For golf enthusiasts, Palm Coast offers a selection of outstanding courses. With year-round sunshine, captivating natural beauty, and miles of shoreline, golfers can enjoy a game whilst immersed in nature. A day of golf can be enjoyed by anybody, with a variety of courses designed to challenge both expert and novice golfers, The Conservatory Course at Hammock Beach Gold Resort and Spa is a Tom Watson Signature design. The resort also features the beautiful Ocean Course. Those who don't fancy playing a round can indulge and rejuvenate at the 10,000 square-foot spa. Surround yourself in the natural beauty at Plantation Bay Golf and Country Club. Offering 45 holes encased by moss-draped oak trees and a wealth of wildlife. With so many other things to do and see in this city, the list of reasons to love living here could go on and on. To see everything the city has to offer you'll need a trusty and reliable vehicle. Visit Palm Coast Ford today and let our experts show you our range of new and preowned cars. Together we'll find you the perfect car.

A vacation to the wonderful town of Palm Coast, FL guarantees you'll have plenty of activities and sites to enjoy, all of which are suitable for the entire family. Keep reading to learn more about why it is quickly becoming a top destination spot for families like yours! more Graham Swamp Preserve These swamplands are made up of over 3000 acres of protected land and have plenty of trails and man-made boardwalks that allow you to explore by walking or even biking. One particular bike trail called “The Swamp” is seven miles long and will help you burn some calories while you take in the beauty of the wilderness around you. Other popular activities in this preserve include hiking and fishing. If your family loves to fish, remember that you need a valid fishing license regardless of whether or not you're a Florida resident. The Pirate and Treasure Museum Nearby Palm Coast in a town called St. Augustine, a popular attraction called The Pirate and Treasure Museum draws visitors from all over the state and country. Your family will get the chance to see actual artifacts from real pirates and pirate ships that date back many centuries. Guided tours also show you exhibits and history behind famous pirates and the crazy world they lived in. The Pirate Melee Also in St. Augustine is this new and fun attraction. The Pirate Melee is a next level touring experience, as your family will be guided and entertained by performers in full pirate attire. The tour is very interactive and popular with kids. It lasts approximately 45 minutes in length and is followed by live shows and plenty of food and beverage options. Ripley's Believe It or Not This world-famous attraction will have your entire family fascinated and sometimes not sure if what you're seeing is real! The Ripley's Believe It or Not museum combines the wacky and mysterious into one incredible destination. To add to the fun, Ripley's also has a mini-golf course and several tours, particularly a ghost tour, that can get pretty spooky. It packs up on weekends so try to arrive there early, or if possible, go on a weekday when it isn't as busy. Tomoka Marsh State Aquatic Preserve Boating, kayaking, and fishing are just a few of the many activities available at The Tomoka Marsh Aquatic Preserve. The preserve is also the largest manatee habitat in the state and gives families a chance to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. Marineland A trip to Marineland will leave a lasting memory allowing you to get up close and personal with some friendly dolphins. Your family will have the opportunity to swim alongside these amazing mammals and even take part in a feeding session. Kids who are 13 years and older have the option of taking part in a dolphin training session. Driving your family in a Ford means you're in for a smooth and dependable ride! Call Palm Coast Ford today and book a test drive with any one of our certified used and new Ford vehicles.

With nearly 5,600 acres of scenic beauty, Bulow Creek State Park offers nature lovers peaceful tranquility in an enchanting setting. One of the last remaining southern oak forests along Florida's east coast, the majestic 500-year-old Fairchild Oak is the highlight of the park. Exploring the hammocks, islands, and salt marshes with their abundance of birds and animals makes this an unforgettable outdoor experience. more Hiking and Bicycling Hiking and cycling trails meander through the picturesque scenery, twisting through forests, marshes, and past ponds and lakes. Hikers often see white-tailed deer, owls, and raccoons along the way. Bulow Woods Trail The one-way, 7-mile Bulow Woods Trail starts at the Fairchild Oak and winds through the picturesque scenery to the Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park. The shaded trail twines around massive trunks under a canopy of old oak trees. The trail offers hikers and cyclists the unique opportunity to explore the pine forests, tree-filled hammocks, and salt marshes that look just as they did when the Seminole Indians lived there. Part of the trail is on the original Native American path, which later became a plantation road. Be on the lookout for bald eagles, woodpeckers, deer, foxes, bobcats, and the occasional rattlesnake. The Wahlin Trail The short 0.3-mile loop trail runs down to a little gorge where water bubbles out of the ground. The trail crosses over a bridge, with captivating views of the ancient Fairfield Oak, and then winds through the forest. Paddling Paddle to the islands and explore the cabbage-palm salt marshes on the Canoe Trail. Experience the serene tranquility, the exquisite birdlife, and magnificent views of the forest along the way. Birding The oaks and pines, and small ponds and lakes, dotted with palm islands, attract a multitude of birds. During spring and fall, migrating birds can be heard and seen in the trees and on the water. The black and white warblers, gray catbirds, ovenbirds, and sharp-shinned hawks stay on during the winter months. When you stroll down one of the trails, you will hear owls, eagles, ospreys, hawks, and the melodies of songbirds that make their nests in the trees. The Burlow Woods Trail meanders past Boardman Pond and Cedar Creek, offering hikers panoramic views of the marsh where wading birds and waterfowl are plentiful. Be on the lookout for storks, spoonbills, herons, egrets, wood ducks, and yellowlegs. Geo-Seeking Discover the natural wonders of the park while searching for all kinds of interesting trinkets and treasures, or even information. The Geocaching website will give treasure hunters all the clues to find the caches hidden around the park. Picnicking Pack a picnic basket or grill a few steaks and have a scenic lunch under the shady pavilion. The picnic area overlooks the Fairland Oak and is the perfect spot to relax after a day of fun-filled activities. There are picnic tables and nearby restrooms. Forget all your cares for a while and enjoy the fresh air and an array of outdoor activities while you revel in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Visit Palm Coast Ford today. Our goal is to exceed your expectations at all times.

Princess Place Preserve is your destination for a wonderful experience exploring the natural world in Florida. This 1500 acre park is home to a huge community of wildlife and a variety of plants. You can explore the trails, spend the day fishing, or just find a spot to enjoy the nature surrounding you. more Camping Camping out is the best way to see all the preserve has to offer. There are spaces for your RV, or you can choose to camp in a tent under the stars. You can reserve your camping space by contacting the preserve. Cabins are also available for small groups and families. Cabins include different amenities like bathrooms, kitchens, wi-fi, heating, and air conditioning. Wildlife Florida wildlife is diverse and wonderful to watch. Keep a look-out for alligators in particular as you walk along the water. You are also likely to see a variety of frogs, lizards, and turtles. If you are quiet and still, you may also spot groups of deer. Birding Keep your eyes to the sky and bring your binoculars for the fantastic bird-watching opportunities at the preserve. You are sure to see many different types of songbirds and waterbirds along the trails. Look for heron, egrets, and ducks in the water. You are also likely to see warblers, kites, and woodpeckers. Between January and April, be sure to view the Bald Eagle nesting area as well. Kayak Several spots are available at the park for putting your kayak into the water. Spend the day paddling through the water looking for wildlife and relaxing to the sounds of the waves. Picnic Pack up the family for a picnic in nature. There are pavilions available for picnicking, or you can choose a place to spread a blanket on the ground. Fishing The fishing is abundant at the preserve whether you like to fish from a boat or from the shore. Snook are traditionally caught here, but you'll also find flounder, trout, and redfish. Hiking More than 5 miles of trails are available for hikers and joggers looking for recreation in nature. You will see all types of plants and animals on your journey. Trails are appropriate for hikers of various experience levels with easy and moderate ratings. Bring your hiking shoes and take in the surroundings. Most of the trails are loops, and maps are available. Campfire Have an old-fashioned campfire with family and friends at the preserve. You will bond with your group while cooking over an open fire and enjoying each other's company in a natural setting without screens. Equestrian Trails Horse lovers regularly visit the preserve for its dedicated equestrian campground and miles of trails for riding on horseback. Owners and horses alike will love exploring the natural features of the park. Bring your family or a group of friends to Princess Place Preserve for a wonderful experience outside in nature. Visit Palm Coast Ford to shop a selection of vehicles that will allow you to bring all your gear wherever you need to go.

Being near the coast, we benefit from the sunshine, warm breezes, and the salty ocean air, making it the perfect place for camping. Here are some of the best places to put up your tent or park your RV and spend the night connecting with nature near Palm Coast. more Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort is special because it's one of the few RV resorts directly on a seawall right on the beach. The Atlantic Ocean is a beautiful body of water, so you might as well enjoy it in your RV or one of the cabins for rent. On this campground, you'll find four beach walkways, so you can go right to the sand and sea to appreciate a fantastic sunrise right before your eyes. Take advantage of the available fishing, swimming, and beach-side hiking all around the resort. Beverly Beach also has full-service bathhouses and laundry facilities, making it easier for you to clean up and wash your clothes as needed. Princess Place Preserve If you want to be one with nature, visit Princess Place Preserve. This old Florida historic site on over 1,500 acres has hiking trails, fishing, and salt marshes to explore. If you're into horseback riding, you'll appreciate the equestrian campsite and trails. The available activities at Princess Place Preserve include bicycling, picnicking, bird-watching, canoeing, kayaking, and of course, camping. You're sharing your space with real Florida wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled. Bull Creek Campground Many bird species call the area around Dead Lake home, and you can too while camping in your RV at Bull Creek Campground. Bull Creek provides 25 RV campsites, a boat ramp, canoe and kayak launches, picnic spots, freshwater fishing, and plenty of wildlife all around. Bring your four-legged best friend, as dogs are more than welcome on this property. Feel free to break away from the campsite and enjoy the lakeside restaurant on the western border of the campground. Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area Along the Atlantic Ocean is Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, an oasis for those who want to get away from the bustle of the city. Gamble Rogers is a park located on 145 acres where you can camp, picnic, visit the butterfly garden, check out native blooms, go paddling with your group, rent a kayak, watch for birds, and go shelling. If you want to explore the area, participate in geo-seeking and look out for hidden caches. For those who enjoy hiking, the 3-mile Joe Kenner Nature Trail takes you on a path toward the Intracoastal Waterway. When you notice the water swelling in the Atlantic Ocean, grab your surfboard, paddle out, and try to ride the waves. If you just want to relax, head over to the beach to soak up the sun's rays. With so much beauty right in our backyard, there is no excuse not to spend some time at one of these wonderful campsites. Away from your normal routine, you'll feel relaxed and refreshed during your visit. Image by Brahmsee from Pixabay | CC 0