How many places can you travel in 30 to 90 minutes and have loads of fun while exploring?

There are plenty of exciting adventures where you can spend the day and get back to your lodging in time for dinner.

How about a day at the Jacksonville Zoo or going hot-air ballooning along the St. John's River? Spend the day in downtown Jacksonville's Riverwalk, where there is shopping and dining in The Jacksonville Landing, benches, fountains and a 1.2-mile boardwalk. Or take a ride aboard a water taxi to learn a little more about the "First Coast's" hidden secrets.

Daytona Beach Photo courtesy of VISIT FLORIDA

Don't miss the Museum of Science and History, exhibits that excite the astrologer and artist in all of us. The museum offers so much for every age group, and you're sure to be delighted that you didn't pass it up. Horseback riding on the beach is only a short trip on the Mayport Ferry right off A1A in Amelia Island, and while you're there, visit all of the quaint shops of Centre Street.

Right off A1A on Beach Boulevard in Jacksonville Beach is "Adventure Landing," a great water park, miniature-golf course and party place for all who visit.

Straight down I-95 is the famous Daytona Beach, where you can drive your car right onto the white sand and taste the salt in the air. The Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona is full of hidden treasures -- don't miss it. Or, check out the Speedway known for the Daytona 500 and the Pepsi 400. Try Cypress Gardens off I-4 in Winter Haven -- and check out the butterfly exhibit.

Remember our forefathers were explorers -- why not share their experiences and "day trip"?