Serene sights between Orlando and Jacksonville
 

My husband and I are going to a graduation in Orlando, and then plan to visit St. Augustine and fly out of Jacksonville over the course of several days. What other stops/route do you suggest? We are particularly interested in pristine nature and would enjoy a B&B at a quiet beach, walks through reserves, and historic towns with interesting architecture. (We have been to Orlando numerous times but have never ventured north along the Atlantic coast.)

Just off I-4 (about 1/2 way between Orlando and daytone Beach) is a little town of Cassadaga. It's home to a bunch of spiritualists. But it's got an old-Florida feel to it with the architecture of the houses, and moss-covered streets. Neat old hotel where you can get lunch.

Also, Marineland is pretty cool. It went through some rought times awhile back, but I think there's a new owner (with new money) and the place has been refurbished. I think it's been re-opened by now.

If you have been to the Orlando area then you know about the long parking lot they call I-4. Depending where you are going in the Orlando area you may want to take the GreenWay SR-417, much less traffic.

Once you leave the Orlando area I would suggest taking SR-50 east to A1A and work your way north or as a alternate US-17/92.

Some things to consider.

Merritt Island NWR/Cavaveral National Seashore - Titusville

Blue Springs State Park - near Orange City.

De Leon Springs State Park - north of De Land

Mareineland is now open

Fort Matanzas NM

or if you would like you could visit one ot the Springs located in the Ocala National Forest.

I'd drive up 17/92 to Deland which is a pretty town near Blue Springs State Park. Continue up to Barberville, then go east on 40 to A1A. There are some beautiful state parks in the A1A area such as Washington Oaks, Bulow Plantation Ruins, and Fort Mose.

http://volusia.com/deland/index.htm
http://www.floridastateparks.org/

Mt. Dora is a quaint little town about 30 miles NW of Orlando. It's situated on a lake,and is loaded up with galleries, antique shops, and restaurants. You will feel as though you stepped back in time.

Thanks, everyone -- I like all the suggestions! Any opinion on Hontoon Island State Park?

My husband and I recently camped at Favor-dykes State Park, right below St. Augustine for one night. It's on a river you can canoe or kayak. Very serene. We saw deer, armidillo, and butterflies.