Alpine Groves Park on the St. Johns River near St. Augustine, FL.

Fruit Cove

Bordering on Duval County, this area has idyllic parks and new communities.

While technically in St. Johns County, this northwestern corner is often associated more with Jacksonville than St. Augustine. Still, restaurants and attractions are worth mentioning for those driving from St. Augustine to Jacksonville while in “vacation mode” or "house hunting mode."

To the west, visitors will find a portion of the William Bartram Scenic Highway, SR 13, that runs along the St. Johns River. In addition to a beautiful drive, the WBSH takes visitors through the charming historic area of Switzerland and past several parks, including Riverfront Park and Alpine Groves Park. Riverfront Park has a short trail and a long fishing pier that ends at a gazebo overlooking the St. Johns River. Alpine Grove features a historic 19th-century citrus-growers homestead and butterfly gardens, 45 minutes and 29 miles from the Plaza de la Constitución.

Visitors will see more development to the east, with the new Durbin Park featuring housing, shopping, and the Cinemark Theatre, 25 miles -- or 33 minutes -- from Historic Downtown.

Fruit Cove

(904) 201-2765

335 Harper Ln.

Satisfy your daytime and late-night cravings at this classic taco stop.

(904) 672-7271

140 Little Cypress Dr.

Made-to-order rice and noodle bowls with sauces and meats galore.

(904) 217-0916

585 State Road 13

This locally owned shop brews coffee from Bold Bean Coffee Roasters and offers pastries from Knead Backshop.

(904) 209-0378

1332 Veterans Pkwy.

Remember those who served at this facility offering skate and dog parks.

(904) 342-5288

35 Little Cypress Drive

Zesty chicken served daily in a variety of ways at this quick-service dining establishment.