Ready for a break from the norm on your next getaway? In Clay County, we’ve got plenty of trendy and hip experiences to make your visit instaworthy for sharing on the ‘gram. From craft beers and axe throwing to rage rooms, wall murals and local shopping – we invite you to take a journey to experience the trendy side of Clay County.
Cheers to You, Cheers to Me!
For a taste of Clay County brewed beer, look no further than Pinglehead Brewing Company. From their home base at Brewer’s Pizza in Orange Park, Pinglehead prides themselves on making ‘beer with attitude’. With rotating taps, don’t miss trying their flagship beer Pinglehead, an Imperial Red Ale. At the new Cultured Collective Brewery & Taproom, all beers are made on site ranging from IPAs to Hard Seltzer.
For those looking for a stiff drink, stop by Black Creek Distilleries in Middleburg for a tour and have a lemon drop made with their own creation – Pop’s Block & Tackle White Rum. Other spirits made on site include their Black Creek Gold Rum matured on Charred French Oak and their popular 90% proof, Apple Shine.
And when the sun goes down, make your way to the Sunset Tiki Bar overlooking Doctors Lake at the Doctors Lake Marina. Enjoy your favorite drink and the breeze off of the water as you watch the sun go down. Live musicians and a rotating variety of food trucks are featured daily.
Strike a Pose
Whether you decide to make your visit ‘Facebook official’ or want to strike your best Instagram pose, make a stop at one of Clay County’s wall murals. At the Orange Park Mall near the outdoor entrance to the food court, local artist Steven Teller of St. Augustine, created the “But To Fly” mural. Featuring vibrant colored flowers and birds, this mural pairs well with the outdoor vibe created within the mall.
In Green Cove Springs, pay your respects to three fallen heroes of Clay County at the touching wall mural of artist Sophie Dentiste. Located at the corner of North Orange Avenue and Palmer Street, this mural was completed in 2019 with the assistance of local charity St. Michael’s Soldiers and the Art Guild of Orange Park. The wall features a giant American flag with angel wings depicted behind Clay Fire Rescue Engineer and Paramedic Jeremy J. McKay, U.S. Army Ranger Sgt. Bradley Crose and Clay County Sheriff’s Office Dep. Benjamin Zirbel.
Also in Green Cove Springs and created by the same artist, Sophie Dentiste, the mural “Cove in Bloom” is featured on a 40 foot block wall at the corner of Walnut Street and US Highway 17. Along with Beth Haizlip and members of the Art Guild of Orange Park, this colorful mural features the flora and fauna that makes up Clay County.
Let’s Go Shopping
From the latest trends in jewelry to purposeful shopping where every purchase gives backs to others, there’s no shortage of great shopping while in Clay County. At the One Swanky Chic Boutique in Middleburg, you’ll find farmhouse style clothing ranging from fun graphic tees, flashy flip flops and plenty of dress options for a night out on the town. Their home décor, oils and candles can serve as a great souvenir of your time in the area – or the perfect for others.
The BoldSoul Boutique in Fleming Island features trendy fashions, jewelry and inspirational gifts where every purchase gives back to the community of Pestel, Haiti. So, there’s no need to worry about buying new clothes – it is for a good cause! This family-owned business prides itself on their hand-selected clothing and apparel, along with jewelry and faith-based items. Visitors can feel at home trying on a new look during this inspiring shopping excursion.
For deals on furniture and home décor, don’t miss visiting the Junque in the Trunk shop in Fleming Island. With new inventory coming into the shop daily, every visit is a new experience. Pick up an accent piece or pick out a new dining set that’s oozing with charm and style – there’s plenty of items in the shop to perk up your living space and remind you of Clay County.
Time for Unique Fun
In Fleming Island, test your skills at the Valhalla Indoor Axe Throwing center. With a quick tutorial from the professionals, your group can start throwing axes at targets in no time. Make sure to get your picture taken wearing their Viking helmets and BYOB to make it the perfect adventure.
As the only escape room in Clay County, gather your friends and minds and make your way to Middleburg’s Locked In Escape Room. Together with your team, you’ll gather clues and solve puzzles to escape your locked room with sixty minutes or less. If you do, your team wins! Choose from mind-puzzling games like “”Pharaoh’s Revenge” and “Flight 220” where your only obstacle is flying through the Bermuda Triangle.
There is no shortage of fun here in Clay County. From trendy shopping to local brews, you’ll discover a welcoming atmosphere filled with friendly hospitality as our residents hope to inspire you to discover your own passions too.
What’s your favorite trendy place in Clay County?
