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city guide
Jacksonville, the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States, maintains a charming small-town atmosphere while boasting a plethora of attractions and activities for residents and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine State, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and urban sophistication.
One of the standout features of Jacksonville is its diverse culinary scene, which includes world-class restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. The city is also renowned for its thriving craft brewery industry, with numerous establishments offering a wide selection of locally brewed beers. Visitors can indulge in culinary delights and sample craft brews at various eateries and breweries scattered throughout the city.
In addition to its culinary offerings, Jacksonville is home to stunning beaches that stretch along its coastline, providing ample opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the city's abundance of parks and recreational areas, ideal for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
For sports enthusiasts, Jacksonville's pride and joy are the Jacksonville Jaguars, the city's NFL team. Game days at TIAA Bank Field are a lively affair, with locals rallying behind their team and chanting "DUUUVAL" to show their support.
Whether you're a local resident or a first-time visitor, Jacksonville offers a wealth of attractions and activities to explore. From cultural events and art galleries to outdoor adventures and shopping districts, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.
To stay updated on the latest happenings in Jacksonville, consider following these social media accounts:
- Instagram: @visit_jax
- Twitter: @CityofJax
- Facebook: Visit Jacksonville
For insights into the best things to do in Jacksonville, check out publications like "Jacksonville Magazine" and "Visit Jacksonville," which highlight the city's top attractions and events. These resources offer valuable information on upcoming festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, and more, ensuring you make the most of your time in Jacksonville.
Best time to go
The best times to visit Jacksonville are from March to May and September to November. These shoulder seasons see pleasant weather, as well as fewer tourists and lower prices than the summer months.
Fun city facts and activities
- Even though Jacksonville is the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States, it has the feel of a small Southern town where everybody knows everybody. Still, theres no hiding the fact that this city is huge with plenty to see and do as this list of the best things to do in Jacksonville shows. Its home to world-class restaurants (including one of the best restaurants in Florida), a booming craft brewery scene, stunning beaches, and outdoor activities galore.
What gets this city riled up the most is their NFL team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, which plays downtown at TIAA Bank Field. During football season, youre bound to hear locals shouting DUUUVAL (Jacksonville sits in Duval County) to get the crowd amped up for the game.
But no matter if youre a local or just a visitor traveling through, there are so many reasons to be a fan of this massive city. Here, we've rounded up the best things to do in Jacksonville, Florida.
Neighborhoods to explore
- Southside
Riverside
Five Points
Deerwood
The Beaches
Orange Park
Northside
Mandarin
Restaurants
Food Specialties
- When people think of iconic Florida restaurants, images of bayfront dining in Tampa, theme park restaurants in Orlando, or beachside seafood in Key West might come to mind. But hiding in plain sight is a culinary gold mineat the best Jacksonville restaurants, youre in for a treat.
No doubt, one of the best things to do in Jacksonville is eat. The Bold City is home to an eclectic dining scene that features everything from street-style tacos to authentic Nashville hot chicken and incredible Filipino delights. The city is a melting pot of people and cuisines, and theres plenty of new and exciting foods to keep the crowds hungry for more.
After soaking up some sun at the beach, cheering on the Jacksonville Jaguars at a home game, or swinging your clubs at the golf course, youre never far from incredible food.
Free or cheap things to do
Fun things to do in with kids
Free or cheap things to do
1. Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is located along Trout River and near St. Johns River. It opened in May 1914.
2. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit sanctuary that houses rescued big cats.
3. The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens was founded in 1961. It has a collection of about 6,000 works.
4. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a 181-hectare beach and park at Mayport. It sits on the Atlantic coast.
5. Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach is the neighboring city and is most known for its laid-back beaches. It is about 25 minutes away from Jacksonville.
6. Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot State Park is found in the 2,500-acre Little Talbot Island. If you and your family love going on nature trips, dont miss out on this state park.
7. Big Talbot Island State Park
Big Talbot Island State Park is just beside its brother, Little Talbot Island State Park. It is most famous for its Boneyard Beach.
8. Kingsley Plantation
Kingsley Plantation was a former estate owned by Zephaniah Kingsley. It was built sometime during the late 1790s and was established in 1991.
9. St. Johns Town Center
St. Johns Town Center is an open-air mall with over 167 shops and services. It opened in March 2005.
10. Tree Hill Nature Center
Tree Hill Nature Center is a non-profit organization that helps preserve the local wilderness in Jacksonville. It was founded in 1971.
City data and FAQ
Landmarks in the city
Here is a list of some popular landmarks and tourist attractions in Jacksonville:
1. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens - A family-friendly attraction featuring a wide variety of animals and beautifully landscaped gardens.
2. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens - An art museum with a focus on European and American art, surrounded by picturesque gardens.
3. Friendship Fountain - A historic fountain located in downtown Jacksonville that offers a beautiful waterfront view.
4. The Jacksonville Landing - A shopping and dining complex situated along the St. Johns River, hosting events and festivals throughout the year.
5. Riverside Arts Market - A vibrant outdoor market held every Saturday showcasing local artists, food vendors, and live music.
6. Kingsley Plantation - A historic site that preserves the history of a former plantation, offering guided tours and educational programs.
7. TIAA Bank Field - Home to the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL team, TIAA Bank Field also hosts various events and concerts.
8. St. Johns Town Center - A premier shopping and dining destination in Jacksonville with a wide variety of stores and restaurants.
9. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park - A scenic park with beaches, hiking trails, and camping facilities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
10. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary - A nonprofit sanctuary that provides a home for rescued big cats, offering guided tours to educate visitors about these majestic animals.
