Jacksonville Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Jacksonville with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more.


Introduction to Jacksonville

Jacksonville is the largest city in the state of Florida and is located in the First Coast region of the state. Being the largest city, it is an ideal destination for a vacation full of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Visitors are welcomed with numerous attractions, picturesque scenery, and an always-thriving food and drink scene. Jacksonville offers endless opportunities for a memorable trip to Florida.

List of Places to Visit in Jacksonville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Jacksonville is steeped in history and culture, and it is no surprise that there are so many museums and historical places to visit in the city. Some of the most noteworthy attractions include:

  • Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
  • Kingsley Plantation
  • Ritz Theatre and Museum
  • Museum of Science and History
  • Fort Caroline National Memorial

Natural Attractions of Jacksonville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature lovers and adventure seekers will find plenty of activities to indulge in within and around Jacksonville. The city is dotted with many parks, beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife reserves. Some of the top natural attractions include:

  • Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
  • Little Talbot Island State Park
  • Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
  • Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
  • Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jacksonville

Jacksonville offers several hiking and biking trails for those looking to explore the city on foot. Here are some of the popular routes that visitors can consider:

  • Baldwin Trail
  • Timucuan Trail
  • Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
  • Baymeadows Trail
  • Riverwalk

Best Things to Do in Jacksonville: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of activities and tours to take in Jacksonville. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from sightseeing to watersports. Here are some of the best things to do in Jacksonville:

  • Take a water taxi tour of the St. Johns River
  • Catch a show at the Florida Theatre
  • Visit the Riverside Arts Market
  • Take a paddleboarding tour of the St. Johns River
  • Enjoy a sunset sail on the Navigator

Week-Long Itinerary for Jacksonville

With such a diverse range of activities, it is possible to create a week-long itinerary that suits your interests and preferences. Here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens followed by a stroll through the Riverside Arts Market.
2 Explore Little Talbot Island State Park and spend the afternoon fishing on the pier.
3 Take a water taxi tour of the St. Johns River and visit the Museum of Science and History.
4 Experience the historic charm of St. Augustine and visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.
5 Go for a bike ride on the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail and enjoy dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants.
6 Take a paddleboarding tour of the St. Johns River and end the day with a sunset sail on the Navigator.
7 Visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and relax on the beach at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Jacksonville

Must-Try Dishes

Jacksonville’s vibrant food scene offers visitors with a diverse range of cuisine, from seafood to barbeque. Here are some of the must-try dishes in the city:

  • Shrimp and grits
  • Fried chicken and biscuits
  • BBQ pork ribs
  • Mofongo (a Puerto Rican dish of mashed plantains)
  • Fried green tomatoes

Local Beverages

Beer lovers will have plenty to enjoy with the numerous craft breweries in the city. Jacksonville also offers a selection of locally produced wines, spirits, and cocktails. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Bold City Brewery
  • Intuition Ale Works
  • Engine 15 Brewing Company
  • Manifest Distilling
  • Black Sheep Restaurant and Rooftop Bar

Where to Stay in Jacksonville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jacksonville offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
  • Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront
  • Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville East
  • Casa Marina Hotel & Restaurant

What to Buy in Jacksonville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take home a piece of Jacksonville by purchasing locally made souvenirs or products. Here are some of the best souvenirs to buy in Jacksonville:

  • Sea-glass jewelry
  • Handcrafted wooden bowls and spoons
  • Gourmet hot sauce and spice blends
  • Local honey and jams
  • Coastal-themed decor and artwork

Local Culture and Customs of Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a diverse city with many cultural influences. Visitors are recommended to be respectful of local customs and traditions. The people of Jacksonville are friendly and welcoming, and visitors can expect to be greeted with southern hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Jacksonville

The best time to visit Jacksonville is during the spring and fall months (March - May and September - November). The temperatures are mild, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed without the scorching heat and humidity of the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jacksonville

Do:

  • Enjoy outdoor activities in the many parks and beaches
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions
  • Visit the numerous museums and historical places
  • Try the seafood and local cuisine
  • Shop for souvenirs at the local markets and shops

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches and in the parks
  • Interrupt wildlife in their natural habitats
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Ignore safety warnings on the beaches and in the parks

Safety and Health

Safety in Jacksonville

Jacksonville is considered a safe destination for tourists, provided that they take the necessary precautions. Visitors should avoid poorly lit areas at night and be aware of their surroundings in public places.

Health in Jacksonville

Visitors should be aware of the high humidity levels in Jacksonville, especially during the summer months. Staying hydrated is crucial when spending time outdoors. It is also recommended to protect yourself against mosquitoes and ticks to avoid insect-borne illnesses.

Getting to Jacksonville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jacksonville

  • Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)

Bus Stations Near Jacksonville

  • Greyhound Bus Lines

Other Options

  • Amtrak train to Jacksonville Station

How to Get Around in Jacksonville

The best way to get around Jacksonville is by renting a car or using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Jacksonville also has an extensive bus system, and a water taxi service for traveling by water.

Where to Go Next from Jacksonville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States
  • Amelia Island, a barrier island known for its beautiful beaches
  • Gainesville, home to the University of Florida and a bustling downtown area
  • Orlando, the theme park capital of the world

Conclusion

Jacksonville offers visitors with a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. With the diverse range of attractions, natural wonders, and delicious food, it is no surprise why so many people choose to vacation in Jacksonville. With this comprehensive travel guide to the city, visitors can plan a memorable trip that suits their interests and preferences.

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