Jacksonville, Florida, is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, riverfront views, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. As the largest city by land area in the U.S., Jacksonville has something for every type of traveler, whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay.
If you’re planning your first trip to Jacksonville, this guide will help you get the most out of your visit, from top attractions and local dining to transportation and travel tips.
1. Best Time to Visit Jacksonville
Jacksonville’s weather is warm and sunny most of the year, but some seasons are better for certain activities.
- Spring (March – May): The best time to visit for mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor festivals.
- Summer (June – August): Hot and humid, but great for beach trips. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
- Fall (September – November): A great time for fewer crowds, cooler weather, and football season excitement.
- Winter (December – February): Mild and cooler than South Florida but still comfortable for exploring outdoor attractions.
2. How to Get to Jacksonville
By Air
- Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) serves domestic and limited international flights and is located about 20 minutes from downtown.
By Car
- Jacksonville is easily accessible via Interstate 95 (north-south) and Interstate 10 (east-west).
By Train or Bus
- Amtrak provides rail service with a station about 10 miles from downtown.
- Greyhound and Megabus offer budget-friendly bus travel.
3. Where to Stay in Jacksonville
Jacksonville has a variety of neighborhoods, each offering a different experience.
Best Areas to Stay
- Downtown Jacksonville: Ideal for business travelers and those who want to explore museums, nightlife, and the St. Johns River.
- Jacksonville Beach & Atlantic Beach: Great for a beachfront vacation with access to the ocean and coastal dining.
- San Marco & Riverside: Trendy, artsy districts with boutique hotels, historic homes, and a walkable atmosphere.
- Southside & St. Johns Town Center: Modern hotels with shopping and dining nearby, convenient for business travelers.
Recommended Hotels
- Luxury: One Ocean Resort & Spa (Atlantic Beach)
- Boutique: The Riverdale Inn (Riverside)
- Budget-Friendly: Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville Beach
4. Top Attractions for First-Time Visitors
Jacksonville offers a mix of beaches, parks, museums, and entertainment venues.
- Jacksonville Beach & Pier – A must-visit for ocean views, dining, and fishing.
- Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens – Stunning gardens and art collections along the river.
- Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens – A family-friendly attraction with wildlife exhibits.
- Friendship Fountain & Southbank Riverwalk – Perfect for a scenic walk with views of the downtown skyline.
- Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve – Outdoor adventure with hiking trails and historic sites.
5. Where to Eat: Best Restaurants for First-Timers
Jacksonville has a fantastic food scene, blending Southern, seafood, and international flavors.
Must-Try Restaurants
- Safe Harbor Seafood (Mayport & Jax Beach) – Famous for fresh Mayport shrimp.
- Maple Street Biscuit Company – A great spot for Southern-style breakfast.
- Orsay – A high-end restaurant serving French-inspired cuisine.
- The Bearded Pig – One of the best barbecue spots in Jacksonville.
- Hawkers Asian Street Fare – A trendy spot offering small plates inspired by Asian street food.
6. Getting Around Jacksonville
Jacksonville is a large, spread-out city, so having a car is the best way to explore.
Transportation Options
- Rental Cars: The most convenient way to get around.
- Public Transit: The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) operates buses, but routes are limited.
- The Skyway: A free monorail in downtown Jacksonville that connects key locations.
- Rideshares & Taxis: Uber and Lyft are widely available.
7. Fun Things to Do for Every Type of Traveler
For Beach Lovers
- Spend the day at Neptune Beach or Little Talbot Island.
- Try surfing at Jacksonville Beach.
For Outdoor Adventurers
- Kayak through Big Talbot Island’s marshlands.
- Hike at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park.
For Families
- Visit the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens.
- Explore hands-on exhibits at MOSH (Museum of Science & History).
For Nightlife & Entertainment
- See a live show at Florida Theatre or Daily’s Place Amphitheater.
- Try rooftop drinks at Cowford Chophouse or Black Sheep Restaurant.
8. Local Events & Festivals to Check Out
Jacksonville has a variety of seasonal events and festivals throughout the year.
- Jacksonville Jazz Festival (May): One of the largest free jazz festivals in the country.
- Florida-Georgia Football Game (October): A major college football rivalry at TIAA Bank Field.
- Jax Beach Summer Music Series (June-August): Live music on the beach.
- Riverside Arts Market (Every Saturday): A lively market with art, food, and entertainment.
9. Money-Saving Tips for Jacksonville
- Visit free attractions like Jacksonville’s beaches, parks, and Southbank Riverwalk.
- Check happy hour deals at local restaurants for discounted drinks and appetizers.
- Use public parks and preserves for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
- Look for free museum days, such as the Cummer Museum’s free Tuesdays.
10. Jacksonville Travel Tips
- Pack for the weather. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild.
- Plan for driving. Jacksonville is large, so renting a car is highly recommended.
- Check local event calendars. There’s always something happening, from live music to food festivals.
- Try local seafood. Mayport shrimp is a must-try dish in Jacksonville.
Final Thoughts
Jacksonville is a laid-back, diverse city with something for every traveler. Whether you love the beach, outdoor adventures, great food, or live entertainment, Jacksonville has plenty to offer.
