Jacksonville, Florida, is a city filled with beaches, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and a vibrant food scene. As the largest city by land area in the United States, Jacksonville offers diverse neighborhoods, scenic riverfront views, and plenty of things to do for visitors of all interests.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a solo trip, this guide will help you explore the best Jacksonville has to offer.
Quick Facts About Jacksonville
- Location: Northeast Florida, along the Atlantic Ocean and St. Johns River
- Nicknames: Jax, The River City, The Bold New City of the South
- Climate: Subtropical, with warm summers and mild winters
- Best Time to Visit: March through May and September through November for great weather and fewer crowds
How to Get to Jacksonville
By Air
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is the main airport, offering domestic and limited international flights. It is about 20 minutes from downtown Jacksonville.
By Car
Jacksonville is easily accessible via:
- Interstate 95, which runs north to south along the East Coast
- Interstate 10, which connects Jacksonville to the Gulf Coast and beyond
By Train and Bus
- Amtrak has a station about 10 miles from downtown Jacksonville
- Greyhound and Megabus offer affordable routes to and from Jacksonville
Where to Stay in Jacksonville
Jacksonville has a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to beachfront resorts and budget-friendly stays.
Best Areas to Stay
- Downtown Jacksonville is ideal for business travelers and those who want to be near cultural attractions.
- Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach are perfect for a beachfront vacation.
- San Marco and Riverside offer a boutique-style experience with a trendy, artsy atmosphere.
- Southside and St. Johns Town Center are great for shopping and modern hotels.
Recommended Hotels
- Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is an oceanfront resort with golf and spa amenities.
- The Riverdale Inn is a charming bed-and-breakfast in Riverside.
- Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville Beach is an affordable hotel with great amenities.
Top Attractions and Things to Do
Jacksonville is known for its beaches, outdoor adventures, museums, and lively neighborhoods.
Visit Jacksonvilleās Beaches
With 22 miles of sandy coastline, Jacksonvilleās beaches are perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and waterfront dining.
- Jacksonville Beach is the most popular beach with a pier, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach offer a quieter experience with a local feel.
- Little Talbot Island is a state park with undeveloped beaches and scenic hiking trails.
Explore Arts and Culture
- The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens features stunning art collections and riverfront gardens.
- The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville showcases modern exhibits.
- The Riverside Arts Market is a weekly event with local artists, crafts, and food vendors.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures
Jacksonville is a paradise for nature lovers with plenty of parks, trails, and water activities.
- The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is one of the last unspoiled coastal wetlands on the East Coast.
- Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park has great hiking, biking, and kayaking opportunities.
- The St. Johns Riverwalk is a scenic route for walking, jogging, or enjoying the views.
Catch a Game or Event
- The Jacksonville Jaguars play at TIAA Bank Field during the NFL season.
- The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp is a minor league baseball team that offers affordable family-friendly games.
- The Florida-Georgia Football Game is one of the biggest college football rivalries.
Where to Eat and Drink in Jacksonville
Jacksonvilleās food scene includes fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and international flavors.
Best Restaurants
- Safe Harbor Seafood is famous for Mayport shrimp and fresh catches.
- Orsay is a French-inspired fine dining restaurant.
- Maple Street Biscuit Company is known for giant, flaky biscuits and Southern-style breakfast.
Best Breweries and Bars
- Intuition Ale Works was Jacksonvilleās first craft brewery.
- The Volstead is a stylish speakeasy with classic cocktails.
- Lemon Bar is a beachfront bar that serves tropical drinks with ocean views.
Best Shopping Areas
- St. Johns Town Center is Jacksonvilleās largest outdoor shopping mall, featuring high-end brands and well-known retailers.
- Five Points in Riverside is a hip district with vintage shops, bookstores, and boutiques.
- The Avenues Mall is a traditional indoor shopping mall with a variety of fashion and specialty stores.
Best Day Trips from Jacksonville
Jacksonville is close to several great day trip destinations.
- St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States, with historic sites and cobblestone streets. It is about an hourās drive away.
- Amelia Island is a picturesque coastal retreat with beautiful beaches and a historic downtown. It is about 45 minutes away.
- Cumberland Island is a protected island known for wild horses and pristine nature trails. It can be accessed by ferry from St. Marys, Georgia.
Best Time to Visit Jacksonville
Peak Season (March – May, September – November)
- The best weather with mild temperatures
- Fewer crowds than the summer months
- Ideal for beach days and outdoor activities
Summer (June – August)
- Hot and humid, but perfect for beachgoers
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common
Winter (December – February)
- Mild temperatures, but too cool for swimming
- Great for exploring parks and cultural attractions
Travel Tips for Jacksonville
- Renting a car is the best way to explore Jacksonville, as the city is spread out.
- Check for events before visiting, as there are festivals and sports games happening year-round.
- Try local seafood, especially Mayport shrimp, which is caught fresh daily.
- Pack for the weather, as summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild but may require a light jacket.
Plan Your Jacksonville Adventure
Whether you are visiting for a beach getaway, outdoor adventure, or cultural experience, Jacksonville has something for everyone. Start planning your trip and explore all that this dynamic city has to offer.
