Jacksonville Travel Guide

Jacksonville is home to many must-see attractions, including the Museum of Science & History, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Adventure Landing, Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, and many others.

Jacksonville boasts some of the best restaurants in the state, including The French Pantry, Orsay, BB’s Restaurant & Bar, and Black Sheep. Each venue offers delicious cuisine paired with outstanding service. Follow up dinner with a unique dessert at Jacksonville’s famous Sweet Theory Baking Co., which serves up gourmet cupcakes and more on King Street in the Five Points area of downtown.

The Marriott Jacksonville Downtown is a luxurious hotel located centrally and offering guests an array of amenities such as onsite restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool, a modern fitness center, and spa services. The Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront is another great option for visitors, situated right along the river with direct access to the city’s scenic walkways.

The Avenues Mall and The St. Johns Town Center are two of the best shopping areas in Jacksonville, offering a wide range of stores and restaurants to choose from. The former is an indoor mall situated north of downtown with more than 150 stores, while the latter is a sprawling outdoor lifestyle center just south of the city’s urban core.

Jacksonville is home to many great nightlife spots, from lively bars and nightclubs to more relaxing lounges. Downtown Jacksonville is the most popular area for nighttime activities, featuring several rooftop bars with views of the St. Johns River, such as The Volstead and River & Post. For live music, head over to Jack Rabbits or 1904 Music Hall.

Jacksonville is home to several beaches, including Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. All three boast beautiful sandy shores and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Jacksonville Beach is the most popular of the three for its wide array of amenities such as restaurants, bars, a fishing pier, and more.

Jacksonville has some of the best golf courses in the state, including Queen’s Harbour Yacht & Country Club and Ponte Vedra Inn & Club. Both courses offer beautiful scenery, challenging layouts, and a variety of amenities such as pro shops, dining options, and special events. Other popular spots include Bent Creek Golf Course and Deercreek Country Club.

Jacksonville is home to some beautiful parks, including Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, Henry J. Klutho Park, and Treaty Oak Park. Hanna Park offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding as well as several waterfront activities such as kayaking and fishing. Klutho Park features a large playground for kids and plenty of open spaces for picnicking. Nature enthusiasts should visit Treaty Oak Park, home to a huge Southern live oak estimated to be 250 years old.

The weather in Jacksonville is generally mild and warm, with average highs ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s throughout the year. The summer months are usually hot and humid, but there are plenty of temperate days and comfortable evenings. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Rainfall is highest during spring for short periods in the afternoon.

The cost of living in Jacksonville is relatively low compared to other cities in the US. The average home price is around $200,000 (USD), and the median household income is about $49,000 (USD) per year. Groceries, transportation, and utility costs are all lower than the national average. Overall, Jacksonville offers a great quality of life at a low price.

As of 2021, the population of Jacksonville is estimated to be around 988,000 people. The city continues to grow at a steady rate due to its strong economy and vibrant culture. Additionally, Jacksonville has become increasingly popular as a destination for tourists looking to explore the city’s many attractions and activities.

The history of Jacksonville dates back to 1562 when French Huguenots established a colony on the banks of the St. Johns River. The area was then ceded to Spain and became known as Cowford, due to its prominent cattle trade. In 1822, during Florida’s statehood, Jacksonville became the seat of Duval County. Over the next few decades, Jacksonville grew in population and importance as a port of trade, eventually becoming the largest city in Florida by 1910. The city saw an economic boom during World War II and remains a major business hub to this day. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches, Jacksonville has become one of Florida’s destination cities.