Things To Do
in Jacksonville
Nestled in the northeastern part of Florida, this expansive city is renowned for its extensive park system and beautiful beaches that stretch along the Atlantic coast. As a significant urban center, it plays a pivotal role in the region's economy, particularly through its deep-water port, one of the largest in the United States.
Its cultural offerings, including museums, a vibrant music scene, and numerous festivals, make it a dynamic and attractive place to live and visit.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Enjoy a leisurely walk among the lush landscapes and see the diverse wildlife.
Head to the St. Johns Town Center for lunch and some shopping. Explore various stores and find unique local products.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant on the Southbank. Savor fresh seafood while enjoying views of the river.
Spend your morning at Jacksonville Beach soaking up the sun. Take a refreshing swim in the ocean or relax on the sandy shore.
Enjoy lunch at a beachside café with fresh seafood options. Afterward, rent bikes and ride along the scenic bike paths.
Watch the sunset over the ocean and grab a casual dinner at a local pub. Experience live music at a nearby venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Mild climate, with warm winters and abundant sunshine.
- A large variety of outdoor recreational activities, including beaches and parks.
- Lower cost of living compared to many major US cities.
- Growing job market with opportunities in various sectors such as healthcare, finance, and logistics.
- Cultural diversity with a mix of events, festivals, and cuisine.
- Limited public transportation options, making it difficult to get around without a car.
- Higher crime rates compared to the national average in some areas.
- Inconsistent school quality, with some schools performing significantly better than others.
- Hurricanes and tropical storms pose a risk due to the coastal location.
- Traffic congestion can be problematic, especially during rush hours.
Best Activities in Jacksonville
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a peaceful and scenic paddle along the St. Johns River, observing the local wildlife and beautiful natural surroundings.
Explore the trails and natural beauty of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, home to diverse ecosystems and historical sites.
Catch some waves and soak up the sun at the popular Jacksonville Beach, a great spot for both beginner and experienced surfers.
Take a scenic bike ride along the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, a 14.5-mile path through beautiful natural and rural landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jacksonville with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jacksonville
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers great views of the St. Johns River and a variety of arts and crafts for photography.
Provides a fantastic seaside view and opportunities for capturing sunset shots.
A picturesque spot overlooking the St. Johns River with the fountain as a focal point for photography.
Food in Jacksonville
Jacksonville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Southern dish featuring shrimp served with creamy, stone-ground grits, often flavored with bacon, cheese, and spices. Recommended at The Bearded Pig in the historic San Marco neighborhood.
Must-Try!
Fresh, locally caught shrimp from the nearby Mayport area, known for its sweet and briny flavor. Best enjoyed at Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant overlooking the Mayport fishing village.
Crab cakes with a unique blend of spices and local seasonings, featuring generous chunks of lump crab meat. Not to be missed at The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jacksonville better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively market along the St. Johns River features an array of local vendors offering freshly prepared dishes, artisanal treats, and organic produce. Must-trys include gourmet empanadas, organic smoothies, and farm-fresh cheeses.
Every Friday, Hemming Park hosts a gathering of food trucks serving a variety of cuisines, from Southern BBQ to global fusion dishes. Visitors can sample authentic street food while enjoying live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Jacksonville, it is important to be mindful of personal space and to avoid standing too close when engaging in conversation or interactions.
Punctuality is valued in Jacksonville, so it is polite to arrive on time for social or business appointments.
Using polite language and maintaining a courteous demeanor is appreciated in Jacksonville, especially when interacting with elders or in formal settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jacksonville with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Jacksonville
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Jacksonville, United States, and is usually around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff.
Payment in Jacksonville, United States, can be made using various methods including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Major credit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jacksonville.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Jacksonville is in spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and the city is in full bloom with flowers and greenery. This is the perfect time for outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and visiting the beaches.
Summer (June to August) in Jacksonville brings hot and humid weather, perfect for enjoying the city's many water activities such as swimming, surfing, and boating. However, be prepared for occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
Fall (September to November) in Jacksonville offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore the city's parks, nature reserves, and outdoor festivals. It's also a good time for fishing and birdwatching.
Winter (December to February) in Jacksonville is milder compared to many other parts of the country, making it a good time to visit for those looking to escape colder temperatures. While it may be too cold for swimming, there are still plenty of indoor attractions and events to enjoy.
Jacksonville at Night
Hiking in Jacksonville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast area featuring salt marshes, historical sites, and scenic trails along the dunes and waterways. Perfect for hiking and experiencing the natural beauty of Northeast Florida.
Known for its pristine beaches and diverse ecosystems, this state park offers several hiking trails that wind through maritime forests and sandy dunes.
This reserve offers multiple miles of trails along scenic coastal habitats, providing opportunities for hiking while observing various wildlife.
Featuring coastal landscapes and shaded wooded areas, Hanna Park offers hiking trails, as well as opportunities for camping and beach access.
A local park offering various trails throughout wooded areas and along natural water features, suitable for leisurely hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jacksonville through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Jacksonville by plane.
The main airport serving Jacksonville, Florida with domestic and limited international flights.
Located approximately 140 miles south of Jacksonville, it is a major airport serving both domestic and international destinations.
Located around 200 miles southwest of Jacksonville, it offers extensive domestic and international flights.
Situated about 140 miles east of Jacksonville, it serves Savannah, Georgia and offers several domestic flights.
Located around 200 miles northeast of Jacksonville, it is a key airport serving Charleston, South Carolina with various domestic flights.
Approximately 90 miles south of Jacksonville, it provides domestic flights mainly to Florida destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly European ancestry, comprising the largest demographic group in Jacksonville.
Significant population with deep historical ties to the region, forming the second-largest demographic group.
Diverse community with roots from various Latin American countries, growing rapidly in Jacksonville.
Includes individuals of East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian descent, representing a smaller yet significant demographic.
Includes indigenous peoples of the Americas, with a small but important presence in the community.
Represents individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting the region's diversity.
Includes individuals who identify as belonging to races not specifically mentioned, contributing to the overall multicultural tapestry.
The Soul of Jacksonville
Discover the essence of Jacksonville through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Jacksonville is home to the NFL team Jacksonville Jaguars, making football one of the most popular sports in the city.
The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp is the city's minor league baseball team, and the sport enjoys a significant following among locals.
Basketball is popular in Jacksonville, with local high schools and colleges hosting teams that engage the community.
Soccer has been growing in popularity, especially with the presence of the Jacksonville Armada FC, a team in the North American Soccer League.
With numerous golf courses in the area and events like The Players Championship held nearby, golf is a favored recreational activity.
With its coastal location, Jacksonville's beaches attract surfers, making it a popular sport among residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jacksonville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Jacksonville offer creative and satisfying vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as plant-based burgers, grain bowls, and vegetable tacos. Notable venues include Southern Roots Filling Station and FreshJax.
Visitors seeking gluten-free options will find accommodating menus at various places, with gluten-free pizza, pasta, and baked goods available at popular spots like V Pizza and Sweet Theory Baking Co.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jacksonville with these cultural adventures.
