Jacksonville Florida has become a popular vacation destination in recent years, but it still holds some secrets. Here are some gems that will give you an insider’s view of Jacksonville, and if you’re not careful, you’ll end up staying longer than you intended! If you are on a cruise, you only have a few hours so lets make the most of it.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
What some may not know is that Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens actually started as a private collection of animals and plants. Originally, their garden was on a plot of land outside of town, but when it became popular, they moved to their current location where they also added gardens from different parts of the world.
The Jacksonville Florida Pier
Enjoying water-based activities? The Jacksonville Landing is an urban development project along the St. Johns River near downtown, which includes a park known as Riverfront Park and a pier that runs 1,000 feet out into the river. Here you can find shops, restaurants and bars, as well as year-round cultural events such as art shows, concerts and theater performances.
Museum of Science & History
The Museum of Science & History is home to an IMAX theater and a hands-on children’s museum. A few blocks south of downtown, it’s a fun (and free) family activity, especially on weekends when a model train display rolls through.
Riverside Arts Market
Find artist and crafters selling everything from pottery to clothing to unique jewelry at Riverside Arts Market on Saturdays. Chomp Chomp Nation: This food truck stop makes us want to ditch our kitchen and take up truck living instead. If you want BBQ, it;s the place to go! The Bold City Brewery: Tour a brewery, or sip a beer in their tasting room (it’s all ages) and enjoy delicious craft brews like their tangy Grapefruit IPA.
Our Southern Roots
A growing city with long ties to a Southern way of life, Jacksonville is teeming with barbecue joints, family-friendly museums and sprawling neighborhoods. Take a stroll through downtown’s Hemming Park or spend an afternoon on historic River Street for Southern flair at its finest.
