50 Best Things to do in Jacksonville!

Welcome to Jacksonville, Florida! Located along the northeast coast of Florida, Jacksonville is a vibrant city boasting a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and endless outdoor adventures. We’re so thrilled to guide you through this enchanting destination and help you make the most of your visit. In this comprehensive guide, we are excited to showcase the best things to do in Jacksonville during your visit to Florida.

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1. Historic Attractions

Kingsley Plantation

The Kingsley Plantation is a historic site, located on Fort George Island within the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Recognized as Florida’s oldest remaining plantation home, it dates back to 1797 or 1798. The plantation was named after Zephaniah Kingsley, who owned and operated it for 25 years. Visitors can explore the grounds, walk through the preserved buildings, and learn about the plantation’s history through self-guided tours and educational exhibits. The plantation was once a central hub for Sea Island cotton, citrus, sugarcane, and indigo production, relying on enslaved labor.

Fort Caroline National Memorial

The Fort Caroline National Memorial shares the history of a brief French settlement and early European exploration from the 16th century. Established by French Huguenots in 1564, the fort was soon overtaken by Spanish forces in 1565, shaping Florida’s colonial past. Visitors can walk through reconstructed fort sections, explore nature trails, and see exhibits that detail the connections between Timucua people, French settlers and Spanish troops. Guests can also hike nearby trails, which lead to a Timucuan lodge exhibit and a shell mound, gives insight into the lives of the region’s Indigenous people.

Riverside Avondale Historic District

The Riverside Avondale Historic District is known for its Mediterranean Revival homes and many local businesses. The area was developed after the Great Fire of 1901, which displaced many residents, leading to its rapid growth. Visitors can explore Five Points, a lively district with independent shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Established in the 1920s, The Shoppes of Avondale features a variety of local boutiques and cafes, maintaining a small-town vibe. The area is home to Memorial Park, designed by the Olmsted Brothers, known for their work on national parks and college campuses.

Mandarin Museum & Historical Society

Located within Walter Jones Historical Park, Mandarin Museum & Historical Society provides an in-depth look at the area’s history, culture and natural environment. Visitors can explore exhibits covering key moments in Mandarin’s past, including the Maple Leaf Shipwreck, which sank in 1864 during the Civil War. The museum also highlights Harriet Beecher Stowe, the famous author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, who lived in Mandarin and helped shape its history. One exhibit, The Untold Story of Black Mandarin, highlights the experiences of African American residents and their contributions to the region.

Walter Jones Historic Park

The Walter Jones Historic Park preserves Jacksonville’s early settlement history with its 10 acres property featuring restored buildings, nature trails and a riverfront boardwalk. The land was originally owned by Major William Webb, who established a homestead in 1873, growing crops and transporting goods by river. Later, Walter Jones moved his family to the site, where they lived until 1992, when Jacksonville acquired it as its first historical park. Visitors can tour the 1875 Webb-Jones Farmhouse, the 1892 Losco Winery Log Cabin, and the St. Joseph’s Mission Schoolhouse for African American Children.

2. Outdoor Activities

Kayaking along the St.Johns River

Paddling through the St. Johns River is a relaxing way to experience Florida’s longest waterway, flowing 310 miles before meeting the Atlantic Ocean. The river is unique because it flows north, unlike most rivers in the United States. Paddlers can enjoy the waters, making it a great spot for beginners and experienced kayakers. Several launch points including John T. Lowe Boat Ramp and Dutton Island Preserve, both offering easy access to the water. Guided tours are available through local outfitters like Ortega Outdoors Kayak and Adventure Kayak Florida, providing expert-led trips through scenic areas.

Boating Tours

Exploring Jacksonville by boat is a great way to experience the St. Johns River to the Intracoastal Waterway. Now and Zen Sailing Charters provides sailing experiences on a 42 foot catamaran, with dinner cruises and multi-day trips to nearby islands. Sea Serpent Tours offers private boat tours, including dolphin-watching and fishing trips, covering Jacksonville and St. Augustine. Those looking for a larger cruise can check out JAXPORT, which serves as a departure point for Carnival Cruise Line trips. Lucky Dolphin Tours specializes in dolphin-watching, giving visitors a chance to see marine life up close.

Biking Trails

Jacksonville has a variety of biking trails, offering options for both casual riders and experienced cyclists. One of the most popular routes is the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, a 14.5 miles paved path that runs through wooded areas and open fields. Originally a CSX railway line, the trail now serves as a scenic route for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Another great spot is Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park, which has short, well-maintained trails perfect for a quick ride near the city.

For those looking for a challenge, Hanna Park features 13 miles of trails, with sections that shift between sand, dirt, and mud, making it ideal for mountain biking. The A1A Ocean Islands Trail is a longer ride, stretching 40 miles along Florida’s coast, passing through Amelia Island, Big and Little Talbot Islands, and historic Mayport. Riders can also explore Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park, which offers natural trails through wetlands and forests.

Golfing Courses

Opened in 1925, Hyde Park Golf Club stands as one of the city’s oldest courses, offering an 18-hole layout with a traditional design. Brentwood Golf Course is a 9-hole course that welcomes golfers and has been home to The First Tee of Jacksonville since 2001, supporting youth programs. Blue Sky Golf Club, an Arnold Palmer Signature Design, offers 9-hole and 18-hole options, along with a driving range equipped with Toptracer technology for day and night practice. Jacksonville Golf & Country Club, a private club, provides a championship-level course and a range of social activities for all members.

Riverside Park

The Riverside Park is one of the city’s oldest public parks, dating back to 1869, and developed in the 1890s as Jacksonville’s second-oldest park. Covering 11.4 acres, the park features walking paths, shaded picnic spots, benches, a playground and a basketball court, making it a great place for outdoor activities. The park’s spring-fed lakes once filled with ducks and water lilies, creating a peaceful vibe. Over time, ornamental stone bridges, camphor trees, and a camellia garden were added to enrich the landscape. Today, locals gather for outdoor activities, small events and casual meet-ups for relaxation.

Memorial Park

The Memorial Park is a significant historic site that honors Florida’s World War I soldiers. Covering 5.85 acres, the park was founded in 1919 and crafted by the Olmsted Brothers, the well-known designers responsible for New York City’s Central Park. At its center stands the Spiritualized Life sculpture, created by Charles Adrian Pillars, symbolizing the sacrifice and legacy of those who served. Officially dedicated on Christmas Day in 1924, the park has remained a cherished community space for over a century. The park works to preserve its history and hosts seasonal events, bringing residents together.

Lonnie C. Miller Sr. Regional Park

Covering over 100 acres, Lonnie C. Miller Sr. Regional Park was originally owned by the Price/Ellis families before the City of Jacksonville purchased the land in 1991. Established in December 1995, the park was named to honor Detective Lonnie C. Miller Sr., a member of the Sheriff’s Office recognized for his commitment to the community. It offers sports fields, walking trails, picnic areas and playgrounds, making it an ideal place for families to relax and enjoy outdoor activities. In 2019, a large destination playground was installed, and includes an amphitheater, for hosting seasonal events and gatherings.

3. Iconic Landmarks

USS Orleck Naval Museum

The USS Orleck Naval Museum offers visitors a chance to step aboard a historic Gearing-class destroyer that served in the United States Navy from 1945 to 1982. Named after Lieutenant Joseph Orleck, who was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his service in World War II, the ship played a major role in military operations, including during the Vietnam War, where it earned the nickname “The Grey Ghost of the Vietnam Coast.” The museum offers guided tours for visitors to explore the ship’s deck, control rooms and living quarters, learning about its missions and the sailors who served aboard.

MOCA (Museum Of Contemporary Art), Jacksonville

Established in 1924, MOCA Jacksonville stands as one of the largest contemporary art institutions in the Southeastern U.S. and serves as a cultural institute of the University of North Florida. Inside, visitors can explore a collection of nearly 800 pieces, and interactive programs designed to engage all ages. The museum also offers art workshops, lectures and film screenings, creating opportunities for learning and creativity. Exhibits focus on diverse themes, showcasing paintings, sculptures, photography and digital art. Visitors can join discussions and guided tours, gaining insights into the works on display.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is a cultural landmark featuring over 5,000 works of art, including European and American paintings and Meissen porcelain. Established in 1958 by Ninah Cummer, the museum giving guests the opportunity to experience both art collections and scenic gardens. Its 2.5 acres gardens, designed by renowned landscape architects, provide a space for formal gardens, fountains and shaded pathways. The museum hosts exhibits, showcasing classic and contemporary art, along with an interactive Art Connections education center that makes art engaging for visitors.

Ritz Theatre and Museum

The Ritz Theatre and Museum stands as a significant cultural site dedicated to honoring African American history and the arts. The site was originally home to the Ritz Theater, built in 1929 during the area’s peak as the “Harlem of the South.” The current theater and museum, constructed in 1999, stands on the same site, preserving the legacy of LaVilla’s vibrant past. The museum showcases exhibits on African American life in Northeast Florida, featuring artifacts and photographs. Guests can visit the LaVilla Museum, which showcases exhibits that highlight the area’s deep historical and cultural roots.

Museum of Science & History (MOSH)

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is a popular destination for learning about science, technology and local history. It features interactive exhibits, covering topics like Northeast Florida’s natural environment, energy choices and space exploration. A standout feature is the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium, known for the largest single-lens planetarium worldwide, where visitors can enjoy engaging presentations on astronomy and space exploration. Visitors can also explore the Florida Naturalist’s Center, and hosts hands-on science demonstrations and educational programs, making each visit unique.

Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum

Jacksonville’s Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum was one of several locations across the country displaying rare historical documents. It was housed in a Classical Revival-style building that was originally built in 1921 as the First Church of Christ, Scientist. The museum host exhibits from the private collection of David and Marsha Karpeles, showcasing manuscripts covering subjects like science, literature, political history, music, art and exploration. Some notable documents on display included Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, the Confederate Constitution, and Amelia Earhart’s Certificate of Landing.

Daily’s Place

The Daily’s Place is a modern entertainment venue linked to EverBank Stadium, has been hosting live events since its 2017 opening. The venue has a 5,500 seats capacity, making it a prime location for concerts, sports events and festivals, attracting big-name artists and major entertainment acts. Since its opening, the venue has hosted music concerts, wrestling events, and seasonal festivals, drawing crowds from across the region. Designed as a state-of-the-art amphitheater, it offers clear views and excellent sound quality, making it a fantastic destination for concerts and performances in Jacksonville.

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

The VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena is a multi-purpose venue, built as part of the Better Jacksonville Plan, opened in 2003, taking the place of the former Jacksonville Coliseum to provide a modern event space. With a seating capacity of up to 15,000, it serves as the home of the Jacksonville Icemen hockey team and the Jacksonville Sharks indoor football team. The arena has invited major artists like Elton John, Kenny Chesney, and Jimmy Buffett, making it a popular spot for live music. In addition to concerts, it has hosted NCAA basketball tournaments, wrestling events and also family-friendly shows.

EverBank Stadium

The EverBank Stadium serves as the home field for the Jacksonville Jaguars and hosts a variety of concerts, football games and large events throughout the year. Originally opened in 1995 as Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, it has undergone several name changes, including Alltel Stadium, EverBank Field and TIAA Bank Field, before returning to EverBank Stadium in 2024. With a seating capacity up to 82,000, it hosts NFL games, college football matchups and international soccer matches. It is also the headquarters for All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and Ring of Honor (ROH), making it a hub for wrestling events.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Spanning over 73 acres, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is the only zoo in Northeast Florida, home to over 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species. Guests can visit award-winning exhibits like Range of the Jaguar, which won the 2005 AZA Exhibit of the Year, and Land of the Tiger, where tigers navigate a unique trail system. The Plains of East Africa, Wild Florida, and the African Forest showcase different habitats and species from around the world. At Giraffe Overlook, visitors get a close-up view of giraffes, while Stingray Bay offers a hands-on experience where guests can feed them and gently touch stingrays.

Riverside Arts Market

Located under the Fuller Warren Bridge, Riverside Arts Market is a weekly open-air market that brings together local artists, farmers and small businesses in Jacksonville. The market features a mix of handmade crafts, fresh produce, baked goods and food trucks. Live performances take place at the River Stage, where musicians, dancers and entertainers showcase their talents. Visitors can shop for art, jewelry, candles, plants, and bath products, all made by local artisans. The market supports small businesses and encourages a “loyal to local” mindset, helping Jacksonville’s creative community thrive.

Florida Theatre

The Florida Theatre has been a cultural landmark in Jacksonville since 1927, offering a mix of concerts, ballet, comedy shows and film screenings. It is one of Florida’s few remaining Mediterranean Revival-style movie palaces, known for its ornate décor and grand architecture. Throughout its history, the venue has welcomed iconic artists, including Elvis Presley’s 1956 concert, solidifying its role in Jacksonville’s entertainment scene. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it continues to bring visitors with a lineup of events, from Broadway productions to special events and holiday performances.

Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary

The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit rescue facility dedicated to providing a safe home for big cats and other wildlife. The sanctuary cares for animals like tigers, lions, leopards, pumas and bobcats, offering them lifelong care without breeding or selling. Visitors can take self-guided tours in the afternoon, with entry between 1 PM and 3 PM, or attend night feedings on Friday and Saturday evenings, where over 600 pounds of meat is distributed to all the animals at 7 PM. Guests can also learn about the challenges big cats face in the wild through guided presentations and exhibits.

Jacksonville Riverwalk

The Jacksonville Riverwalk runs along the St. Johns River, providing a scenic route where visitors can take in city views and local art displays. The path is divided into two areas — the Southbank Riverwalk and Northbank Riverwalk, both are connected by pedestrian walkways over Acosta bridges and Main Street. The Southbank Riverwalk features a boardwalk with skyline views, dining spots and outdoor activities, while the Northbank Riverwalk offers a scenic path passing through notable landmarks. Visitors can attend Sip & Stroll, a monthly event with live music, food vendors and riverfront sunsets.

Jacksonville Fairgrounds

The Jacksonville Fairgrounds is a well-known event space in downtown Jacksonville, hosting a variety of fairs, expos and local gatherings throughout the year. It has been a central venue for entertainment and exhibitions since its early days. The Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair, held annually in November, is one of its biggest events, featuring rides, food vendors, livestock shows and live performances. The fairgrounds host trade shows, concerts and sporting events, making it an ideal spot for different activities. The venue hosts major events, like Jacksonville Jaguars games and other large gatherings.

Community First Igloo

The Community First Igloo is a modern ice sports facility that serves as the home of the Jacksonville Icemen hockey team. It features two NHL regulation ice surfaces, making it the only facility of its kind in Northeast Florida. Visitors can enjoy public skating sessions, hockey leagues, figure skating lessons and private rentals, offering activities for all skill levels. The Jacksonville Sports Hall of Fame is located inside, honoring the city’s athletic legacy and highlighting achievements in local sports. Special events like Publix Summer Family Skating Nights bring families together for themed skating sessions.

Friendship Fountain

The Friendship Fountain is one of Jacksonville’s most recognizable landmarks, designed by Taylor Hardwick and opened in 1965. At the time, it was the largest and tallest fountain in the world, capable of shooting 17,000 gallons of water per minute up to 120 feet high. The fountain operates daily, with scheduled water shows at 7:00, 8:00, and 9:00 p.m., enhanced by color-changing lights that create a stunning nighttime display. The fountain has long been a popular spot for photography, gatherings and evening strolls. Over time, it has become a symbol of Jacksonville’s growth, attracting visitors of all ages.

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

Covering 450 acres, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park features 1.5 miles of sandy shoreline, including The Poles, a well-known surfing spot. The park has over 20 miles of biking and hiking trails, passing through coastal forests and wetlands. Visitors can explore the 60 acres freshwater lake, which is open for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, though swimming is not permitted. The park is popular for birdwatching, photography, and nature walks, offering visitors a chance to experience Jacksonville’s landscape. Guided nature programs and special events are scheduled regularly, providing educational opportunities.

5. Natural Attractions

Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

The Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens spans 136 acres, offering a mix of hiking trails, diverse ecosystems and themed gardens. The arboretum features seven trails, including oak hammocks, freshwater marshes and pine flatwoods. Visitors can enjoy educational programs, guided tours and seasonal events, learning about local flora and wildlife. The Butterfly Garden and Meditation Garden provide quiet spots for relaxation, while the Pollinator Garden attracts bees and butterflies. Families and visitors regularly come here to hike, take photos, or enjoy a peaceful escape from city life.

Jacksonville Beach

The Jacksonville Beach is a lively coastal destination in Northeast Florida, known for its wide sandy shoreline, oceanfront parks and outdoor activities. The Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier, extending a quarter mile into the ocean, is well-known for fishing and scenic coastal views. Water activities like surfing, paddleboarding and kayaking are common, with local shops offering rentals and lessons. The Seawalk Pavilion, an open-air venue, often hosts concerts, festivals and special events. Restaurants and cafes along the beachfront serve fresh seafood and casual dining options, offering a mix of local flavors.

Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is a 46,000 acres protected area, named after the Timucua people, who lived in the region long before European settlers arrived. Visitors can explore Fort Caroline National Memorial, which tells the story of a short-lived French colony from 1564, and Kingsley Plantation, Florida’s oldest surviving plantation house. The area is home to historic sites, archaeological discoveries and visitors can also wander around hardwood hammocks, salt marshes and coastal dunes, exploring one of the few remaining untouched coastal wetlands along the Atlantic Coast.

Big Talbot Island State Park

The Big Talbot Island State Park is a natural preserve known for its coastal beauty and unique landscapes. One of its most famous spots is Boneyard Beach, where salt-washed oak and cedar tree skeletons are spotted along the shoreline. The park is ideal for bird-watching and photography, with landscapes like salt marshes, coastal hammocks and tidal wetlands. Visitors can walk along the Blackrock Trail, which takes them toward the shoreline, or follow Big Pine Trail, passing through marshes. Kayaking is popular, with rentals available through Kayak Amelia, providing guided tours through the marshes.

Tree Hill Nature Center

The Tree Hill Nature Center is a 50 acres urban wilderness preserve offering visitors a chance to explore nature trails, wildlife exhibits and education programs. Established in 1971, the center was designed to protect local plants and animals while providing a space for outdoor learning. Visitors can walk through hiking trails, wildflower gardens and wetland areas, spotting local wildlife along the way. The indoor nature center features exhibits, teaching guests about conservation efforts and Jacksonville’s ecosystems. The Rattlesnake Conservancy is part of its mission, working to protect native snake species.

Theodore Roosevelt Area at Timucuan Preserve

The Theodore Roosevelt Area at Timucuan Preserve is a 600 acres natural space in Jacksonville, offering hiking trails, wetlands and historic sites. This land was once owned by Willie Browne, who lived here without modern conveniences and later donated it to conservation efforts. The site offers 5 miles of trails that passes through ancient oyster shell mounds, hardwood forests and salt marshes, giving visitors an idea about the daily lives of the Timucua people who lived in the region. Visitors can explore Round Marsh Overlook, which offers scenic views of the wetlands, and the Spanish Pond Trail.

Cary State Forest

The Cary State Forest is a 13,385 acres protected area offering visitors a chance to explore pine flatwoods, wetlands and wildlife. Established in 1937, it was Florida’s second state forest, created to support conservation and outdoor recreation. The forest features hiking trails, camping areas and boardwalks, allowing guests to experience its natural beauty up close. Wildlife sightings include white-tailed deer, bobcats and alligators, perfect for nature lovers. The forest is home to 11 different ecosystems and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing, with designated areas for each activity.

Bulls Bay Preserve

Covering 1,222 acres, Bulls Bay Preserve protects the headwaters of the Cedar River and Sixmile Creek, two important waterways that flow into the St. Johns River. Acquired in 1999 for conservation, the area features over 2 miles of hiking trails that passes through oak forests, lily ponds and wetland overlooks. A small, scenic waterfall is one of the preserve’s hidden gems. The land has historical significance, once belonging to Paradise Plantation, owned by Isaiah D. Hart, the founder of Jacksonville. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching and photography, with chances to see wading birds, turtles and deer.

6. Day Trips from Jacksonville

St. Augustine

From Jacksonville, a day trip to St. Augustine takes about an hour via I-95 South, and is known as the Nation’s Oldest City, with cobblestone streets and centuries-old landmarks. Travelers can begin from Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish fort from the 17th century, where they can enjoy the views of Matanzas River. Just a short walk away, St. George Street filled with cafes, shops and historic landmarks. Those interested in nature can explore Anastasia State Park, which has beaches, trails, and wildlife. Food lovers can try local seafood at waterfront restaurants or visit the St. Augustine Distillery for craft spirits.

Amelia Island

Start a day trip to Amelia Island and drive about an hour northeast of Jacksonville. The island is known for its 13 miles of coastline, historic sites and charming downtown. Visitors can start the day at Fernandina Beach, where the Amelia Island Historic District features Victorian-era architecture, local shops and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the island by kayaking through marshes with Amelia Island Kayak Excursions or taking a guided boat tour with Backwater Cat Adventure. For a unique experience, visitors can book a customized horseback ride along the shore, offered by local stables.

Cumberland Island

Planning a day trip to Cumberland Island in Georgia, takes about 45 minutes from Jacksonville, and is only accessible by ferry from St. Marys, Georgia. The Cumberland Island Ferry runs two times a day, and booking early is advised to secure a spot. Once on the island, visitors can explore Dungeness Ruins, the remains of a 19th century Carnegie mansion, or hike trails through maritime forests and salt marshes. The island is home to wild horses, armadillos and shorebirds, while the Lands and Legacies provides a guided tour, covering historic sites like Plum Orchard Mansion and First African Baptist Church.

Okefenokee Swamp

A day trip to Okefenokee Swamp takes about 1.5 hours north from Jacksonville, covering over 400,000 acres and is home to diverse wildlife, including alligators, turtles, snakes and bird species. The Swamp Island Drive is a 7.5 miles scenic road, allowing visitors to observe wildlife from their cars. For a closer look, guided boat tours take visitors through the waterways, offering views of cypress trees, Spanish moss and floating peat islands. The Chesser Island Boardwalk leads to the Owls Roost Tower, while Chesser Island Homestead, a preserved settler’s home, offers insight into early life in the swamp.

Gainesville

From Jacksonville, a day trip to Gainesville takes around 2 hours drive via I-10 West and US-301, offers a mix of nature, history and local attractions. Visitors can start at the Florida Museum of Natural History, which features exhibits on Florida’s past, including fossils, cultural artifacts, and a Butterfly Rainforest with thousands of butterflies. Next door, the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention highlights innovation and science through interactive displays. Downtown Gainesville has a variety of local restaurants, coffee shops and many art galleries, making it a great spot to relax before heading back.

Kennedy Space Center

Start a day trip from Jacksonville and drive around 2.5 hours via I-95 South to reach Kennedy Space Center. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex stands out as a top destination, showcasing stories of astronauts, NASA’s space missions and hands-on exhibits. The Astronaut Encounter allows visitors to meet a veteran astronaut and hear firsthand stories about space travel. The center also has IMAX theaters, showing space documentaries on giant screens. Visitors can also take part in the Shuttle Launch Experience, a thrilling simulator that replicates the intense journey of a space shuttle launch.

Little Talbot Island State Park

Planning a day trip to Little Talbot Island State Park takes around 40 minutes via Heckscher Drive from Jacksonville. The park is one of the few undeveloped barrier islands in Northeast Florida, having 5 miles of pristine beaches and 3 miles of bike trails. Visitors can explore the Dune Ridge Trail, a 4 miles hiking path that leads through maritime forests, dunes and salt marshes. The park is great for birdwatching, with many species using it as a stop along their migration routes. The shoreline is also known for its driftwood-strewn beaches, creating a unique landscape for photography and beachcombing.

Huguenot Memorial Park

From Jacksonville, a day trip to Huguenot Memorial Park takes about 30 minutes drive, making it an easy getaway. The 368 acres park is surrounded by water, with access to the Fort George Inlet, the Atlantic Ocean and the St. Johns River. Visitors can enjoy beach driving, a unique feature that allows vehicles on certain areas of the shore. The park is known for its birdwatching, as it is home to one of the largest seabird colonies on the East Coast, like Laughing Gulls, Royal Terns and Brown Pelicans. Activities like fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and picnicking, are available with designated areas for each.

Osceola National Forest

A day trip to Osceola National Forest is a relaxing way to enjoy Florida’s nature, located about an hour from Jacksonville. Covering over 200,000 acres, the forest is home to pine flatwoods, swamps and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore hiking trails, fishing spots and picnic areas, making it a great choice for outdoor adventures. The Florida Trail, a well-known hiking path, passing through the forest, offering scenic views and a chance to spot wildlife. The Ocean Pond Campground, located near a 1,760 acres lake, is popular for boating, swimming, and camping, providing a relaxing setting for nature lovers.

How to Reach Jacksonville

Jacksonville is easy to reach by air, road and rail, making it accessible for travelers from different locations. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) serves the city, offering flights from major U.S. destinations. For those driving, Interstate 95 runs through Jacksonville, connecting it to cities like Miami, Savannah, and Washington, D.C. Interstate 10 links Jacksonville to Tallahassee and the Gulf Coast, making it a convenient route for travelers from the west.

Jacksonville is accessible by Greyhound and Megabus, both offering bus services with stops at the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) Intercity Bus Terminal. Amtrak’s Silver Service trains stop at Jacksonville Station, offering connections to cities along the East Coast. Ride-sharing services like Uber operate in the city, making local transportation easy. Visitors can also use JTA buses and Skyway, a free monorail system in downtown Jacksonville.

Local Transportation

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) operates bus routes, the Skyway monorail, and the St. Johns River Ferry, making public transit accessible. The JTA bus system covers major areas, with stops at key locations like downtown, the beaches, and shopping centers. The Skyway, a 2.5 miles automated monorail, connects Northbank and Southbank, offering a quick way to travel downtown. The St. Johns River Ferry transports passengers between Mayport Village and Fort George Island, providing a scenic ride across the river.

Taxis and private car services operate throughout the city, with companies like BSC Worldwide Transportation and Barr’s Transportation providing professional rides. Bike rentals and scooter-sharing programs allow visitors to explore Jacksonville at their own pace. The Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center (JRTC) serves as the city’s main transit hub, connecting bus routes and intercity travel options. Amtrak’s Silver Service stops in Jacksonville, linking the city to other destinations along the East Coast.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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