Things To Do
in Jacksonville

Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, located in Northeast Florida. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and rich history, it offers a unique blend of urban and coastal living. The St. Johns River runs through the center of the city, providing scenic waterfront views.

With a diverse population and a variety of attractions, Jacksonville is a great destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown and the Riverfront
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the Jacksonville Landing for a stroll along the riverfront.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum of Science and History to learn about the area's history and natural environment. Grab lunch at a nearby food truck park for a taste of local street food.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant followed by a visit to the Jacksonville Symphony for an evening of music.

day 2
Day 2: Beaches and Nature
morning
:

Have breakfast at a beachside café, then spend the morning soaking up the sun at Jacksonville Beach.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, where you can hike or bike along scenic trails. Take a break for lunch at a local seafood restaurant.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a sunset at the beach followed by dinner at a lively beach bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
🍕Pizza (Medium)$15
🍺Domestic Beer$5
🍽️Dinner at a Restaurant$25
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and outdoor activities
  • Rich history and cultural experiences
  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Humidity can be uncomfortable in summer
  • Limited public transportation options

Places to Visit in Jacksonville

Visit one of these nice places.

Friendship Fountain

A stunning fountain located on the riverfront, especially beautiful at night.

Jacksonville Beach Pier

A picturesque spot for sunset photography with the ocean backdrop.

The Riverside Arts Market

Colorful arts and crafts vendors set against the backdrop of the St. Johns River.

Culinary Guide

Food in Jacksonville

Jacksonville's culinary scene is diverse and delicious, featuring a mix of Southern comfort food, fresh seafood, and international cuisine.

Jacksonville Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grits

A Southern staple, often served with shrimp or crab.

Must-Try!

Fish Tacos

Freshly caught fish served with zesty toppings, a beachside favorite.

Barbecue

Slow-cooked meats with a variety of tangy sauces, popular in local joints.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jacksonville Farmers Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local meats, and handmade goods.

The Food Truck Park

A rotating variety of food trucks serving everything from gourmet sandwiches to desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jacksonville has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s °F (12-15 °C) in winter to the mid-90s °F (35 °C) in summer. Rainfall is common, especially during the summer months, with hurricanes being a possibility in late summer and early fall. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable and humidity is lower.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Southern hospitality is key; greetings and friendly conversations are common.

Beach Etiquette

Respect personal space and property on the beach; keep noise levels down.

Dining Etiquette

Wait to be seated at restaurants and always thank your server.

Safety Guide

Safety

Jacksonville is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it has areas that are best avoided after dark. It's advisable to stay in well-lit, populated areas and to be aware of your surroundings. Use common sense with personal belongings, and avoid displaying valuables. Emergency services are accessible, and the city has a well-equipped police force.

Tipping in Jacksonville

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Standard tipping is 15-20% at restaurants, and it's customary to tip bartenders and taxi drivers as well.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, some smaller establishments may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid, perfect for beachgoers; however, be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds; great for exploring parks and outdoor events.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional chilly days; a good time to enjoy the city without the heat.

Nightlife Guide

Jacksonville at Night

Jacksonville's nightlife is lively and diverse, with something for everyone. From waterfront bars and live music venues to dance clubs and laid-back lounges, the nightlife scene caters to all tastes. Popular areas include the Riverside and San Marco neighborhoods, where you can find a mix of trendy bars and classic pubs. The city also hosts various events, such as music festivals and art walks, providing plenty of opportunities for night-time entertainment.

Hiking in Jacksonville

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ridgeview Trail

A scenic trail located in the Timucuan Preserve, featuring wildlife and beautiful views of the marshlands.

Little Talbot Island State Park

Offers miles of trails through maritime forests and along the coast, perfect for hiking and nature observation.

Airports

How to reach Jacksonville by plane.

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)

Located about 15 miles north of downtown, JAX offers domestic and limited international flights, making it the primary airport for travelers to Jacksonville.

Getting Around

Walkability

Jacksonville's walkability varies by neighborhood. Downtown and areas like Riverside and San Marco are more pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks, parks, and shops within walking distance. However, many suburban areas and beach locations require a car to access attractions and amenities. There are some bike lanes and paths, making cycling a viable option in more developed areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

African American Community

A significant part of Jacksonville's history and culture, contributing to its vibrant arts and music scene.

Military Families

Due to the presence of several military bases, Jacksonville has a large population of military personnel and their families.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

American Football

Home to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the NFL team, football games are a major draw for locals and visitors.

Baseball

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, the minor league team, provides a fun family-friendly experience at the ballpark.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Jacksonville can be congested, particularly during rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) on major highways like I-95 and I-295. Public transportation options include buses operated by JTA, which cover various parts of the city, but the service may not be as frequent as in larger metropolitan areas. Rideshare services are popular, and cycling is becoming more common, especially in walkable neighborhoods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Jacksonville.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in health-conscious cafes.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries provide gluten-free alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Jacksonville has a robust healthcare system with several hospitals and medical facilities, including UF Health Jacksonville and Baptist Medical Center. Emergency services are reliable, with ambulances readily available. Most healthcare providers accept a range of insurance plans, and many clinics cater to uninsured patients. It's advisable to have travel insurance for unexpected medical needs.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide