Things To Do
in Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida sits along the St. Johns River and stretches to the Atlantic coast, offering a surprising mix of urban energy and coastal scenery. From a growing downtown skyline and a vibrant riverfront to expansive beaches and nature preserves, the city blends culture, history, and outdoor adventure. Riverfront parks, renowned museums, and a thriving seafood scene reflect Southern hospitality with a maritime twist.
With easy access to海 nature, day trips, and weekend getaways, Jacksonville is built for exploration at every pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Kingsley Plantation, where you can explore the historic grounds and learn about the lives of the enslaved people who lived there. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the historic district, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Stroll through the charming streets of Riverside and Avondale, admiring the architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of Jacksonville's past.
Head to the Museum of Science and History to engage with interactive exhibits that showcase the region's natural history and cultural heritage. Grab a casual lunch at a riverside restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while enjoying scenic views of the St. Johns River. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the riverfront, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Conclude your day with a visit to the Jacksonville Landing, where you can enjoy live music and local performances. Experience dinner at a rooftop restaurant, taking in panoramic views of the skyline as the sun sets. End the night with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, where the illuminated city creates a magical atmosphere.
Begin your day with a refreshing breakfast at a beachside café, where you can enjoy ocean views while munching on a hearty omelet. After breakfast, head straight to Jacksonville Beach, grabbing your towel and sunscreen for a sun-soaked morning by the Atlantic Ocean. Spend your time swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the nearby fishing pier to watch local anglers reel in their catches.
Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the beachside restaurants offering delicious fish tacos and tropical drinks. Afterward, take a bike ride along the scenic coastline or participate in beach volleyball with locals, embracing the vibrant beach culture. Alternatively, you can rent a paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters and get a unique view of the shoreline.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the sand to watch the breathtaking colors of the sunset paint the sky. Head to a beachfront restaurant where you can feast on fresh seafood while listening to the sound of waves crashing. Wrap up your beach day with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 in a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $120-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week (mid-range) | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Long coastline with easy beach access and diverse outdoor options
- Strong seafood scene and growing arts/culture venues
- Pleasant year-round climate for outdoor activities
- Walkable riverfront and compact urban core in downtown
- Humidity and heat in summer; hurricane season risk
- Traffic congestion around I-95 and I-295 during peak hours
- Some neighborhoods require extra planning for safe nighttime exploration
Places to Visit in Jacksonville
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour shots along the river with boats, skyline, and reflections on the water.
Formal gardens, fountains, and classical architecture provide elegant photography backdrops.
Long pier with expansive ocean views—great for long-exposure sea photography and sunset portraits.
Historic streets, colorful storefronts, and mural-rich walls ideal for street photography.
Food in Jacksonville
Jacksonville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A coastal staple, often fried or blackened with tartar sauce, best found at casual seafood joints along the coast.
Must-Try!
Creamy stone-ground grits paired with Gulf shrimp and smoky, savory flavors—comfort food with a Florida twist.
Crispy, seasoned crab cakes or deviled crabs common at markets and seafood eateries in coastal towns.
Florida’s iconic dessert: bright tart lime with a creamy filling and whipped topping, a common finish at many eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the region’s oldest markets, offering seafood, produce, prepared foods, and local crafts.
A Saturday riverfront market with local produce, crafts, and street-food stalls set against a lively, creative backdrop.
Rotating assortment of food trucks and casual bites in the Five Points area, great for a quick, diverse meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Hello' and a smile; hold doors for others; casual, friendly small talk is common in neighborhoods.
Respect personal space in lines and shops; when near wildlife or beaches, observe posted guidelines and keep a respectful distance.
Tipping is customary for service workers; showing appreciation for good service is standard practice.
Safety
Tipping in Jacksonville
Ensure a smooth experience
Dine-in service: 15–20% of the before-tax total; bar service: $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the tab; tips are customary in most service industries.
Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and smaller vendors; some places may be cashless—check ahead.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August can be hot and humid with afternoon storms; stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings. Hurricane season runs June–November, so keep an eye on forecasts.
September–November offers milder humidity and comfortable temps; great for outdoor city walks, beach visits, and festivals.
December–February brings mild to cool days; temperatures often range in the 40s–60s °F, with many sunny days—perfect for strolls and museum visits.
March–May brings warm days, blooming landscapes, and peak outdoor activity, ideal for hiking, fishing, and beach time.
Jacksonville at Night
Hiking in Jacksonville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails and historic sites with ocean views; coastal scrub and maritime forest scenery.
Marshboardwalks and scenic coastline ideal for short hikes and photography.
Historic grounds with nature trails and birdwatching opportunities in a tidal marsh landscape.
Airports
How to reach Jacksonville by plane.
Main international gateway serving the region; easy access to downtown and coastal areas, with rental car and ride-sharing options.
Smaller regional airport near St. Augustine, useful for regional flights and shorter trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, professionals, students, retirees, and a growing immigrant and multilingual population contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Home to the Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL) with games at TIAA Bank Field during season.
Local USL Championship team and growing soccer enthusiasm at community venues and college matches.
Local minor league presence and spring training vibes in the region; family-friendly ballpark events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jacksonville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie plates, salads, roasted vegetables, and meatless burgers. Most restaurants can modify dishes if you ask.