You may know lots about Florida’s beaches or the theme parks of Orlando - maybe you’re even a Florida expert, having visited its Gulf Coast or the Keys, but somewhere to add to the bucket list is the stunning city of Jacksonville.
The Sunshine State is packed with holiday hotspots and Jacksonville is perfect for a getaway, offering everything you need and then some. As Florida’s largest city by area and population, Jacksonville is a huge urban area with a range of attractions, from natural landscapes to historical sites, shopping, dining and much more and luckily, it remains under the radar, just waiting to be discovered.
Outdoor Escapes
Jacksonville is a nature lover’s dream, surrounded by pristine beaches, rivers, and state parks that make it ideal for outdoor adventures.
The Jacksonville Beaches—encompassing Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, Mayport and Neptune Beach—offer soft sands and calm water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing and more. Just a bit further south, Ponte Vedra Beach provides a quieter coastal retreat known for its pretty shoreline and laid-back atmosphere.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Big Talbot Island State Park is a must-see. Known for its picturesque coastline scattered with driftwood at Blackrock Beach, the park is a paradise for all kinds of visitors. You can enjoy hiking and biking trails or kayaking through the coastal marshes, spotting wildlife along the way.
The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is another natural treasure, covering 46,000 acres of wetlands, marshes and historical sites. It’s a great place for paddling, birdwatching, or simply soaking in Jacksonville’s peaceful natural surroundings.
Arts and History
Jacksonville’s rich history stretches back hundreds of years, which you can explore further at a wealth of historical sites and museums across the city.
The Kingsley Plantation on Fort George Island offers a fascinating look into Florida’s colonial past and the lives of enslaved people who once worked there. Visitors can explore living history and interactive displays to learn more about a complicated part of American history.
On the cultural and artistic side, Jacksonville isn’t lacking. The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens houses an impressive collection of artwork alongside gorgeous, manicured gardens. The museum sits on a tranquil riverside, with exhibits that range from classic European paintings to contemporary American pieces.
Jacksonville’s Riverside and Downtown areas are vibrant neighbourhoods filled with local arts, eclectic shopping and world-class dining. The Riverside Arts Market, held every Saturday under the Fuller Warren Bridge, is a popular local spot featuring artists, craft vendors, live music and food stalls. You can browse handmade crafts and enjoy live performances—all against the backdrop of the scenic St. Johns River, making it the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city.
Downtown Jacksonville also has a buzzing music scene, with the Jacksonville Jazz Festival being a highlight each spring - it’s a free event which attracts jazz enthusiasts from all over the world in May.
Alternatively, the Art Walk is held on the first Wednesday of each month and provides locals and visitors the chance to explore various exhibitions, live street performances and special events at nearby bars and cafes.
If that wasn’t enough, Jacksonville also has a diverse sporting scene, with everything from golf to rugby. The Jacksonville Jaguars are the local NFL team - from August to December, you might be lucky enough to catch them at a game on their home ground here. Throughout the year, you can also watch events like golf at The Players Championship, ice hockey, surfing and more.
Diverse Dining
Much like other areas of Florida, Jacksonville has a top-notch range of dining options, with fresh food, including seafood, Southern flavours, and international cuisine. You’ll find everything from beachside eateries to upscale downtown restaurants, meaning there’s something for everyone - even little ones.
Fresh seafood is a staple here and local spots like North Beach Fish Camp in Neptune Beach serve super fresh dishes using ingredients from the Atlantic - you can expect delicious options like oysters, fish tacos, lobster and more, often paired with local craft beer. Jacksonville is known as Florida’s shrimp capital, so make sure to try some freshly caught shrimp, which you can do on the Mayport Trail, which has 24 places to enjoy this delicious speciality.
There are also plenty of fine dining spots for special occasions, such as Matthew’s Restaurant, located in San Marco. Rooftop dining is particularly popular in Jacksonville, meaning you can enjoy panoramic views of the city along with a tasty meal. Craft beer lovers will also find no shortage of choices, with local breweries such as Engine 15 Brewing Co. and Bold City Brewery providing unique, locally brewed ales and lagers.
Gateway to Florida
Jacksonville’s location on Florida’s northeast coast makes it an ideal base for day trips to other areas nearby. A short drive north brings you to Amelia Island, known for its historic downtown in Fernandina Beach, pristine shores, and luxurious resorts.
The island’s quaint streets are lined with boutiques, galleries, and cafes, providing an idyllic backdrop for a day of exploring or simply relaxing. Another short drive south brings you to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States. With its cobbled streets, Spanish colonial architecture and historic sites such as the Castillo de San Marcos, it's not just for history buffs but an iconic area of Florida that everyone will love.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re travelling as a couple or a family, and no matter the budget, Jacksonville has the perfect accommodation. There are dozens of hotels totalling more than 19,000 hotel rooms in the city, spanning the Downtown area, the beaches and quieter residential areas.
A few great options for families include the One Ocean Resort & Spa, which is a AAA four-diamond, Forbes Travel Guide hotel right by the beach. For those on a more budget, Springhill Suites by Marriott, Hampton Garden Inn and Best Westerns are also featured across the city, or you can also find self-catered accommodation and bed & breakfast spots - everything you need for the perfect base in this underrated Florida city.
Ready to plan your escape? Check out our Jacksonville Holidays and find a Sunshine State of mind.
close 
