Discovering (and Enjoying) Jacksonville, Florida

“People are still discovering Jacksonville,” comment Jennifer Bryant, communications manager at Visit Jacksonville. “They aren’t sure what the destination has to offer, but once they visit, they come back time and time again.”

Even with its size, Jacksonville just may be one of Florida’s “hidden” destinations. Oh sure, people might know about the Jacksonville Jaguars or the Landing, but there’s much more to this city.

“Jacksonville is a diverse Florida destination,” says Bryant. “We have a little bit of everything. There are beaches, a thriving arts scene, an outstanding culinary scene and many eco-tourism opportunities.”

Bryant provides a samples of various things to do when visiting Jacksonville.

• The Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier isn’t only for fishing, it’s also a perfect place to leisurely walk out on and enjoy the views.
• Embrace the water. Bryant points out that Jacksonville is a destination that is influenced by water. “The ocean and the river is a big part of the destination.” Experience this for yourself by taking a ride along St. Johns River.
• Riverside Arts Market is another “can’t miss” venue. Located under Fuller Warren bridge, this weekly Saturday event features hundreds of booths by local artists selling their wares.
• Frequently listed as one of the Top 25 Arts Destinations in the U.S. by AmericanStyle Magazine, Jacksonville is a perfect place to discover the arts. Become inspired at such places as the Art of Hope. Spend some time taking in the works at the Museum Contemporary of Art Jacksonville or the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, the second largest art museum in the state. Catch a concert or a play at Florida Theatre. Enjoy a concert by the Jacksonville Symphony.
• Explore the unique neighborhoods that make up Jacksonville. Visit Mandarin, where Harriet Beecher Stowe once lives; or Arlington, where you’ll find such gems as Fort Caroline National Memorial.
• Enjoy the outdoors. With over 11,000 acres, Jacksonville has the largest urban park system in the country. Discover several ecosystems found in Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Get out and kayak with Kayak Amelia. Their guided tours focus on natural Florida, or you can tool around on your own in a rented kayak or canoe. Do something totally different by taking a Segway tour of Fort George Island.
• Culinary treats await you at any of the many restaurants in the city. Whether you are craving something from Bistro Aix or Clark’s Fish Camp Seafood Restaurant, Jacksonville definitely has something for every appetite and budget.

“Jacksonville is a destination for diverse interests,” says Bryant. “No matter what type of vacation experience you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.”

Did You Know?

• At 840 square miles, Jacksonville is the largest city in the continental U.S.
• Florida Theatre was home to Elvis Presley’s first indoor concert in 1956.
• Over 300 silent movies were made in the Jacksonville area in the early 1900s. Additionally, the first Technicolor film was filmed here in 1917.

Upcoming Events

• Jacksonville Chalk Fest at Jacksonville Landing, November 14.
• North Beaches Artwalk, November 19.
• Jacksonville Light parade on the St. Johns Rivers, November 28.

photo credit: All photos are courtesy of VISIT FLORIDA. (top right) Jacksonville Skyline; (middle right) Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier; (bottom right) Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve