Reviewed on Aug 17, 2021
Reviewed on Sep 5, 2021
Reviewed on Aug 14, 2021
4/5Very Good!(845 area reviews)
The picturesque St. Johns River meanders through the center of this hub of skyscrapers, cultural landmarks and exciting nightlife.
4/5Very Good!(912 area reviews)
If you're spending some time in Southside, The Avenues and Dog Wood Park of Jacksonville are top sights worth seeing.
If you're spending some time in Arlington, Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens and Regency Square are top sights worth seeing.
5/5Exceptional!(1 area review)
Riverside is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like River City Playhouse and Riverside Park.
3.5/5Good!(855 area reviews)
If you're spending some time in Northside, Oceanway Community Center and Anheuser-Busch Brewery are top sights worth seeing.
Reviewed on Sep 14, 2021
Reviewed on Sep 15, 2021
Reviewed on Sep 14, 2021
Jacksonville has a downtown on the river and suburbs on the beach. Explore miles of coastline and inland waterways and visit numerous riverside bars and boutiques. The largest city by area in the continental United States has retained its friendly Southern charm.
Experience a day of fun at Jacksonville’s family attractions. Join a walking safari at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. See hundreds of exotic plant species and more than 2,000 animals, including cheetahs, buffalos and elephants. Revel in hands-on fun with interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry. Then head for one of the beaches.
For dining, arts and entertainment go to downtown Jacksonville. Visit a museum, attend a performance at the Florida Theatre and dine in a cozy restaurant. While you’re strolling through the area, pay respects to Jacksonville’s war dead at the Veterans Memorial Wall. The black granite monument is etched with names of more than 1,600 men and women who died defending the nation.
One of downtown’s most popular destinations is Jacksonville Landing, a large waterfront shopping and entertainment complex. Fill your bags with big-name brands and unique gifts from small boutiques. Have lunch in a restaurant with a view of St. Johns River and take a boat ride along the water. Browse art and jewelry at the Friday market, enjoy a free concert on Saturday or attend one of many special events.
Jacksonville’s art scene centers on the downtown area with galleries, studios and museums, but you’ll find amazing art elsewhere too. Just outside downtown Jacksonville is Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Study pieces covering more than 4,000 years of artistic endeavors.
The city is 14 miles (22 kilometers) from Jacksonville International Airport. Get around by rental car, taxi or the bus system. In the downtown area, you can also use the free elevated Skyway monorail train.
Jacksonville has a mild subtropical climate making it a good year-round destination. Hot summers are cooled by Atlantic breezes and winters are warmed by the offshore Gulf Stream.
There's nothing like a Jacksonville vacation to put a bounce in your step. The soothing melody of rolling waves and the smell of fresh ocean air are sure to recharge your mind, body and soul. To be close to the center of town on your trip to Jacksonville, base yourself around American Beach (just 19 miles (30 km) away). If you're intending to stick around a while, check out our Jacksonville vacation deals. Not only can you save some cash, you'll also have other beautiful beaches near you to explore, like Northeast Florida Beaches and Huguenot Park.