Jacksonville’s Best: A Guide to All the Best Places in Jacksonville, Florida
Curated By
Emily Bissette
Curator’s statement
Jacksonville, Florida, is a vibrant coastal city where modern energy meets Southern charm. With stunning beaches along the Atlantic, it offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, from surfing to kayaking on the St. Johns River. The city's thriving arts scene, diverse dining options and welcoming vibe make it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re strolling through the historic neighborhoods or soaking in the beautiful sunsets, Jacksonville has a little something for everyone.
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Where to stay in Jacksonville, Florida
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Things to do in Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: Have some family fun at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. This includes interacting with over 2,000 animals, experiencing immersive exhibits and admiring lush gardens.
Riverside Arts Market: Visit this vibrant outdoor market along the St Johns River, featuring local artists, farmers, food vendors and live entertainment.
Friendship Fountain: Spend an evening at Friendship Fountain, one of the largest freshwater fountains in the world, with colorful light displays.
St John’s Town Center: Shop til you drop at St John’s Town Center. This is a luxury outdoor shopping destination, featuring a wide variety of high-end retailers and dining options.
Explore Jacksonville’s Finest Neighborhoods: Visit some of Jacksonville’s most charmingly historic neighborhoods, such as San Marco (with upscale shops and trendy restaurants) or Avondale (known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful architecture, boutique shops and vibrant dining scene).
Florida Theatre: Catch a show at Florida Theatre, a beautifully restored venue that hosts a wide range of performances.
Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens: Admire a diverse art collection and breathtaking gardens along the St John’s River at Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.
Stroll Along the Riverwalk: Get your steps in while admiring the St John’s River, with shops, dining and cultural attractions along the way.
Memorial Park: Enjoy a picnic at Memorial Park, overlooking the St John’s River.
Jacksonville’s Best Beaches: Soak in the sun at one of Jacksonville’s best beaches, including Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach.
Day trips
Drive 2 hours north to Savannah, GA, a picturesque Southern city known for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, beautiful squares, moss-draped oaks and vibrant cultural scene.
Drive 2 hours south to Orlando, FL to experience its thrilling theme parks, family-friendly attractions and diverse entertainment options.
About 30 minutes north of Jacksonville lies Amelia Island, a serene coastal paradise in Florida, known for its pristine beaches, rich history, charming downtown and lush natural landscapes.
About 30 minutes south of Jacksonville lies St Augustine. It is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the US, known for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture and rich Spanish colonial heritage.
Places to eat & drink in Jacksonville, Florida
Restaurants
Congaree and Penn: Congaree and Penn offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience with delicious Southern-inspired cuisine in a picturesque setting.
River and Post: River and Post is a stylish, upscale restaurant offering a refined dining experience with stunning river views, creative cocktails and a menu focused on fresh, local ingredients.
Matthew’s: Matthew’s Restaurant is a cozy, upscale restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients and contemporary American cuisine.
Hawker’s Asian Street Food: Hawker’s offers a vibrant and flavorful menu inspired by Southeast Asian street food in a casual, modern setting.
RH Rooftop Restaurant: RH combines stunning rooftop views with a refined menu of seasonal dishes, offering a chic and relaxing dining experience.
Coffee shops
Greenhouse Bar: The Greenhouse Bar offers a trendy, laid-back atmosphere known for its botanical-inspired drinks, lush indoor plants and inviting, eco-friendly atmosphere.
Sago Coffee: Sago Coffee is a charming, artisan coffee shop. It offers a variety of specialty brews, light bites and a cozy ambiance perfect for relaxation or work.
Setlan Coffee: Setlan Coffee is a cozy, locally-owned coffee shop. It is known for its expertly brewed coffee, inviting atmosphere and commitment to quality, sustainable beans.
1985 Coffee: 1985 Coffee is a cozy, retro-inspired café known for its specialty coffee, creative lattes and nostalgic vibes, making it a perfect spot to relax or get some work done.
Foxtail Coffee Co: Foxtail Coffee Co offers a trendy, welcoming atmosphere. Coffee lovers can enjoy expertly brewed specialty coffee, house-made pastries and a focus on quality and community.
Travel Advisor
Emily Bissette
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Florida page.