Introduction
TOP 10 Things to do in Jacksonville , Florida 2023!
Jacksonville , Florida an amazing place to visit in Florida. If you want to know top 10 what to do in Jacksonville or you need a travel guide, please keep watching.
Number 5. Stroll along the Jacksonville Riverwalks
The St. Johns River is the commercial, transportation, and historic heart of Jacksonville. Now consisting of two sections – the Northbank and Southbank – this fun network of pedestrian walkways extends some 3.5 miles along the river, connecting a number of hotels and attractions.
It's romantic to walk along the river at dusk, when a calm takes over the water just as the city on either side of it is lighting up. During the day, it's fun to stop and listen to the frequent performances by excellent street performers and bands. In addition, there are some good restaurants along the way.
Number 4. Atlantic Beach
Just a short drive east from the urban buzz of Jacksonville is another world altogether: Atlantic Beach. Here, the only sounds to be heard are the soothing waves lapping against a beautiful beach, and the seabirds swooping above the water. One of the best ways to get to Atlantic Beach is via the St. Johns River Ferry, which plies the river amid all types of interesting scenery.
Several deep-sea fishing charter companies operate out of Atlantic Beach. If you take one of them, chances are good you can bring your catch to a local restaurant for cooking.
Another good place to visit is the Tide Views Preserve. This tranquil spot is popular for its great natural beauty, with a long pier jutting out into the marshes and a park with trails and boardwalks. Atlantic Beach is a great place to just relax and soak in the smells, sights, and sounds of one of Florida's great getaway destinations.
Number 3. Museum of Science and History
If you love seeing your child's face light up with wonder, visit the Museum of Science and History (MOSH). Originating in an old Victorian home in 1941, this museum has since grown into one of the finest in Florida, with an outstanding collection of both permanent and traveling exhibits.
These exhibits range from historic looks at Northeast Florida to revealing glimpses of future technology and communications, as well as energy and ecosystems. There's also a peaceful courtyard with native plants, and an interactive play area for younger children. Kids of all ages will love the Space Science Gallery and the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. At MOSH, it won't be just the kids' faces lighting up with wonder, yours will, too.
Number 2. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is more than just a zoo: it's an exciting experience that's fun for the whole family. Behind-the-scenes tours, close-up encounters with the animals, and a walk-through Butterfly Garden and Land of the Tiger exhibit are just some of the fun things to do here.
There's also a Play Park and Splash Ground for the kids, and at Stingray Bay, you can pat the inhabitants. Kids can also ride an old-fashioned carousel or sign up for the Zookeeper For A Day program. A colorful Old-Time Zoo Train goes to all the exhibits. Other highlights include a 4D theater and the River Quest Scenic River Cruise. And yes, there are hundreds of animals from all over the world, in all sizes, shapes, and colors.
Number 1. Jacksonville Beach
Located just a few minutes' drive south of Atlantic Beach, the City of Jacksonville Beach is well worth a visit. The highlight, as the name suggests, is the lovely 4.5-mile-long stretch of golden sand that beckons to be enjoyed and explored.
In addition to the superb surfing and swimming conditions here (with lifeguard attendants), if fishing's your thing, you'll want to make your way to the 625-foot-long Jackson Beach Fishing Pier. And if fishing's not your thing, the views over the beach are incredible.
Content
Hi and welcome to the travel boss today's video is about the top 10 things to do in Jacksonville Jacksonville in Florida known locally.
Simply as Jax is where South meets North, Southern, gentility, neighborliness and Cuisine are still practiced with pride yet while this city is so rich in cultural and historical, Heritage, it's, well, endowed with many modern sights and experiences to enjoy too.
But despite the downtown high rises and Tall office blocks, the local folk still very much believe in small town values, perhaps nowhere else in Florida are the contrasts so Stark.
And so interesting let's get started number 10, cummer, Museum of Art and Gardens Nana May Holden Comer was a local philanthropist who wanted to create a center of beauty and culture in Jacksonville.
Unfortunately, she didn't live to see the opening of the cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in 1961, but the gift she bequeathed to the city and its visitors will live on forever.
The museum is now home to more than five thousand pieces of Art.
Some dating back more than 3 000 years, including more recent works from artists, such as Winslow Homer, Thomas, Moran and Norman Rockwell.
And the work collection of early mycin, porcelain number nine, Kingsley, Plantation in Jacksonville at the Kingsley Plantation on Fort, George island, east of the city.
You can take a trip back to the 19th century.
This is a good example of a grand Southern mansion from the pre-civil war days and a lifestyle that thankfully died with the Confederacy there's, a plantation house, a kitchen house, a barn.
And the remains of some 25 slave cabins.
Safanga Kingsley was the master of the plantation.
And he later married one of his slaves who became a successful businesswoman and property owner.
However, discrimination against her and her family caused them to move to what is now the Dominican Republic number eight visit the Talbot Island state parks, a visit to both Little, Talbot, Island, State, Park and big, Talbot, Island, State, Park located, just a short drive up the scenic A1A highway from downtown Jacksonville makes for a fun.
Florida Atlantic, Coast Excursion.
The highway passes directly through both parks before a bridge crossing over Nassau Sound takes you on to the equally Pleasant, Amelia Island.
Now, in fact, slightly larger than its relative to the north Little taba, Island State Park is not so little covering an area of 2, 500 Acres, it's, particularly popular among hikers, kayakers and wildlike spotters features, a landscape of dunes and beaches salt marshes and Maritime forests and you'll likely spot everything from an abundant bird population to river.
Otters Bobcats have also been seen here.
Number seven, Street, John's, River, Taxi, Street, Johns, River.
Taxi will take you to three stops along the South Bank and three stops along the north Bank.
The modern comfortable covered boats seat up to 100 passengers and offers spectacular views of the city and Skyline.
The company also offers special trips and tours to places like the Riverside Arts Market and the Museum of Science and History.
You can also sign up for a popular Sunset Cruise when the lights of the city turn into a continually changing tableau.
One of the best things about the river taxi, though is that you don't need a particular destination in mind.
Many people take it simply for the sheer Joy, Of, The, Ride Along, the river and the Panorama of the city spread out before them.
Number six, Adventure, Landing at Adventure, Landing, Jacksonville, Beach, the first of 10, such theme parks that have sprung up since this one opened in 1995., the kids will be screaming and splashing all day long and parents will turn into kids again, attractions at this popular theme, park include miniature golf.
Laser tag, the wacky warm roller, coaster, go-karts, the frog hopper and a ride for the more serious roller.
Coaster lovers called 3D Max.
Light, you'll also find plenty of wacky.
Wild watery wonderful, Splash, attractions, Thrills and Spills Galore for the whole family.
Number five stroll along the Jacksonville riverwalks.
The street Johnson river is the commercial transportation and historic heart of Jacksonville now, consisting of two sections, the North Bank and South Bank.
This fun network of pedestrian walkways extends some 3.5 miles along the river, connecting several hotels and attractions it's romantic to walk along the river at dusk.
When a calm takes over the water, just as the city on either side of it is lighting up during the day it's fun to stop and listen to the frequent performances by excellent street, performers and bands.
In addition, there are some good restaurants along the way number four, Atlantic, Beach, just a short Drive East from the urban Buzz of Jacksonville is another world, altogether Atlantic Beach.
Here, the only sounds to be heard are the soothing waves lapping against a beautiful beach and the seabirds swooping above the water.
One of the best ways to get to Atlantic Beach is via the street, Johns River Ferry, which Plies The River amid all types of interesting scenery.
Several deep-sea fishing charter.
Companies operate out of Atlantic Beach.
If you take one of them, chances are good, you can bring your cats to a local restaurant for cooking.
Another good place to visit is the Thai views preserve this tranquil spot is popular for its great Natural Beauty with a long pier jutting out into the marshes and a park with trails and boardwalks Atlantic Beach is a great place to just relax and soak in the smells sights and sounds of one of Florida's great getaway destinations, number three, Museum of Science and History.
If you love seeing your child's face light up with Wonder visit the Museum of Science and History originating in an old Victorian home in 1941.
This museum has since grown into one of the finest in Florida with an outstanding collection of both permanent and traveling exhibits.
These exhibits range from historic looks at Northeast Florida to revealing glimpses of future technology and Communications as well as energy and ecosystems, there's also a peaceful Courtyard with native plants and an interactive play area for younger children.
Kids of all ages will love the space science gallery and the Brian Gooding Planetarium at mosh.
If is lighting up with Wonder, yours will too number two, Jacksonville, Zoo and Gardens Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is more than just a zoo it's.
An exciting experience that's fun for the whole family behind the scenes tours close-up encounters with the animals and a walk through butterfly garden.
And land of the tiger exhibit are just some of the fun things to do here.
There's also a play park in Splash ground for the kids.
And at Stingray Bay, you can Pat the inhabitants.
Kids can also ride an old-fashioned Carousel or sign up with a zookeeper for a Day program.
A colorful old-time zoo train goes to all the exhibits other highlights include a 4D theater and the river Quest Scenic river cruise.
And yes, there are hundreds of animals from all over the world in all sizes shapes and colors.
Number one, Jacksonville, Beach located, just a few minutes, Drive south of Atlantic Beach.
The city of Jacksonville Beach is well worth a visit.
The Highlight as the name suggests is the lovely 4.5 mile long stretch of golden sand that beckons to be enjoyed and explored.
In addition to the superb surfing and swimming conditions here with life art attendance, if fishing's your thing you'll want to make your way to the 625 foot long, Jackson, Beach, fishing pier and a fishing's, not your thing.
The views over the beach are incredible.
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FAQs
TOP 10 Things to do in Jacksonville , Florida 2023!? ›
The best times to visit Jacksonville are from March to May and September to November. These shoulder seasons see pleasant weather, as well as fewer tourists and lower prices than the summer months.
What is the best month to visit Jacksonville Florida? ›The best times to visit Jacksonville are from March to May and September to November. These shoulder seasons see pleasant weather, as well as fewer tourists and lower prices than the summer months.
What food is Jacksonville Florida famous for? ›Garlic crabs aren't the only dish of Gullah Geechee origin that's pervasive in Jacksonville. Others that can be found across the city include the seafood boil, shrimp and grits, Hoppin' John, salmon patties, gumbo, many rice dishes, she-crab soup and of course, barbecue (more on that in a minute).
Is Jacksonville Florida worth visiting? ›Jacksonville Florida is definitely worth visiting if you are looking for an ideal destination with a perfect blend of city life and Florida charm to explore outdoors, enjoy active eco-adventures with 22 miles of pristine beaches, the largest urban park network in the US, and an eclectic art scene.
Does Jacksonville have a nightlife? ›Jacksonville boasts more than one nightlife hub; visitors can bar hop in the cool ocean breezes or discover new favorites in Downtown Jacksonville. The local breweries are as eclectic as this City, ranging from beachy breweries to those brewing in historical buildings.
What is the rainiest month in Jacksonville Florida? ›The driest month in Jacksonville is November with 2.34 inches of precipitation, and with 7.90 inches September is the wettest month.
What is the rainy season in Jacksonville Florida? ›The rainy season runs from May 15 to October 15 for Southwest Florida and from May 25 to October 10 for the rest of West Central Florida. The graph below illustrates how the rainfall coverage quickly increases for all of West Central and Southwest Florida in June and continues into early October.
Why is Jacksonville so famous? ›Jacksonville boasts the largest urban park system in the nation, it is 4x the size of the island of Manhattan! 80,000 acres of parks, including 400 City Parks, 7 State Parks, 2 National park sites and an Arboretum.
What is so great about Jacksonville FL? ›In addition to its impressive collection of beaches, Jacksonville has plenty of parks, nature preserves, and hiking trails to explore. For instance, the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, located just outside the city, is home to over 46,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and historic sites.
Why is Jacksonville so popular? ›A: Jacksonville, Florida, is a great place to live if you're looking for a reasonable cost of living, plenty of beach access, a southern feel, and a new home in the Sunshine State. Jacksonville also boasts an up-and-coming restaurant scene, several colleges, and a solid job market.
Which is better Orlando or Jacksonville? ›
Both cities offer a very diverse collection of residents. Due to the wide range of people employed by the theme parks, Orlando offers more diversity and a slightly younger overall population. In contrast, lower population density allows Jacksonville residents to enjoy more space to spread out.
How far is Jacksonville from the ocean? ›Ponte Vedra Beach is one of the most famous beaches near Jacksonville, Florida. Located only 18 miles from downtown Jacksonville, the beach offers an amazing scenic beauty.
Is Jacksonville a walkable city? ›Jacksonville is the 50th most walkable large city in the US with 821,784 residents. Jacksonville has minimal public transportation and does not have many bike lanes.
What is the most popular street in Jacksonville? ›Situated in the historical and cultural epicenter of Jacksonville, Florida, Laura Street welcomes daytime and nighttime visitors alike, and brings dynamism to the heart of the city. Laura Street is always buzzing, and people of all ages find activities and events that they can attend and enjoy year round.
Can you drink alcohol on Jacksonville beaches? ›Activities & Equipment. No alcoholic beverages or glass bottles are allowed on the beach. Picnicking is allowed on the beach. All food must be removed before leaving.
Can you drink in public in Jacksonville? ›It shall be unlawful for any person to consume or drink any beer, wine, liquor, or other alcoholic beverage on any public street, sidewalks, boardwalk, or other public place not duly licensed to permit consumption of beverages on the premises.
What is hurricane season in Jacksonville? ›The threat of hurricanes is very real for Florida during the six-month long Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 until November 30.
What is the coldest month in Jacksonville Florida? ›The cool season lasts for 2.9 months, from December 1 to February 27, with an average daily high temperature below 70°F. The coldest month of the year in Jacksonville is January, with an average low of 46°F and high of 65°F.
Are there alligators in Jacksonville Florida? ›Jacksonville has plenty of alligators, but they mostly stay away from crowds and prefer rivers or ponds. They show up at times on golf courses or public waterways.
Is Jacksonville very humid? ›That probably comes as no surprise to residents of Jacksonville, where relative humidity can be 50% or higher for at least half the year. The area's extremely high humidity is not only uncomfortable, it can have serious health effects.
How many hurricanes have hit Jacksonville Florida? ›
JACKSONVILLE, Fla.
The Sunshine State has been grazed or struck by six hurricanes since 2016.
Water temperature in Jacksonville by month
The comfortable water temperature for swimming is set here in April, almost always only at the end of the month. During a year in Jacksonville there are 212 days of swimming. In general, the swimming season ends In November.
Property Crimes in the River City
As in the rest of the United States, the clear majority of crimes in Jacksonville are property offenses.
Deerwood. Deerwood is on the southeast side of Jacksonville and is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the city. The area is known for its luxury homes, golf courses, and country club living. Residents have access to several resort-style complexes.
What is the nickname of Jacksonville? ›In 1968, Jacksonville and Duval County consolidated into a single governmental unit. This allowed Jacksonville to become the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States. Signs were built calling Jacksonville the “Bold New City of the South,” which is how the city got its nickname.
Is Jacksonville or Tampa better? ›The crime rates in Jacksonville are significantly higher than in Tampa. Total crime in Jacksonville was 3,569 per 100,000 in 2020 compared to 1,885 per 100,000 in Tampa. Violent crime was 698 per 100,000 in Jacksonville and 520 per 100,000 in Tampa.
What is a good salary in Jacksonville FL? ›Most salaries in Jacksonville range between $40,653 (25th percentile) to $73,129 (75th percentile) annually.
Why is Jacksonville so cheap? ›One of the reasons Jacksonville gets a lower overall is thanks to housing costs, which are surprisingly affordable. The city comes in at an excellent score of 78/100 nationally. It's also lower by far than the rest of Florida, which gets a 102.6/100.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Jacksonville FL? ›| 1 ADULT | 2 ADULTS (1 WORKING) | |
|---|---|---|
| 0 Children | 1 Child | |
| Civic | $3,074 | $6,821 |
| Other | $4,253 | $8,755 |
| Required annual income after taxes | $29,914 | $60,096 |
Jacksonville, which also made the 2022 list, got good marks for its median home price of $295,000, which is 22 percent below the national average. The list also cited the area's good air quality, abundance of parks and high ratio of physicians per capita.
Is it expensive to live in Jacksonville? ›
The cost of living in Jacksonville, FL is 7% lower than the state average and 6% lower than the national average. Jacksonville, FL housing is 6% cheaper than the U.S average, while utilities are about 5% pricier.
Which side of Jacksonville is the best? ›Riverside is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Jacksonville, Florida. It's considered by many to be one of the best places to live in Jacksonville, Florida. It's home to many families and young professionals, and it's known for its lively nightlife.
What part of Jacksonville is best to stay? ›Downtown Jacksonville is the heart of the city. Close to the beautiful beaches and with a modern atmosphere, Downtown Jacksonville the best area to stay. Downtown, surrounded by skyscrapers and the St. John's River, is home to the best nightlife in Jacksonville, as well as great restaurants and the city's top museums.
How is Jacksonville bigger than Miami? ›Jacksonville's population is almost double that of Miami, which may seem surprising, Moore said. Again, consolidation is the reason. While Miami-Dade County ranks as Florida's most populous with 2,622,525 residents, the city of Miami has only 424,146 people.
Can you swim in the ocean in Jacksonville Florida? ›22 Miles of Beaches
Come surf, kayak, paddleboard, swim, dive, boat, fish and explore Jacksonville's unique coastal shores. The city's main beaches are Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Mayport Beach and Atlantic Beach.
Jax Beach has seen 3 surf deaths since 2010, as well as 3 shark attacks. There might be more because these attacks are often not confirmed because the sharks are not found. The overall danger score of Jax Beach is a 6.2 out of 10.
Is it safe to swim in Jacksonville Beach? ›The risk of rip currents is low, however, life threatening rip currents may still occur especially near groins, jetties, reefs, and piers. Always swim near a lifeguard and remember to heed the advice of the local beach patrol and flag warning systems.
What areas to stay away from in Jacksonville FL? ›- 29th and Chase.
- East Jacksonville.
- Mid Westside.
- Springfield.
- Moncrief Park.
- Mixon Town.
- Lacwanna.
- New Town.
You will need a car if you hope to make the most out of your time in the greater Jacksonville area: Many of the city's top attractions sit outside the downtown area. The city acts as an intersection for many state and interstate highways, making it fairly easy to find your way around.
Do people vacation in Jacksonville? ›Ranked as one of the nation's most value-friendly travel destinations, Jacksonville is home to 22 miles of relaxing beaches, unforgettable eco-adventures, world-class public art, deep rooted history, exciting attractions and the best dining scene in the region.
Where does Jacksonville rank in crime? ›
With a crime rate of 34 per one thousand residents, Jacksonville has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 30.
Does Jacksonville have a Downtown? ›Downtown Jacksonville boasts 5.6 miles of beautiful riverfront, including almost 3 miles of riverwalk, perfect for a stroll or a jog by the St. Johns or stop at the iconic Friendship Fountain.
How big is Jacksonville Downtown? › Is Jacksonville Beach safe at night? ›While police frequently patrol the fishing pier, officers can't be there around the clock, Bingham said. At night, criminals take advantage of the darkness and lack of people around. "We want to remind everyone to be aware and safe while on the beach at night as warmer weather approaches," Bingham said.
Can you smoke on Jax Beach? ›Jacksonville Beach City Council Approves Smoking Ban for Public Parks. JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — The Ordinance 2023-8189 says the ban includes tobacco products and vaping devices.
Can you bring coolers to Jacksonville Beach? ›Food, beverages and coolers may not be brought inside the park. Water in clear, plastic bottles is allowed.
Can you walk on Duval Street with alcohol? ›Florida Keys Have Open Container Laws
The Florida Keys & Key West do enforce open container laws that prohibit open containers of alcohol on most public beaches, parks and streets; including world-famous Duval Street. Be mindful of signs that indicate where alcohol containers are prohibited.
Public consumption of alcohol is not permitted, and you can be cited for consuming alcohol or possessing alcohol on streets, sidewalks, or on beaches throughout the state, including in West Palm Beach.
Can passengers drink alcohol in a car in Florida? ›For those who were hoping the answer to this question would be yes, we have news for you — Florida law specifically states that it's unlawful to possess an open container of an alcoholic beverage or consume alcohol while either driving or while a passenger in a motor vehicle.
What are the best and worst months to visit Florida? ›The best time to go to most beach destinations in Florida for warm weather is May through September. But keep in mind that a mix of heat and humidity will be at its worst from June through August—the same months with the highest average rainfall.
What month is best to vacation in Florida? ›
Based on average weather, crowds, and rates, the best times to visit Florida are March-April or September-October.
What month has the best weather in Florida? ›The best time to visit Florida is in the spring (April, May) and fall (October, November). Both periods offer the best weather with warm temperatures and less rainfall. The northern regions will usually be cooler. The south has the best combination of sunny skies, warm waters, and hot temperatures.
What month do hurricanes start in Florida? ›According to the Florida State University Climate Center hurricane season in Florida is a six-month long period that occurs from June 1st to November 30th of each year. When does hurricane season start? The Atlantic hurricane season in Florida officially begins on June 1st of each year.
What part of Florida is safest from hurricanes? ›Winter Springs. Since 1930, just 77 hurricanes have been recorded in Winter Springs, making it a low-risk area.
What month is the cheapest in Florida? ›For a more budget-friendly vacation, you'll want to go during the cheapest time to visit Florida – typically January – February and August through mid-November. These are short-lived low seasons when fewer tourists arrive and prices on flights, rentals, hotels, and activities take a major dip.
What is the cheapest month to go to Florida? ›What are the cheapest months to go to Florida? It's cheaper to travel to Florida in the spring. However, the most reasonable time to go is generally during May (except for Memorial Day weekend), September, and early June.
What is the busiest tourist season in Florida? ›It's hot and crowded in high season (March to August)
South Florida beaches (and Daytona) hit their peak with visiting coeds from across the country during spring break. Panhandle and northern beaches are packed in summer, and the major theme parks are at their busiest.
September is the best overall month to visit Disney World. Other than Labor Day, there are no holidays to bring in crowds and most families have returned home for the school year. This is therefore the least crowded time of year to visit Disney World.
What is the best time to fly to Florida? ›Most agree the best time to go to Florida is between March and April or September and October. This is when the weather is great and not too hot, it tends to be less crowded and is often cheaper. However, this is also when children are in school so most can't travel then.
How many days is good for Florida vacation? ›Vacation to Florida
With fourteen days in Florida, you have more than enough time to see everything without having to rush. Rent a car or motorhome to cross the entire state, or use the excellent public transport. Whatever way you are arranging your vacation to Florida, you'll love it!
What month do the most hurricanes hit Florida? ›
The Florida hurricane season is most active mid-summer through October. September is the most likely month for landfall hurricanes in the Sunshine State. Pat Howard.
What months is Florida too hot? ›But Florida is also one of the warmest states in the country. The average daily temperature hovers around 70 degrees with the hottest weather during the wet season (May to October). The average daily temperatures in June, July, and August almost always hit 90 degrees.
What months are considered high season in Florida? ›The weather determines the high seasons. In subtropical South Florida, high season is in the winter, from mid-December to mid-April, although if you ask tourism execs, the high season is now creeping further into spring and even, in some parts, summer.