VISIT JAX TRIP PLANNER
Welcome to Jacksonville
I always like to say, if you had to sum up Jacksonville in a nutshell, it would be a boiled peanut: a secret recipe, an unexpected delight and a reason to pause instead of passing through. Yes, we have 22 miles of beaches, yearround sunshine, world-class museums and all the special extras you’d expect from a city our size, but Jacksonville offers a different take on the basics. Sure, we get spring breakers — but you’re more likely to find breaking waves ridden by surfers, paddleboarders and pelicans. Picture a canopy of oak trees shading a historic neighborhood. Miles of waterways and marsh-grass estuary where the St. Johns River meets the sea. We’re a little bit country and a whole lot of (Southern) rock ‘n’ roll. We cheer loud and proud in our arenas and stadiums, but sports aren’t the only game in town. Don’t leave without trying our bakeries and cafés, our barbeque, and our breweries and distilleries.
Throw a dart on a map of Florida, and you’ll likely land on a pretty beach, a theme park, a golf course or a crystal-blue swimming pool. But if you’re open to something a little different, you’ll find a slice of Florida that locals love. That’s Jacksonville, in a nutshell. And, like a good batch of boiled peanuts, it’s best savored when shared.
Come see us soon!
VisitJacksonville.com Duval County Tourist Development Council, Chairman Randy White Funding for Visit Jacksonville is provided by the Duval County Tourist Development Council.
Cover artwork provided by Ghazal Qadri Contributing Photographers: Eric McClure, Ken McCray, Ryan Ketterman, Aristotle Montemayor, Amanda Rosenblatt, Dennis Ho Wingard Marketing and Communications is
to partner with Visit Jacksonville on the design of the Official Visitors Guide.
CONTACT: 1022 Park Street, Suite 401 Jacksonville, Florida 32204 (904) 387-2570
WeAreWingard.com
VISIT JACKSONVILLE AND WINGARD MAKE
FACTS! Flip Side
JACKSONVILLE IS THE LARGEST CITY BY LANDMASS in the continental United States (over 840 square miles).
Jacksonville has the LARGEST URBAN PARK SYSTEM in the nation with 405 City Parks, 7 State Parks and 2 National Park Sites.
It has the YOUNGEST POPULATION in the state of Florida (median age: 36).
The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is 46,000 ACRES OF UNSPOILED COASTAL WETLANDS and 6,000 YEARS OF HUMAN HISTORY.
Kona Skatepark, in Jacksonville’s Arlington neighborhood, is the WORLD’S OLDEST OPERATING SKATEPARK.
Jacksonville is THE BIRTHPLACE OF SOUTHERN ROCK. Legendary rockers Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet, .38 Special and JJ Grey & Mofro are native sons. The Allman Brothers Band also formed here.
Jacksonville’s Alhambra Theatre & Dining is the LONGEST-RUNNING PROFESSIONAL DINNER THEATRE in the nation.
Theatre Jacksonville, in the San Marco neighborhood, is Florida’s LONGEST-RUNNING COMMUNITY THEATRE.
The African American anthem “LIFT EV’RY VOICE AND SING” was composed by Jacksonville residents James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson.
JP Small Stadium, constructed in 1912, was HOME TO THE NEGRO LEAGUE and minor league baseball teams where many baseball greats got their start.
Jacksonville is home to MORE SHORELINE THAN ANY OTHER FLORIDA CITY.
The Riverside Avondale neighborhood is ONE OF THE LARGEST NATIONAL HISTORIC DISTRICTS in the United States.
The TaxSlayer Gator Bowl game, held since 1946, was the FIRST COLLEGE BOWL GAME EVER TELEVISED.
PICTURE PERFECT
Jacksonville is so pretty, it’s never hard to find a location for a beautiful snapshot. But if you’re looking for those places that are harder to find, we’ll let you in on the secret of where to get the best shots at the sites not everyone knows about. Check out our list below!
Here are some of our favorite “found #onlyinjax” locations to take the ultimate photos. Whether using the highest-quality lenses or just your phone, these local sites speak for themselves!
MUST-DO EXPERIENCES
When we tell you “there is so much to do in Jax,” we are not messing around. Jacksonville has beaches, parks, nature trails, amazing food, delicious craft beer, top-notch museums, historic neighborhoods... the list goes on and on. And while we want you to do it all during your visit, there are a few MUST-DO experiences you just can’t miss!
RIDING THE ST. JOHNS RIVER TAXI TOURS. It’s not just for transportation, it’s the best and most affordable way to see Jacksonville from the water — and one of the prettiest, too.
VISITING ONE OF OUR MUSEUMS. From the history of the beaches, to our city history, to Black history, to ancient art, we have it all.
FOLLOWING THE JAX ALE TRAIL and having a beer at one of our hometown craft breweries.
EATING SOME MAYPORT SHRIMP. It’s caught off our coast in historic Mayport Village.
EXPLORING TREE SKELETONS on Boneyard or Black Rock Beach.
EATING A BIG BREAKFAST. We love the original locations of Southern Grounds, Cool Moose Cafe or Beach Hut Cafe, but there are so many more AMAZING breakfast spots.
ENJOYING THE WAVES and learning to surf or paddleboard.
WATCHING THE SUNRISE along our 22 miles of beaches. Boneyard Beach in Big Talbot Island is a must for the perfect sunrise pic.
TOURING OUR HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOODS of Riverside Avondale, San Marco, Springfield and Murray Hill.
CHECKING OUT THE AWESOME PUBLIC ART SCENE. There are murals and sculptures everywhere you look in Downtown Jax and the surrounding neighborhoods.
TAKING A PHOTO OF THE SKYLINE from the Southbank Riverwalk.
GETTING YOUR SWEET ON at Sweet
or Makenu
GOING FOR A SUNSET STROLL down the Riverwalk in Downtown and spotting dolphins and manatees.
ENJOYING A COCKTAIL at one of our rooftop bars overlooking the river or the ocean.
VISITING CONGAREE & PENN, GREEN LEGACY FARMS, BERRY GOOD FARMS OR EARTHA'S FARM & MARKET to take a tour of the farm. Check their websites for tour schedules.
GOLFING. Jacksonville and its surrounding areas boast world-class golf courses for every level of play in beautiful oceanside and riverfront settings. It’s easy to golf here.
CATCHING A GAME. Watch the Jacksonville Jaguars, Giants, Jumbo Shrimp, Icemen, Sharks or Axemen.
VISITING AN ANIMAL ATTRACTION. See the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens and The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary.
SHOPPING LOCAL at Riverside Arts Market on Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm or at one of the monthly art walks and pop-ups you can find throughout Jacksonville.
Pete’s, Peterbrooke Chocolatier
Chocolate.
ARE YOU HERE YET?
At the Crossroads
Getting to Jacksonville by car couldn’t be easier. In fact, the city is situated at the intersection of I-10, one of the nation’s most popular east-west thoroughfares, and I-95, the primary interstate highway along America’s East Coast. Plus, I-295 circles the city and makes travel quick and convenient, especially to and from the beaches. Jacksonville is the largest city by landmass in the continental United States, but it’s easy to navigate.
Just Wing It
Just 15 minutes from Downtown, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is regularly listed as one of the best airports in North America for customer service. JAX provides nonstop flights to more than 30 major U.S. cities and 150 daily arrivals and departures on all major domestic air carriers and a network of regional carriers, including American, Allegiant, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Silver, Southwest, Sun Country and United. The airport offers comforts like free Wi-Fi, rocking chairs, live music, an art gallery and a wide array of shopping and dining options.
Getting Around…
BY LAND? BY SEA? BY AIR?
BUSES
Jacksonville has an outstanding public transportation system that is easy to use and surprisingly affordable. For more information and the JTA bus schedule, call 904-630-3100 or go to jtafla.com.
CAR RENTAL
Visitors may conveniently rent a car near the Jacksonville International Airport or throughout Jacksonville. Rental car pick-up is conveniently available onsite at Jacksonville International Airport without a shuttle ride.
TAXIS & CAR SERVICE
Jacksonville visitors can access several local taxi companies, ZTrip, Uber and Lyft.
BEACH BUGGIES
Beach Buggy App provides FREE rides and recommendations to the residents and visitors of the beaches and San Marco community, operating environmentally friendly, zero-emission, long-range, 8- to 10-seater electric carts and 14 passenger vans. Riders are not charged any fee but are encouraged to tip drivers however they see fit.
TUK’N RIDE
The Tuk’n Ride program provides door-to-door shuttle service in the Riverside Avondale area using authentic European, ecofriendly Tuk Tuks. Reserve and pay for a spot using the Tuk’n Ride mobile app.
SKYWAY
The JTA-operated 2.5-mile Skyway provides “trafficfree” transportation between the North- and Southbanks of Downtown throughout the week and during special events. Visit jtafla.com for more information or call 904-630-3100.
RIVER TAXI & TOURS
In the heart of Downtown, get from one side of the river to the other with the St. Johns River Taxi & Tours. It has several stops including EverBank Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. A sunset ride on the River Taxi & Tours is one of the best ways to see breathtaking views of the Jacksonville skyline.
ST. JOHNS RIVER FERRY
Take a scenic break from the highway aboard one of the last remaining public ferries in the state. The historic St. Johns River Ferry carries passengers and cars between Mayport and Ft. George Island.
Jacksonville is committed to fostering a welcoming, accessible experience for visitors with disabilities. With accessible hotels, museums, attractions, parks, restaurants and more, travelers of all abilities have options in Jacksonville.
Certified Autism Centers
All of Visit Jacksonville’s Visitor Centers are Certified Autism Centers™ (CAC). This designation, granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), recognizes organizations that have undergone staff training to better understand and meet the needs of autistic visitors and their families. Keep a lookout for this icon identifying accessible locations.
LEARN MORE.
Local DINING
Fresh seafood, southern flavors, local ingredients and decorated chefs all come together in Jacksonville to create an innovative and delicious food scene unlike anywhere else in Florida.
Since eating is the one thing you must do while traveling, Jacksonville’s dining scene will no doubt be one of the best parts of your visit. Jacksonville’s unique flavors are a melting pot of cultures and tastes, pioneered by local award-winning chefs who have been nationally and internationally trained. Whatever you’re craving, you will find the perfect restaurant for you in Jax. From elegant bistros to popular chains, casual waterfront fish camps and everything in between, Jacksonville’s food scene is an eclectic hybrid of inspired casual elegance and classic southern comfort — no jacket required.
RESTAURANTS WORTH PLANNING FOR
• 13 Gypsies
• Catullo's Italian
• Congaree & Penn
• Doro
• French Pantry
• Matthew’s
• Mesa • Restaurant Orsay • TacoLu
Taverna
• Town Hall
WATERFRONT DINING
• Azurea Restaurant
• Dockside Seafood Restaurant – Jacksonville Beach
• Julington Creek Fish Camp
• Marker 32
• Palms Fish Camp Restaurant
• Refinery Jax Beach
• Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Restaurant – Mayport
• Sandollar Restaurant & Marina
• Singleton’s Seafood Shack
• The Lemon Bar
• Wicked Barley Brewing Company
ROOFTOP BARS & RESTAURANTS
• Burrito Gallery Brooklyn
• Casa Marina Hotel & Restaurant
• Coop 303
• Cowford Chophouse
• Estrella Cocina
• Hoptinger Bier Garden 5 Points
• Intuition Ale Works
• O-Ku
• RH Jacksonville
• River & Post
LOCAL ICE CREAM FAVORITES
• Delicias Ice Cream
• Dreamette Ice Cream
• Icecapade Frozen Treats
• Malachi Ice Cream Bar
• Papo's Ice Cream
• Springfield Scoops
• Sweet Pete's
• Whit's Frozen Custard
LOCAL FARMS
• Berry Good Farms
• Congaree & Penn
• Eartha’s Farm & Market
• Green Legacy Farm
Artist: Jessica Becker
After HOURS
VIBRANT. FUN. ECLECTIC. CASUAL.
That’s what you can expect when the sun goes down in Jax. With Florida’s youngest population and an innovative spirit that can be felt throughout the city, Jacksonville delivers when it’s time to enjoy a night out.
Whether
ENTERTAINMENT HUBS Jacksonville’s
If you’re looking to find the “hubs” of fun throughout the city, let us show you the way! Check out any of these entertainment districts to find plenty of options, no matter your preference.
DOWNTOWN
/ THE ELBOW
The Elbow includes nearly two dozen bars, restaurants and event spaces around the Florida Theatre in Downtown Jacksonville.
SPORTS COMPLEX
See your favorite team or catch a concert at EverBank Stadium, 121 Financial Ballpark, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena or Daily’s Place.
SAN MARCO
Boutiques, art galleries and dining establishments line the streets of the historic San Marco neighborhood. Be sure to visit San Marco Square.
5 POINTS
This collection of vintage shops, eclectic eateries and mouthwatering dessert bars is located in historic Riverside Avondale.
Courtney Visit Jax Staff
Recommendation:
"Stroll through the Square, and stop and shop at the boutiques. Don’t forget to swing by Aardwolf Brewing, one of Jacksonville’s oldest craft breweries."
Emma Visit Jax Staff
Recommendation:
"Check out brunch at River & Post and then walk over to the Riverside Arts Market on Saturday. Don’t forget the Cummer if you have time to explore. The Gardens are amazing."
Katrice Shorter Visit Jax Insider @WillWorkForHeels
Recommendation:
"The Main Street Bridge is so beautiful, especially at night! For great views of it from rooftop dining, visit Estrella Cocina or Cowford Chophouse."
Katie Visit Jax Staff
Recommendation:
"Manifest Distilling and Intuition Ale Works are awesome spots for tailgating/pregaming before any big event in the Sports Complex."
SHOPPES OF AVONDALE
In the heart of this historic neighborhood, you’ll find locally owned boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and cafes.
Dea Howald
Visit Jax Insider
@DeaHowald
Recommendation:
"The Shoppes of Avondale is full of iconic local spots. Grab dinner at Josephine, then a delicious slice of cake at Biscottis across the street!"
BEACHES TOWN CENTER
Where
Recommendation:
JOHNS TOWN
Recommendation: "Jacksonville Beach is the perfect place to have some fun in the sun. After a day at the beach, spend some time beach bar hopping on First Street. Lots of great options."
Recommendation:
"The variety of restaurants at the Town Center is amazing. There are so many delicious options; I always recommend Firebirds — a gem that creates a perfect blend of flavors and ambiance. Enjoy the happy hour specials!"
TINSELTOWN
Just a few minutes from the Town Center, you will find more restaurants, bars and a brewery.
Andrea Visit Jax Staff
Recommendation:
"I love the variety at Tinseltown — Irish pub and food? Check. Brewery? Check. Sports bars? Check. Great sushi and ramen restaurants? Check. Movie theatre? Check."
SPRINGFIELD MAIN STREET
Starting at the “Welcome to Springfield” mural, work your way down Springfield’s Main Street for local eats, shops and more.
MURRAY HILL’S EDGEWOOD AVENUE
Lined with local murals and mosaics, Edgewood Avenue offers multiple restaurants and bars ranging from pizza by the slice to German steins.
Hana Ferguson Visit Jax Insider
@hana.ferguson_
Recommendation:
"Murray Hill is home to some of Jacksonville’s best hidden gems. For authentic German cuisine, visit Buchner’s Bier Hall, a cozy speakeasy tucked away off Edgewood Ave. Or, if you’re craving Ecuadorian flavors, check out Chancho King for a delicious experience."
RIVER CITY MARKETPLACE
Dozens of shopping and dining options await you, a short drive from Jacksonville International Airport.
Jill Cruz
Visit Jax Insider
@SnackAndJill
Recommendation:
"Strings Sports Brewery is the perfect spot for the whole family. In addition to their signature brews, they also have a full restaurant menu that includes BBQ items, sandwiches and salads. They also have a wide variety of games throughout the brewery to keep everyone entertained, including a full-sized basketball hoop!"
Kerry
Visit Jax Staff
Recommendation:
"River City Marketplace has such a convenient location; it has lots of great restaurants and shopping close to the airport. I love that Mellow Mushroom is open late when your flight gets in after midnight."
Artist: Jason Tetlak
Artist: Grant Thornton
Whether you’re following your team into town or visiting to experience one of our own, Jacksonville’s sports scene is a must for any true fanatic. From NFL football to arena football, college football, minor league baseball, professional surfing, competitive fishing, basketball, hockey and soccer, we have a team to get your fan fix on.
Jacksonville plays host to two major college football games each year. The iconic Florida vs. Georgia Football Classic has been taking place in Jacksonville since 1933, bringing together two passionate fan bases and thousands of college football lovers. Equally exciting, every year the past 70-plus years, the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl brings outstanding SEC and ACC teams to Jacksonville for an unforgettable game and celebration as the calendar looks toward the New Year.
Whether you are a seasoned golfer or just a beginner, anyone can enjoy Jacksonville’s beautiful sunny weather and miles of fairways. Jacksonville’s pristine semi-private and public courses, affordable rates, great fall deals and expert golf coaches make it one of the top golf destinations in Florida.
Bring your clubs, or buy or rent some here, and tee off at area courses designed by some of the best in the game, fit for every level of expertise and budget.
Need further assistance planning a golf getaway to Jax? Connect with Florida’s First Coast of Golf for an unforgettable golfing experience. florida-golf.org
Game TIME
Jacksonville hosts hundreds of events annually, from big-time sporting events and music festivals to fishing tournaments and holiday celebrations. We have events worth traveling to at any time of the year. Welcome to Florida’s Championship City!
Our Professional Teams:
• JAGUARS NFL Football
• ARMADA FC MLS Next Pro Soccer
• AXEMEN USARL Rugby
• ICEMEN ECHL Hockey
• JUMBO SHRIMP MiLB Baseball
• SHARKS IFL Football
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
JULY
• Jacksonville Fourth of July Celebrations
• Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament
• Jax Boat Show
MARCH
• The Spartan Race
• Gate River Run
• 7 Creeks Festival
• CollectiveCon
• THE PLAYERS Championship
JANUARY MAY FEBRUARY
• 2025 DONNA Marathon Weekend
• El Cheapo Sheepshead Tournament
• Riverside Craft Beer Festival
• World of Nations
• Community First Seawalk Music Festival
• Jacksonville Jazz Festival
JUNE
APRIL
• Springing the Blues
• Mandarin Arts Festival
• Opening of the Beaches
• Juneteenth Melanin Market
• Jacksonville Jaguars Season Kicks Off
• Caribbean Carnival
SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
• 904 Day
• Florida Fin Festival
• Jacksonville Jaguars Season Home Games
NOVEMBER AUGUST
• Kids Free November
• Florida vs. Georgia Weekend
• Supergirl Surf Pro
• PorchFest
• Veterans Day Parade
• Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens' Dazzling Lights
• Deck the Chairs
• Black Friday Melanin Market
• Jacksonville Light Boat Parade
• Jacksonville Jaguars Season Home Games
• Constellation Furyk & Friends Golf Tournament
• Jax River City Pride
• Beaches Oktoberfest
• WasabiCon
• Flounder Pounder
• Naval Station Jacksonville Airshow
• Spooktacular at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
• Jacksonville Jaguars Season Home Games
DECEMBER
• Deck the Chairs
• Colors of the Wild at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
• Ja cksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens' Dazzling Lights
• TaxSlayer Gator Bowl
• Jacksonville Jaguars Season Home Games
WELCOME TO THE FLIP SIDE
There’s a lot of land in Jacksonville — 840 square miles to be exact. As the largest city by landmass in the United States with more shoreline than any other Florida city, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Jax. Go on an outdoor adventure at Little Talbot Island or Hanna Park, or take a historical tour at Kingsley Plantation, Fort Caroline National Memorial or the Riverside Avondale neighborhood. Jacksonville has the largest urban park system in the country with more than 400 parks to explore. Visit Jacksonville
itineraries and self-guided tours you
find throughout our website. If you’re interested in guided tours, we have plenty of those, too. Tuk tuk, bike, ebike, golf cart and walking tours are available from many of our local guides.
Recommendation:
"Our favorite thing about Jacksonville is there are so many hidden gems. There is always something to do or somewhere new to go. No matter what you want: food, concerts, parks, kids' activities and so much more, Jacksonville has it. From historic buildings and history to new construction and thriving nightlife. Jacksonville will amaze you with what it has to offer."
Mo & Stephen Visit Jax Insider @mydosdads
Jacksonville is perfect for families. Kids of all ages can stretch their imagination, explore the outdoors and spend time together as a family. From parks to museums to sports and everything in between, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun as a family in Jacksonville.
Let your kids explore and learn something new while spending some quality family time together, even when you’re on a budget, during Kids Free November. Bring the whole family to Jacksonville for free or discounted deals with a paying adult at the area’s top attractions all month long.
Jacksonville serves up a coffee and donut scene as sprinkled with variety as the city itself. Here, every corner cafe and bakery brings something extraordinary to the table. From cozy nooks to hip hot spots, our local stops offer top-notch coffee and drool-worthy donuts that are sure to perk up your day.
So grab your friends, hit the trail and discover the sweetest way to explore Jacksonville. Don’t forget to share your adventures with #jaxcoffeeanddonutstrail!
THE GREATER OUTDOORS
Jacksonville is the parks capital of America. With the largest urban park system in the entire nation, visitors can experience the ultimate coastal eco adventure in our destination. Jacksonville’s parks take you from peaceful riverfront views to kayaking the marshes and wetlands, biking miles of nature trails, paddleboarding in freshwater lagoons, surfing the best waves in the region, fishing all year round, and connecting to the local wildlife in settings you’ve never experienced in Florida before. Our parks are active, family friendly and waiting to host your next green adventure!
Make a SPLASH
WITH 1,100 MILES OF NAVIGABLE WATER, JAX HAS MORE SHORELINE THAN ANY OTHER CITY IN THE NATION.
We are home to 22 miles of beaches, 40 miles of the Intracoastal Waterway, 50 public boat ramps and the longest stretch of the St. Johns River in the state of Florida. Jacksonville is the birthplace of the Salt Life movement and Florida’s best watersports getaway!
22 MILES OF BEACHES
These are not your grandparents’ 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. They are public and pet friendly, plus they are home to surf shops, fresh seafood restaurants, quaint beach boutiques and parks like Hanna Park and Dutton Island Preserve. Get a new perspective of the coastline from the newly rebuilt Jacksonville Beach Pier, open for walking and fishing. In the city’s Northside, unspoiled barrier islands offer must-see beaches like Blackrock Beach, Boneyard Beach, Little Talbot Island and Huguenot Park. All are accessible by taking a short ferry ride from the beaches or driving down the picturesque Heckscher Drive from Downtown. Jacksonville also has a very active diving scene, with more than 30 offshore reefs off our Atlantic coast.
ST. JOHNS RIVER
This mighty Florida river is one of the largest recreational spots in Jacksonville. The St. Johns is one of fewer than 30 rivers in the United States that flow northward. Most of the river in our area is part seawater, making it a unique ecosystem where dolphins, manatees and even sharks swim freely. The St. Johns River is ideal for boating and fishing, with fish such as mullet, flounder, shad and blue crabs migrating from the ocean to freshwater springs upriver to spawn. In Downtown Jacksonville, the river provides tons of attractions including the Riverwalk, sporting events and kayaking excursions. There are dozens of public water access ramps along the St. Johns River.
THE INTRACOASTAL WATERWAYS (ICW)
This natural body of water flows along the East Coast and divides Jacksonville’s Southside from the beaches area. Fishermen and boating enthusiasts enjoy the more than 40 miles of ICW’s canals, marshes and channels in Jacksonville every day. Public access ramps make it easier to enjoy a paddleboard adventure or a leisurely kayak trip. Spotted seatrout, flounder, black drum and redfish call this brackish tributary home.
A1A ISLANDS TRAIL
Take a ride on Jacksonville’s coastal side and encounter the historic A1A Ocean Islands Trail. This 40-mile stretch of A1A is one of the most beautiful coastal scenic routes in the Southeast, beginning in Fernandina Beach, passing through Amelia Island and ending at the Duval County/St. Johns County line in South Jacksonville Beach. Drive through quaint historic neighborhoods and the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve under Spanish moss – covered oak trees and past unique cultural sites and fishing piers for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean while you make unforgettable road-trip memories!
In Jacksonville, the A1A Ocean Islands Trail begins with a ride through Talbot Islands State Park. It’s one of Jacksonville’s most beautiful state parks with campgrounds, bike trails and unique beaches like Black Rock Beach and Boneyard Beach, both great stops for photographers. Then, cruise by Huguenot Park with its white sand and fun atmosphere. This city park is the only beach in Jacksonville where you can drive on the sand.
Another highlight of the A1A Ocean Islands Trail is Fort George Island and Kingsley Plantation, one of the last remaining plantation houses in Florida. Kingsley is extremely significant to Jacksonville’s African American Heritage. These historic sites are part of the National Park System and located inside the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. From there, take the St. Johns River Ferry and venture into the historic Mayport Village to enjoy fresh local seafood or surf “The Poles” at Hanna Park.
As you make your way through our beautiful Jacksonville beaches communities, you’ll encounter the Beaches Town Center with its string of local boutiques, dining options and the picturesque Atlantic Beach. Be sure to stop at the Visitor Center at the Beaches Museum in Jacksonville Beach to learn more about our stunning coastal communities.
“YaYa”
Visit Jax Insider @yayalovejax
Recommendation: "You can see the sunrise at Jax beach and the most beautiful sunsets in San Marco while dolphins come and say hi to you!"
Yanira
Cardona
We’ll HOOK YOU UP
Whether you are an offshore saltwater cowboy or backwater fly gal, Jacksonville boasts some of the best fishing in the Southeast. Here is a quick rundown of where to cast your line for a great catch.
ST. JOHNS RIVER AND BACKWATERS
The St. Johns River with its many creeks, coves and marshes has some killer fishing, whether you are casting a fly from a kayak or dropping a line from a skiff. Near the mouth of the St. Johns, within five miles of the Mayport Inlet, is where anglers are going to hook big seatrout and flounder, and the jetties are always flush with fish. Croakers run hard from Sister’s Creek to the Dames Point Bridge. The region called Hannah Mills, which includes Clapboard Creek to Sister’s Creek, are favorites for kayak and small craft fishing for redfish, trout and flounder. Further upriver, Mills Cove opens up for catching red drum that love its grassy shallows and oyster beds. Local shrimp can be found throughout the river, especially from July to September.
INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
The mouths of the larger creeks on the ICW are where the fish run hard. Pablo Creek is a favorite for local guides. Spotted seatrout, flounder, black drum and redfish call this brackish tributary home. Largemouth bass are the trophy fish caught in its freshwaters. Cabbage Creek is another hot spot off the ICW and is known for mostly saltwater species. Word is that there is a spot in between these two creeks that locals call “the tarpon pit.” The water there is flush with baby tarpon, but catching them can be a challenge for even the most seasoned angler.
BEACH, SHORELINE & PIER FISHING
With more than 22 miles of beaches and four large inlets, beach fishing is at its prime in Jacksonville. Black drum, speckled sea trout, pompano, whiting and redfish are the prize catches. From Huguenot Beach to Jacksonville Beach, you can’t go wrong with a cooler, shrimp for bait and a sand spike. Pier fishing is also an option. There are a variety of small piers to fish from throughout the region and a couple big stretches of pier as well. In the summer, king mackerel are the prize, while flounder in the fall make for a great meal. The George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier State Park is a favorite in Northern Jacksonville. This mile-long pedestrian-only pier is key for catching jack, drum, whiting and tarpon.
OFFSHORE
Whether you are out to catch a kingfish mount or bring home mahi for dinner, offshore fishing is off the hook in Northeast Florida. The Gulf Stream is 50-75 miles off the coast. Fishermen can battle it out with ballyhoo, marlin, cobia and other fighters of the sea. In the fall, 15 miles offshore, grouper and snapper abound. Sticking a little close to the coast, kayak fishermen can run just a mile off the beaches looking for birds swooping the water and stumble upon big fish. Jacksonville is famous for our Mayport shrimp caught in the waters just off the coast, where the ocean meets the St. Johns River.
From Dock to Dish:
Dive into the Mayport Shrimp Trail and experience the best of local flavor. For more than 150 years, commercial shrimping has been the soul of Jacksonville’s historic Mayport Village — and you can taste that rich history throughout the city.
From the Mayport docks to mouthwatering dishes, celebrate the heritage and hospitality of Jacksonville!
READY FOR A BITE? SCAN HERE.
THE ARTISTIC SIDE
JACKSONVILLE IS A VIBRANT HUB WHERE ART AND CULTURE THRIVE.
Exploring everything from galleries to grassroots innovation is a reason to put away your phone, but you’ll want to pull it back out to capture the visual art that is truly everywhere.
Must-Visit Museums
At the heart of Jacksonville’s cultural identity are institutions like the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) that transport curious art enthusiasts of all ages across eras and styles. The Cummer Museum, nestled along the banks of the St. Johns River, houses a renowned collection of European and American art spanning from the medieval period to contemporary times. Its lush gardens blend art with nature in a way that will make you want to hide out for an afternoon between sculptures on a tucked-away bench. Meanwhile, MOCA focuses on contemporary art, featuring provocative exhibitions that challenge perceptions and stimulate dialogue in the heart of Downtown. MOCA is also celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024. The oldest contemporary art museum in the South is spending its centennial celebration showcasing special exhibits, including one tracing the incredible history of the institution and its founders — four visionary local women artists.
Beyond established institutions, grassroots efforts have bloomed with the growth of CoRK Arts District, Moving the Margins and the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District. CoRK, an acronym for "Corner of Riverside and King," is a collective of warehouse studios housing over 70 artists working in diverse media, from painting and sculpture to digital art and photography. This district has transformed formerly industrial spaces into creative hubs, fostering collaboration and community, by hosting open studio days where you can wander and engage with the artists in their workspaces.
Moving the Margins is an initiative focused on inclusivity and representation in the arts, aiming to amplify voices from marginalized communities, primarily through its artist-in-residence program and events promoting featured artists’ work through exhibitions at The Corner Gallery in Downtown, located within the Jessie Ball duPont Center. It provides a platform for artists whose work challenges traditional narratives surrounding topics like spirituality, ethnicity, gender and environmental and social justice.
The Phoenix Arts & Innovation District (PHX JAX), which is currently undergoing a multi-stage development in the historic Springfield neighborhood, is the most recent movement in the arts and culture scene. Plans call for a transformation of more than 80,000 square feet of existing warehouse space into another bustling creative hub similar to CoRK. In addition to featuring artist and maker studios, the arts district will offer galleries, creative offices, a small business incubator and community placemaking opportunities. PHX JAX uses the principles of “withintrification” for this urban renewal to co-create spaces contributing to the wellbeing of neighbors in the historic area. Retail space for local food vendors and an outdoor market will help solve the neighborhood’s challenges of being a food desert and support entrepreneurship. Local artists have been visually revitalizing the industrial area with stunning mural and mosaic installations that make for a fun impromptu photoshoot.
CULTURE AROUND EVERY CORNER
As you hop from one arts district to another, you’ll quickly see art isn’t confined to galleries or artist studios. Partnerships with the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville and neighborhood groups play a large role in the boom of public art in Jacksonville, fostering collaborations with local and global artists to create murals that cover buildings and mosaics of local historical figures that shimmer when the sun hits the tiles just right. The impact of these cultural efforts is beyond aesthetics, contributing to economic growth and community pride that runs deep. We’re still really proud of the aesthetics, though. Art is everywhere and it’s beautiful to see. Just Look Up!
Recommendation:
Stuff to Do in Jacksonville Visit Jax Insider @stufftodoinjacksonville
"We love RAM! Located in Historic Riverside, the Riverside Arts Market is the perfect place to pick up the freshest local produce and browse unique handmade items such as pottery, jewelry and leather goods. Make a day out of it and stop at one of the many food trucks to indulge in some delicious food and listen to live music after you’ve got your fill of shopping in. It’s one of the biggest farmer’s markets in Jax!
And for the best part about this Jacksonville farmer’s market? It’s held under the Fuller Warren Bridge, so you can still visit RAM rain or shine!"
Artist: Shaun Thurston
Artist: Akai Marje
RIVERSIDE ARTS MARKET –EVERY SATURDAY
Every Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm underneath the Fuller Warren Bridge, more than 100 juried artists showcase our city’s creative side, from handmade pottery to silk-screened shirts and unique accessories. RAM’s expansive farmer’s market features local produce as well as artisan breads and other tasty treats. The market’s three stages present exceptional live entertainment, from great regional bands to barbershop quartets.
www.riversideartsmarket.com
DOWNTOWN ART WALK –FIRST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH
A must-do and -see for arts enthusiasts. On the first Wednesday of each month from 5 to 9 pm, take a free, selfguided tour through Downtown Jacksonville’s galleries, where local artists display their works. Enjoy local food trucks, music and an outdoor arts marketplace for finding the perfect Jacksonville souvenir.
www.iloveartwalk.com
JACKSONVILLE BEACH ART WALK –SECOND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH
Jax Beach Art Walk happens the second Tuesday of every month from 5 to 9 pm. This family-friendly event takes place in front of businesses along 1st Street from Beach Boulevard north to 5th Avenue North. The Jax Beach Art Walk showcases the talent of great local artists and the businesses in the community. Many of the participating businesses will have live music and specials throughout the art walk.
www.jaxbeachartsmarket.com
NORTH BEACHES ARTWALK –THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH
North Beaches Artwalk is a free event held the third Thursday of each month from 5 to 9 pm. Featuring many local visual artists and live performers, Artwalk is held at the Atlantic Beach & Neptune Beach Town Centers.
www.nbaw.org
SIP & STROLL – SELECT MONTHS
Downtown Vision’s monthly Sip & Stroll, presented by PNC, takes place on the Southbank Riverwalk with live music, food vendors, bars and picnic areas. Event goers are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and lawn chairs. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Parking is available for $5 at 1301 Riverplace Boulevard, located in the lot in front of DoubleTree Hotel. The River Taxi will also be taking fares during Sip Stroll evenings.
www.dtjax.com/sipandstroll
904 POP-UP – SELECT MONTHS
Jacksonville’s largest curated pop-up featuring hundreds of creatives and many food trucks, held on select Sundays at Seawalk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach.
www.904popup.com
MELANIN MARKET – QUARTERLY
Jacksonville’s largest marketplace for Black-owned businesses happens each quarter along A. Philip Randolph Boulevard in the historic Eastside neighborhood.
www.melanincollaborativegroup.org
SHOPPING SPREE
Our shopping mecca is filled with vintage and antique markets, upscale chic and trendy boutiques, national décor stores and outlets, arts and crafts community markets, big box retailers and the St. Johns Town Center — the largest shopping center in the region. Jacksonville is a dream shopping getaway. Don’t miss out on all the deals!
MALL SHOPPING
• St. Johns Town Center
• The Avenues
• River City Marketplace
TRENDY BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
These areas offer walkable streets and a variety of shopping and dining options. If you enjoy discovering vintage, handmade and unique treasures, then visit Jacksonville’s eclectic shopping neighborhoods:
• San Marco
• Riverside Avondale
• Five Points
• Beaches Town Center
FARMER’S MARKETS/ FLEA MARKETS/
OUTDOOR SHOPPING
Visit one of our eclectic local markets for a taste of fresh local produce, baked goods and other artisanal delights, as well as handmade local makers’ products.
• The Jacksonville Farmers Market (oldest in the state)
• Riverside Arts Market (commonly referred to locally as RAM)
• 904 Pop-Up
• Atlantic Beach Arts Market
• Beaches Green Market
• Pecan Park Flea & Farmers Market
• RD International Market
• Beach Boulevard Flea Market
• Ramona Flea Market
• Norwood Plaza Flea Market
• Eartha's Farm & Market
ANTIQUE SHOPPING/ARCHITECTURE
SALVAGE & RECLAIMED SHOPPING
Stroll through our local vintage and antique stores to find the perfect parting gift:
• EcoRelics, a store focused on repurposing reclaimed items from throughout the region
• Avonlea Antique Mall
• Rusted
• Southern Crossings
TRAIL OF ONE CITY:
CONNECTING JACKSONVILLE THROUGH FOOD, HISTORY AND NATURE
Rethink everything you thought you knew about trails. When you step foot in Jacksonville, the word takes on an entirely new meaning, one that’s as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Here, trails are more than paths that take you from one place to another. They’re journeys that guide you through our city’s culture, cuisine and communities — no hiking boots required.
Whether you’re craving a new adventure or a deeper connection to the city’s heartbeat, Jacksonville’s “trail mix” unveils a different flavor of the city around every corner. Here’s a guide to get you started on the right foot.
SAVORING EXPERIENCES
Get a taste of Jacksonville’s irresistible food and beverage scene on one of our culinary trails. From fresh seafood to artisanal coffee to craft beer, these trails showcase the best that Jax is brewing and cooking up. The cherry on top? You can use the Visit Jax app to track your visits, stamp your digital passport and earn rewards as you discover stops along each trail. It’s a fun way to explore, enjoy and get a little something extra for your adventures.
Mayport Shrimp Trail
Eat your way through the Mayport Shrimp Trail, where you can enjoy the signature catch straight from Jacksonville shores. For over 150 years, commercial shrimping has been a cornerstone of life in Jacksonville’s historic Mayport Village. Its location along the St. Johns River and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean made it ideal for shrimp fishing and processing, and set the stage for our reputation as a “big fish” in the shrimping industry.
Today, the Mayport Shrimp Trail invites you to explore restaurants across the city and enjoy this Duval delicacy in many different ways. With a variety of places to dine, it offers a delicious journey through the city’s shrimping legacy while supporting the local businesses that keep this tasty tradition alive. The Visit Jax app has the full list of trail participants, but a few scenic stops include Singleton’s Seafood Shack, Safe Harbor Seafood, Palms Fish Camp and even a Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp baseball game.
Jax Coffee & Donuts Trail
Get your caffeine and carb fix on the Jax Coffee & Donuts Trail, a haven for coffee aficionados and pastry lovers alike. This sweet-and-savory food trail reflects the city’s deep love of quality coffee and creative donuts.
Jacksonville’s flourishing coffee scene began in the early 2000s when local residents embraced the third-wave coffee movement, which emphasizes coffee as not just a drink, but a craft that incorporates high-quality beans, artisanal brewing methods and the origin behind each cup. As local roasters and baristas paid closer attention to the details, independent coffee shops started popping up around the city.
At the same time, Jacksonville’s donut scene was evolving. While classic donut shops have long been a staple in the community, a new wave of artisan bakeries began to take shape. These modern donut shops infuse creativity into the mix, introducing bold flavors, unique toppings and even health-conscious options like vegan and gluten-free donuts.
Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up or a sweet afternoon treat, the Jax Coffee & Donuts Trail offers the perfect blend to fuel your Jacksonville adventure. Load up your Visit Jax app to get sippin’ and steppin’ across town. A few great places to start: Bold Bean Coffee Roasters, Mini Bar Donuts & Coffee, Social Grounds Coffee Roasters, The Donut Shop and Cinotti’s.
Jax Ale Trail
Discover the best local brews on the Jax Ale Trail, a must-do for craft beer enthusiasts. Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025, this trail guides you through Jacksonville’s top breweries, each offering unique and flavorful beers that are made right here.
The Ale Trail was established to celebrate Jacksonville’s hoppin’ craft beer culture and create a unique way for beer lovers to enjoy their favorite brews and discover new ones. It initially featured just a handful of stops, but as the beer scene grew, so did the trail — which now includes more than 25 participating breweries. Raise a glass to the River City at refreshing destinations, like Myrtle Avenue Brewing with its family-friendly atmosphere; Intuition Ale Works’s Downtown rooftop bar; Reve Brewing, which also serves up pizzas; Aardwolf in a historic ice plant; or Ink Factory Brewing — also found on the Coffee & Donuts Trail.
VisitJacksonville.com has a complete list of all participating locations on the Mayport Shrimp Trail, Jax Coffee & Donuts Trail and Jax Ale Trail.
BLAZING NEW TRAILS
In addition to our tasty culinary trails, the community is buzzing with excitement over the development of two adventures: the Black Heritage Trail and the Emerald Trail. These spectacular routes are redefining what it means to explore Jacksonville.
Black Heritage Trail
A self-guided tour through our city’s African American history, the Black Heritage Trail takes you to the streets of Jacksonville — stopping at some of the most important sites of the Civil Rights movement. Along this urban trail, you’ll visit landmarks like the Ritz Theatre & Museum, Eartha M.M. White Historical Museum and Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park.
Ritz Theatre and Museum: Discover arts, music and culture at the Ritz Theatre and Museum. It’s nestled in LaVilla, which was a popular home base and performance stop for artists, musicians and singers in the mid-20th century. From concerts to plays, the theater offers a space where the past comes alive and inspires future generations. The museum, featuring both permanent and rotating exhibits, honors the rich cultural history and achievements of African American artists and cultural figures. Together, they offer a glimpse into a community that continues to shape Jacksonville’s cultural landscape.
Eartha M.M. White Historical Museum: Experience the pioneering spirit of Eartha Mary Magdalene White at the Eartha M.M. White Historical Museum. Visitors have long been drawn here to witness the impact of Dr. White, whose work as a humanitarian, entrepreneur and social activist transcended the barriers faced by African American women of her time by establishing businesses and organizations to serve Jacksonville’s most vulnerable communities. The museum stands as a tribute to her vision and serves as a symbol of excellence within the Black community.
Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park: Connect with nature and history at the newly constructed Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park. The park honors the legacy of the late Johnson brothers, James Weldon and J. Rosamond, the writers behind “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” — a hymn widely considered the “Black National Anthem.” Part of a larger initiative to revitalize LaVilla, the park’s design underscores the beauty and strength of the Black community through thoughtful landscaping, artwork and spaces for reflection and education.
The Black Heritage Trail is one you won’t want to miss. Each new development aims to provide a more immersive journey through the city’s African American heritage, making your visit both memorable and meaningful.
Emerald Trail
Explore Jacksonville like never before on the Emerald Trail. This ambitious network of trails and greenways is already transforming our city into a vibrant outdoor paradise through the LaVilla Link, a 1.3-mile stretch that boasts overlooks, a playground and scenic viewpoints; the S-Line Rail Trail, a reimagined stretch of abandoned CSX railway right-of-way that now blooms with biodiversity and a public art mosaic; and the Hogan Street Link, which turns trail walkers into urban explorers in the heart of Downtown. When complete, the Emerald Trail will form a 30-mile path around and through Jacksonville’s Urban Core, linking at least 14 historic neighborhoods to various schools, parks and iconic destinations — and making it easier than ever to enjoy everything Jacksonville has in store.
Whether you’re biking through charming streets, walking to your favorite Downtown café or simply soaking up the beauty of our parks, the Emerald Trail invites you to see what our city has to offer. Hit the ground running along the lush pathways connecting Downtown to Hogans Creek, or enjoy the scenic views near McCoys Creek and the St. Johns River. Each segment offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Jacksonville, showcasing our historic neighborhoods, bustling commercial areas and serene parks.
From enjoying the local flavors to exploring our city’s storied past to soaking up its natural beauty, our trails are transforming the Jacksonville experience for all who walk them.
BLAST FROM THE PAST
JACKSONVILLE IS 202 YEARS OLD! WE CELEBRATED OUR BICENTENNIAL IN 2022
• The European settlers first arrived in our area in 1564 with the Huguenots escaping religious persecution in France. The new settlers lived peacefully with the local indigenous Timucuans until their village was destroyed by Spaniards settling farther south in St. Augustine.
• Our historic neighborhoods are full of charm and good vibes! Riverside Avondale, San Marco, Murray Hill, Springfield and Downtown have a unique combination of old world and new blood pumping through them.
• In 1901, most of Downtown was destroyed by the Great Fire, laying waste to 146 city blocks.
• We were Hollywood before Hollywood. During the silent movie era, Jacksonville was the winter capital of the movie business, attracting studios to shoot their latest hits in our warm city. Jacksonville’s first silent film studio opened in 1908, followed by more than 30 others over the course of the next decade, including Metro Pictures — which later became Hollywood giant MGM.
• Norman Studios is Jacksonville’s only surviving silent film studio complex and is the only surviving race films studio in the world.
• Historic picture palaces were also common in Jacksonville during the silent movie era. Today, the Florida Theatre, located in Downtown Jacksonville, is the last historic picture palace still in operation in the area.
• The earliest, most well-known local musicians were James Weldon Johnson and his brother, John Rosamond Johnson, who wrote and composed “Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black National Anthem.
• Jacksonville might best be known as the “Birthplace of Southern Rock,” a genre with roots of blues, jazz, soul, R&B and rock ‘n’ roll. In the 1960s, the Allman Brothers Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, .38 Special, Blackfoot and Molly Hatchet formed in the city.
• In the early ‘90s, the Miami bass insurgence brought three local acts out of obscurity — 95 South, 69 Boyz and Quad City DJs. Other world-famous Jacksonville musicians include Ray Charles, Ma Rainey, Jelly Roll Morton, Classics IV, Derek Trucks, Limp Bizkit, Inspection 12, Yellowcard, Shinedown, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus and Black Kids.
History Quiz:
How old is Jacksonville?
a) 152
b) 202
c) 127
d) 177
Jacksonville is the largest city by landmass in the continental United States. How many square miles does the city make up?
a) 840 square miles
b) 589 square miles
c) 699 square miles
In what year did European settlers first arrive in Jacksonville?
a) 1399
b) 1492
c) 1564
d) 1690
What country were these settlers from?
a) Spain
b) England
c) Portugal
d) France
True or false? In 1901 almost all of Downtown Jacksonville was destroyed by fire.
a) True
b) False
The earliest, most well-known local musicians were James Weldon Johnson and his brother, John Rosamond Johnson. What song did they write and compose in Jacksonville?
a) “Moody River”
b) “Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing”
c) “Prove It on Me Blues”
d) “Stormy”
Which of these restaurant chains did NOT start in Jacksonville?
a) Firehouse Subs
b) Zaxby’s
c) Burger King
d) Metro Diner
Which museum in Jacksonville is renowned for its extensive collection of Early Meissen Porcelain?
a) Museum of Science & History
b) The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
c) The Beaches Museum
d) Museum of Contemporary Art
Jacksonville was Hollywood before Hollywood. During the silent movie era, Jacksonville was the winter capital of the movie business, attracting studios to shoot their latest hits in our warm city. Over 30 film studios opened here in Jacksonville. Which of these was not one of them?
a) Metro Pictures/MGM
b) Norman Studios
c) Lionsgate
Which of the following brands DID NOT start in Jacksonville?
a) Fanatics
b) Ron Jon Surf Shop
c) Salt Life
d) CSX
When it opened, the newly refurbished Friendship Fountain was the largest and tallest fountain in the world. What year did it open?
a) 1957
b) 1965
c) 1972
d) 1980
Jacksonville is a very artsy city. How many murals or sculptures can you find in Jacksonville?
a) Over 200
b) Over 300
c) Over 100
Jacksonville is the birthplace of southern rock. Which of these bands started in Jacksonville?
a) .38 Special
b) Lynyrd Skynyrd
c) Allman Brothers Band
d) All of the above
Which of these bands is from Jacksonville?
a) Quad City DJs
b) Derek Trucks
c) Limp Bizkit
d) Yellowcard
e) All of the above
HISTORY Black
LEARN ABOUT JAMES WELDON AND J. ROSAMOND JOHNSON, composers of “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” America’s Black National Anthem, at the Ritz Theatre and Museum or the new Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park.
SEE WHERE HANK AARON GOT HIS BIG BREAK as a member of the Jacksonville Braves baseball team at J.P. Small Memorial Stadium, then known as Durkee Field.
LEARN ABOUT JACKSONVILLE’S IMPACT ON THE MOVIE INDUSTRY and early Black films at Norman Studios, a former movie production studio that made movies for Black audiences starring Black actors, creating less stereotypical and more well-rounded characters.
TAKE A TOUR TO SEE MANY BLACK HISTORICAL SITES. Hop aboard an open-air cart for a tour of Jacksonville’s Black history and historical sites with Yolanda Copeland, owner and operator of Explore Jax Core tour.
LEARN ABOUT JACKSONVILLE’S RENAISSANCE WOMAN, Eartha M.M. White, at a museum dedicated to her legacy as a tireless humanitarian dedicated to improving the lives of others.
SEE JACKSONVILLE’S OLDEST HOME AT KINGSLEY PLANTATION. Built in 1798, it shares the story of the family who lived there, a landowner and his African wife, who was enslaved before being freed and becoming the property’s manager.
VISIT JACKSONVILLE’S FIRST BLACK SUBURBS. Durkeeville was a center of commerce and culture that thrived in the first decades of the 20th century. Make an appointment to visit the Durkeeville Historical Society to learn the unique history of the area. LaVilla was a vibrant neighborhood with a music and entertainment scene that attracted nationally renowned artists and musicians.
EXPLORE A RESTORED HISTORIC BLACK THEATRE IN THE HEART OF LAVILLA. The Ritz Theatre and Museum is located in the LaVilla neighborhood of Downtown, considered “the mecca for African American culture and heritage” in Florida. The Theatre was once a moviehouse for Black families. It now houses a museum for Jacksonville’s African American History.
PAY TRIBUTE TO THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS at Jacksonville’s oldest cemetery, Old City Cemetery, which is also the final resting place of dozens of Black servicemen dating back to the Civil War.
VISIT THE LAST REMAINING SCHOOLHOUSE FOR BLACK CHILDREN IN JACKSONVILLE, which dates back to the 1800s: St. Joseph’s Mission Schoolhouse for African American Children, at the Mandarin Museum & Historical Society.
LEARN ABOUT JACKSONVILLE’S GULLAH GEECHEE COMMUNITY at Freedom Park. The information panels share the history of the Gullah culture, past and present.
BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL
Brave, innovative African Americans paved the history of Jacksonville and are featured on the Black Heritage Trail. This area offers the richest opportunity in the state of Florida to learn about Black history. Explore the trail’s significant sites for a wonderfully wide-ranging look at Jacksonville’s past.
BLACK HERITAGE
Since the French Huguenots first landed in Jacksonville, our city has been a refuge for those looking for freedom. At the turn of the 1900s, Jacksonville became a mecca for commerce and independence for African Americans in the South. Those days have left the city with a wealth of African American heritage that can be explored at more than 25 stops on the self-guided Jax Heritage Trail. Today, Jacksonville has the second-largest percentage of Black citizens in the United States.
FROM JAZZ to JUSTICE ALONG the BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL
Jacksonville is rich with Black history — and the Black Heritage Trail offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Northeast Florida’s cultural legacy year-round. A testament to the resilience, creativity and impact of the Black community, the trail honors some of the significant people and events that took place in Jacksonville.
Explore the past and honor the future on the Black Heritage Trail.
SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE
FAR & WIDE Search
ARE YOU WONDERING WHAT THERE IS FOR YOU IN JAX?
Check out our travel guides, self-guided tours and itineraries created for whatever interests you. Jacksonville is a unique place, and we want to make it easy for you to find all the great things to do in our city. Use our tools to plan the trip YOU want, no matter how long you have to spend here.
TRAVEL GUIDES
Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, music lover, sports enthusiast or someone who likes to explore, let our travel guides show you the types of #onlyinjax experiences available. With opportunities to visit neighborhoods throughout the city, our travel guides and itineraries offer adventure and exploration whether you are visiting for the first time or the tenth time.
• Accessible Travel Guide
• Beach Itineraries
• Black Travel Guide
• Cultural Itineraries
• Dog-Friendly Travel Guide & Itineraries
• Families Travel Guide
• Foodies Travel Guide
• Historical Travel Guide
• LGBTQ+ Travel Guide
• Latino Travel Guide
• Music Lovers Travel Guide
• Nature/Parks Itineraries
• Solo Trips Travel Guide
• Sport Lovers Travel Guide & Itineraries
• Water Sports Travel Guide & Itineraries
LOCAL SELF-GUIDED TOURS
Explore Jacksonville through one of our self-guided tours. Travel at your own pace and pick the stops you want to make. Download the Visit Jax app to have select tours at your fingertips.
There’s so much to see in Jacksonville, and it can be difficult to map out your ideal sightseeing adventure. We’ve made it easy for you with our list of must-do self-guided tours. Search through arts & culture, history and nature tours, all right here in the city.
• Arts & Culture Tours
• Beach Tours
• History Tours
• Nature Tours
• Neighborhood Tours
Itinerary: ARTS & CULTURE
DAY 1
MORNING: If you are flying into Jacksonville, make sure to visit one of Jacksonville International Airport’s six gallery spaces that showcase fine art, cultural exhibitions and the history of flight in Jacksonville. You can find these exhibits before and after security.
Get ready to head Downtown! While visiting Jacksonville’s historic neighborhoods, remember to keep an eye out for public art murals. You’ll find dozens of murals representing diverse scenes by emerging and established local and international artists.
AFTERNOON: After settling in, head Downtown and check out some of Jacksonville’s best local public art. Head over to the Jessie Ball duPont Center. Outside, you’ll find mosaics that salute the famous faces of Jacksonville’s African American heritage, including Rutledge Pearson, Rodney L. Hurst and Eartha M.M. White. Inside, you’ll find Moving the Margins. Moving the Margins is a cultural, educational experience that showcases local artists in a residencestyle exhibit throughout the year. Curated by Shawana Brooks, the space supports art, advocacy and local BIPOC creatives and was designed to spark conversation and innovation.
For lunch, relax at James Weldon Johnson Park, Jacksonville’s oldest city park at over 160 years old. Every Monday through Friday, local food trucks and live musicians visit James Weldon Park for residents and visitors to enjoy. James Weldon Johnson is also home to many art sculptures and unique history markers.
After lunch, head across the street to the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA) and the Jacksonville Public Library. MOCA houses a permanent collection of nearly 1,000 works of art, including painting, printmaking, sculpture and photography. Next door to it, the Jacksonville Public Library not only has books but also is full of beautiful paintings, exhibits, sculptures and interesting architecture.
Take a break and walk a block over to Chamblin’s Uptown, an independent bookstore with two floors of books and a cafe serving local coffee, breakfast and lunch and baked goods.
Make sure to visit The Creative Exchange, also known as CX904. Located on the first floor of the Bank of America Tower in Downtown Jacksonville, it boasts an array of locally crafted products ranging from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and books. Everything in the space is available for purchase to support the community and the creator alike.
NIGHT TIME: If visiting on the first Wednesday of the month, make sure to stop by the Downtown Art Walk. This event has more than 40 galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants, bars and businesses, in addition to dozens of artist booths at James Weldon Johnson Park, street performers and live music. Before leaving Downtown, make sure you stop by Sweet Pete’s for a sweet treat!
REST, RECOVER & EXPLORE
FIND IT ALL IN JACKSONVILLE
Experience the perfect blend of local charm and world-class healthcare in Jacksonville. To make your stay even more enjoyable and affordable, download our app for exclusive discounts on local attractions, restaurants and more. Click the “Deals” section to find offers that will help you save money and time in Jacksonville while receiving top-notch medical treatment!
SCAN THE QR CODE DOWNLOAD OUR APP!
From CHECK-IN TO CHILL OUT
Check in to Jacksonville’s best hotels and make your stay unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking modern luxury or cozy charm, our hotel scene has something for everyone. Enjoy topnotch hospitality, relaxing atmospheres and convenient access to all the exciting attractions Jacksonville has to offer.
TO JACKSONVILLE. SCAN NOW.
Surf, swim, fish, sit, stay, bark — Jacksonville and its beaches are pet-friendly. Bring your furry friend along and unleash all the best dog-friendly activities the city has to offer. With cozy cafes and patios, Jacksonville has places to play, eat and relax that both you and your dog will love.
VISITORS WELCOME
JACKSONVILLE IS A VIBRANT CITY WITH HUNDREDS OF MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS & SITES TO EXPERIENCE.
Come say hi (and send a free postcard to those who weren’t lucky enough to come on vacation with you).
Jacksonville’s destination experts at the city’s Visitor Centers will help you plan the perfect visit so you can see as many unforgettable spots as possible during your stay.
Call or connect with our Visitor Center experts online to get information before your visit.
They can help you:
• find the perfect hotel for your needs
• book attraction visits
• coordinate itineraries
• learn about local deals and offers
• get expert recommendations on top experiences
• get help with any of your destination questions
JACKSONVILLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Baggage Claim Area Phone (904) 741-3044
VISIT JACKSONVILLE OFFICE
100 N. Laura Street, Suite 120
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (800) 733-2668 (U.S. & Canada)
Fax: (904) 798-9104
BEACHES VISITOR CENTER
381 Beach Boulevard
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Phone: (904) 242-0024
JACKSONVILLE’S MOBILE VISITOR CENTER
Be sure to look for Seymour Jax, Visit Jacksonville’s Mobile Visitor Center, around town during your visit! Spot Seymour at local events, then post and share using hashtag #onlyinjax
For more information, contact:
DESTINATION EXPERIENCE TEAM
Phone: (800) 733-2668 or (904) 798-9111
Email: visitorinfo@visitjacksonville.com
MY TRIP TO THE FLIP SIDE.
You’ve flipped through our magazine, hopefully checked out our awesome website and app, and now it’s time for the best part — planning your adventure! Use this page to jot down all your exciting ideas for your Jacksonville getaway. And if you need a little extra inspiration, our friendly team is just a call, chat, email or visit away. Let’s make this trip unforgettable!
