Jacksonville County, Florida Travel Guide
Located in the northeastern corner of Florida, Jacksonville County is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a beach lover, this county has plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top things to see and do in Jacksonville County, including hidden gems, family-friendly activities, natural wonders, and more.
Top Attractions
Jacksonville County is home to many top attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. One of the most popular is the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, which features a stunning collection of art and beautiful gardens. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is another must-visit attraction, with over 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species. If you’re interested in history, be sure to check out the Kingsley Plantation, an 18th-century plantation that provides a glimpse into life in pre-Civil War Florida.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions in Jacksonville County are definitely worth visiting, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover. One such gem is the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to big cats such as lions, tigers, and leopards. Another hidden gem is the Riverside Arts Market, a weekly market that showcases the work of local artisans and offers a wide variety of food options.
Food Scene
Jacksonville County has a thriving food scene that offers something for every taste and budget. One of the most popular restaurants in the county is Orsay, which serves French-inspired cuisine with a Southern twist. If you’re in the mood for seafood, check out Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Restaurant, which offers fresh seafood caught daily. For a more casual dining experience, head to M Shack, a local chain that serves delicious burgers and shakes.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy all that Jacksonville County has to offer. Many of the top attractions offer free admission on certain days of the week, so be sure to check their websites for details. You can also save money by eating at local food trucks or packing a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the county’s many parks.
Outdoor Adventures
Jacksonville County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and more. One of the most popular outdoor destinations in the county is the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, which offers miles of hiking trails and beautiful views of the St. Johns River. If you’re looking for a more challenging adventure, head to Hanna Park, which offers over 20 miles of mountain biking trails.
Natural Wonders
In addition to its many parks and preserves, Jacksonville County is also home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. One such wonder is the St. Johns River, which is the longest river in Florida and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. Another natural wonder is the Little Talbot Island State Park, which features miles of undeveloped beaches and beautiful dunes.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, Jacksonville County has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. One such activity is the Jacksonville Beach Pier, which offers great fishing and beautiful views of the ocean. The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus is another great option, with performances by talented young singers throughout the year. And for a fun day out, head to Adventure Landing, a water park and amusement park that offers something for kids of all ages.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in Jacksonville County. One such experience is the Ghost Tour of St. Augustine, which takes you on a spooky tour of the city’s most haunted sites. Another unique experience is the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens, which offers over 120 acres of beautiful gardens and nature trails.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Jacksonville County comes to life with a vibrant nightlife scene. One of the most popular spots in the county is the Riverside Arts District, which offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and music venues. The Beaches Town Center is another great option, with a wide variety of bars and restaurants located just steps from the beach.
Local Markets
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, be sure to check out one of Jacksonville County’s many local markets. One of the most popular is the Riverside Arts Market, which we mentioned earlier. Another great option is the Jacksonville Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce and other local products.
Beaches and Mountains
Jacksonville County is home to both beautiful beaches and stunning mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best beaches in the county include Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. And if you’re looking for a mountain adventure, head to the Ocala National Forest, which offers miles of hiking trails and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Cultural Immersion
Jacksonville County has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. One great way to immerse yourself in the local culture is to attend one of the county’s many festivals and events. One such event is the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, which takes place every Memorial Day weekend and features some of the best jazz musicians in the world. Another great event is the Greek Festival, which celebrates Greek culture with food, music, and dance.
Art and Music Scene
Jacksonville County has a thriving art and music scene that is worth checking out. One of the best places to experience the local art scene is the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, which we mentioned earlier. And for music lovers, the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra is a must-see, with performances throughout the year.
Walking Tours
If you’re interested in history and architecture, be sure to take one of the many walking tours available in Jacksonville County. One popular tour is the Jacksonville Architecture Walking Tour, which takes you on a journey through the city’s many historic buildings and landmarks. Another great option is the Riverside Avondale Preservation Society Walking Tour, which explores the historic neighborhoods of Riverside and Avondale.
Historical Sites
Jacksonville County has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical sites and landmarks. One such site is the Fort Caroline National Memorial, which commemorates the first French settlement in the United States. The Kingsley Plantation, which we mentioned earlier, is another great historical site that provides a glimpse into life in pre-Civil War Florida.
Biking Routes
If you’re a biking enthusiast, Jacksonville County has plenty of routes to explore. One of the most popular routes is the Baldwin Trail, which spans over 14 miles and provides beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail is another great option, with over 14 miles of paved trail that passes through scenic wetlands and forests.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate, Jacksonville County has several wellness retreats to choose from. One such retreat is the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, which offers a variety of spa services and wellness programs. The One Ocean Resort and Spa is another great option, with a focus on holistic wellness and ocean-inspired treatments.
Adventure Sports
Jacksonville County is a great destination for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, paddleboarding, and more. One popular spot for surfing is the Jacksonville Beach Pier, which offers some of the best waves in the county. And for paddleboarding, head to the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, which offers miles of beautiful waterways to explore.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Jacksonville County has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has given you some inspiration for your next trip to this beautiful part of Florida.