Jacksonville

Boasting 22 miles of beaches, Jacksonville, on Florida’s northeast coast, is a city of diverse neighborhoods with a top-notch arts and culture scene, unbeatable food, and a wide variety of family-friendly attractions, parks, and nature preserves.

Outdoor adventures in Jacksonville can take the form of fishing, surfing, and paddling at the beach or hiking in the parks and biking the trails. And this is one city where sports fans will never be bored: The Jacksonville Jaguars are just part of Jacksonville’s action-packed sports scene, which includes everything from rugby to world-class golf.

Families with children won’t want to miss seeing Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, the Museum of Science & History, or Tree Hill Nature Center, which has animal exhibits, walking trails, a kids’ museum, and butterfly garden.

When it comes to places to eat, Jacksonville’s diverse restaurants offer something for everyone. As “Florida’s Shrimp Capital,” Jacksonville is known for locally caught wild Atlantic shrimp, also called Mayport shrimp. Follow the Mayport Shrimp Trail for a self-guided tour of 24 places to find the most delicious shrimp dishes in Jacksonville. Explore Jacksonville’s restaurants to discover the best places to eat, from coastal fine dining to kid-friendly restaurants. Local favorite eateries include Catullo’s Italian, The Potter’s House Soul Food Bistro, and The Bread & Board. When it’s time to relax, sit down with a warm beverage at one of the many cozy local coffee shops or with a cold handcrafted drink from a rooftop bar.

Plan your trip at Visit Jacksonville.

BEACHES AND WATERWAYS

Visit the beaches and explore the St. Johns River.

Beaches and waterways

FAMILY FUN

Ride go-carts, visit the zoo, and explore the area’s parks and beaches.

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Check out public art events, see a theater performance, listen to live music, and visit the museums.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Hike the trails, paddle the waterways, explore the parks, fish, camp, and see Jacksonville’s diverse wildlife.

PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES

Visit Jacksonville’s dog-friendly beaches, restaurants, parks, and attractions.

Dog-friendly travel

ACCESSIBILITY

Visit accessible attractions, including museums, parks, and beaches.

Accessible travel guide

DINING

Embark on a culinary adventure with a food or tasting tour and explore all that Jacksonville’s restaurants have to offer.

SHOPPING

Browse Jacksonville's boutiques, farmers markets, flea markets, and malls.

Places to shop

NIGHTLIFE

Jacksonville’s entertainment hotspots prove the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.

Nightlife listings

BLACK TRAVEL

Explore Jacksonville’s Black culture and rich history.

LATINO TRAVEL

Latino adventure travelers will find plenty to do in Jacksonville.

SPORTS

See sporting events ranging from NFL football to rugby and tee off on world-class golf courses.

PLACES TO STAY

Stay at a cozy bed and breakfast, vacation rental, oceanfront resort, or luxury downtown hotel.

Places to stay

Feels Like Jacksonville

Jacksonville Weather

Quick Facts

Big city with lively downtown, nightlife

Nearest Airport

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT JACKSONVILLE

Q. What county is Jacksonville in?

A. Jacksonvilleis located in Duval County in Florida. The city and county governments consolidated in 1968, making Jacksonville one of the largest cities by total area (including water) in the contiguous United States. This consolidation means that the city and county share a single government, which can be beneficial for residents and visitors alike. For more information about the area, visit Visit Jacksonville.

Q. How far is Jacksonville from Orlando?

A. Jacksonville is approximately 140 miles northeast of Orlando. The drive typically takes around two to 2.5 hours via I-95 S and I-4 W, depending on traffic conditions. Both cities offer a variety of attractions, making them great destinations for travelers. For more travel tips and information, check out VISIT FLORIDA.

Q. What time zone is Jacksonville in?

A. Jacksonville is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET). The city observes Eastern Standard Time (EST) during the fall and winter months and switches to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) in the spring and summer. This time zone is the same as cities like New York and Atlanta. For current time and weather updates, you can visit Visit Jacksonville.

Q. What can I do in Jacksonville?

A. Jacksonville offers a wide range of activities for visitors, from exploring the beautiful beaches to enjoying the vibrant arts scene. You can visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens or take a stroll through the historic Riverside Avondale district. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens provides scenic trails and natural beauty. For more ideas, check out Visit Jacksonville.

Q. What are some popular beaches in Jacksonville?

A. The greater Jacksonville area is home to several beautiful beaches, including Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. These beaches offer a variety of activities such as surfing, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Each beach has its own unique charm, with plenty of dining and shopping options nearby. For more information on Jacksonville's beaches, visit Visit Jacksonville.

Q. What are some family-friendly attractions in Jacksonville?

A. Jacksonville offers numerous family-friendly attractions, such as the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, where families can explore diverse wildlife exhibits. The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) provides interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational for children. Additionally, Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to learn about big cats and other wildlife. For more family-friendly ideas, visit Visit Jacksonville.

Q. What are some popular parks in Jacksonville?

A. Jacksonville boasts a variety of parks, including the expansive Hanna Park, which offers camping, hiking, and biking trails. Memorial Park is a historic park located along the St. Johns River, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. For those interested in birdwatching and nature, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve provides a unique glimpse into the area's natural and cultural history. For more park options, check out Visit Jacksonville.

Q. What are some popular trails for biking or hiking in Jacksonville?

A. Jacksonville offers a variety of trails for biking and hiking enthusiasts. The Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail is a popular choice, offering 14.5 miles of paved trails through scenic woodlands. For a more rugged experience, the Timucuan Trail provides beautiful views of the coastal ecosystem. Hanna Park also offers several trails suitable for both biking and hiking. For more trail options, visit Visit Jacksonville.

Q. What are some popular events in Jacksonville?

A. Jacksonville hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, which features world-renowned jazz musicians. The Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair is another popular event, offering rides, games, and agricultural exhibits. For sports fans, the annual Florida-Georgia Football Game, an NCAA college football game between the University of Florida and the University of Georgia that’s traditionally held in Jacksonville (but not always), is a must-see rivalry. For a full list of events, check out Visit Jacksonville.