Jacksonville

Planning Your Jacksonville Trip: Essential Information

Location & Time Zone

United States, Florida

GMT -4 (Eastern Daylight Time), GMT -5 (Eastern Standard Time)

Language & Currency

English

US Dollar (USD)

Jacksonville Weather: A Month-by-Month Guide

Planning your trip around the weather? Here’s a quick snapshot of Jacksonville’s climate:

• January: Mild, average highs in the low 60s (°F), lows in the 40s. Relatively dry.
• April: Warm, average highs in the mid-70s (°F), lows in the 50s. Pleasant weather.
• July: Hot and humid, average highs in the low 90s (°F), lows in the 70s. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
• October: Warm, average highs in the low 80s (°F), lows in the 60s. A decrease in humidity.

Jacksonville City Overview: A Blend of Charm and Modernity

Jacksonville, affectionately known as Jax, is a sprawling metropolis in northeast Florida. As the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States, it offers a diverse landscape from stunning beaches and lively urban centers to peaceful parks and historic neighborhoods. The St. Johns River gracefully flows through the city, offering scenic views for watersports and delightful waterfront dining. Jacksonville seamlessly blends Southern charm with modern dynamism, showcasing a thriving arts scene, a diverse culinary landscape, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a laid-back escape, Jacksonville has something for everyone. Consider purchasing a city pass to get access to multiple attractions!

Best Time to Visit Jacksonville: Season by Season

Choosing the right time to visit can make all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of each season:

• Spring (March-May):
  • Pros: Warm temperatures, lower humidity, blooming flowers.
  • Cons: Potential for occasional rain showers.
• Fall (September-November):
  • Pros: Comfortable temperatures, reduced humidity, fewer crowds.
  • Cons: Hurricane season can bring unpredictable weather. Travel insurance is highly recommended!
• Summer (June-August):
  • Pros: Ideal for beach lovers and water activities.
  • Cons: Hot and humid, frequent thunderstorms, potential for hurricanes.
• Winter (December-February):
  • Pros: Mild temperatures, fewer tourists, great for outdoor activities like hiking and golf.
  • Cons: Occasional cold snaps.

Getting to Jacksonville & Visa Information

• Flights: Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is the primary airport, served by major domestic airlines. Book your flights here.
• Trains: Amtrak provides rail service to Jacksonville.
• Visa Details: Check visa requirements based on your nationality with the U.S. Department of State.
• Airport Transfers: Taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft), and rental cars are available at the airport. Consider pre-booking your airport transfer for convenience.

Jacksonville: Fascinating Facts & Famous Faces

Fun Fact: Jacksonville’s Film History

Did you know Jacksonville was once the “Winter Film Capital of the World” in the early 1900s? It attracted numerous movie studios and stars before Hollywood rose to prominence. Imagine, over 30 silent film studios operating right here!

Notable People from Jacksonville

• Pat Boone – Singer, Actor
• Ashley Greene – Actress
• Chipper Jones – Baseball Player

Top 10 Jacksonville Attractions You Can’t Miss

1. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
   • Description: Art museum boasting a diverse collection and stunning formal gardens.
   • Address: 829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204
2. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
   • Description: Explore a wide variety of animals and beautiful botanical exhibits.
   • Address: 370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218
3. Museum of Science & History (MOSH)
   • Description: Interactive exhibits exploring science, history, and nature.
   • Address: 1025 Museum Cir, Jacksonville, FL 32207
4. Kingsley Plantation
   • Description: Preserved plantation offering a glimpse into the lives of enslaved people.
   • Address: 11676 Palmetto Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32226
5. Little Talbot Island State Park
   • Description: Pristine barrier island with beaches, dunes, and maritime forests.
   • Address: 12157 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226
6. Friendship Fountain
   • Description: Iconic fountain in downtown Jacksonville, perfect for photo opportunities.
   • Address: 101 E Bay St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
7. Riverside Arts Market
   • Description: Weekly arts and crafts market held under the Fuller Warren Bridge.
   • Address: 715 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204
8. Beaches Museum & History Park
   • Description: Museum dedicated to the history and culture of Jacksonville’s beaches.
   • Address: 381 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
9. Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
   • Description: Explore the natural and cultural history of Northeast Florida.
   • Address: 12713 Fort Caroline Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
10. St. Johns River Taxi
    • Description: A unique way to see the city from the water.
    • Address: Multiple Docks Along the River

Discovering Jacksonville’s Hidden Gems

• Treaty Oak Park
  • Description: Home to a majestic live oak tree estimated to be over 250 years old.
  • Address: 1123 Prudential Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32207
• Huguenot Memorial Park
  • Description: Beachfront park with camping, fishing, and birdwatching.
  • Address: 10980 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226
• Mandarin Park
  • Description: Scenic park along the St. Johns River, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Address: 1460 Mandarin Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32223

Local Festivals & Events in Jacksonville

• Jacksonville Jazz Festival (May): Free jazz festival in downtown Jacksonville.
• World of Nations Celebration (Spring): Celebrate diverse cultures with food, music, and dance.
• Great Atlantic Seafood Feast (October): Features seafood vendors, music, and arts and crafts.

Day Trips from Jacksonville: Explore Beyond the City

• St. Augustine (approx. 40 minutes): The oldest city in the United States, with historic sites and attractions.
• Amelia Island (approx. 45 minutes): Beautiful island with beaches, golf courses, and historic Fernandina Beach.
• Ginnie Springs (approx. 2 hours): Crystal-clear natural springs perfect for swimming, tubing, and kayaking.

Jacksonville’s Most Instagrammable Spots

• Friendship Fountain: Especially beautiful at night when illuminated.
• Cummer Museum Gardens: The Italian Garden and reflecting pools offer stunning backdrops.
• Beaches at sunrise/sunset: Capture the golden hour over the Atlantic Ocean.
• Riverside Arts Market: Colorful displays and vibrant street scenes.

Where to Stay & How to Get Around Jacksonville

Recommended Length of Stay

3-5 days to experience the city’s main attractions and nearby areas.

Top Jacksonville Hotels

Budget-Friendly Hotels

• Red Roof Inn Jacksonville – Orange Park:
  • Address: 630 Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, FL 32073
• Scottish Inns Jacksonville West:
  • Address: 565 Chaffee Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32221
• Days Inn by Wyndham Jacksonville/Butler Blvd:
  • Address: 2999 Hartley Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257

Mid-Range Hotels

• Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville Downtown/Southbank:
  • Address: 1201 Kings Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207
  • Book now and save!
• Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk:
  • Address: 1103 East Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202
  • Check availability
• Hyatt Place Jacksonville Airport:
  • Address: 1456 Airport Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218
  • Reserve your room

Luxury Hotels

• The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island (nearby):
  • Address: 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
  • Indulge in luxury
• Omni Jacksonville Hotel:
  • Address: 245 Water St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
  • Experience elegance
• Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection (St. Augustine – nearby):
  • Address: 95 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Discover historic charm

Getting Around Jacksonville: Transportation Options

• Public Transport: Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) operates buses and a Skyway monorail system.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are readily available.
• Bikes: Bike rentals are available, and Jacksonville offers several bike-friendly trails.
• Walking: Downtown Jacksonville and some historic neighborhoods are walkable.

Preparing for Your Jacksonville Adventure

What to Pack for Jacksonville

• Lightweight clothing (especially in summer).
• Swimsuit and beach gear.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Rain gear (especially during hurricane season).

Useful Apps for Your Trip

• JTA Navigator: For public transportation schedules and information.
• Uber/Lyft: For ride-sharing services.
• Yelp: For restaurant reviews and local recommendations.
• The Weather Channel: For up-to-date weather forecasts.

Jacksonville: Local Tips, Safety & Etiquette

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
• Use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Tip service workers appropriately (15-20% is customary).

Jacksonville: Food, Fun & Finds

Top Jacksonville Restaurants

• Restaurant Orsay: French cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
  • Address: 3630 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32205
• Black Sheep Restaurant: New American cuisine with rooftop seating.
  • Address: 1534 Oak St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
• Hawkers Asian Street Fare: Authentic Asian street food.
  • Address: 1001 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32204

Must-Try Jacksonville Dishes

• Mayport Shrimp: Fresh, local shrimp prepared in various ways.
• Datil Pepper Dishes: Dishes featuring the unique Datil pepper, a local specialty (especially in nearby St. Augustine).
• Southern BBQ: Slow-cooked barbecue ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.

Jacksonville Nightlife & Entertainment

• Riverside/Avondale: Trendy bars and restaurants with live music.
  • Address: Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods
• Downtown Jacksonville: Sports bars, clubs, and concert venues.
  • Address: Downtown Jacksonville

Souvenirs & Markets in Jacksonville

• Riverside Arts Market: Local art, crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Address: 715 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204
• San Marco Square: Unique boutiques and shops.
  • Address: San Marco Square