In case you’re in search of a suburban really feel with entry to lovely surroundings and a mean of 270 days of sunshine per 12 months, Jacksonville, Florida, is the place for you. Whereas the town is thought for a few of its hottest points of interest just like the Cummer Museum of Arts & Gardens and the Friendship Fountain, it’s additionally stuffed with secret spots to uncover. From essentially the most lovely seashores to unbelievable meals choices, the River Metropolis is dwelling to all types of native favorites that will provide you with a really distinctive perspective on the town.
Unsure the place to start out? We’re right here to assist. We’ve requested Jacksonville locals to take you thru the town from an insider’s perspective. So whether or not you’re renting an condominium in Jacksonville Seashore, shopping for a home in Miramar, or contemplating shifting to the realm, get able to discover the highest hidden gems in Jacksonville.
Jacksonville’s outside hidden gems
Residence to essentially the most in depth city park system within the U.S., Jacksonville has one thing for any outside fanatic. Right here you’ll discover 80,000 acres of parks and world-class seashores. The preferred seashores embody Atlantic Seashore, Neptune Seashore, Jacksonville Seashore, and Ponte Vedra Seashore. Nevertheless, for those who’re in search of one thing a bit extra low-key and distinctive, stray away and take a look at these different native favorites. Seize your sunscreen and prepare to start out exploring the town’s favourite outside areas.
For a picturesque lesser-known location, attempt Driftwood Seashore
Tiffany, a neighborhood Jacksonville photographer of Hype Lady Boudoir recommends Driftwood Seashore on Huge Talbot Island. “That is certainly one of our absolute favourite locations to {photograph},” says Tiffany. “You are taking a ravishing strolling path right down to the seaside, and the surroundings there may be like no different. Huge driftwood, virtually skeletal-looking bushes cowl the shoreline, making you’re feeling such as you’re in one other world.”
Tabitha Baldwin, one other native photographer, agrees, “The seaside is filled with massive lovely bushes unfold throughout the sand and picturesque black rocks alongside the shore. One among my most requested areas for native portrait periods.”
For essentially the most lovely sunrises and sunsets, head to Amelia Island
“The true definition of a hidden gem is Amelia Island, Florida, which natives consult with as Fernandina Seashore,” says Coast One Excursions, a black historic touring firm. “Amelia Island is situated NE of Jacksonville on the Atlantic Ocean shores. The island is thought for having the friendliest individuals round, the place guests and Natives can benefit from the wealthy African American tradition of American Seashore.
Discover the distinctive and historic properties in Jacksonville Seashore
“Seeking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town? Jacksonville Seashore, situated a brief drive from the town, is stuffed with distinctive and historic seaside homes dotted alongside the coastal shore.” Says Nancy from Florida Rental By Homeowners, a trip rental firm in Jacksonville. “These inexpensive Jacksonville trip seaside homes are near the pier, native festivals, outlets, and eating places.”
Head over to the Metropolitan Park & Marina for all types of leisure
PierShare, a neighborhood Jacksonville firm the place you possibly can lease boat docks, recommends the Metropolitan Park and Marina. “Positioned subsequent to the house base of the NFL’s Jaguars, TIAA Financial institution Area, Metropolitan Park and Marina is a hidden gem in downtown Jacksonville. The 32-acre multi-purpose park has picnic area, playgrounds, bicycle racks, an exhibition space for craft reveals, and a live performance pavilion.”
Hidden gems in Jacksonville for the foodies
In case you crave a style of a scrumptious dish, Jacksonville is for you. From meals and leisure alongside the St. Johns River in Southbank to recent seafood in downtown Jacksonville, there are alternatives for anybody seeking to seize a chew to eat.
For a romantic date, head to Ruth’s Chris Steak Home
Rani Garner, a neighborhood painter, suggests to “Have drinks on the bar, even when steak just isn’t your factor, after which go outdoors for essentially the most breathtaking metropolis view. Downtown Jax and all its bridges are lit up, mirrored within the water, and a brief stroll alongside the Riverfront will lead you to colourful fountains.”
For nice meals and leisure, attempt Jazzy’s Restaurant & Lounge
Like a lot of Jacksonville, the King Avenue District within the Riverside neighborhood is pretension-free and welcoming. Justin from BarGlance, a neighborhood firm that reveals you the very best bars on the town, says, “It’s uncommon to discover a place with nice meals and leisure, however Jazzy’s Restaurant & Lounge within the coronary heart of King Avenue has managed to drag it off. Be sure you attempt the fried lobster tail and the pineapple bread pudding. I promise you received’t remorse it.”
Have to fulfill your candy tooth? Go for Cookies and Cream
“Cookies and Cream is our favourite go-to date night time spot.” says Tonya Beaver, a neighborhood in Jacksonville. “They’re native seaside owned and operated and so they have gluten-free cookies in addition to dairy-free ice cream choices. Sit out on their little sport patio and luxuriate in the very best ice cream on the town. You received’t be dissatisfied.”
Have a chill night time and take a look at the Flamingo within the historic district
“Nestled within the historic neighborhood of Murray Hill, only a couple miles southwest of downtown Jacksonville is certainly one of our favourite spots, The Flamingo,” says Lauren from We Are The Bowsers, a neighborhood pictures, and videography firm. “With its ultra-chill vibe, uncovered brick partitions, and excessive ceilings, it’s a terrific spot to pop in and seize a scrumptious iced latte or hang around with mates whereas having fun with a pint of craft beer or a glass of wine.”
Boost your night time and head to Indochine for some curry
Tifanie from Whisper Picture Co. shares, “We love the coolness environment of Indochine. It’s proper down the street from our studio, which makes it good for a fast lunch break because the service is at all times quick. Not solely do they serve essentially the most scrumptious meals, however we have now at all times been so welcomed there. Their curry crab rangoons and yellow rooster curry are my private favorites, and my enterprise accomplice is wholeheartedly obsessive about their spring rolls.”
Hidden gems in Jacksonville for the town explorer
There are many issues to see and do whereas dwelling in Jacksonville. If you wish to study extra about your metropolis, head over to the Springfield historic district or go for a non-public tour round downtown. There’s one thing distinctive to find in each neighborhood.
Go for a non-public tour to find out about Jacksonville
“If you wish to join with the historical past and structure of downtown Jacksonville, then it is advisable to e-book a non-public tour with Go Tuk’n,” says Ann from Premier Bride Expo, which options the highest wedding ceremony professionals from Jacksonville and surrounding areas. “Experience round and calm down on the electrical tuk-tuks whereas listening to the historical past of Jacksonville. You’ll find out about its distinctive buildings and historic properties, see the parks, and extra.”
Dance to the music of the town on the historic 1904 Music Corridor
Lenny from Florida Seashores, an organization that highlights the Florida Life-style, shares, “A bit edgy, a bit laid again, and a bit no matter it’s possible you’ll be into on any given weekend night time might be discovered on the 1904 Music Corridor in downtown Jacksonville. Initially a bar from the 1900s, the 1904 Music Corridor options musicians from throughout the nation on this 300-person venue. Avenue artwork murals adorn the surface patio the place music lovers can expertise a various sound starting from metallic to hip hop and digital dance music.”
Try a few of the metropolis’s finest art work
“Residence to over 50 murals, Downtown Jacksonville’s streets are the right venue for a laid-back stroll with a buddy or particular somebody,” says Shanna from Pink Parrott Weddings & Occasions. “I like to recommend stopping for lunch at Kazu Sushi Burrito for the very best poke bowls. Then head over to Candy Pete’s Sweet for some chocolatey goodness. It’s a good way to discover Jacksonville’s older neighborhoods and see a few of the metropolis’s lovely artistic art work.”
