What Jacksonville, Florida is Known for [2023]

Floridas Streets

Asper Productions Drone Photo by Lance Asper

Jacksonville, located in the northeastern part of Florida, is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, and is known for its gorgeous riverside views, vibrant culture, and family-friendly environment. In this comprehensive article, we’ll share some of the best things Jacksonville, Florida is known for, from its popular attractions to its mouth-watering foods.

Riverside Views

Jacksonville is known for its beautiful riverside views, and we highly recommend taking a stroll or biking along the St. Johns River. The river is one of the most important waterways in Florida and stretches for 310 miles, making it the longest river in the state.

Some notable riverside attractions include the Riverside Arts Market, situated in the city’s historic Five Points neighborhood. This open-air market features over 100 artists, live performances, and local eateries, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

Another great place to enjoy the riverside views is Friendship Fountain, located in downtown Jacksonville. The fountain is one of the largest and tallest fountains in the world, rising 120 feet in the air and shooting water 100 feet.

Beaches

Right off of Ponce Inlet in Florida.  Picture was taken from atop the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse.  Beautiful view of the marina and a sandbar showing through the water.

Jacksonville is home to miles of beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, including Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. The beaches offer crystal clear waters, wide stretches of soft sand, and a relaxing atmosphere.

If you’re looking for something more active to do on the beach, we recommend surfing or paddleboarding, which are popular activities here. Jax Beach Surf Shop offers equipment rentals and lessons for both beginners and experienced surfers.

Museums

If you’re a history buff or simply looking for a culture fix, Jacksonville is home to numerous museums that are worth checking out. The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens features over 5,000 works of art, including American Impressionist paintings and ancient artifacts.

Another notable attraction is the Museum of Science & History, which features interactive exhibits on space, history, and technology. The museum also offers a planetarium and a science theater, making it the perfect place for a family day out.

Sports

Jacksonville has a rich sports culture with avid fans supporting their local sports teams. The Jacksonville Jaguars, a professional football team, is the most popular team in the city. They play at TIAA Bank Field and offer a fun atmosphere for fans.

If baseball is more your thing, be sure to catch a Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp game. The team plays at the newly constructed 121 Financial Ballpark.

Food

Often I find myself playing with colors, but when Mother Nature provides you with the most stunning variety I couldn’t help myself to create this photograph.

Jacksonville is known for its diverse culinary scene, with a wide variety of food options ranging from seafood to Southern comfort food. Some standout dishes include shrimp and grits, barbecue, and the iconic Key lime pie.

One restaurant that's a must-visit is Orsay, which serves French-inspired cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. If you're in the mood for seafood, The Juicy Crab is a popular spot that serves up fresh Crab Legs, Lobster Tail, and Cajun Shrimp. You can order online for convenient takeout or delivery directly from The Juicy Crab's website.

Quick Tips and Facts

  • Jacksonville has over 500 neighborhoods.
  • The city is a transportation hub, hosting two naval bases, a busy seaport, and a growing international airport.
  • Jacksonville has over 50 inches of rainfall per year and can experience hurricanes and tropical storms during hurricane season from June to November.

FAQ

What is Jacksonville Florida known as?

Jacksonville has a few nicknames, with the most popular being River City due to the St. Johns River that runs through the city. Additionally, Jacksonville is known as the Bold City, reflecting the city’s determination and resilience in the face of adversity.

What food is Jacksonville Florida famous for?

Jacksonville is known for its seafood, with shrimp being a popular choice among locals and tourists. Some other foods that the city is famous for include barbecued ribs, boiled peanuts, and Key lime pie.

Why is Jacksonville called the Bold city?

Jacksonville is called the Bold City because of its resiliency and determination to overcome adversity. The city has faced several challenges, including natural disasters and economic hardship, but has always bounced back.

In Conclusion

Jacksonville, Florida is known for its gorgeous riverside views, beautiful beaches, diverse culinary scene, and rich sports culture. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a weekend full of activities, Jacksonville has something for everyone. We highly recommend visiting this beautiful city and experiencing all that it has to offer.

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