Jacksonville is Florida’s most populous city, so there’s plenty to do there. Here are a few of the best sights in the city that you’ll want to take time to see while you are there.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
This zoo boasts thousands of animals and plants, with some very exotic varieties among them. It is one of the more impressive zoos in the region, and it is home to animals as varied as giraffes, jaguars, and lorikeets. There is a beautiful Trout River Dock to check out with its array of sea life and the Wild Florida exhibit with its cool local animals. There is something for everyone here, and you can be sure the entire family will remember this zoo for a long time.
The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
This place doubles as an art gallery and a botanical garden, giving visitors a chance to appreciate both fine art and the beauty of the natural world. The art museum is named after the art collector who used to reside there, Ninah Mae Holden Cummer. The gallery even has a great exhibit just for kids, so feel free to bring the entire family to this one.
Catty Shack Ranch
If you love conservation and animals, then you definitely have to check out the Catty Shack Ranch. It gives visitors a chance to watch tigers and other big cats in a close approximation of their natural habitat. You can see them being fed and enjoy a tour of the ranch that gives detailed information about all of the cats and how they are taken care of.
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
For a relaxing spot that’s perfect for picnicking, try this park located along Atlantic beach. The ocean view is spectacular, and the park stretches out for 20 miles, so there is plenty of space to enjoy activities away from other people, if you prefer. There are trails for hiking and paths for biking here, as well as camping and kayaking areas. You could spend an entire day here and not see everything it has to offer.
For accommodation, consider the Vintage at Plantation Bay Apartments. You will want somewhere to stay that is in or near the city so that you can make the most of your time in Jacksonville.
Riverside Arts Market
For a local shopping experience, you can’t do much better than the Riverside Arts Market. It boasts a great selection of craft makers, artists, farmers, and bakers putting their best wares forward in this weekly marketplace. The market is set up under the Fuller Warren Bridge and often features live music, community services, free classes, and tons of food.
