Jacksonville is mainly known as being one of the largest cities by area in the U.S and has a lot to offer travelers! From unique restaurants, charming coastal towns, local shops and gorgeous beaches filled with local surfers, Jax is an epic city to visit while exploring North Florida.

Neighborhoods to Visit:

Five Points: This area is lined with funky boutiques, hip restaurants/bars and coffee shops.

The Beaches: Explore all the chill coffee shops and beach boutiques that Neptune and Atlantic Beach have to offer! I would recommend taking a stroll or renting a bike to explore this area as it is really quaint.

San Marco: Known for its old riverfront mansions, the San Marco area is a lively hub with casual eateries, trendy bars and chic bistros!

What To Do:

Florida Theater: Catch a show at the Florida Theatre, located in Downtown Jacksonville!

Fun Fact: This is where Elvis Presley had his first indoor appearance in 1956!

Wick: A Candle Bar: If you are looking for something fun and unique to do, head over to Wick in San Marco to make your own candle. The process involves selecting a few scents, choosing a jar, and pouring the soy wax into the jar! It takes about 30 minutes and is so delightful! If you enjoy candle shopping or candles in general, I would fully recommend this experience!

Explore the Beaches Town Center: located in the heart of Neptune and Atlantic Beach, the town center is a quaint area offering locals and tourists alike, super cute boutiques, cool coffee and brunch spots and a refreshing ocean breeze! This was by far one of my favorite areas when visiting Jacksonville and would definitely recommend!

If you are in the area be sure to check out: Jax Surf and Paddle Shop- This is a really cute surf shop serving us all of the beach vibes! You can also rent paddleboards/kayaks, surfboards and bikes here. Be sure to check out the Bodega Bar inside, serving cocktails and coffee!

BrewHound Dog Park + Bar: If you have brought your furry friend along with you on your trip or you are a dog lover, in general, definitely check out BrewHound! BrewHound is a unique gathering place for humans and their pets to mingle, enjoy delicious cold (or hot) beverages and relax in the Florida sunshine!

Memorial Park: Located downtown on the St. Johns River and in walking distance to the many shops, restaurants, and museums in Five Points. The park is the perfect place to enjoy a sunny day and relax or take a stroll before you continue to explore the rest of the city.

River Walk: Take a stroll down the Jacksonville River Walk and explore a different part of the city! Be sure to watch the water, if you're lucky, you may spot some dolphins!

Where to Eat:

Breakfast:

Sago Coffee: This place serves one of the best iced chai teas I have had! Enjoy the airy atmosphere and good vibes while sipping on a delicious cup of coffee! I would recommend the açaí bowl if you decide to eat breakfast! Also, don't forget to check out the cool thrift store next door too!

Vagabond Coffee: Located in Murray Hill, this coffee shop is every hipsters dream! Be sure to try out the Duuuval Fog, an original twist on the London Fog: Florida grey tea // lavender // half and half.

The Mini Bar: Super cute coffee shop and delicious donuts, need I say more?

Southern Grounds: Located in the Beaches Town Center, this coffee shop is always bustling for brunch! So grab a table, order some breakfast and enjoy the beach vibes that Souther Grounds has to offer!

Lunch:

The Bread & Board: Located in Five Points and is a great lunch spot or if you are feeling peckish.

Hawkers: If you enjoy Asian Street food, Hawkers is the place for you! Located in the Beaches Town Center and in Five Points, this place transports you to an asian hip urban city! The restaurant is always packed and the energy level is electric. We enjoyed a variety of meals, but my favorite was the Beef Haw Fun Noodles and Pork Belly Baos.

Dinner:

Black Sheep: This place is known for its locally-sourced ingredients and is a MUST try when in Jacksonville. Black Sheep serves American style food and hand-crafted cocktails in a modern atmosphere. Be sure to check out the view from the rooftop!

Royal Palms Wine: If you enjoy delicious and creative small plates and tapas, Royal Palms Wine is the place for you! The restaurant is focused on providing guests with the best farm to table experience, using fresh seasonal ingredients. In addition to the excellent food, Royal Palm Wine also provides wine tastings with over 1,200 bottles of fine wine. If you prefer beer instead, the restaurant also offers 12 rotating drafts and over 200 bottles of craft beers! If you have the time, I would definitely recommend this unique place!

Prati Italia: Located in the St. Johns Town Center, Italia Prati is a restaurant focused on making all their dishes in house. From their pasta and bread, to their Italian-inspired desserts. Not only is the food delicious, but Prati Italia is also the Town Center’s only locally-owned restaurant that was built up with recycled materials and uses locally sourced ingredients.

Tacolu: Tacos, Tacos and more tacos. This place has a really vibrant atmosphere and delicious food and margaritas! We enjoyed a number of delicious tacos but the best one had to be The Carne Royale: Carne asada with Brie and grape salsa on a flour tortilla.

Where to Drink:

River & Post Rooftop Bar - Offering a number of delicious cocktails and a breathtaking view of the city overlooking the river and downtown Jax. Definitely one of my favorite rooftop bars in Jacksonville!

Secret Tiki Temple - This place brings the Aloha to Jacksonville, Florida! Located inside a vintage Chinese restaurant, Secret Tiki Temple features a number of delicious cocktails that are sure to make your taste buds tingle! Be sure to check out the website to make a reservation and get the secret password to enter!

Hoptinger Bier Garten Rooftop- This locally- owned Bier Garten has 2 locations in Jacksonville, one in Jax Beach and the other in 5 Points. The first floor is the restaurant and sausage house, and the second and third floor is a bar/rooftop bar. Locally- owned Bier Garten with rotating taps, unique eats, craft cocktails, brunch and live music.

Jax Ale Trail:

Intuition Ale Works: One of the most well-known craft brewers in Jax, Intuition Ale Works is a must-stop on you Ale Trail! Be sure to check out the rooftop for the great view of the city!

Aardwolf Brewing Company: Located in San Marco near the railroad tracks, Aardwolf Brewing Company is also a must-stop on your Ale Trail in Jacksonville, with good vibes and cold beer!

Fun Fact: The building was formerly an icehouse from the 1920's.

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