About
Jacksonville is a city on the Atlantic coast of Florida, in the United States. It is the largest city in the state by area, which gives it a sprawling, open character, with neighbourhoods that run from the ocean inland along the river. Locals sometimes call it Jax or River City, a nod to the St. Johns River that winds through its centre.
What a visit looks like
Because the city covers so much ground, it rewards a visitor who chooses a few areas and explores them at an easy pace rather than trying to see everything in one go. The river is the natural organising line: many of the city's places to walk, eat and watch the water are set along it, and the Atlantic beaches lie a short drive to the east, so a single trip can combine city time with time by the sea.
Planning your trip
- Getting around: the city's size means a car is the most practical way to cover distance between districts.
- Pairing it with the coast: the Atlantic shoreline offers a change of pace from the urban centre.
- Choosing a base: staying near the area you most want to explore will save time on the road.
Jacksonville suits travellers who enjoy a city with room to breathe, a working river at its heart and the ocean close at hand. Check current details with local sources before you go, as plans for specific sights and services can change.
