Florida Travel Guide
Jacksonville
Something of an oddity, Jacksonville is a city that bucks the Floridian trend; it is a town that could stand on its own without the aid of the tourist dollar. The city was founded in 1822 and was named for General 'Stonewall' Jackson. Although some distance from the Atlantic, Jacksonville is a major port due its location on the navigable St Johns River.
The industry attendant with a successful port, including shipbuilding and military installations, have ensured the cities prosperity but in the past condemned it to a drab workaday appearance. This has been rectified of late with a comprehensive programme of rejuvenation.
Jacksonville is the largest city in the US, covering an area of nearly 850 square miles. I'm not sure admitting to that much urban sprawl is something to boast about.
Tales of the Riverbank
Part of the programme of urban improvement is the Southbank Riverwalk, a pleasant stroll of just over a mile that links many of the attractions in the city centre. There is the ubiquitous Museum of Science and History (oooh there's a shock. I bet it's got 'hands on' exhibits, just great for the kids. "C'mon child, learn darn you, learn".) Perhaps more to your taste would be the Jacksonville Museum of Modern Art or the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. The latter contains some decent works by various European maters set against the background of pleasant, lush riverside gardens.
Other museums include the Jacksonville Historical Centre (local history) and the Jacksonville Maritime Museum (local marine history).
Jacksonville Beach
Some 15 miles distant from the main town lies the resort of Jacksonville Beach. There are several beaches to choose from, Neptune and Seminole Beaches are more tranquil, Atlantic beach is for surfer dudes and the main Jacksonville Beach is the lively one.
Eating, Drinking and Sleeping
Availability and price of accommodation is good in all price ranges.
The seafood is good but the food is very mainstream US apart from that. For nightlife, check out Jacksonville Beach or the Riverwalk area in the city itself. Both places are littered with bars of all sorts.
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