Situated on the east coast of Florida, Jacksonville is without doubt one of the extra underrated cities within the Sunshine State. Together with being the biggest within the U.S. when it comes to land space, the town is dwelling to an limitless shoreline, sandy seashores, and virtually 300 days of sunshine per yr. For those who’re new to residing in Jacksonville, you’ll be glad to know that there are many methods to benefit from the open air any time of the yr. So whether or not you simply purchased a home in Englewood otherwise you’re renting an condominium in Seashore Haven, listed here are some outside actions in Jacksonville to introduce you to your new metropolis.
1. Go to certainly one of many state parks in and round Jacksonville
The wonderful thing about residing in a metropolis like Jacksonville is that with seemingly limitless sunshine, there’s by no means a nasty time to go to a state park. Fortunately, the town is just some miles away from quite a lot of them.
“Florida has the most effective state park programs within the nation,” says Samantha of Flashpacking America. “So don’t miss going to a state park close to Jacksonville. “There are a number of coastal state parks alongside the Atlantic Ocean which can be lower than an hour from Jacksonville.”
Little Talbot Island State Park, Amelia Island State Park, Pumpkin Hill Protect State Park, and so many extra are situated simply east of the town. For a day crammed with recent air, gorgeous views of nature, and outside actions within the Jacksonville space, make sure to pay certainly one of these parks a go to.
2. Constitution a fishing boat
Dwelling close to water has loads of perks, and Jacksonville’s location makes it a first-rate spot for fishing fanatics. From its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean to the St. John’s River flowing via the middle of the town, there are many choices for fishing in Jacksonville. Whether or not you’re a seasoned professional or have by no means been fishing, you may constitution a ship and fish off the coast or on the river. Learners can study the fundamentals from skilled captains and presumably uncover a brand new favourite outside exercise in Jacksonville.
3. Take pleasure in a enjoyable night time of music and meals in Avondale
Jacksonville is stuffed with distinctive neighborhoods, with every providing its personal distinct taste. Elenis Camargo of Thirdstone Properties, a neighborhood property administration firm, recommends testing the historic Avondale neighborhood in central Jacksonville alongside the west financial institution of the St. Johns River.
“Probably the greatest methods to spend a Friday night in Jacksonville is by strolling via the retailers on St Johns Avenue within the historic neighborhood of Avondale whereas listening to native musicians play alongside the avenue,” says Elenis. “Each final Friday of the month, Historic Avondale hosts Music in Avondale from 6 pm to 9 pm. The retailers and music are situated on the cross streets of Talbot Avenue, Ingleside Avenue, and Dancy Road and have greater than sixty domestically owned and operated companies, together with bars, eating places, and bouquet retailers. We benefit from the outside seating at one of many many eating places on the avenue and seize some Whit’s Frozen Custard for dessert.”
4. Calm down on certainly one of Jacksonville’s sandy seashores
Because the capital of the Sunshine State, it’s no shocker that Jacksonville is dwelling to a number of seashores, all inside a couple of minutes of downtown Jacksonville. Outside actions like browsing or paddle boarding are just some methods to have enjoyable on the water. Whether or not you wish to take pleasure in widespread water sports activities or simply sunbathe on the sand, there are many methods to benefit from the seaside. Among the many most notable are Jacksonville Seashore and Neptune Seashore within the northern a part of the town and Mayport Seashore additional south.
5. Take your canine to a neighborhood Jacksonville canine park
An enormous a part of transferring to a brand new metropolis is discovering enjoyable locations to take your pets. Pets and homeowners alike will love spending time open air at Brewhound Canine Park and Bar. A day right here is usually a nice outside exercise in Jacksonville for folks and their furry companions.
“Brewhound Canine Park and Bar in Neptune Seashore, FL (Jacksonville Seashore) is a good spot for canines and their people to mingle and blow off steam,” says Jacksonville native Oliver Langley of Accent Properties. “With a big number of drinks and canine actions, everybody, canines and people alike, is certain to search out one thing they like right here.”
6. Go to the Treaty Oak and extra close to the Riverwalk
Recognized for its distinctive look and historic significance, the Treaty Oak is a 70-foot-tall oak tree situated within the Southbank space of Jacksonville. It’s estimated to be about 250 years previous, predating the town itself. The tree acquired its identify from a neighborhood reporter who began a false rumor that it was the positioning of a treaty between indigenous locals and settlers in an effort to reserve it from being chopped down.
“My suggestion for an exercise that’s at all times well worth the journey is visiting probably the most photogenic spots in Downtown Jacksonville, ” says Jacksonville-based photographer Teresa Reichert. “Treaty Oak is a fan favourite. The historical past round such a magnificence is simply as intriguing because the very branches that kiss the bottom. Additionally, make sure to go to the Riverwalk’s Mosaic Mirror Wall, which is just a few paces away on the close by waterway. Friendship Fountain is alongside the Riverwalk as properly, so take pleasure in each stunning piece of this attractive surroundings. And don’t neglect to look at the sunsetting skies over the water. It’s breathtaking.”
7. Try the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoological Park
While you consider Florida wildlife, alligators are doubtless the primary issues that come to thoughts. There are 24 crocodilian species, all of which may be discovered at Jacksonville’s St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoological Park. The ability additionally conducts analysis and assists in conservation efforts. Along with the reptiles, the park encompasses a zip line that runs all through the park. In addition they host excursions and academic displays highlighting a various array of animals.