Positioned on the east coast of Florida, Jacksonville is likely 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, town is house to an infinite shoreline, sandy seashores, and nearly 300 days of sunshine per yr. Should you’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 condo in Seaside Haven, listed here are some outside actions in Jacksonville to introduce you to your new metropolis.
1. Go to one in every of many state parks in and round Jacksonville
The wonderful thing about residing in a metropolis like Jacksonville is that with seemingly infinite sunshine, there’s by no means a nasty time to go to a state park. Fortunately, town is only a few miles away from various them.
“Florida has among the finest 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 might 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 town. For a day crammed with recent air, gorgeous views of nature, and outside actions within the Jacksonville space, you should definitely pay one in every 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 primary spot for fishing fanatics. From its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean to the St. John’s River flowing via the middle of 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 possibly can constitution a ship and fish off the coast or on the river. Inexperienced persons can be taught the fundamentals from skilled captains and presumably uncover a brand new favourite outside exercise in Jacksonville.
3. Get pleasure from a enjoyable evening of music and meals in Avondale
Jacksonville is filled with distinctive neighborhoods, with every providing its personal distinct taste. Elenis Camargo of Thirdstone Properties, an area property administration firm, recommends trying out the historic Avondale neighborhood in central Jacksonville alongside the west financial institution of the St. Johns River.
“Among the finest methods to spend a Friday night in Jacksonville is by strolling via the outlets 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 outlets and music are situated on the cross streets of Talbot Avenue, Ingleside Avenue, and Dancy Avenue and have greater than sixty domestically owned and operated companies, together with bars, eating places, and bouquet outlets. 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 one in every of Jacksonville’s sandy seashores
Because the capital of the Sunshine State, it’s no shocker that Jacksonville is house to a number of seashores, all inside a couple of minutes of downtown Jacksonville. Outside actions like browsing or paddle boarding are only a few methods to have enjoyable on the water. Whether or not you need to get pleasure from widespread water sports activities or simply sunbathe on the sand, there are many methods to benefit from the seashore. Among the many most notable are Jacksonville Seaside and Neptune Seaside within the northern a part of town and Mayport Seaside additional south.
5. Take your canine to an area Jacksonville canine park
An enormous a part of transferring to a brand new metropolis is discovering enjoyable locations to take your pets. Pets and house owners alike will love spending time open air at Brewhound Canine Park and Bar. A day right here generally is a nice outside exercise in Jacksonville for individuals and their furry companions.
“Brewhound Canine Park and Bar in Neptune Seaside, FL (Jacksonville Seaside) is a superb spot for canine and their people to mingle and blow off steam,” says Jacksonville native Oliver Langley of Accent Properties. “With a big collection of drinks and canine actions, everybody, canine and people alike, is bound to seek out one thing they like right here.”
6. Go to the Treaty Oak and extra close to the Riverwalk
Identified 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 outdated, predating town itself. The tree obtained its title from an area reporter who began a false rumor that it was the location of a treaty between indigenous locals and settlers in an effort to put it aside from being chopped down.
“My advice for an exercise that’s at all times definitely 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, you should definitely 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 get pleasure from each stunning piece of this beautiful surroundings. And don’t overlook to observe the sunsetting skies over the water. It’s breathtaking.”
7. Take a look at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoological Park
If you consider Florida wildlife, alligators are probably the primary issues that come to thoughts. There are 24 crocodilian species, all of which could 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 incorporates a zip line that runs all through the park. Additionally they host excursions and academic reveals highlighting a various array of animals.