Jacksonville, Florida--What to do, what to see and how the locals think of it.

In 1822, a small crossing at the St. Johns River called Cowford (or cow crossing) officially became Jacksonville when a group of citizens petitioned Congress to make the city a port of entry. At the time Downtown was the main focal point of the city. But like most big cities, the downtown area is currently undergoing a revamping.

Jacksonville is the largest city in the United States in square mileage. The city is basically made up of many small communities that have become sides of town.

Sides of town:

Arlington

Beaches--Twenty miles of beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. There are a ton of small shops and eateries along the beach, including the Freebird Cafe--founded by family members of the band, Lynard Skynrd.

Downtown/Riverfront/Southbank---Downtown houses the jail and many of the city's larger businesses.

The Jacksonville Landing, a restaurant and shopping complex, is downtown on the river. A large number of events are held here and there is often live music. There are several sit-down restaurants as well as some fast food type restaurants to choose from at the Landing.

Southbank is across the way from the Landing. The Museum of Science and History, also known as MOSH, is found on the Southbank. Friendship Fountain is next to MOSH. You can take a water taxi from the Landing or you can walk across the Main Street Bridge to get to the museum and fountain. There is also a nautical museum next to the bridge, near MOSH.

Mayport--At the beaches. Mayport, is actually the name of the Navy base. But the area around it is also called "Mayport." Kathryn-Abbey Hanna Park is located next to the base and provides camping and many trails for biking and hiking.

Orange Park--Orange Park is actually a separate, much smaller city. It is just South of Jacksonville and one of the four major malls in the Jacksonville area are just within Orange Park's boundaries. The Demi Moore movie G.I. Jane was filmed here at Camp Blanding.

Northside/Airport--The area near the airport is the most spread out. And once you past the airport there is nothing but trees until you hit the city of Fernandina. (This part of road also has a high amount of deadly accidents for some reason.) The Northside houses the Jacksonville Zoo (along Hecksher Drive) as well as the Busch Factory, where you can take a tour. If you like flea markets, one exit north of the airport you will find the Pecan Park Flea Market.

San Marco--The San Marco neighborhood was originally the home of a single resident, William Hendricks. Called Oklahoma in the 1800s, it was later named South Jacksonville in 1907. When the Acosta Bridge was completed in 1921, the area started to grow. The San Marco Square was modeled after the famous St. Mark's Square in Venice and features upper class restaurants, galleries and shops. There is also a theater here that at one point served dinner while you watched your movie.

Westside--This side of town is probably the most racially/culturally diverse. IF you want to find farms or big plots of land, most of them are hidden on this side of town. The Cecil Field Commerce Center is located over here and is a great place to go swimming (free) and access to a gym ($2). You can go horseback riding at Westside Stables. And they have a new msystery dinner show open on Blanding, called Professor Plum's (excellent food) read the review here.

Riverside/Avondale--In the late 1800s Riverside was Jacksonville's most prestigious suburb. Situated on the St. Johns River, the area drew many big names. When Avondale was developed to the south in the 1920s, it continued the theme of sophisticated charm established in Riverside. Today the two neighborhoods offer a rich architectural heritage in their homes, churches, schools and parks. In recognition of its scenic and historic value, the entire area has been designated one of the country's largest National Register Historic Districts.

The Cummer Art Gallery is located in Riverside. They have a nice gallery, a great kid's area and a beautiful waterfront garden. Tuesday nights you can visit the Cummer for free after 4pm (donations accepted).

Five Points is also located in Riverside. You can find some interesting shops as well as a variety of food shops from smoothies to heart-smart.

Southside--One of the busier sides of town. Lot's of major shopping plazas and stores, including one of the four major malls in Jacksonville; Regency Mall.

Some interesting things to see & do

Playtime Drive-In Theatre and Flea Market

6300 Blanding Blvd; 904-771-9939

The drive-in is one of very few left in the country. It used to be an old dirty movie house, but now plays newer movies.They have three screens and ideal to visit during the cooler weather. They have a concession stand with pizza and other goodies. If you have a quiet pooch, bring him along too! Runs about $4 a person, but you can usually watch more than one movie.

Jacksonville Fire Museum

The Jacksonville Fire Museum is housed in a 1902 Fire Station which is a National Registered Historical Building. Located right inside a free kid's play area near Metro Park, downtown.

Hemming Plaza Farmers’ Market

The market, formerly located on Hogan Street recently relocated to Hemming Plaza.

Features fresh fruits and vegetables, specialty and gourmet foods, handcrafted items, fresh cut flowers, baked goods, desserts, pesto, soaps and candles, fresh herbs and plants, handmade jewelry, hand carved flowers, back massages, apparel, fresh salsas and more. Fridays 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Dog Friendly

To check out some of our pet friendly recommendations, go here.