The place To Keep in Jacksonville, FL (Greatest Areas and Locations)

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Deciding the place to remain in Jacksonville could be a robust determination. In spite of everything, it is a large metropolis within the USA. From stylish seaside cities to bustling nightlife vibes, the Jacksonville space actually has all of it. It’s good for households, {couples}, adventurers, and everybody in between.

Once I first moved to Jax, it took me a number of months to get my bearings and wrap my head across the totally different areas of the town. However as soon as I did, I spotted simply how distinctive, enjoyable, and charming Jacksonville actually is. Every neighborhood affords one thing totally different.

Jacksonville is the most important metropolis by land mass within the decrease 48 states, so there’s a whole lot of floor to cowl. Deciding the place to remain in Jacksonville can really feel overwhelming and complicated on account of its measurement – however don’t fear, I’ve acquired you lined.

Greatest Areas to Keep in Jacksonville

Fast Look: Greatest Areas to Keep in Jacksonville

The place To Keep in Jacksonville

Searching for nice meals? Jacksonville has a neighborhood for that. A soothing seaside getaway? You could find that too. A bustling, hip space with bars and galleries? Yep, Jax has it. Listed below are among the greatest neighborhoods in Jacksonville:

Jacksonville Seashore (Greatest for For-Time Guests)

If it’s your first time visiting Jacksonville, you’ll undoubtedly wish to keep in Jacksonville Seashore – it’s by far considered one of my favourite areas in the whole metropolis. It’s acquired a little bit little bit of the whole lot for guests of all ages, and the sprawling seaside is postcard-worthy.

You’ll discover bars, eating places, nightlife, and buying in Jacksonville Seashore, and it’s only a brief drive to downtown Jacksonville if you wish to spend a day on the museums or a Jags recreation. This little part of city affords each continuous enjoyable or whole leisure – relying on the way you play it.

Professionals of Staying in Jacksonville Seashore

• White sandy seaside simply steps away
• Nice number of eating places and bars
• Nightlife and dancing
• Household-friendly actions
• Cute clothes boutiques

Cons of Staying in Jacksonville Seashore

• 20-minute drive to downtown
• Could be noisy throughout peak months (summer time)
• Costly throughout peak months
• Could be crowded throughout peak months
• 40 minutes from the airport

Greatest Locations to Keep in Jacksonville Seashore

Listed below are among the greatest accommodations in Jacksonville Seashore – non-public stays are additionally included:

1. Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Seashore Oceanfront: Situated instantly on the seaside, this lodge is an absolute dream for first-time guests. There are additionally two swimming swimming pools and a restaurant, and it’s inside strolling distance of the whole lot. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Jacksonville Seashore House: To your first time in Jax Seashore, why not deal with your self to a complete dwelling? This attractive house is only a brief stroll to the seaside, eating places, and bars. If you happen to’re in search of an additional layer of luxurious, you may even organize your individual non-public chef. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Margaritaville Jacksonville Seashore: Nothing says “Florida” greater than Jimmy Buffet (RIP) and Margaritaville. This tremendous enjoyable lodge sits instantly between Jacksonville Seashore and Neptune Seashore. Click on right here for particulars.

Prime Issues To Do in Jacksonville Seashore

There’s no scarcity of enjoyable issues to do in Jacksonville Seashore – listed below are a few of my private favourite actions:

1. Journey Touchdown & Shipwreck Island Water Park: Typically you desire a break from the seaside for another water actions, and this water park is the place to go once you do. You’ll discover water slides, a wave pool, and cabana leases. It’s continuous smiles. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Seashore Life Leases: A keep on the seaside isn’t full with no bike cruise or a day practising your SUP expertise. At Seashore Life Leases, you may hire seaside cruise bikes, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and even seaside chairs. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Jacksonville Ghosts and Ghouls Tour By US Ghost Adventures: After a day within the solar, expertise the spooky facet of Jax Seashore with a guided ghost tour. You’ll take a strolling tour of among the most haunted websites on this unassuming beachside city and study rather a lot about its previous alongside the way in which. Click on right here to study extra and ebook.

The place to Eat and Drink in Jacksonville Seashore

It doesn’t matter what you’re craving – Jacksonville Seashore has a restaurant or pub to fulfill it. Listed below are among the tastiest eating places I’ve tried thus far (there are such a lot of!):

1. V Pizza: It’s by no means lengthy earlier than I get a hankering for scrumptious pizza. Fortunately, V Pizza makes among the greatest. Additionally they have a unbelievable cocktail bar that makes a deliciously good Manhattan. Discover instructions right here.

2. Salt Life Meals Shack: If it’s your first time in Florida, you’ll discover that tons of vehicles have ‘Salt Life’ bumper stickers, and individuals are carrying ‘Salt Life’ t-shirts on each block. It’s a model that represents a lifestyle right here in Florida, and so they even have a killer restaurant with nice meals. Discover instructions right here.

3. Maple Road Biscuit Firm: So far as breakfast goes, this spot is likely to be the tastiest within the metropolis. You’ll discover quite a lot of biscuits and gravy, in addition to biscuit sandwiches, waffles, grits, and extra. It’s a terrific place to gas up for a day of exploration. Discover instructions right here.

Downtown (Greatest Space for Nightlife)

If it’s late-night drinks, dancing, reside music, and DJs that you simply’re after, you’ll wish to base your self downtown. There are some unbelievable bars and nightclubs that may’t be missed. The restaurant selections are top-notch as nicely.

Professionals of Staying in Downtown

• Strolling distance to bars and eating places
• Near museums, venues, and the stadium
• Scrumptious eating places and cafes
• Near the riverfront
• Easy accessibility to different cool neighborhoods

Cons of Staying in Downtown

• Many locations are closed throughout the day
• 20-minute drive to the seaside
• Parking will be costly (particularly throughout live shows, occasions, or recreation days)
• Bars and eating places are costly

Greatest Locations to Keep in Downtown

There are some nice choices for accommodations close to Jacksonville nightlife. Listed below are those I at all times suggest to family and friends:

1. Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront: A beautiful riverfront view? Sure, please! How a few rooftop pool? All day. This lodge is completely located for all issues and locations downtown. Plus, they provide a free shuttle wherever inside a 3-mile radius. Click on right here for extra particulars.

2. Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville Downtown: If you happen to’re questioning the place to remain in Jacksonville for nightlife, that is one other nice possibility within the “Brooklyn” space of downtown. They’ve a pool, and it’s inside strolling distance of the Florida Theater and the Cummers Museum. Click on right here for particulars.

3. DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront: This unbelievable possibility is positioned simply over the walkable bridge from downtown. They’ve an out of doors pool, a riverfront view, and two eating places. Click on right here for particulars.

Prime Issues To Do in Downtown

Downtown Jacksonville is a mecca for all issues arts, tradition, and nightlife. Listed below are among the spots that may’t be missed:

1. MOCA (Museum of Modern Artwork): Earlier than you head out in town at night time, you’ll wish to spend a number of hours at MOCA. With greater than 500 artists representing over 1,000 artistic endeavors, it’s undoubtedly a deal with for the eyes. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: As an alternative of an evening of bar-hopping, why not go to a Jaguars recreation? The followers have among the greatest power, and the stadium itself is unbelievable. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Half-Day Metropolis Tour in Downtown Jacksonville: Hop in a tuk-tuk and discover the town’s structure and historical past on this enjoyable guided tour. I took my household on this tour, and everybody was in awe; I extremely suggest it. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Downtown

Downtown is without doubt one of the greatest neighborhoods in Jacksonville to seek out mouthwatering meals and completely crafted cocktails. Listed below are my prime picks for meals and drinks in Jax:

1. Cowford Chophouse: Probably the most unbelievable meals I’ve had in Jacksonville was at Cowford Chophouse. It’s costly, however value each greenback. Strive the roasted bone marrow and filet with foie gras and bacon jam. Get instructions right here.

2. The Volstead: This speakeasy-style bar is my favourite in the whole downtown space. They make unbelievable handcrafted cocktails together with a completely good Outdated Long-established. Get instructions right here.

3. Delusion Nightclub: Delusion is your best option for late-night dancing and drinks. They’ve a quiet cocktail bar for dialog, an out of doors terrace, and a high-energy membership. Get instructions right here.

Neptune Seashore (Coolest Place to Keep in Jacksonville)

Neptune Seashore is my FAVORITE space of Jacksonville. It boasts that tropical “beachy” really feel with palm bushes lining the slim, cobblestone downtown streets. There are tons of nice eating places, cool bars, and classy boutiques. Plus, the seaside itself affords the best place for sunbathing all day.

Professionals of Staying in Neptune Seashore

• Numerous scrumptious meals choices
• Cool bars (together with the oldest in Jacksonville, extra on that under)
• Stylish and hip boutiques and galleries
• Stunning seaside
• Quiet at night time

Cons of Staying in Neptune Seashore

• Not many locations open late
• Not a ton of lodge choices
• 20-25 minutes to downtown
• Crowded throughout peak season (summer time)
• Laborious-to-find parking

Greatest Locations to Keep in Neptune Seashore

With the larger Jacksonville Seashore as its neighboring neighborhood, most accommodations are positioned there. Nonetheless, listed below are some cool locations to remain in Neptune Seashore (or inside strolling distance):

1. One Ocean Resort and Spa: If you happen to’re trying to splurge and spoil your self, that is the spot to remain. This attractive beachfront resort encompasses a beautiful pool, unbelievable restaurant, and spa with indulgent remedies. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Salt Air Inn and Suites: Tremendous cute and charming is how I might describe this lodge. This five-star property is surprisingly inexpensive and has that good seaside really feel. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Beachfront Getaway: If you happen to’d desire to hire a complete dwelling, this attractive rental is ideal for a bunch. It’s steps from the seaside and is inside strolling distance of loads of nice bars and eating places. Click on right here for particulars.

Prime Issues To Do in Neptune Seashore

Although I don’t reside close to Neptune Seashore, I make it a degree to go to the world at the very least as soon as a month. Listed below are a few of my favourite suggestions:

1. BrewHound Canine Park and Bar: Every time I go to Neptune Seashore, I deliver my pup and head to BrewHound. This wonderful spot is a spot the place you may let your canine run free on astroturf with different canines when you sip on a beer or kombucha. I might nonetheless love to hang around right here, even when I didn’t have a canine! Click on right here for instructions.

2. Southern Breeze Cart Rental: Neptune Seashore is enjoyable simply to discover and cruise the seaside city streets – and Florida is mainly synonymous with golf carts. Lease a cart for the day and take a look at totally different spots within the space. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Jax Surf and Paddle: Lease a surfboard or paddleboard and hit the water for the day. And in case you’re unskilled (like myself), you may take classes for each. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Neptune Seashore

Neptune Seashore is dwelling to a few of my favourite eating places in all of Jax. If you happen to’re within the space and looking for out elevated and inventive delicacies – you place these spots in your radar:

1. Hawker’s: I swoon each time I get to eat bao, dumplings, or noodles. This stylish location affords all that and extra. I additionally love their saké flight. Get instructions right here.

2. Mezza Luna: If you happen to’re in search of one thing a little bit extra upscale, this Italian restaurant is a divine selection. Strive their contemporary pappardelle with braised brief rib ragu and the wild mushroom pizza. Get instructions right here.

3. Pete’s Bar: This historic dive bar was the primary to legally open in Duval County after the prohibition. It has laidback vibes with pool tables and bar sports activities however stays open late for reside music and DJs. Get instructions right here.

San Marco (Greatest Space for Foodies)

I don’t learn about you, however typically I base my journey plans solely round meals. If you happen to’re that kind of individual, you’ll wish to keep within the San Marco space of city – it’s a foodies’ paradise. It has cool avenue artwork, stunning structure, and a few critically wonderful eating places. It’s additionally one of many extra upmarket areas of Jacksonville.

Professionals of Staying in San Marco

• Very walkable
• Superior avenue artwork and murals
• Historic neighborhood
• Numerous noteworthy eating places and cafes
• Up-and-coming breweries and cocktail bars

Cons of Staying in San Marco

• 25-Half-hour from the seaside
• Not a ton of lodging choices
• Crowded throughout peak season (summer time)
• Tough to seek out parking

Greatest Locations to Keep in San Marco

Although San Marco is without doubt one of the hottest Jacksonville neighborhoods, it has a restricted quantity of native lodging. These are among the greatest within the space:

1. Hilton Backyard Inn Jacksonville Downtown Southbank: Situated within the coronary heart of San Marco, this lodge is inside strolling distance of the whole lot chances are you’ll wish to see throughout your keep. It additionally has a terrific pool. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Southbank Lodge by Marriott Jacksonville Riverwalk: My household stayed right here throughout their final go to, and it’s attractive. It’s a little bit longer of a stroll to the middle of San Marco however remains to be very shut. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Farmhouse by the River: This stunning dwelling is ideal in case you plan on visiting the San Marco space with your loved ones. This two-bedroom home is tremendous near the river and in a really secure neighborhood in Jacksonville. Click on right here for particulars.

Prime Issues To Do in San Marco

In fact, meals is the principle focus of the San Marco space, nevertheless it additionally has much more to supply. Undoubtedly verify these concepts out in case you’re within the space:

1. Self-Guided Artwork Stroll Tour: The San Marco space of Jacksonville is dwelling to a number of stunning and eccentric avenue artwork and murals. Spend the day cruising across the neighborhood and taking Instagram-worthy photos. Click on right here to obtain the artwork map.

2. Structure and Historical past Tour in San Marco: With roots courting again to 1793, San Marco has a wealthy historical past. This 3-hour tour will take you on a tuk-tuk journey by the neighborhood with a educated information. Click on right here to study extra and ebook.

3. Savoring San Marco: A go to to San Marco can be a waste in case you didn’t check out a strolling meals tour. This 3-hour tour will cease at 5 of the neighborhood’s greatest eating places. I beloved this tour as a result of it was like a pattern platter of all the most effective locations. Click on right here to study extra and ebook.

The place to Eat and Drink in San Marco

Now for the good things! San Marco is legendary for its food and drinks, so it was onerous to decide on the most effective locations – however these are my favorites:

1. Bar Molino: I ended in right here for dinner earlier than a live performance and was blown away. They provide some superbly offered and scrumptious Spanish tapas dishes, alongside a unbelievable wine choice. Get instructions right here.

2. Rue Saint-Marc: French eating at its most interesting is what you’ll discover at this beautiful institution. Menu objects embrace Maine Scallops, Roasted Venison Loin, and Pistachio Cake. Additionally they have a powerful cocktail menu. Get instructions right here.

3. City Corridor: Recent native elements, considerate, elevated recipes, and a cocktail record to die for. Their pleased hour is considered one of my favorites within the south Jacksonville space. Get instructions right here.

Mandarin (Greatest Place in Jacksonville on a Finances)

Typically, you want to journey on a price range. Fortunately, when fascinated about the place to remain in Jacksonville, the Mandarin space has many wallet-friendly actions and lodging. It’s a quiet and clear neighborhood with a whole lot of character, historic websites, and river actions.

Professionals of Staying in Mandarin

• Close to the St. Johns River
• Quite a lot of nature (giant oak bushes with Spanish moss)
• Stunning parks
• Historic neighborhood
• Good restaurant choices

Cons of Staying in Mandarin

• About 25 minutes from downtown
• 30-35 minutes to the seaside
• Principally residential space
• Restricted actions

Greatest Locations to Keep in Mandarin

The largest perk about staying within the Mandarin space of Jacksonville is which you could keep on a price range. Listed below are some choices that received’t break the financial institution:

1. Tru By Hilton Jacksonville South Mandarin: With rooms underneath $150, this lodge is sort of an inexpensive place to remain in Jacksonville. They’ve a swimming pool and health middle as nicely. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Cush Jax Baymeadows Ranch: If you happen to’re touring with your loved ones or a bunch, this home is spacious, inexpensive, and has a phenomenal patio. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Embassy Suites by Hilton Jacksonville Baymeadows: This lodge has stunning rooms, and an indoor swimming pool, and is conveniently positioned, only a brief drive to Mandarin and different neighborhoods in Jacksonville. Click on right here for particulars.

Prime Issues To Do in Mandarin

Regardless of being a principally residential space, Mandarin has some attention-grabbing and enjoyable issues to do on a price range. Try my prime selections in case you’re within the neighborhood:

1. Walter Jones Historic Park: Get some contemporary air whereas taking within the magnificence and tranquility of this park. Cease by the Mandarin Museum to study in regards to the space’s historical past within the Civil Warfare. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Sugar Bear Antiques Mall: Spend an hour or two perusing my favourite vintage store in South Jacksonville. There are such a lot of enjoyable trinkets and collectibles to seek out. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Breakout Video games: Check your puzzle-solving expertise in an escape room! My pals and I did this one night time and had such a blast within the “Runaway Practice” room. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Mandarin

There are some tasty locations to eat on this quiet space of Jacksonville. These are some nice choices to attempt:

1. Julington Creek Fish Camp: I completely love going to a fish camp, and this is without doubt one of the greatest ones in Jacksonville. Their inexpensive menu contains grilled octopus, sandwiches, seafood platters, and extra. Get instructions right here.

2. Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe: This native chain is a superb selection once you’re on a price range. My favourite objects are the chargrilled lamb, lemon hen soup, and the spicy hen gyro. Get instructions right here.

3. Clara’s Tidbits Restaurant Mandarin: One other native chain, this cafe is critically scrumptious. They’re recognized for his or her sandwiches but additionally have soups and salads as nicely. Get instructions right here.

Suggestions About Staying in Jacksonville

After exploring Jacksonville for almost 5 years, I’ve realized some recommendations on the place to remain in Jacksonville and methods to navigate and discover the Daring Metropolis. Learn on to learn how to make your journey run as easily as attainable.

Keep away from Rush Hour

Jacksonville has an expansive freeway system, nevertheless, the push hour site visitors will be brutal. Keep away from these morning and afternoon commute hours on the roads in case you can. It’s value checking on maps earlier than setting off to verify for high-traffic volumes alongside your meant route.

Name for Seasonal Costs

Many accommodations and points of interest change their costs per season. Name round on to see if there’s a seasonal distinction, and plan your journey accordingly. Attempt to ebook as far prematurely as you’re capable of.

All the time Deliver a Chair to the Seashore

Jacksonville Seashores are completely stunning, and the sand is smooth and ideal – however they can be a bit windy. If you happen to’re laying on only a towel or blanket, you would possibly get sand whipped in your face. Purchase or hire a seaside chair when you may to make your expertise extra snug.

Cautious to Keep away from Tolls

Numerous Jacksonville freeways provide expressways to bypass site visitors when you have a particular move. Watch out to not entry these expressways with out the move, or you would find yourself with an undesirable invoice.

Summer season Bugs Are No Joke

If you happen to’re visiting throughout the moist, scorching summer time months, be sure you hold some bug spray readily available. The mosquitoes round nightfall will be relentless.

FAQ’s About The place To Keep in Jacksonville

Listed below are some generally requested questions that I typically hear from my family and friends. After spending 5 years as a vacationer and one yr as a full-time resident of Jacksonville, I do know the town just like the again of my hand. I hope these solutions assist put together you in your keep:

In Conclusion

Every neighborhood of Jacksonville has one thing distinctive to supply – it’s one of many many explanation why I like this metropolis a lot. It’s large and sprawling, however that solely permits for various communities in every nook. There’s at all times someplace enjoyable to find.

When deciding the place to remain in Jacksonville, take into account the way you wish to spend your time and resolve from there. You received’t be dissatisfied with no matter space you select.