Jacksonville is a coastal city in the northeastern portion of the state of Florida. It has the distinction of being the largest city in the world by square miles (roughly 624), and has a metropolitan area spanning Nassau, St. John's, Baker, Clay, and Duval counties with a metropolitan population of over 1 million people.

Get around

A car is a must to get around the city; due to its size, it is nearly impossible to walk anywhere. Mass transit is limited to the city bus system, and a small, elevated rail system in the downtown district that locals consistently complain about not going anywhere. The bus system is excellent, with all buses linked via GPS to a central control system and stops are well-marked throughout the entire city. The city's mass transit web site is: .

Taxi services are available, but expensive due to the sprawl of the city.

Attractions

 • St. Augustine - Founded by Spanish colonists in 1565, St. Augustine lays claim to being the oldest permanent settlement in the United States. It is about a 45 minute drive south of Jacksonville by I-95, or about an hour taking the more scenic route down FL-A1A. It boasts many fine restaurants and tourist attractions, as well as a unique blend of old world architectural styles inherited from its Spanish and British masters. The fort, the old city, the Flagler Museum, St. George's Street, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, and the Bridge of Lions are all recommended.
 • Fort Caroline - The original French fort, destroyed by Spanish troops from St. Augustine, now lies somewhere beneath the St. John's River. A modern recreation currently stands on the riverbank with a museum dedicated to the first settlements by the French in the area.
 • Amelia Island - A beautiful island about an hour north of Jacksonville along FL-A1A, it is home to upscale houses, and the Amelia Island Plantation. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Amelia Island was used as a pirate base for raids on Spanish shipping. Local tales still talk of forgotten buried treasure in the area
 • The Irish Castle - It doesn't really have a name, but on FL-A1A between Jacksonville and St. Augustine is a replica of an Irish monastery. Built as a private residence, the owner used to give tours every third Sunday. Due to zoning laws, public tours might not be given anymore.
 • Olustee Battlefield - About an hour's drive west along I-10 is the Olustee Battlefield, site of the only Civil War engagement in Florida. The battle is reenacted each February, and is a popular site for Civil War buffs.
 • The TPC - If you like golf, Jacksonville is second only to Augusta. The Player's Championship is every spring in Ponte Vedra Beach, a suburb of Jacksonville. The police are out in force with speed traps during "TPC Week," especially along J. Turner Butler Blvd, the main road to Ponte Vedra.
 • Kingston Plantation - A well-preserved, Southern plantation. Well worth the trip to see.
 • Museum of Science and History - Also known as the "MOSH" by locals, the museum has many interesting science exhibits, and some interesting information about local history.
 • Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens - A recently expanded art gallery and formal garden set alongside the Jacksonville waterfront. Features primarily European and American paintings as well as a large collection of early Meissen porcelain.

Shopping

 • Regency Square Mall - Located at the intersection of Atlantic and Southside Blvds near Arlington. Oriented towards the Boom Car crowd, oversized pants, and hip-hop.
 • Avenues Square Mall - Located at the intersection of Southside Blvd and Phillips Hwy. Safer and far more elegant shopping options. Only place to get Kiehl's in Jacksonville.
 • The Landing - A downtown shopping district located on the river.

Drink

 • London Bridge Pub - 100 East Adams Street, about 2 blocks north of the main street bridge. 15 or so draft beers and good cottage pie
 • Lynch's Irish Pub - 514 N. First Street, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250. A well known Irish pub in Jacksonville Beach. Many good imported pints on tap, with live music, and a raucous atmosphere. Cover charge on weekends.

Lodging

 • The Elizabeth Pointe Lodge - Located on Amelia Island, just outside the city of Jacksonville. Bed & Breakfast amenities; on the beach.
 • The Oak Street Inn - Gorgeous B&B located in historic Riverside, a vibrant and diverse downtown art community.
 • The Riverdale Inn - Another beautiful B&B in Riverside, this one is adjacent to the stunning Memorial Park and has a renowned restaurant.