Jacksonville - is the most populous city in the state of Florida (FL) and the thirteenth most populous city in the USA. It is the county seat of Duval County. The city has an estimated population of 782,623, with a metropolitan population of more than 1.2 million. Jacksonville is located in the First Coast region of northeast Florida. The city is situated on the banks of the St. Johns River, which flows north and empties into the Atlantic Ocean about 20 miles east of downtown.
Climate has a humid subtropical climate, with mild weather during winters and hot weather during summers.
On both edges of the St. Johns river, in downtown Jacksonville there are river walks that offer beautiful views of downtown as well as access to the Jacksonville Landing, an open-air mall that is often the site of concerts, political rally's or other events, and other attractions along the way. The river walks are beautiful places for romantic walks in the evening.
This great river courses south to north and feeds the awesome scenery found through the city. Explore Jacksonville as you follow its riverbanks, on foot or by water taxi, that lead you to attractive dining establishments, wonderful scenery and world-renowned museums. Stroll along the pathways or visit the Friendship Fountain, which is quite stunning at night. There are several attractive parks here as well. And if you’re in the mood for some surf and sand, Jacksonville is a short drive away from the popular Jacksonville Beach. Pack your walking shoes and flip flops and get ready to experience Jacksonville.
One of its more famous areas is the fantastic Jacksonville Landing. Situated on the north bank of the St. Johns River, this riverfront complex is filled with great dining alternatives, unique stores and often has live entertainment. Next door you’ll notice Times-Union Center, the place to be for Broadway shows, concerts and the Jacksonville Symphony. Cross over to the south side of the river and you’ll be at the Riverwalk, a beautiful city park that possess a great boardwalk situated along the river. Here you’ll also observe the MOSH, the Museum of Science and History.
Enjoy learning about space at its planetarium, the St. John’s river system or explore its numerous exhibits, containing an awesome one on Dinosaurs. Another great museum in Jacksonville is the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Wonderful situated along the St. Johns River, this fine art museum possess 12 fantastic galleries that showcases art dating back from 2,000 BC up until today. Its stunning English gardens surround the building allowing you to enjoy the works of art both inside and outdoors.
Jacksonville possesses three beach towns, which are nice enough and possess fine beaches but more or less blend together. Immediately to the south is Ponte Vedra Beach, where many golf and tennis stars live and where the TPC at Sawgrass golf tournament is played each year. One-day memberships to the Sawgrass course are available, but only deeply committed golf fans will want to pony up the roughly $300 it takes to purchase one.
For Kids - See elephants taking a refreshing dip in the pool or hold a snake in the Herp House at Jacksonville's Zoo and Gardens; ride Florida's only uphill water coaster at Adventure Landing; stargaze at the Alexander Brest Planetarium in the Museum of Science & History.