For a city tucked away up in Northeast Florida, Jacksonville offers all the best parts of the sunshine state.
Sun, sand, and coastal vibes without the crowds, theme parks, or touristy attractions. Jacksonville is easygoing, quietly surprising, and of course stylish, with miles of beaches, a thriving food scene, and neighborhoods full of hidden gems. A day here can feel both fully planned and effortlessly spontaneous. It carries a sense of insider charm, the kind of feeling that makes Jacksonville appear like it’s holding a sweet little secret. Whether planning a weekend getaway or passing through and looking to mix up your itinerary, Jacksonville is a destination full of discovery. Here’s how to spend a day in this city.
Pack For Jacksonville
Things To Do In Jacksonville, Florida
Morning: Coffee & Walk
Begin your day near the water at Beaches Town Center up in Neptune Beach where you’ll find fitness classes, art galleries, restaurants, boutiques and more. Grab a warm beverage at Southern Grounds and take a moment to enjoy all the beautiful courtyards and bricked walkways while you take in the ocean breeze.
Midday: Shops & Lunch
After your morning stroll, head down to St. Johns Town Center in Jacksonville, a bigger open-air mall, for premier shopping. Visit our newest store to shop for resort-ready pieces and statement swimwear in person. For a bite to eat, make a reservation at Orsay, a French restaurant with Southern influence. Or go to Matthew’s restaurant for a farm-to-table find dining experience.
Afternoon: Art, Culture, and Quiet Discovery
Jacksonville has more than beaches:
Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens pairs classic works with manicured gardens.
Riverside Avondale is full of historic homes, hidden boutiques, and quiet streets to explore.
MOCA Jacksonville offers contemporary art in a small, well-edited space.
On weekends, the Riverside Arts Market pulses with local craft, music, and bites.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner
Golden hour belongs on the St. Johns Riverwalk. Boats drift by, city lights shimmer, and the river sets the tone. Dinner is effortless but elevated: River & Post offers cocktails with a view, and Eleven South is intimate and polished.
Find Your Resort Look
Where to Stay Near Jacksonville, FL
If you’re not ready to say bye just yet, stay the night. Some of Jacksonville’s best accommodations (and those in the surrounding area) blend calm with subtle luxury.
A day in Jacksonville can be rich with discovery. From morning coffee to sunset cocktails along the iconic St. Johns river, Jacksonville moves at its own pace. There’s a rhythm here — quiet beaches, elevated dining, hidden art, and curated style at every corner. Start packing your bags!
Danielle Gumina
Staff Writer
