There’s even fishing, hiking, and paddling to enjoy.
Called the Bold New City of the South, Jacksonville is the largest city in the continental United States.
We asked McLaren what makes Jacksonville such a special stop on Floridas Atlantic Coast.
Credit:Visit Jacksonville
She said, While it’s a big city, each neighborhood has a small-town flavor.
Michael Corrigan,Visit Jacksonville’s president and CEO, was born and raised in Jacksonville.
Everybody is genuine in spirit.
Courtesy of Ponte Vedra Inn & Club
Guests can choose from 150-plus services, including a new CBD massage and beauty treatments.
Framed by 30-foot bluffs along the shore, it’s littered with driftwood from live oak and cedar trees.
Johns River Taxi & Toursis run by watermen who have navigated the St. Johns River all their lives.
Visit Jacksonville
Corrigan added, It’s a hidden gem that truly lets you connect with wildlife.
The party keeps going until 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday, and midnight on Sundays.
Corrigan said, If you’re at The Fox in Avondale, get the Avondale omelet.
Visit Jacksonville
Add some home fries and raisin toast, and you’ve got a pretty sweet little meal.
I’ve had this meal maybe over 100 times.
And while you may see a long line out the door, it will be worth the wait.
Visit Jacksonville
you’re able to order by topping or select one of the specialty pizzas.
They do pizza by the slice for lunch and dinner.
My go-to is a half house salad and a slice of T-Rex pizza, said Corrigan.
Visit Jacksonville
River & Post
When McLaren has visitors,River & Postis always on the itinerary.
The dining room menu features fresh seafood dishes and a variety of steak entrees.
With more than 200 flights daily from 30-plus destinations, getting here via airplane is relatively easy.
Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure
Corrigan added, I wish all airports could be like JAX.
The moment you get off the airplane, the tension starts going away and you relax.
If you’d rather drive, Jacksonville sits right off I-95 to the north and I-10 to the west.
Daron Dean for Visit Florida
Corrigan also recommends a stop atBeaches Museumon Jacksonville Beach.
How to Get Around
If youre flying into Jacksonville International Airport, rental car options abound.
Corrigan noted, You cannot rely on public transportation.
We have ride-sharing apps like every community, but not enough.
A rental car helps you navigate the 840 square miles of fun available in Jacksonville.
If you plan to stay downtown, the fully automated, 2.5-mileJTA Skywaymonorail is a good option.
Plus, it’s free.
