Jacksonville - Florida Atlantic Coast Summertime Favorite
Set on the banks of the St Johns River and formed by its double loop, water makes up a great part of the life and lifestyles of the people of Jacksonville. On the eastern edge several barrier islands make for great vacation and stop over - Amelia Island and Jacksonville Beach.
Dating back to 1562 - before Jamestown - the French settled the area at Fort Caroline. An unfortunate hurricane provided Spanish troops an opportunity to destroy the fort and set the stage for Spanish rule of Florida for the next 200 years.
Restaurants
Matthew's
Devine influence: If this Matthew (Chef Matthew Medure) was the chef at The Last Supper, guests would have departed much later and history may well have been altered. Some might argue with Matthew's being Jacksonville's BEST restaurant, but few can push the point that it's not a great restaurant. Southern based with Mediterranean and Asian infusions. Located in the historic district of San Marco at 2107 Hendricks Avenue.
Cantina Laredo
celebrate being south of the border (with Georgia, that is) at Cantina Laredo. Enjoy gourmet Mexican lunch and dinner that include guacamole prepared at your table and margaritas made from fresh-squeezed limes. 10282 Bistro Drive.
Clark's Fish Camp
If you can eat it, there's a good chance it's on the menu. The full bar may help encourage some of the more exotic fare such as gator eggs, Kangaroo and Antelope. 12903 Hood Landing Road - off I-95 exit 335.
Places to Stay
Omni Jacksonville Hotel
On the Johns River next to the popular "Landing" area of restaurants and shopping. With 15 stories and aver 350 rooms, panoramic views of the downtown and river area are sure to inspire. 245 Water Street.
Courtyard Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront
The ever-popular brand within the Marriott hotel family sits oceanfront just off A1A in Jacksonville Beach - on the beach. Nice pool and whirlpool area. 1617 North 1st Street, Jacksonville Beach.
Attractions
Fort Caroline National Memorial
Designated a memorial as a result of the Spanish massacre that occurred on the site in 1565. A replica of the fort along with interpretive trails tell the story of these unfortunate settlers. Fort Caroline Road.
Anheuser-Busch Brewery
Undoubtedly, you've been sipping on the King of Beers and noticed "Jacksonville" as the possible birthplace of your beverage. Well, it's true: the maternity ward is open - see where your baby was born. The brewery offers tours - historic and scientific emphasis. Fresh brews are available at the Hospitality Room for those 21 and over. 111 Busch Drive.
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
This beautiful riverfront property features outdoor gardens and over 5,500 museum pieces on the 2.5 acre site. Permanent collection included pieces from 2100 BC to the present age. Large collection of 18th century Meissen porcelain. 829 Riverside Ave.
Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum
View this extraordinary collection of letters and documents from many of our most important historical figures: Albert Einstein, Napoleon Bonaparte, Beethoven, Mozart and many others. 101 West First Street in Jacksonville.
Alexander Brest Museum
Jacksonville University is home to this museum which has a permanent collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. Also on display are exhibits from faculty, students and invited guests. 2800 University Blvd, on the Jacksonville University campus.
Jacksonville Maritime Heritage Center
This small-scale museum offers a look at how the Jacksonville area was developed and how the port and St Johns River were instrumental in that development. View original paintings, artifacts and scale-models. Jacksonville Landing at 2 Independent Drive.
Local Resources
Visit Jacksonville
550 Water Street.
Jacksonville Surrounding Area
Jacksonville Beach
Atlantic Beach
Neptune Beach
Ponte Vedre Beach
Orange Park
Page Views: 65,581
Rating: 5