Known as “Florida's River City by the Sea,” Jacksonville is located 36 miles south of Georgia and 134 miles north of Orlando.
Jacksonville's history dates back to 1822, when it was established. It was named after President Andrew Jackson. When Florida achieved statehood in 1845, Jacksonville was considered an important port in the cotton and timber trades. At one time, the city was known only for its paper mills. Today, it is a thriving metropolis of the South’s insurance and banking capitals. In Duval County, there is an increasing development of attractions, hotels, restaurants and clubs.
For arts and culture, there are about 17 museums and several theatres, including the world class Florida Theatre, which hosts 200 events per year.
Many attractions include Adventure Landing, Jacksonville Zoological Gardens, river cruises and much more.
For outdoor activities, visit the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve, where you can enjoy hiking, bird watching, picnicking and limited cycling and fishing. The University of North Florida Nature Preserve has twelve miles of nature trails, including a 21-station exercise course, a jogging path and a specially designed trail for the physically handicapped. BEAKS, the Bird Emergency Aid and Kare Sanctuary, raises and cares for thousands of injured wild birds.
There are four major parks: Huguenot Memorial Park, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, Talbot Islands Geopark, and Theodore Roosevelt Area. They each offer activities of swimming, surfing, boardsailing, fishing, hiking, biking, picnicking and camping.
As for golf and tennis, there are 47 championship caliber courses to choose from. ATP Tour International Headquarters ranks Jacksonville as one of the finest tennis facilities in the world. And no doubt, Jacksonville is a sports town. You have the Gator Bowl Association, Jacksonville Jaguars and the Jacksonville Lizard Kings.
In Jacksonville, you cannot overlook the superb dining and accommodations. So treat yourselves to a wonderful vacation.
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