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Deciding the place to remain in Jacksonville generally is a powerful resolution. In spite of everything, this can be a huge metropolis in the USA. From stylish seaside cities to bustling nightlife vibes, the Jacksonville space really has all of it. It’s excellent for households, {couples}, adventurers, and everybody in between.

After I first moved to Jax, it took me a couple of months to get my bearings and wrap my head across the completely different areas of the town. However as soon as I did, I spotted simply how distinctive, enjoyable, and charming Jacksonville really is. Every neighborhood presents one thing completely different.

Jacksonville is the most important metropolis by land mass in the decrease 48 states, so there’s plenty of floor to cowl. Deciding the place to remain in Jacksonville can really feel overwhelming and complicated resulting from its dimension – however don’t fear, I’ve received you lined.

Greatest Areas to Stay in Jacksonville

Fast Look: Greatest Areas to Stay in Jacksonville

Where To Stay in Jacksonville

Searching for nice meals? Jacksonville has a neighborhood for that. A soothing seaside getaway? You could find that too. A bustling, hip space with bars and galleries? Yep, Jax has it. Listed here are a few of the finest neighborhoods in Jacksonville:

Jacksonville Seashore (Greatest for For-Time Guests)

If it’s your first time visiting Jacksonville, you’ll undoubtedly wish to keep in Jacksonville Seashore – it’s by far one in every of my favourite areas in the complete metropolis. It’s received just a little little bit of all the pieces for guests of all ages, and the sprawling seaside is postcard-worthy.

You’ll discover bars, eating places, nightlife, and procuring in Jacksonville Seashore, and it’s only a brief drive to downtown Jacksonville if you wish to spend a day on the museums or a Jags sport. This little part of city presents each continuous enjoyable or whole leisure – relying on the way you play it.

Execs of Staying in Jacksonville Seashore

• White sandy seaside simply steps away
• Nice number of eating places and bars
• Nightlife and dancing
• Household-friendly actions
• Cute clothes boutiques

Cons of Staying in Jacksonville Seashore

• 20-minute drive to downtown
• May be noisy throughout peak months (summer time)
• Costly throughout peak months
• May be crowded throughout peak months
• 40 minutes from the airport

Greatest Locations to Stay in Jacksonville Seashore

Listed here are a few of the finest motels in Jacksonville Seashore – personal stays are additionally included:

1. Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Seashore Oceanfront: Situated straight on the seaside, this lodge is an absolute dream for first-time guests. There are additionally two swimming swimming pools and a restaurant, and it’s inside strolling distance of all the pieces. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Jacksonville Seashore Residence: On your first time in Jax Seashore, why not deal with your self to a complete residence? This beautiful house is only a brief stroll to the seaside, eating places, and bars. If you happen to’re searching for an additional layer of luxurious, you possibly can even organize your personal personal chef. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Margaritaville Jacksonville Seashore: Nothing says “Florida” greater than Jimmy Buffet (RIP) and Margaritaville. This tremendous enjoyable lodge sits straight between Jacksonville Seashore and Neptune Seashore. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Jacksonville Seashore

There’s no scarcity of enjoyable issues to do in Jacksonville Seashore – listed here are a few of my private favourite actions:

1. Journey Touchdown & Shipwreck Island Water Park: Generally you desire a break from the seaside for another water actions, and this water park is the place to go whenever you do. You’ll discover water slides, a wave pool, and cabana leases. It’s continuous smiles. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Seashore Life Leases: A keep on the seaside isn’t full with no bike cruise or a day working towards your SUP abilities. At Seashore Life Leases, you possibly can lease seaside cruise bikes, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and even seaside chairs. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Jacksonville Ghosts and Ghouls Tour By US Ghost Adventures: After a day in the solar, expertise the spooky facet of Jax Seashore with a guided ghost tour. You’ll take a strolling tour of a few of the most haunted websites in this unassuming beachside city and be taught lots about its previous alongside the way in which. Click on right here to be taught extra and e book.

Where to Eat and Drink in Jacksonville Seashore

It doesn’t matter what you’re craving – Jacksonville Seashore has a restaurant or pub to fulfill it. Listed here are a few of the tastiest eating places I’ve tried to date (there are such a lot of!):

1. V Pizza: It’s by no means lengthy earlier than I get a hankering for scrumptious pizza. Fortunately, V Pizza makes a few of the finest. In addition they have a improbable cocktail bar that makes a deliciously excellent Manhattan. Discover instructions right here.

2. Salt Life Meals Shack: If it’s your first time in Florida, you’ll discover that tons of automobiles have ‘Salt Life’ bumper stickers, and individuals are carrying ‘Salt Life’ t-shirts on each block. It’s a model that represents a lifestyle right here in Florida, and in addition they have a killer restaurant with nice meals. Discover instructions right here.

3. Maple Avenue Biscuit Firm: So far as breakfast goes, this spot is likely to be the tastiest in the town. You’ll discover a wide range of biscuits and gravy, in addition to biscuit sandwiches, waffles, grits, and extra. It’s an awesome place to gasoline up for a day of exploration. Discover instructions right here.

Downtown (Greatest Space for Nightlife)

If it’s late-night drinks, dancing, reside music, and DJs that you just’re after, you’ll wish to base your self downtown. There are some unbelievable bars and nightclubs that may’t be missed. The restaurant selections are top-notch as properly.

Execs of Staying in Downtown

• Strolling distance to bars and eating places
• Near museums, venues, and the stadium
• Scrumptious eating places and cafes
• Near the riverfront
• Quick access to different cool neighborhoods

Cons of Staying in Downtown

• Many locations are closed in the course of the day
• 20-minute drive to the seaside
• Parking might be costly (particularly throughout concert events, occasions, or sport days)
• Bars and eating places are costly

Greatest Locations to Stay in Downtown

There are some nice choices for motels close to Jacksonville nightlife. Listed here are those I at all times suggest to associates and household:

1. Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront: A stunning riverfront view? Sure, please! How a couple of rooftop pool? All day. This lodge is completely located for all issues and locations downtown. Plus, they provide a free shuttle anyplace inside a 3-mile radius. Click on right here for extra particulars.

2. Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville Downtown: If you happen to’re questioning the place to remain in Jacksonville for nightlife, that is one other nice choice in the “Brooklyn” space of downtown. They’ve a pool, and it’s inside strolling distance of the Florida Theater and the Cummers Museum. Click on right here for particulars.

3. DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront: This improbable choice is situated simply over the walkable bridge from downtown. They’ve an outside pool, a riverfront view, and two eating places. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Downtown

Downtown Jacksonville is a mecca for all issues arts, tradition, and nightlife. Listed here are a few of the spots that may’t be missed:

1. MOCA (Museum of Modern Artwork): Earlier than you head out in town at evening, you’ll wish to spend a couple of hours at MOCA. With greater than 500 artists representing over 1,000 artworks, it’s undoubtedly a deal with for the eyes. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: As an alternative of an evening of bar-hopping, why not go to a Jaguars sport? The followers have a few of the finest vitality, and the stadium itself is unbelievable. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Half-Day Metropolis Tour in Downtown Jacksonville: Hop in a tuk-tuk and discover the town’s structure and historical past on this enjoyable guided tour. I took my household on this tour, and everybody was in awe; I extremely suggest it. Click on right here for instructions.

Where to Eat and Drink in Downtown

Downtown is among the finest neighborhoods in Jacksonville to seek out mouthwatering meals and completely crafted cocktails. Listed here are my high picks for meals and drinks in Jax:

1. Cowford Chophouse: One of the vital unbelievable meals I’ve had in Jacksonville was at Cowford Chophouse. It’s costly, however price each greenback. Attempt the roasted bone marrow and filet with foie gras and bacon jam. Get instructions right here.

2. The Volstead: This speakeasy-style bar is my favourite in the complete downtown space. They make unbelievable handcrafted cocktails together with a completely excellent Outdated Normal. Get instructions right here.

3. Fantasy Nightclub: Fantasy is your best option for late-night dancing and drinks. They’ve a quiet cocktail bar for dialog, an outside terrace, and a high-energy membership. Get instructions right here.

Neptune Seashore (Coolest Place to Stay in Jacksonville)

Neptune Seashore is my FAVORITE space of Jacksonville. It boasts that tropical “beachy” really feel with palm bushes lining the slender, cobblestone downtown streets. There are tons of nice eating places, cool bars, and stylish boutiques. Plus, the seaside itself presents the perfect place for sunbathing all day.

Execs of Staying in Neptune Seashore

• A lot of scrumptious meals choices
• Cool bars (together with the oldest in Jacksonville, extra on that under)
• Fashionable and hip boutiques and galleries
• Stunning seaside
• Quiet at evening

Cons of Staying in Neptune Seashore

• Not many locations open late
• Not a ton of lodge choices
• 20-25 minutes to downtown
• Crowded throughout peak season (summer time)
• Arduous-to-find parking

Greatest Locations to Stay in Neptune Seashore

With the larger Jacksonville Seashore as its neighboring group, most motels are situated there. Nonetheless, listed here are some cool locations to remain in Neptune Seashore (or inside strolling distance):

1. One Ocean Resort and Spa: If you happen to’re seeking to splurge and spoil your self, that is the spot to remain. This beautiful beachfront resort encompasses a gorgeous pool, improbable restaurant, and spa with indulgent therapies. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Salt Air Inn and Suites: Tremendous cute and charming is how I might describe this lodge. This five-star property is surprisingly reasonably priced and has that excellent seaside really feel. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Beachfront Getaway: If you happen to’d favor to lease a complete residence, this beautiful rental is ideal for a bunch. It’s steps from the seaside and is inside strolling distance of loads of nice bars and eating places. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Neptune Seashore

Despite the fact that I don’t reside close to Neptune Seashore, I make it a degree to go to the realm no less than as soon as a month. Listed here are a few of my favourite suggestions:

1. BrewHound Canine Park and Bar: Every time I go to Neptune Seashore, I deliver my pup and head to BrewHound. This wonderful spot is a spot the place you possibly can let your canine run free on astroturf with different canine when you sip on a beer or kombucha. I might nonetheless love to hang around right here, even when I didn’t have a canine! Click on right here for instructions.

2. Southern Breeze Cart Rental: Neptune Seashore is enjoyable simply to discover and cruise the seaside city streets – and Florida is principally synonymous with golf carts. Hire a cart for the day and try completely different spots in the realm. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Jax Surf and Paddle: Hire a surfboard or paddleboard and hit the water for the day. And for those who’re unskilled (like myself), you possibly can take classes for each. Click on right here for instructions.

Where to Eat and Drink in Neptune Seashore

Neptune Seashore is residence to a few of my favourite eating places in all of Jax. If you happen to’re in the realm and searching for out elevated and inventive delicacies – you set these spots in your radar:

1. Hawker’s: I swoon each time I get to eat bao, dumplings, or noodles. This stylish location presents all that and extra. I additionally love their saké flight. Get instructions right here.

2. Mezza Luna: If you happen to’re searching for one thing just a little extra upscale, this Italian restaurant is a divine selection. Attempt their contemporary pappardelle with braised brief rib ragu and the wild mushroom pizza. Get instructions right here.

3. Pete’s Bar: This historic dive bar was the primary to legally open in Duval County after the prohibition. It has laidback vibes with pool tables and bar sports activities however stays open late for reside music and DJs. Get instructions right here.

San Marco (Greatest Space for Foodies)

I don’t learn about you, however generally I base my journey plans solely round meals. If you happen to’re that sort of individual, you’ll wish to keep in the San Marco space of city – it’s a foodies’ paradise. It has cool avenue artwork, lovely structure, and some significantly wonderful eating places. It’s additionally one of many extra upmarket areas of Jacksonville.

Execs of Staying in San Marco

• Very walkable
• Superior avenue artwork and murals
• Historic neighborhood
• A lot of noteworthy eating places and cafes
• Up-and-coming breweries and cocktail bars

Cons of Staying in San Marco

• 25-30 minutes from the seaside
• Not a ton of lodging choices
• Crowded throughout peak season (summer time)
• Troublesome to seek out parking

Greatest Locations to Stay in San Marco

Despite the fact that San Marco is among the hottest Jacksonville neighborhoods, it has a restricted quantity of native lodging. These are a few of the finest in the realm:

1. Hilton Backyard Inn Jacksonville Downtown Southbank: Situated in the center of San Marco, this lodge is inside strolling distance of all the pieces chances are you’ll wish to see throughout your keep. It additionally has an awesome pool. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Southbank Resort by Marriott Jacksonville Riverwalk: My household stayed right here throughout their final go to, and it’s beautiful. It’s just a little longer of a stroll to the middle of San Marco however remains to be very shut. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Farmhouse by the River: This lovely residence is ideal for those who plan on visiting the San Marco space with your loved ones. This two-bedroom home is tremendous near the river and in a really secure neighborhood in Jacksonville. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in San Marco

In fact, meals is the principle focus of the San Marco space, nevertheless it additionally has much more to supply. Positively test these concepts out for those who’re in the realm:

1. Self-Guided Artwork Stroll Tour: The San Marco space of Jacksonville is residence to plenty of lovely and eccentric avenue artwork and murals. Spend the day cruising across the neighborhood and taking Instagram-worthy photos. Click on right here to obtain the artwork map.

2. Structure and Historical past Tour in San Marco: With roots relationship again to 1793, San Marco has a wealthy historical past. This 3-hour tour will take you on a tuk-tuk trip by means of the neighborhood with a educated information. Click on right here to be taught extra and e book.

3. Savoring San Marco: A go to to San Marco can be a waste for those who didn’t check out a strolling meals tour. This 3-hour tour will cease at 5 of the neighborhood’s finest eating places. I cherished this tour as a result of it was like a pattern platter of all the perfect locations. Click on right here to be taught extra and e book.

Where to Eat and Drink in San Marco

Now for the great things! San Marco is legendary for its meals and drink, so it was onerous to decide on the perfect locations – however these are my favorites:

1. Bar Molino: I finished in right here for dinner earlier than a live performance and was blown away. They provide some superbly introduced and scrumptious Spanish tapas dishes, alongside a improbable wine choice. Get instructions right here.

2. Rue Saint-Marc: French eating at its most interesting is what you’ll discover at this beautiful institution. Menu gadgets embody Maine Scallops, Roasted Venison Loin, and Pistachio Cake. In addition they have a powerful cocktail menu. Get instructions right here.

3. City Corridor: Contemporary native components, considerate, elevated recipes, and a cocktail listing to die for. Their pleased hour is one in every of my favorites in the south Jacksonville space. Get instructions right here.

Mandarin (Greatest Place in Jacksonville on a Finances)

Generally, it is advisable to journey on a funds. Fortunately, when fascinated by the place to remain in Jacksonville, the Mandarin space has many wallet-friendly actions and lodging. It’s a quiet and clear neighborhood with plenty of character, historic websites, and river actions.

Execs of Staying in Mandarin

• Close to the St. Johns River
• A variety of nature (massive oak bushes with Spanish moss)
• Stunning parks
• Historic neighborhood
• Good restaurant choices

Cons of Staying in Mandarin

• About 25 minutes from downtown
• 30-35 minutes to the seaside
• Largely residential space
• Restricted actions

Greatest Locations to Stay in Mandarin

The most important perk about staying in the Mandarin space of Jacksonville is you could keep on a funds. Listed here are some choices that gained’t break the financial institution:

1. Tru By Hilton Jacksonville South Mandarin: With rooms below $150, this lodge is sort of an inexpensive place to remain in Jacksonville. They’ve a swimming pool and health heart as properly. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Cush Jax Baymeadows Ranch: If you happen to’re touring with your loved ones or a bunch, this home is spacious, reasonably priced, and has a fantastic patio. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Embassy Suites by Hilton Jacksonville Baymeadows: This lodge has lovely rooms, and an indoor swimming pool, and is conveniently situated, only a brief drive to Mandarin and different neighborhoods in Jacksonville. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Mandarin

Regardless of being a largely residential space, Mandarin has some fascinating and enjoyable issues to do on a funds. Try my high selections for those who’re in the neighborhood:

1. Walter Jones Historic Park: Get some contemporary air whereas taking in the sweetness and tranquility of this park. Cease by the Mandarin Museum to be taught in regards to the space’s historical past in the Civil Battle. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Sugar Bear Antiques Mall: Spend an hour or two perusing my favourite vintage store in South Jacksonville. There are such a lot of enjoyable trinkets and collectibles to seek out. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Breakout Video games: Take a look at your puzzle-solving abilities in an escape room! My associates and I did this one evening and had such a blast in the “Runaway Prepare” room. Click on right here for instructions.

Where to Eat and Drink in Mandarin

There are some tasty locations to eat in this quiet space of Jacksonville. These are some nice choices to strive:

1. Julington Creek Fish Camp: I completely love going to a fish camp, and this is among the finest ones in Jacksonville. Their reasonably priced menu contains grilled octopus, sandwiches, seafood platters, and extra. Get instructions right here.

2. Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe: This native chain is a good selection whenever you’re on a funds. My favourite gadgets are the chargrilled lamb, lemon rooster soup, and the spicy rooster gyro. Get instructions right here.

3. Clara’s Tidbits Restaurant Mandarin: One other native chain, this cafe is significantly scrumptious. They’re identified for his or her sandwiches but in addition have soups and salads as properly. Get instructions right here.

Suggestions About Staying in Jacksonville

After exploring Jacksonville for practically 5 years, I’ve realized some recommendations on the place to remain in Jacksonville and methods to navigate and discover the Daring Metropolis. Learn on to learn how to make your journey run as easily as doable.

Keep away from Rush Hour

Jacksonville has an expansive freeway system, nonetheless, the push hour site visitors might be brutal. Keep away from these morning and afternoon commute hours on the roads for those who can. It’s price checking on maps earlier than setting off to test for high-traffic volumes alongside your meant route.

Name for Seasonal Costs

Many motels and points of interest change their costs per season. Name round on to see if there’s a seasonal distinction, and plan your journey accordingly. Attempt and e book as far in advance as you’re in a position to.

At all times Carry a Chair to the Seashore

Jacksonville Seashores are completely lovely, and the sand is delicate and excellent – however they may also be a bit windy. If you happen to’re laying on only a towel or blanket, you may get sand whipped in your face. Purchase or lease a seaside chair when you possibly can to make your expertise extra snug.

Cautious to Keep away from Tolls

A lot of Jacksonville freeways supply expressways to bypass site visitors when you’ve got a particular go. Watch out to not entry these expressways with out the go, or you may find yourself with an undesirable invoice.

Summer season Bugs Are No Joke

If you happen to’re visiting in the course of the moist, sizzling summer time months, make sure to preserve some bug spray readily available. The mosquitoes round nightfall might be relentless.

FAQ’s About Where To Stay in Jacksonville

Listed here are some generally requested questions that I usually hear from my associates and household. After spending 5 years as a vacationer and one yr as a full-time resident of Jacksonville, I do know the town just like the again of my hand. I hope these solutions assist put together you in your keep:

In Conclusion

Every neighborhood of Jacksonville has one thing distinctive to supply – it’s one of many many the reason why I really like this metropolis a lot. It’s large and sprawling, however that solely permits for various communities in every nook. There’s at all times someplace enjoyable to find.

When deciding the place to remain in Jacksonville, take into account the way you wish to spend your time and determine from there. You gained’t be disenchanted with no matter space you select.