Travel Like A Local: Jacksonville, Florida

Birds aren’t the only ones that head south for the winter. When the temperature dips below 50 degrees, we dip to Jacksonville, Florida. It’s a little warmer and a lot of fun!

Most people know that Jacksonville is brimming with outdoor adventures—there are 22 miles of beaches, world-class fishing, and state parks to explore—but what people don’t know is that Jacksonville is home to so much more! Sip on craft brews on the Jacksonville Ale Trail, stroll the city and see its stunning public murals, dig into the coastal cuisine, or ditch downtown for an afternoon experiencing the historic neighborhoods—and that’s just the beginning.

The city is full of inspired entrepreneurs. It’s a city of makers—a city where people from all over the nation are coming to open new businesses. The community is all about local and authentic, and they jump at the opportunity to support those who bring new ventures to Jacksonville. The unwavering encouragement made Jacksonville a great destination for female entrepreneurs; you can spend an entire weekend visiting only female owned and managed businesses. 

Whether you are ready for a family vacation or you need a girls-only getaway, sun and fun is waiting for you in Jacksonville.

STAY: 

Hotel Palms 

Built in 1947, Hotel Palms is a renovated motor court inn. It’s only three blocks from the Atlantic Ocean! In addition to being a unique place to sleep, Hotel Palms is also a gathering space of community activity for locals and visitors alike.

DINE: 

Taverna 

Sample a regional craft beer or indulge in a handcrafted cocktail at this modern restaurant. 

Town Hall

Town Hall is a community gathering spot for sharing good food made with seasonal ingredients from local farms. 

Bellwether 

Chef Kerri Rogers serves elevated Southern classics in an understated setting. The restaurant also offers a rotating selection of craft beer from northeast Florida breweries.

Sweet Theory Baking Co.

Jacksonville’s first vegan bakery, located in the Riverside neighborhood. The treats here are simply delicious! 

1748 Bakehouse

Delicious treats and vegan options at this made-from-scratch Springfield favorite.

Community Loaves

Organic sourdough bread is baked daily in this funky little bakery nestled in the Murray Hill neighborhood—and do not miss a pizza night in the backyard garden!

SHOP: 

Rethreaded Inc.

Rethreaded started with a simple idea and a strong passion from its founder, Kristin Keen. Each purchase at this shop helps provide employment for survivors of human trafficking.

Jax Surf & Paddle

JSP began as a mobile surf and paddleboard school before opening a retail shop. Now the retail shop has expanded to three locations, offering men's and women's clothing and swimwear, accessories, rash guards, sunblock, surfboards, paddleboards, gifts, and more!

Bark on Park

With two locations, this is Jacksonville’s top pet boutique. Their second location on Main Street in Springfield adds to the neighborhood's girl power vibe.

Momni Boutique

This boutique is located in the Murray Hill neighborhood of Jacksonville, Florida. They focus on high fashion style that pushes the boundaries of small-town trends.

Sailors Siren

Owned and operated by mother-daughter duo Michele and Whit from Atlantic Beach, Sailors Siren is your headquarters for home and gift essentials that celebrate the salty, Southern life.

Wolf & Cub

Treasures new and old can be found at this downtown boutique. There is one-of-a-kind jewelry, screen printed clothing, unique vintage finds, and curiosities that stand out in a crowd.

PLAY: 

Hyperion Brewing Company

At the helm of this brewery is a very creative local woman, charging change in the Springfield neighborhood!

Go Tuk’n, Inc.

City tours are more fun than ever in northeast Florida’s first tuk’n cars. Experience a Certified Public Art Tour in partnership with ArtRepublic Global or explore local breweries in the Jax Urban Core Brewery Tour.

Jax Rides

Jax rides, based in the Springfield neighborhood, offers electric bike tours of Jacksonville’s historic neighborhoods.

Alewife Bottleshop and Tasting Room

This craft beer bottle shop is owned by Jacksonville’s top beer expert.

Saltwater Cowgirls

Their surf lessons will have you riding the waves like a pro! All ages and skill levels are welcome.

Congaree and Penn

Florida’s only rice farm offers everything from rice to grits, and cider and meads. Enjoy sunset tours, a full restaurant, and a very cool agriculture experience just minutes from downtown.

Sweet Pete’s Candy

Located in a historic 22,000 square-foot mansion in the heart of downtown Jacksonville, Sweet Pete’s hosts candy classes to bring guests into the candy making experience.