Spend a Long Weekend in Jacksonville, Florida — Coastal Living in a Big City

As a city that boasts both the largest area and the longest shoreline in the contiguous United States, it’s no surprise that Jacksonville, Florida — or Jax, as the locals call it — offers a lot to explore. Over a few days, it’s possible to enjoy both the big-city culture and laid-back coastal living. Expect to visit museums and public art installations, pristine shorelines and stunning historic neighborhoods.

Of course, the food will be diverse, too, with a blend of Southern, home-style cooking and elegant waterside seafood options. It’s all about being active and relaxed at the same time. No matter your taste, style or interests, a long weekend will show why, as the slogan goes, “it’s easier here.”

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

Friday: Take In the Museums

Get ready to explore the best of downtown Jacksonville today. That starts with breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company, where the buttery sandwiches are impossible to resist. Don’t sleep on the drink menu either, which ranges from a “Sunrise Mimosa” (with orange and cranberry juices) to hot chocolate with cinnamon.

If kids are in tow, head to the nearby MOSH Museum of Science & History, which features three levels of interactive exhibits. Meet native animals at the Florida Naturalist’s Center and design DIY crafts at the Creation Station, a maker space filled with fun supplies.

Once you’re finished up here, walk to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville with a quick stop at the Friendship Fountain before crossing the John T. Alsop Jr. Bridge. This art center features work from around the world across several galleries.

Lunch is Tex-Mex at Burrito Gallery Downtown, a five-minute walk from the art museum. The menu is simple — tacos, burritos, quesadillas, salads and chips and guacamole — and done well. Follow your meal up with a relaxing tour on the St. Johns River Taxi. There are a number of tours and specialty cruises available, but even a ride around the dock loop will give you a new angle on the city.

Top off the evening with a low-key barbecue dinner at the Bearded Pig. It’s worth getting there early to ensure you can try the rib tenders and burnt ends before they run out. Looking for an after-dinner drink? Head to the rooftop bar at Estrella Cocina for margaritas.

Saturday: Explore the Neighborhood of Mandarin

Today is a more relaxed vibe, with most of the day spent in the picturesque residential neighborhood of Mandarin. First, enjoy a leisurely Southern-style breakfast of chicken and waffles at Metro Diner. Then it’s off to the Mandarin Museum & Historical Society for some local history. The exhibits will take you all the way back to the neighborhood’s beginnings as a Timucuan village hundreds of years ago.

While you’re here, pay a visit to the Walter Jones Historical Park, where you can see a restored 1898 schoolhouse. Be sure to take in the Spanish-moss-covered oak trees along the way.

Lunch is at Beach Diner Mandarin, where the sandwich menu feels never-ending.

After lunch, embark on a bike tour of the area with the Olde Mandarin Bike Tour. The ride starts (and ends) at the Heart of Historic Mandarin parking lot. During the ride, you’ll learn about the local history as you pedal past oak- and magnolia-lined streets, spotting wildlife along the way. You can get a discount if you bring your own bike and helmet.

Once you’ve had enough pedaling — or the tour is over, whatever comes first — venture over to Julington Creek Fish Camp for an elegant seafood dinner (think oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, ceviche, seafood linguini and more) with views of the river.

Wrap up the day with a drink at Hoptinger Bier Garden & Sausage House, known for its beer cocktails — try the “Fruity Pebbles,” made with fresh blackberries.

Sunday: Make It a Beach Day

It’s a beach day today! While it’s impossible to visit all 22 miles of beaches in Jacksonville in one weekend, you’ll get to sample some of the hot spots. Start with a bacon, egg and cheese breakfast sandwich and coffee at Southern Grounds & Co. in Atlantic Beach before finding a spot on the stunning white sand.

This beach is a favorite of surfers and kayakers — get there early if you want to rent a board and tackle the waves. It’s also a great place for shell hunting. Enjoy a few hours relaxing and jumping in the water, then make your way to the Seawalk Pavilion.

Stop for a sandwich at Angie’s Grom. Adults and children will enjoy the amusement park rides — dedicate the afternoon to exploring this activity-filled area, plus a few stops for people-watching. There’s often live music as the sun starts to set, so stick around to take in a few songs.

After a whirlwind afternoon, go back to the hotel to shower and make your way back to Jacksonville Beach for dinner at V Pizza. This spot is known for its wood-fired wings and inventive pies like the “Pizza Flyin’ Hawaiian,” topped with mozzarella, sliced Gouda, honey pancetta, roasted pineapple, red onion and fresh basil.

End the trip with a Tiki-themed drink at the attached bar, Flask & Cannon. Flip through the 80 different varieties of rum before choosing a quirky cocktail, topped with a fresh orchid, pineapple slice or piece of palm frond.