Jacksonville may not get the same recognition as New York, Los Angeles or even Chicago but at over 840 square miles Jacksonville is technically the largest city in the lower 48 states. Jacksonville is also a great place to take a vacation. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a long summer vacation, Jacksonville offers fun for everyone. Here are a few things to check out next time you are in Jacksonville.
Catch a Football Game
Whether you are a fan of college or pro football, Jacksonville has something for everyone. For the pro fans, Jacksonville is home to the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars and was the site of Super Bowl XXXIX. For the college fans, Jacksonville plays host to one of the most famous rivalries of the year. Each year the world’s largest cocktail party between Georgia and Florida is held in Jacksonville and even if you aren’t a fan of either school, this is one game everyone should attend at least once. Jacksonville is also home to the Gator Bowl which now features top teams from the SEC and Big Ten each year on New Years Day.
Take a Cruise
Extend your trip to Jacksonville with a cruise to the Bahamas. Cruises from Jacksonville can be found for less than $300 and visit such places as Nassau, Freeport and Key West. Currently the Carnival Fascination is the only cruise ship sailing out of Jacksonville but many of the top cruise lines such as Norwegian and Royal Caribbean have been adding ships to ports throughout the country. So if you aren’t a fan of Carnival, keep checking for newer ships.
Head to the Beach
Whether you are on a romantic getaway or a family vacation everyone is sure to enjoy a trip to Jacksonville Beach. The beach is located about 30 minutes from downtown so you may want to consider staying a night or two at one of the beach hotels instead of commuting from the downtown area hotels. World class golf, pier fishing and amazing sunrises can be experienced in Jacksonville Beach. Also sure to also stop by and see the historical Red Cross lifeguard station while you are there which began around 1912.
