Megan & Karl
Duval!!!
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
This is where we had our engagement photos done. Located in the historic Arlington neighborhood, the Arboretum is by far one of the best hidden spots in Jacksonville. Great hiking trails, different ecosystems, wildlife, streams, and a beautiful and peaceful pond covered in lilies. The arboretum is pet friendly and a great outdoor spot for a family hike.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
We love our zoo. Since 1914, the Jacksonville Zoo has supported wildlife conservation on a stunning riverfront landscape. Grown-ups and little ones alike will love feeding the giraffes at the African Overlook and watching the otters float along in the Wild Florida exhibit. The zoo also houses an Australian Adventure, featuring colorful birds called lorikeets. Tigers roam overhead at the Land of the Tiger exhibit and Jaguars steal the show at their award-winning exhibit. During your visit, step onto the zoo’s scenic Trout River dock. You might even spot a manatee!
The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
This is definitely on our to do list. This tiger-focused ranch has a conservation mission, often rescuing tigers and other big cats from inhumane captivity. Volunteers give tours of the ranch, providing the cats’ histories and detailed explanations of their operations. Buy tickets ahead of time for a night feeding. Watching the cats pace around their cages to tear into whole carcasses is an experience like no other.
Kingsley Plantation
Another one on our to do list. Located on the Fort George Island marsh side, Kingsley Plantation plays a large role in Florida’s complicated history. The 1814 plantation house and its surrounding structures, all preserved by the National Park Service, shed light on a different era in the South. Make time to explore the unique tabby houses, built and inhabited by the Plantation’s slaves. You can take a self-guided audio tour or book a tour with a park ranger.
Fort Caroline National Memorial
This is one of Florida’s few National Parks, a historic rebuilding of the fort settled by French colonists in 1564 in Jacksonville. In 1565, the French colony was raided by the Spanish and destroyed. The replica fort depicts what the original Fort Caroline would have looked like, complete with cannons and flags. The top levels of the fort offer a beautiful view of the mouth of the St. Johns River. There is a 1.3-mile nature trail at the park. It is a loop trail, winding through maritime and hardwood hammock. There is also a museum featuring area’s history. When you leave the fort, you’ll see a replica of a Timucua hut, complete with an in-progress canoe. This historical landmark is under the care of the National Parks Service.
Clark's Fish Camp Seafood Restaurant
Clark's Fish Camp is a unique and rustic seafood restaurant nestled into the river bank of the Julington Creek, a tributary of the St. Johns River in Jacksonville, Florida. Clark's is known for their Southern size portions, fresh seafood and family friendly atmosphere which is home to the largest public taxidermy collection in the United States. During your visit you can arrive by car or boat and enjoy the eclectic decor of driftwood carvings, collection of antique fishplates and other local fishing artifacts all while enjoying the panoramic views of the tranquil waterfront. Stop in to see live gator feedings or relax on the deck and catch a glimpse of the manatees that visit the dock year after year while enjoying one of the best seafood dinners you'll ever have.
Cold Stone Creamery Southside
For more than 30 years Cold Stone Creamery Jacksonville FL has been serving up the finest, freshest ice cream, cakes, smoothies, frappes and shakes using only the highest quality ingredients, and of course, their signature process of preparing your custom ice cream creation on a frozen granite stone. Did you know their ice cream is hand-crafted and made fresh in every store? It’s true! Churned from the finest ingredients and mixed with your choice of candy, cakes, fruits or nuts on a frozen granite stone they proudly serve the best tasting, super-premium, made-to-order ice cream you’ve ever had.
Mellow Mushroom Jacksonville - Town Center
Mellow Mushroom has the best pizza in Jacksonville, Florida. This lively restaurant is located on Deer Lake Court. Mellow is a favorite among locals in Town Center, Jacksonville Beach, Windy Hill, and the surrounding areas. Bold ingredient combinations on a homemade crust, make Mellow pies the most delicious around. Not in the mood for pizza? Order a calzone, hoagie, sandwich, burger, or a Mellow salad and taste the care that goes into every item on the menu. Take your pick from a selection of 48 draft beers and their tasty, handcrafted cocktails. And, many of their pizzas can be made gluten-free or vegan.
Joe's Crab Shack
A casual restaurant for the whole family where entrainment is king (crab), Joe’s serves delicious costal dishes including fried shrimp platters, signature fish entrées, famous steam pots and over-sized, creative cocktails. Sit on the patio and dive into a Shark Bite cocktail. Bring your kiddos for the Paint-A-Crab Dessert. Grab the crew, throw on a bib and get crackin’. Or join in on the group dancing. Whatever your flavor, Joe’s Crab Shack will serve your seafood with a side of fun!