Florida and The Northeast: Coastal Gems

Looking for a vacation destination that offers a unique combination of culture, history, and natural beauty. Jacksonville and St. Augustine are two of the most beautiful cities in Northeast Florida. These two neighboring cities will capture any traveler with their lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches and rich history. Discover the wonders of Jacksonville and St. Augustine.

Jacksonville, Florida’s largest city, is a mix of urban charm and coastal appeal. The city is home to a vibrant arts scene, tasty cuisine and a variety of recreational activities. The Riverwalk is a boardwalk along the St. Johns River. It’s a great place to start your adventure. As you stroll past charming shops, restaurants and vibrant nightlife venues, marvel at the breathtaking skyline.

St. Augustine is the oldest American city, and a short drive from Jacksonville will bring you there. This charming coastal town is steeped in history and offers a look into the past through its preserved architecture and fascinating landmarks. Start your exploration at the heart of the town, in the historic district. Here, narrow cobblestone roads are lined with local eateries, shops and art galleries.

Places To Visit In Jacksonville:

Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens – Immerse yourself into art and nature. This museum is home to an impressive collection that includes European and American art from antiquity up until today. Discover the beautiful gardens with their stunning sculptures, and enjoy views of the river.

Riverside and Avondale Historical Districts: Stroll through the charming neighborhoods of Riverside or Avondale. They are known for their tree-lined roads and charming architecture. Browse boutiques, dine in local restaurants and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens – Spend the day at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and see over 2,000 different animals. Explore exhibits such as the African Savannah and the Range of the Jaguar. The zoo has a beautiful botanical garden, with colorful flowers and lush landscapes.

St. Johns River – Take a scenic cruise down the river or rent a boat and explore this beautiful river. This scenic waterway is a great place to go fishing, boating and spotting wildlife. Enjoy a peaceful picnic in one of the riverfront park and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.

Southbank Riverwalk and Friendship Fountain: Friendship Fountain is a landmark in downtown Jacksonville. Enjoy the panoramic views and the synchronized water shows of the Friendship Fountain. Enjoy a stroll along Southbank Riverwalk which features scenic views, benches and picnic areas.

DUUVAL!

A Jacksonville Jaguars match at the TIAA bank Field in Jacksonville is a must for sports enthusiasts. Attending a Jacksonville Jaguars game is a great way to experience the NFL.

You can not only enjoy the thrilling football action, but you can also join “Duval,” a passionate fanbase. The Jaguars fans are known to be enthusiastic and create a lively atmosphere in the stadium.

Let’s Settle That Craving!

Jacksonville, Florida has a wide range of culinary options. Here are the best places to eat in Jacksonville.

Orsay: Orsay is located in an historic building in Avondale and offers a French inspired menu. Enjoy steak frites and bouillabaisse, as well as other French-inspired dishes, in an elegant environment.

Black Sheep Restaurant Located in the historic Five Points neighborhood, Black Sheep Restaurant is famous for its farm to table cuisine and rooftop bar. The restaurant’s menu includes Southern-inspired cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. Its rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city.

Town Hall is a popular neighborhood restaurant in San Marco. It offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience. The menu is based on seasonal ingredients, with dishes such as roasted chicken and seafood.

Hawkers Asian Street Food: This lively eatery brings flavors of Asian street foods to Jacksonville. Hawkers has a variety of shareable dishes and small plates inspired by Asian cuisines. These include noodles, bao, and satay.

Maple Street Biscuit Company has multiple locations throughout Jacksonville. It is a popular breakfast and brunch place. Their flaky biscuits, as well as Southern-inspired dishes such a chicken and waffles, and biscuit sandwiches are a crowd pleaser. This is one of my favorites! Check THE MENU

The Bearded Pig is a great place to satisfy your barbecue cravings in San Marco. This casual barbecue joint offers mouthwatering smoked briskets, pulled pork and ribs along with tasty side dishes and craft beer.

Gilbert’s Fish & Shrimp – If you want to try Nashville style hot chicken, Gilberts is your place. Enjoy crispy, flavorful and spicy chicken with Southern sides such as mac and cheese or collard greens.

The Oldest City In The U.S.:

St. Augustine, nestled along the scenic coastline of northeastern Florida is a fascinating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. This charming city has a rich history dating back over 450 years. It is the oldest continuously-inhabited European settlement in the United States. St. Augustine is a delight for all visitors. From its cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture and pristine beaches to its vibrant arts scene and pristine beaches. This article will examine the fascinating history and enchanting attractions that make St. Augustine an ideal destination.

Take Time For History & Explore:

Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry-built fortress in the United States. Enjoy the scenic views along the waterfront and explore the historic grounds. Be sure to check the National Park Service (NPS) site to get your sneak peak at this historical building. To visit the NPS, please use the link here National Park Service Website

St. George Street is the historic heart of St. Augustine. There are charming shops, restaurants, art galleries and historic landmarks along this street.

Explore the Lightner Museum. Housed in an elegant former hotel, this museum displays a collection of antiques and artifacts dating back to the Gilded Age. Immerse yourself in history and admire the architecture.

Visit the Old Jail. The Old Jail offers guided tours to give you a glimpse into the life of prisoners in the late 19th century and the early 20th century.

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum – Climb 219 steps up to the top for panoramic views over the city. The museum has exhibits about maritime history and shipwrecks.

Visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. According to legend this is the site where Juan Ponce de Leon landed first in search of mythical Fountain of Youth. Enjoy the exhibits of the park, the fountain and the peaceful surroundings.

Take A Bite Out Of History:

St. Augustine offers a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. Here are the top places to eat in St. Augustine.

Collage: Collage is known for its creative cuisine and intimate atmosphere. It offers a fine dining environment with dishes that combine Mediterranean and Southern flavors. This is a favorite for special occasions.

The Floridian is a casual restaurant that specializes in farm-to table cuisine. It serves delicious Southern comfort foods with a modern twist. Try their datil pepper sauce or shrimp and grits.

The Ice Plant Bar is located in the historic Ice Plant Building. This trendy bar and restaurant features craft cocktails as well as a menu that was inspired by Prohibition. In a unique atmosphere, enjoy tasty bites and inventive libations.

Catch 27: A must-visit for seafood lovers. This cozy restaurant sources locally produced and sustainable ingredients and offers a menu of fresh seafood dishes such as fish tacos and shrimp and grits.

Columbia Restaurant: The Columbia Restaurant, with its rich history and Spanish flare, is an institution in St. Augustine. This family-owned restaurant serves traditional Spanish and Cuban food, such as paella, 1905 Salad, and Cuban Sandwiches.

Why Northeast Florida:

Jacksonville and St. Augustine, both in Northeast Florida, offer a unique experience that offers urban excitement, history, cultural attractions and natural beauty. Jacksonville has a vibrant arts scene and a diverse range of culinary options. It also boasts beautiful beaches. St. Augustine, on the other hand immerses visitors into its rich Spanish Colonial history with well-preserved architectural landmarks and a charming ambience. This is a city which invites exploration and gives a glimpse of the past. Both destinations offer stunning scenery along the coast, which is perfect for relaxing and enjoying outdoor activities. Jacksonville and St. Augustine are both great destinations for those who want to experience the vibrant city life, or travel through history.