What's that fragrant aroma?
by noidiotsplease
If you're visiting in late April and May it could be the jasmine vines with their tiny fragrant flowers in full bloom. Then again, it could also be the ligustrum hedges that also bloom at this time, or perhaps the magnolia blossoms that emerge a couple weeks later. At any rate, by late spring the scents of the season are everywhere.
kingsley plantation
by doug48
located on fort george island is the historic kingsley plantation. this beautifully restored plantation gives the visitor a look at pre civil war plantation life. the plantation was built by zephaniah kinsley who lived there from 1814 to 1837. pictured is the main house of the kingsley plantation. the plantation is part of the 46,000 acre timmicuan preserve and can be reached by US A1A 15 miles northeast of downtown jacksonville.
Always great food and eclectic atmosphere
by grimss about Biscotti's
This is what every neighborhood should have--a stylish, comfortable, upscale eatery that is consistently reliable and always a good time. The eclectic space has grown over the years to accomodate the restaurant's popularity, but remains cozy and attractive is a NYC Soho sort of way--exposed brick walls, changing artwork, high ceilings. You can also eat outside at the small cafe tables and watch your neighbors strolling the Avondale shops.
Food is upscale bistro--unique salads and sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, generous appetizers--although there is always a small, but good choice of specials as well, typically one fish dish, one meat dish, and a pasta choice. In the dozens of times I've eaten here over the years--breakfast, lunch and dinner--I've had only one subpar meal. Nice wine and beer selection, if a little pricey. The service is also consistently good. A great local hangout, and worth the trip even if you're not in the Avondale area. The fish specials are always fabulous, as is the Thai Chicken Salad, and any of the pizzas.
Jacksonville's natural gem!
by noidiotsplease
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
Accessible from Monument Road, just east of the 9A Beltway, the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens features four interconnected trails. Collectively, these trails circle around a central lake, meander past mighty oak trees, climb up bluffs, and provide foot bridges over streams and ravines. Extremely lush, the abundant foliage and underbrush remind one of a scene from Jurassic Park.
Jacksonville - Surprisingly Rich for Tourists
by MatthewMetcalfe
Jacksonville is located in the north eastern part of Florida about an Hour's drive from the Georgia Border.
Everytime I've heard people talk about Jacksonville, they tend to center on the Crime or the "White Trash" aspects of the City. I've made dozens of trips to the area and I've found that there are actually a lot of great things to see and do in this City.
I recognize that there is a bad part of Jacksonville, but the Downtown area by the river seems to be thriving. The Area from Jacksonville Beach down to Ponte Vedra Beach is loaded loaded with things to do if you are visiting Jacksonville.
Of course, the main reason most people go to Florida is the Beach. This is a shot of Jacksonville Beach. I don't know where all the people were but I know it gets more crowded than this. It was the middle of the afternoon when I shot this photo. Maybe they all had a synchronized lunch together.
Those aren't Sugar Coated Donut Holes on the beach! When you are at the beach, clean up after your dog! It's the Law!