What is the Southbank? by noidiotsplease
The St. Johns River actually splits Downtown Jacksonville into two halves, the "Northbank" and "Southbank." Both have their own skyscrapers, Riverwalks, restaurants, museums, attractions, hotels and a growing number of luxury condominium towers. Pedestrians have their choice of riding the Skyway, taking a water taxi or walking over the Main Street or Acosta Bridges to get from one side of the river to the other. The Southbank is not as big as the Northbank, which is actually the center of Downtown. The Southbank is, however, known for its selection of waterfront and/or trendy four and five star restaurants including Morton's of Chicago, Ruth's Chris Steak House, River City Brewing Company, the Charthouse, b.b.'s, the Wine Cellar and others. It is also home to the Museum of Science & History, the Jacksonville Maritime Museum and Friendship Fountain. Hilton, Radisson, Hampton Inn and Extended Day Suites all have hotels in the Southbank.