Downtown Jacksonville is the lively historic hub and Central Business District of Jacksonville, Florida. Downtown lies on the banks of St. John’s River which spans out into the Atlantic Ocean. Parks, museums, shops and restaurants reside in the area, offering visitors a plethora of historic and recreational activities to enjoy.
The Riverside is a great place to begin, as it constitutes the heart of Downtown. Jacksonville Landing hosts over 300 events each year including a variety of music festivals and the 4th of July firework display. Alternatively, head for Jacksonville Maritime Museum, which documents the city’s seafaring heritage with a collection of large scale model ships. The 1.9 kilometre Jacksonville Riverwalk offers incredible views of speedboats and sailboats as they glide along the river channel into the Atlantic Ocean. The Riverwalk is also an ideal place to spend an evening. Visitors can enjoy a bite to eat or admire illuminated Main Street Bridge and glittering skyscrapers at dusk. There are several galleries and museums to explore in the downtown area. Discover the Museum of Science and History, or enjoy the range of historic artefacts on display at Jacksonville Fire Museum. After dark, visitors can indulge in a modern theatre performance, or dine out in one of Jacksonville’s international eateries. Downtown Jacksonville offers shoppers the opportunity to browse independent gift, candy, gourmet stores and boutiques.
Many visitors to Jacksonville opt to self-drive, as there are plenty of parking spaces within the city centre. The city is widespread, although downtown areas and beaches are well serviced by public bus and trolley systems. Popular areas and attractions around the riverside can be accessed on foot easily. Cycling is also a great way to explore the urban centre and to venture across the bridge to San Marco with its shops and restaurants. Alternatively, visitors can opt to travel via the Skyway which comprises two routes and crosses St. John’s River. Jacksonville operates both taxi and Uber services.
Downtown Jacksonville originated at a crossing of St. John’s River known as Wacca Pilatka. It was originally the site of an old Indian Village. Settlement began between 1763 and 1783 when King’s Road was constructed to link St. Augustine. Today, Downtown Jacksonville is again, home to many cultures, with its rich history catalogued in buildings, museums and historic streets.