Jacksonville is the most populous city in the state of Florida, US. It is
centred on the banks of the St. Johns River and is located about 25 miles
away from the Florida and Georgia state border. The area in and around the
city was home to French colony of Fort Caroline in 1564 AD, which is termed
one of the earliest European settlements in the continental US.
Jacksonville was the predecessor to Hollywood and in early 20th
century, it attracted several filmmakers because of its warm climate,
exotic locations, and excellent rail connectivity. Jacksonville then had
more than 30 silent film studios and was nicknamed the ‘Winter Film Capital
of the World.’ Fast forward to 2018, and you will find the city a major
military deep-water port of the US Navy.
Things to do in Jacksonville
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary features several lions and tigers
and educates its visitors with the malefic effect of global warming,
deforestation and hunting on these big cats. The most striking aspect of
this sanctuary is that most of these animals here were brought here by
owners who couldn't care for them properly. Also, these animals are
afforded their natural habitats to freely roam about.
Kingsley Plantation
The Kingsley Plantation, on Fort George Island in Jacksonville, is the last
remaining plantation house in Florida. It appears like a 19th century South
American mansion and features a plantation house, a kitchen, a barn, and
several decaying slave cabins. This planation was made by Zephaniah
Kingsley, a wealthy businessman who had later married one of his slaves,
thus transferring to her the rights of the property.
Daytona Beach
Located at a 1.5-hour drive from Jacksonville, the city of Daytona Beach is
famous as the home of the world-famous car racing event- NASCAR. The city
also features a white sandy beach that attracts millions of visitors every
year who come here to enjoy its family-oriented resort culture.
Best Time to Visit Jacksonville
Book flights from Los Angeles to Jacksonville between the months of March
& May, & September to November. These shoulder seasons experiences
pleasant climate and receive fewer crowds. June Through August is the peak
tourist season, so those looking for holidays during this time should book
LAX to JAX flights in advance to save!
