Founded in 1791, Jacksonville is located in one of the sunniest regions of the United States. A popular destination for retirees and spring break youngsters alike, it maintains a very diverse and interesting local culture. While most people think of beaches and sun-drenched sand when they think of Florida, there is much more to this fun city than just relaxing by the ocean.

This city is a haven for those who enjoy being outdoors and watching natural wildlife. There are a variety of state parks where visitors enjoy hiking, walking along nature trails, or relaxing by the lake. There are also many bird sanctuaries, gardens, and art museums located all throughout the city. Golf courses are also quite abundant.

Of course, no trip to Jacksonville would be complete without a stroll across the beach. Jacksonville Beach is one of the more popular yet not so crowded options for people who want to enjoy beautiful scenery and sand between the toes without dodging a torrent of other visitors. Another less crowded option is Atlantic Beach.

As a coastal city, most of the attractions in Jacksonville tend to be focused on the outdoors. From the local wildlife to the alluring oceans, visitors can enjoy everything from casual strolls through the woods to bird watching and surfing adventures on the open waves. Accommodations in this city are top notch, including many oceanfront hotels and resorts.