Jacksonville, Florida, is a vibrant coastal city with a rich history, stunning beaches, and a thriving arts and culture scene. May is an ideal time to visit Jacksonville, as the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city’s many attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or the arts, there’s something for everyone in Jacksonville. Here are the 10 best places to visit in Jacksonville in May 2024:
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is a must-see for art enthusiasts. The museum houses a collection of over 5,000 works of art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum also has a beautiful garden with sculptures, fountains, and a reflecting pool.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is home to over 2,000 animals from all over the world. The zoo has a variety of exhibits, including a rainforest, an African savanna, and an Asian elephant habitat. The zoo also has a botanical garden with over 1,000 species of plants.
Museum of Science & History (MOSH)
The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is a great place to learn about science, technology, and history. The museum has a variety of interactive exhibits, including a planetarium, a science lab, and a history gallery. MOSH also has a large collection of artifacts from Florida and the southeastern United States.
Jacksonville Beach
Jacksonville Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach has a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and bars. Jacksonville Beach is also home to the Jacksonville Beach Pier, which is a popular spot for fishing and watching the sunset.
St. Augustine
St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States. The city is home to a variety of historical sites, including the Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, and the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum. St. Augustine is also a popular destination for shopping and dining.
Amelia Island
Amelia Island is a barrier island located just north of Jacksonville. The island is home to beautiful beaches, golf courses, and resorts. Amelia Island is also a popular destination for fishing, boating, and kayaking.
Fort Caroline National Memorial
Fort Caroline National Memorial is a historic park that commemorates the site of the first French settlement in North America. The park has a variety of exhibits on the history of Fort Caroline and the French in Florida.
Kingsley Plantation
Kingsley Plantation is a historic plantation located on the banks of the St. Johns River. The plantation was founded in 1814 by Zephaniah Kingsley, a slave owner who freed his slaves and married one of them. Kingsley Plantation is now a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours.
Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island State Park is a barrier island located just north of Jacksonville. The park has beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and camping sites. Little Talbot Island State Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Jacksonville.
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens is a 120-acre garden located on the banks of the St. Johns River. The garden has a variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, and flowers. The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Culture
Jacksonville has a vibrant culture with a mix of Southern charm and coastal influences. The city is home to a variety of museums, theaters, and art galleries. Jacksonville also has a thriving music scene with a variety of venues hosting live music events.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit Jacksonville are March, April, May, and October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city’s many attractions.
Nearby Transportation
Jacksonville is served by Jacksonville International Airport (JAX). The airport is located about 10 miles from downtown Jacksonville. Jacksonville is also accessible by train and bus.
Local Food
Jacksonville is home to a variety of local food options. Some of the most popular dishes include seafood, barbecue, and soul food. Jacksonville is also home to a variety of craft breweries and distilleries.
Best Hotels
There are a variety of hotels in Jacksonville to choose from. Some of the most popular hotels include the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, the Omni Jacksonville Hotel, and the DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront.
Conclusion
Jacksonville is a great city to visit in May 2024. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are a variety of attractions to choose from. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or the arts, there’s something for everyone in Jacksonville. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
