Jacksonville Florida

With nearly 1.3 million people, Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida - and it's no wonder. Jacksonville is famed for it's gorgeous beaches, friendly population, and interest in the arts. Additionally, Jacksonville boasts over 220 sunny days out of the year. The city itself is the largest in the southern United States with a land area of over 758 square miles. Encompassed within this massive span of space, you'll find numerous attractions including: over twenty miles of beautiful beach, 1,000 restaurants, and 14,000 hotel rooms! 

Jacksonville History

Jacksonville got its name in 1822 from the first military governor of the territory - the auspicious General Andrew Jackson. The history of the area, however, is much longer and more complex. The Timucuan Indians originally settled the land containing the modern city of Jacksonville. The first Europeans to discover the area were the Spanish. In 1513 Ponce De Leon arrived, and claimed the region for Spain. The French, who in 1564 built Ft. Caroline, closely followed them. The French held the Ft. Caroline for one year, before losing it to the Spanish - who rebuilt it and renamed it St. Augustine. 

By 1821 Florida had become a U.S. Territory. Only a year later, at "Cowford" (a point at which cows were ferried across the St. John's River) the settlement of Jacksonville was established. Jacksonville didn't remain a livestock transportation center for long, however. By 1850 northerners began to value Jacksonville for its beaches and climate. It began to be regarded as a winter haven for those is the colder portions of the nation. Jacksonville began to be called: "the winter city in summer land", and visitors from all over began to arrive to enjoy the new city.

Jacksonville hasn't been without its share of disaster. In 1901 a giant fire raged throughout the city, and burned over 2,000 building. The citizens rebuilt quickly - allowing what could have been a total tragedy to spawn urban renewal. The depression of the late 1930's hit Jacksonville's tourist based industry rather hard. This was alleviated after the economic upsurge at the end of World War II. Since then, Jacksonville has increased not only its per capita income and population, but even its landmass! In fact, in 1968 the city and county of Jacksonville joined together -- making it the largest city in the lower forty-eight states!

Major Attractions

Museum of Southern History
If you're a Civil War buff, or just know someone who is, the Museum of Southern History is a must-see. This museum may only be twenty-five years old, but it holds a wealth of information - especially on genealogy. The museum not houses Civil War memorabilia, but it also seeks to teach the visitor about ordinary life in the South. It showcases typical fashions from the period right along with political relics. A membership to the Museum of Southern History is available for only twenty dollars per year - giving you unlimited access to the museum's libraries. The staff is friendly, well educated, and will try to provide answers to any questions you might have. The museum also has a large gift shop with a massive array of original military items on sale. If you're a collector, or just interested in learning about the South in the 19th century, you'll find what you're looking for at the Museum of Southern History!

Jacksonville Zoological Gardens
Panthers, and alligators, and jaguars - oh my! The Jacksonville Zoological Gardens is home to all of these creatures and many more. Many of Florida's native species have been threatened by the speed at which the state has developed. It may be that, in the near future, it will be impossible to find these creatures in the wild. The Jacksonville Zoological Gardens is dedicated to preserving the lives of these species. You'll also be able to view endangered animals from other continents. Try the Plains of Africa tour to see lions, white rhinos, and elephants. There is so much to see and do at this wonderful zoo, you'll need to budget an entire day. 

St. Augustine Alligator Farm
Believe it or not, this roadside attraction is over one hundred years old, and listed as a Florida State Historical Site. It must be the tooth gnashing action that has keep visitors coming back for more than a century. Shows take place throughout the day that educate tourists on the care and feeding of reptiles. There's no safer way to get an up close and personal look at a big 'gator, so don't forget your camera! 

Amelia Island
Are you in the mood for unspoiled tropical paradise? If so, Amelia Island is the place to go. Located only thirty-five miles outside of Jacksonville, Amelia Island offers scenic and dinner cruises, horseback riding, golf, tennis, boating, fishing, and camping. It contains miles of white sand beaches for sunning and swimming. While you're on the islands, check out the Florida Inn House. Florida's oldest surviving hotel, this beautiful landmark depicts the golden age of tourism. Tread in the footsteps of American greats like Ulysses S. Grant, as you walk through the hallways of this luxurious inn. Another great place to see while visiting fascinating Amelia Island is the Amelia Island Lighthouse. This is the oldest structure on the island (built in 1839), and rises 107 feet above sea level - providing a terrific view! The lighthouse still functions, and can be seen nineteen miles out to see. Amelia Island is also the only U.S. Territory in the world to have served under eight flags - and it's no wonder everyone wanted it. This island is a treasure unto itself!

Sports Teams

Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars are the most successful franchise team in the history of the National Football League. Since entering the NFL in 1995, the team has been to the playoffs four times, and to the AFC Championship Game twice. The Jaguars have one of the best overall records in the history of the NFL, and (currently) have the highest winning percentage. With All-Pro stars like wide receiver Jimmy Smith, the Jaguars won forty-nine games in their first five seasons. Be sure to catch this team's explosive action at ALLTELL Stadium, where they make their home.

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