Florida-Georgia: Things to Do in Jax Beyond RV City
Veer off the typical Gator and Dawg paths at these hip Downtown-area locations in Jacksonville.
The iconic Florida vs. Georgia Football Rivalry has been taking place in our city since 1933 bringing together two passionate fan bases and thousands of college football lovers to our city.
Libations
In the heart of Jacksonville’s entertainment and sports epicenter, you'll find plenty of options for a libation. At the intersection of Bay Street and A. Philip Randolph Boulevard, Intuition Ale Works brews a slew of unique craft beers. Aside from pouring pints, the Intuition team offers tours of the brewery every hour during the tap room's regular business hours.
If you’re in the mood for something a little bit stronger, head to Intuition’s next-door neighbor, Manifest Distilling. The distillery also offers tours of their production area, teaching customers about the processes of creating vodka (they’re famous for their potato variety), organic gin, whiskey, and other spirits. Top off the tour with a libation at The Cocktail Room.
If collecting stamps in your Jax Ale Trail passport is your goal, walk over to Bold City Brewery to try local favorites Duval Light, Killer Whale Cream Ale and Duke's Brown Ale.
Then head around the corner to Ruby Beach Brewing for unique and inspired craft beers using locally sourced ingredients.
Eats
For a delicious Downtown lunch, head to Bellwether for a unique take on the typical soup and sandwich. Kids and adults alike will swoon over the made-in-house soft serve.
For delicious food and a great view, try Estrella Cocina. Located on the 7th floor of the VyStar Credit Union in Downtown Jacksonville, this Baja coastal Mexican-style, specialty restaurant, bar & lounge offers scenic views of the skyline and St. Johns River.
The VyStar Credit Union campus also offers the new Bread & Board, featuring gourmet sandwiches and sandwich boards, entrees, fresh salads and soups. While you're there, stop by the Bread & Board Provisions to pick up some snacks for tailgating.
Looking for something sweet? Head to Sweet Pete’s, a candy store for kids of all ages.
The Cowford Chop House is Downtown’s first locally owned steakhouse, offering delicious steaks, fresh seafood, and a rooftop bar with craft cocktails and local beer. The views can’t be beat!
Try BB’s Restaurant and Bar along the Southbank for a scrumptious dinner. Enjoy fresh daily specials on the patio during the crisp Northeast Florida evening. The versatile, trendy atmosphere at this city favorite can be as casual or formal as you make it. Save room for dessert—BB’s is famous for their bread pudding and liquor-soaked cakes.
Out-of-this-world brunch abounds at Maple Street Biscuit Company in San Marco. Not for the faint-hearted, this local chain is famous for turning out flaky biscuits coated in cheese, gravy, eggs, and sausage. It’s a Southern dining experience like no other.
Lodging
Off the beaten path in Jacksonville’s historic Riverside neighborhood sits The Riverdale Inn, a Victorian bed and breakfast. Built in 1901, the three-story house boasts unique guest rooms, each with its own personality.
Shopping
For the best boutique and antique shopping in town, visit the nearby San Marco Square. After making the rounds at the area’s clothing stores and galleries, make a Peterbrooke Chocolatier run for their hit delicacy—chocolate-covered popcorn.
Across the river, don’t miss the Five Points District, with several local boutiques, clothing stores, and plenty of bars and restaurants