Solo Service Member Itinerary

Welcome to Jacksonville. Whether it’s for the long haul or just a short training stint, you’ve got limited time to get the lay of the land.

Consider this your field guide to maximizing 24 hours in Jax. With a mix of craft beer, legendary seafood offerings, and solid nightlife, this is your roadmap to making the most of your time off duty.

Photo by: Ryan Ketterman

Mission Critical: Where to Stay

Every great operation needs a solid base camp. These three accommodation styles offer something for every solo adventurer.

  • Beachside Bunker: One Ocean Resort and Spa offers beach views, a luxurious spa and delicious eats. Dive into the staycation of your dreams at one of Jacksonville’s best beachfront resorts.
  • Downtown HQ: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront is a great option if you want to stay in the heart of the action with stunning views of both the riverfront and city, be within walking distance of bars, nightlife, and entertainment in Downtown Jax. Check out Hyatt’s military and government discounts.
  • Budget Barracks: Military service members can take advantage of Navy Lodge Mayport or IHG Army Hotels on NAS Jacksonville for affordable, convenient stays right on base.
A woman standing on the beach at Big Talbot Island
Boneyard Beach at Big Talbot Island

Mission Objective: Acclimate & Explore

Morning Rituals:

  • Morning Run: Take a stroll or jog at Neptune Beach—after all, what’s Florida without a beach day?
  • Tactical Sweat Sesh: Black Hive Athletics offers high-intensity CrossFit-style workouts for those who want to push limits to start their day.
  • Nature + Views: Grab a kayak from PADL and explore the Flip Side of Florida at Big Talbot and Little Talbot Islands on a guided tour. Get some of the best views of wildlife right up close.

Midday Happenings:

  • Fort Caroline National Memorial: Explore Jacksonville’s history by stepping back in time on a 1550s fort replica. With walking paths, views and a small museum, you’ll learn more about your new hometown in a unique way.
  • Riverside Arts Market: Are you exploring on the weekend? Get immersed in a Jacksonville local favorite weekend pastime. The Riverside Arts Market is a rain or shine event. Grab fresh fruits and veggies, artisan crafted items and enjoy live entertainment.
  • Shopping spree: St. Johns Town Center is a great place to settle into Jacksonville. From luxury shopping to your everyday needs, grab a new Florida wardrobe or decorate your home with the findings in this open air shopping mecca.

Nightlife:

  • Root Down/Hush Hush Headphones: Think hidden speakeasy vibes, silent disco nights, and an eclectic local crowd.
  • Decca Live: If you're in the mood for live bands, DJs, and an energetic crowd, this is the place to be.
Entryway at the Veterans United Craft Brewery
Photo by: Veterans United Craft Brewery

Mess Hall Intel: Eats + Drinks

Mayport Shrimp Trail: One thing Jacksonville does better than almost anywhere else? Mayport shrimp. Down your weight in seafood for a proper welcome to JAX. Follow the Mayport Shrimp Trail to the best local haunts.

  • Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant (Mayport): Right on the docks, this no-frills spot serves up blackened shrimp platters, hush puppies, and killer views of the fleet.
  • Singleton’s Seafood Shack (Mayport): An old-school, cash-only fish camp with some of the best-fried shrimp you’ve ever had.
  • Dockside Seafood Restaurant (Jacksonville Beach): This spot offers a great beachside view and vibes. Grab a Mayport shrimp po'boy and sit outside for waterfront vibes.

Jax Ale Trail: Craft beer enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Jacksonville’s Jax Ale Trail is a legendary route featuring some of Florida’s best breweries. Here’s your intel on some of the top breweries to hit.

  • Aardwolf Brewing Co. (San Marco): Housed in a historic icehouse, Aardwolf cranks out bold stouts, crisp saisons, and legendary Belgian-style brews.
  • Fishweir Brewing Company (Murray Hill): Veteran-owned brewery that hosts events, a weekly farmers market every Wednesday and has an outdoor area they refer to as "The Backyard" that will make you feel right at home.
  • Wicked Barley Brewing (Baymeadows): A riverfront beer garden serving craft brews with a solid gastropub menu.
  • Veterans United Craft Brewery (Southside): Founded by a former Naval Flight Officer, this veteran-owned brewery offers military-inspired brews.

Pro tip: Grab a Jax Ale Trail Passport at any participating brewery or download the Visit Jax app for a digital version, get stamps at each stop, and redeem them for free Jax Ale Trail merch.

Mission Accomplished: Welcome to Jax

You’ve had 24 hours of Jacksonville’s best eats, drinks, and nightlife, and you’re now officially mission-ready. Whether you’re here for a long stint or just passing through, you now have the intel to make the most of your time.

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