Duval County Florida Map
Discovering Duval County
Duval County is a hidden gem located in the northeast region of Florida, known for its white sandy beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. The county is home to the city of Jacksonville, which is the largest city in Florida in terms of land area. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty, Duval County has something to offer every type of traveler.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in Duval County is the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, which covers over 46,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and waterways. Visitors can hike, bike, or kayak through the preserve to see a variety of wildlife and historical landmarks, including the Kingsley Plantation, the Fort Caroline National Memorial, and the Ribault Club.
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is another must-visit attraction, featuring over 2,000 animals and 1,000 varieties of plants. The zoo is divided into several different areas, including the African Savannah, the Wild Florida exhibit, and the Range of the Jaguar.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for a unique experience, check out the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. This museum features over 5,000 works of art, as well as 2.5 acres of historic gardens. Another hidden gem is the Riverside Arts Market, which takes place every Saturday under the Fuller Warren Bridge. Here you can browse handmade crafts, listen to live music, and sample delicious local food.
Food Scene
Duval County has a thriving food scene, with a wide variety of restaurants offering everything from traditional southern cuisine to international flavors. Some of the top restaurants in the area include Orsay, which serves modern French cuisine, The Bearded Pig BBQ, and The Floridian, which features fresh and locally-sourced ingredients in its dishes.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Duval County without breaking the bank. One option is to take advantage of the county’s many parks and beaches, which are free to visit. You can also check out the many free events and festivals that take place throughout the year, such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival and the Riverside Arts Market.
Outdoor Adventures
Duval County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. Some of the top outdoor destinations in the area include the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, and the St. Johns River.
Historical Landmarks
For history buffs, Duval County has plenty of landmarks and museums to explore. Some of the top sites include the Kingsley Plantation, the Fort Caroline National Memorial, and the Museum of Science and History. You can also take a walking tour of historic neighborhoods like Riverside and Avondale to see some of the city’s most beautiful architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities
Duval County is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that kids will love. One option is to visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, which offers a variety of interactive exhibits and animal encounters. You can also check out the Adventure Landing amusement park, which features go-karts, mini-golf, and laser tag.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in Duval County. For example, you can take a ghost tour of the city to learn about its haunted history, or you can visit the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary to see big cats up close.
Natural Wonders
Duval County is home to a number of natural wonders that are worth exploring. One of the most popular destinations is the Big Talbot Island State Park, which features a stunning beach and unique rock formations known as the Boneyard. You can also visit the Little Talbot Island State Park, which offers miles of hiking trails and pristine beaches.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Duval County comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. One of the top destinations is the Jacksonville Landing, which offers a variety of bars and restaurants overlooking the St. Johns River. You can also check out the many live music venues in the area, such as the Florida Theatre and the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, be sure to check out one of Duval County’s many farmers’ markets. The Riverside Arts Market is a popular destination for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music. You can also visit the Beaches Green Market, which features organic and locally-grown produce.
Beaches and Mountains
Duval County is known for its beautiful beaches, with miles of pristine coastline to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. If you’re looking for a change of scenery, you can also head inland to explore the many parks and trails in the nearby mountains.
Cultural Immersion
Duval County has a rich and diverse culture, with a variety of festivals, museums, and galleries to explore. Some of the top destinations include the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, the Ritz Theatre and Museum, and the Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival.
Art and Music Scene
For art and music lovers, Duval County is a paradise. You can explore the many galleries and studios in the Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods, or check out the many live music venues in the area. Some of the top destinations include the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, the Art Walk in downtown Jacksonville, and the Jacksonville Jazz Festival.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Duval County is on foot. There are a variety of walking tours available, including historic tours of neighborhoods like Riverside and Avondale, and ghost tours of downtown Jacksonville. You can also take a self-guided tour of the city’s many public art installations.
Architectural Marvels
Duval County is home to some stunning examples of architecture, including the Henry John Klutho House, the St. James Building, and the Florida Theatre. You can also explore the many historic homes and buildings in the Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods.
Historical Sites
For a deeper understanding of Duval County’s rich history, be sure to visit some of its many historical sites. Some of the top destinations include the Kingsley Plantation, the Fort Caroline National Memorial, and the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society.
Biking Routes
Duval County has a variety of biking routes to explore, including the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, the Baldwin Trail, and the Timucuan Trail. You can also take a leisurely ride along the Jacksonville Riverwalk, which offers stunning views of the St. Johns River.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to unwind and recharge, Duval County has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. One option is the Salt Spa at the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, which offers a variety of treatments and therapies using salt from the Dead Sea. You can also visit the Yoga Den or take a meditation class at the ZenCog Bicycle Company.
Adventure Sports
Duval County is a great destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more. Some of the top destinations include Jacksonville Beach, Huguenot Memorial Park, and Hanna Park.
With so much to see and do, Duval County is an ideal destination for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, you’re sure to find it in this beautiful corner of Florida.