
1 JACKSONVILLE BIG TALBOT ISLAND STATE PARK
One of the largest of the seven Talbot Islands state parks, this natural preserve is famous for the salt-washed skeletons of live oak and cedar trees near the shore. It's a beautiful place to observe wildlife, bird-watch and hike. There are also guided tours offered by Kayak Amelia and EcoMotion Segway. www.floridastateparks.org
2 Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
This combination zoo and botanical garden currently spans 92 acres. Glimpse Komodo dragons (the largest lizards in the world), pet stingrays, and breathe in the scents of exotic blooms. www.jacksonvillezoo.org
3 Bold City Brewery
This family-owned brewery offers 10 sudsy selections in its cozy tap room. Grab a seat and sip a "Mad Manatee" IPA. www.boldcitybrewery.com
4 TPC Sawgrass
Just 40 minutes from the Jacksonville International Airport lies one of the most heralded golf destinations in the world. Book a tee time for The Players Stadium course or Pete Dye's Valley course and follow in the footsteps of pros like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson. www.tpc.com/sawgrass
5 First Wednesday Art Walk
Peruse downtown galleries and museums during this free event, held from 5pm to 9pm the first Wednesday of every month. Not in an arty mood? You can still enjoy live music, outdoor shopping and specials at area restaurants. www.downtownvision.org
6 The Homestead Restaurant
Since the late 1940s, this cozy eatery has served up Southern fare in Jacksonville Beach. As you get your fill of the famous fried chicken, watch out for ghosts-the place is rumored to be haunted. www.homesteadrestaurant.us
7 Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra
Let the city's talented youth put you in the holiday mood. On Dec. 13, the orchestra will play yuletide favorites to delight young and old. www.jaxyouthorchestra.com
8 Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Ask a local where to find good surf in Jacksonville Beach, and they'll point you to "Hanna Park," which offers camping, kayaking, hiking trails and a killer surfing spot known as "the poles." www.bit.ly/jaxhanna
9 Jacksonville Landing
This downtown landmark boasts shops, bars and restaurants and more than 1,000 feet of public dock space on the St. Johns River. "The Landing" really comes alive at night, so catch a public boat to the dock and check out longtime hotspots The Twisted Martini and Maverick's Rock N' Honky Tonk. www.jacksonvillelanding.com
10 Biscottis
Located in the charming Avondale neighborhood, this little restaurant offers everything from wasabi-dusted sea scallops to down-home meatloaf sandwiches. Don't miss the Sunday brunch, often counted among the best in the city. www.biscottis.net
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