I’m a native of Jacksonville, Florida and though I moved away during my college years, I’m so happy to be back “home”.  It’s really unique to live somewhere your entire life and experience it as a child and then later in life through your child’s eyes.  Before I became a mom, I worked   at Visit Jacksonville, the city’s tourism department – therefore the reason I love Travel Tuesdays!  (Interested in being a featured Tuesday Traveler guest blogger?  Check out this post!)

Northeast Florida is a great place to visit for families.  It’s an area filled with great weather and outdoor activities.  A local favorite is the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens!  It has an awesome mini-waterpark for kids, train rides and even a carousel…not to mention all the cool animals there too!  My favorite place at the zoo is the giraffe overlook – I can’t wait for Maggie to get a little older so we can feed them!

What most people don’t know about this area is that there is water practically everywhere you go!  I’d be crazy to not tell you about our beaches!  Jacksonville Beach is home to the SeaWalk Pavilion, an oceanfront area that hosts festivals throughout the summer. Whether it’s the Blues festival in April or the seafood festival in March – always something great happening at the beach!  

Another one of our favorite, family hangouts is the Riverside Arts Market each Saturday. We love shopping the local arts/crafts and buying produce from the local farmers. Each week the market hosts live entertainment – jugglers, singers, dancers and sometimes clowns too!  It’s a great place to spend a Saturday morning and we always end our trip with a walk on the Riverwalk.  

I could write for days about my love for my hometown…maybe I’ll tell you more one day.  For now, I’m putting out the call for Tuesday Traveler guest bloggers!   I want to know why your city is a great family-friendly destination.  Check out this post for information on how to apply!