Post by Chuck McCue on Jan 29, 2014 9:18:53 GMT -5
Fun Florida Vacation
by Nicole Sanford
Spring Break and summer are right around the corner. It’s the perfect time start planning a family vacation. We all know Sunny Florida is a great destination for a family vacation. The most common point of interest is Orlando. But if you’re looking for something different and exciting for the whole family, you should consider a fun Florida vacation in Jacksonville.
Why Jacksonville?
A fun Florida vacation isn’t complete without a beautiful beach! While Orlando has plenty to offer, they don’t have a sunny, sandy beach. Jacksonville boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Florida. They also have a famous fishing pier as well as plenty of beach and water activities. Enjoy beach volleyball, fishing and a great variety of local eateries. Catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming right off the beach or just enjoy basking in the sun.
Where to Stay
I recommend staying at an oceanfront resort in Jacksonville Beach. You can find a wide selection of beautiful and affordable choices from Atlantic Beach to Ponte Vedra Beach. In the heart of Jacksonville Beach, you can rent bikes and mopeds to go exploring. You can also rent surf boards and ride the waves. Surfing is a big hit with kids! Having the beach right out your back door gives you a constant source of entertainment for the whole family. It’s the perfect fun Florida vacation!
Jacksonville Beach Festivities
The Seawalk Pavilion is situated right at the center of Jacksonville beach and hosts many family friendly events beginning in the spring. There’s no entry fee for these events and there are plenty of kid-friendly activities and vendors.
Below are a few upcoming events in 2014. You can find a complete list of events and information by visiting JacksonvilleBeach.org.
• Jax Beach Art Walk (Every 2nd Tuesday of the month)
Family-friendly event held once a month (5 pm)
• 25th Anniversary! Great Atlantic Festival
Music, Seafood & Fun!
Saturday, March 15th (Noon—10pm)
• 24th Annual George’s Music Springing the Blues
Fri-Sat-Sun, April 4th-6th
Time: Fri (5pm-10pm); Sat (Noon-10pm); Sun (Noon-8pm)
• Beaches Parade
April 27th (2pm)
• Community First Seawalk Music Festival
Sat, June 14th(Noon-10pm)
The city of Jacksonville Beach also offers free Moonlight Movies throughout the spring and summer months. The movies begin at 9pm and many are family-friendly. Be sure to arrive early and bring a blanket to sit on. Popcorn, candy and beverages are available for purchase. This will surely be a night to remember during your fun Florida Vacation.
Jacksonville Beach Attraction: Adventure Landing
With so many festivities and dining options, you may not even want to leave Jacksonville Beach. Aside from the lure of the ocean and Seawalk Pavilion festivals, Jacksonville Beach is also the home of Adventure Landing. They offer putt-putt golf, laser tag, go-carts, a kiddie coaster, video games and a water-park! With a full selection of family entertainment, you’re sure to find something for adults and kids of all ages.
The Jacksonville Zoo
The Jacksonville Zoo is the perfect place for families. They have a great variety of animals in a relaxed environment. Take your time strolling through the park, ride the train or let youngsters ride the carousel. One of my favorite parts of the Jacksonville Zoo is the giraffe exhibit. At certain times throughout the day you can purchase tree branches and hand feed the giraffes! That’s the perfect way to spend a fun Florida vacation.
The MOSH Museum
Jacksonville is also home of the Museum of Science and History (MOSH). This is a fun and educational museum that the whole family will love. They offer unique science exhibits and shows, as well as rich Jacksonville history.
The MOSH museum has a planetarium with dynamic, educational shows throughout the day. This is the largest single-lens planetarium in the world! The planetarium will take you on journeys beyond the stars and you’ll discover the wonders of the universe. It’s a site you don’t want to miss during your fun Florida vacation.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a unique family vacation in Florida, Jacksonville is the place to visit. From the festivities at Jacksonville Beach to the Jacksonville Zoo, there’s something for everyone. Your family will be amazed and entertained during your visit to Jacksonville. Step out of the ordinary and try something new in Florida. Visit Jacksonville for the perfect family fun Florida vacation. So, what are you waiting for?
Nicole is a wife and mother of two beautiful boys. She enjoys sharing her experiences with gardening, cooking, crafting, and healthy family living on her blog at www.organicsunshine.net.