Your Perfect Day Trip to Jacksonville — A Naturally Connected Adventure
July 21st, 2025
Another idyllic day begins at Shearwater as sunlight filters through your bedroom windows. After your morning routine at the Fitness Lodge and that second cup of coffee on your screened porch, the day calls for adventure beyond your nature-inspired sanctuary. Yes, it’s time to get your Jax on! The beauty of calling Shearwater home is that when the urge for city exploration strikes, Jacksonville is simply just a short drive away.
Morning — Art, Culture, and Gardens
Your Jacksonville adventure begins at The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, where art meets nature in the most spectacular way. This cultural gem houses over 5,000 works of art, but it’s the historically significant gardens that truly steal the show.
Stroll through meticulously designed landscapes that have been shaped by legendary names like the Olmsted firm, all while enjoying views of the St. Johns River. One exciting art exhibition on display now is “Jacksonville’s Norman Studios – Movie Posters from the Permanent Collection,” offering a fascinating glimpse into when Florida was Hollywood before Hollywood.
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204
(904) 356-6857
Open daily except Mondays
From there, make your way to the Riverside Arts Market, where Jacksonville’s creative spirit comes alive every Saturday. This weekly gathering celebrates local farmers, artists, and makers in a vibrant community atmosphere. Pick up fresh Florida produce, browse handcrafted goods and feel the pulse of Jacksonville’s artistic heart.
Riverside Arts Market
715 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Saturdays, 10 AM – 3 PM, rain or shine
Midday — Flavors of Jacksonville
When hunger strikes, you have choices that reflect Jacksonville’s diverse culinary landscape. The Bearded Pig offers authentic Southern BBQ with Texas influences, serving up perfectly smoked meats with five proprietary sauces. For those seeking something more refined, Eleven South near Jacksonville Beach provides seasonally inspired world cuisine with standout dishes like stuffed fresh figs and ahi tuna tartare.
Afternoon — Beach Bliss
No Jacksonville adventure is complete without experiencing those famous 22 miles of shoreline. Whether you choose the bustling energy of Jacksonville Beach with its Sea Walk Pavilion, the upscale charm of Atlantic and Neptune Beach’s Town Center, or the authentic fishing village atmosphere of Mayport, each beach offers its own personality. Pack that swimsuit and let the Atlantic Ocean refresh your soul.
Evening — River Views and Live Entertainment
As the day winds down, board a river taxi for the Downtown Sunset Cruise along the St. Johns River. This 1.25-hour journey offers stunning views of Jacksonville’s skyline as golden hour transforms the waterfront into something truly magical.
Cap off your urban adventure with live entertainment at the historic Florida Theatre, where upcoming shows like Ryan Adams’ “Heartbreaker ’25 World Tour” and Jacksonville Rock Orchestra’s tribute to Journey promise unforgettable evenings.
Florida Theatre
128 E Forsyth St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Check website for current shows and tickets
Coming Home — The Perfect Ending
The final stop on your Jacksonville journey is the sweetest — returning to your naturally connected home at Shearwater. As you pull into your driveway, you’re reminded why you chose this special place. Perhaps you’ll bookend this perfect day with a quiet moment on the same back patio where it began, naturally, with a craft cocktail in hand.
Explore our available homes today, including quick move-in homes, and gain access to all that Shearwater has to offer.
