Premium shopping in Jacksonville, Florida

With the holidays fast approaching, Jacksonville, Florida, offers a variety of options for premium shopping for that special gift for someone, including upscale malls, designer boutiques, and luxury shopping districts. Here are some of the top destinations for premium shopping in Jacksonville:

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   St. Johns Town Center: St. Johns Town Center is one of Jacksonville's premier shopping destinations, featuring a mix of high-end retailers, luxury brands, and upscale dining options. Anchored by department stores like Nordstrom and Dillard's, the outdoor shopping center also boasts designer boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Kate Spade New York.

1. The Avenues: Located on Jacksonville's Southside, The Avenues is another popular shopping mall offering a wide selection of upscale stores and dining options. Visitors can shop for designer clothing, accessories, and home goods at retailers like Apple, Michael Kors, Pottery Barn, and Williams-Sonoma.

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3. The Markets at Town Center: Situated adjacent to St. Johns Town Center, The Markets at Town Center is a high-end shopping district featuring a curated selection of specialty shops, boutiques, and upscale restaurants. Visitors can browse for luxury goods, artisanal products, and unique gifts in a sophisticated setting.

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5. The Shops of Ponte Vedra: Located in nearby Ponte Vedra Beach, The Shops of Ponte Vedra is a luxury shopping destination offering a curated selection of upscale boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores. Visitors can shop for designer fashion, fine jewelry, home decor, and more in a relaxed coastal setting.

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7. San Marco Square: San Marco Square is a charming historic district in downtown Jacksonville known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and upscale dining establishments. Visitors can explore a variety of specialty stores offering unique gifts, clothing, accessories, and home decor items.

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9. Riverside and Avondale: Riverside and Avondale are trendy neighborhoods in Jacksonville known for their eclectic mix of shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Visitors can stroll along historic streets lined with vintage stores, upscale boutiques, and locally owned shops offering a diverse array of products.

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11. Jacksonville Beach: Jacksonville Beach offers a variety of shopping options along its bustling beachfront area, including surf shops, beachwear boutiques, and specialty stores. Visitors can browse for swimwear, beach accessories, souvenirs, and coastal-themed gifts while enjoying ocean views and seaside ambiance.

These are just a few of the top destinations for premium shopping in Jacksonville, Florida. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion, luxury brands, or unique specialty items, Jacksonville offers a range of shopping experiences to suit every taste and style.

Be sure to plan your holiday stay at VRDR, we're located conveniently just 10-20 minutes away for the best shopping in Jacksonville, Florida.

Best Rooftop Bars Around Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville, Florida offers some fantastic rooftop bars where you can enjoy beautiful views and refreshing drinks.  Each offers its own unique ambiance and views, so be sure to check them out to find your favorite spot! Here are a few popular options:


River & Post: Situated on the rooftop of a historic building in Riverside, River & Post offers panoramic views of the St. Johns River and downtown skyline. The rooftop bar serves handcrafted cocktails, local beers, and a diverse menu of small plates and entrees.


Cowford Chophouse: This upscale steakhouse in downtown Jacksonville features a rooftop bar with views of the city skyline and the St. Johns River. Guests can enjoy cocktails, fine wines, and premium spirits while taking in the scenery.


Dos Gatos: While not strictly a rooftop bar, Dos Gatos has a second-floor balcony that offers a great vantage point for people-watching in downtown Jacksonville. It's known for its extensive selection of craft cocktails and lively atmosphere.


Intuition Ale Works: Located in the Sports Complex area, Intuition Ale Works has a rooftop deck where guests can enjoy a variety of craft beers brewed on-site. The relaxed atmosphere and views of the city make it a popular spot for beer enthusiasts.

Jacksonville Beach, Florida, known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful ocean views also has some rooftop bar choices to consider.  One great one is the Lemon Bar.  They offer a great opportunity to enjoy drinks and ocean views in a relaxed beachside setting.

Surfer [The Bar]: Located in the heart of Jacksonville Beach, Surfer [The Bar] offers a rooftop deck with ocean views. It's a popular spot for surfers and beachgoers alike, with live music, a casual vibe, and a selection of beers, cocktails, and pub grub.


Casa Marina Hotel & Restaurant: While not technically a rooftop bar, the Casa Marina Hotel in nearby Jacksonville Beach offers an oceanfront terrace where guests can enjoy drinks and small bites while taking in the views of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a historic hotel with old-world charm and a relaxed beachfront atmosphere.


The Pier Cantina & Sandbar: Situated on the Jacksonville Beach Pier, The Pier Cantina & Sandbar offers indoor and outdoor seating with views of the beach and ocean. While it's not a traditional rooftop bar, its elevated location provides panoramic views and a refreshing ocean breeze.


Lynch's Irish Pub: Another option near Jacksonville Beach, Lynch's Irish Pub has a second-floor balcony where guests can enjoy drinks and pub fare while overlooking the bustling streets below. It's a lively spot with a friendly atmosphere and occasional live music.

When visiting Jacksonville, you'll find that either of our VRDR properties in Jacksonville is a great place to stay when checking out the rooftop bar scene.

Is There a Jacksonville Art Scene? You Bet There Is!

Jacksonville, FL, has a distinctive and growing art scene that offers several unique aspects and a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, from traditional to contemporary. The art community in Jacksonville is known for its supportive atmosphere. Local artists and organizations collaborate frequently, fostering creativity and innovation. 

Jacksonville also hosts several art festivals and events throughout the year. These events celebrate different art forms, including visual arts, performing arts, music, and culinary arts, contributing to the city's vibrant cultural calendar. The city also supports emerging artists through various galleries, art studios, and creative spaces. These venues provide opportunities for up-and-coming artists to showcase their work, gain exposure, and connect with art enthusiasts and collectors.

Events like the Riverside Arts Market provide platforms for artists to showcase their work and engage with the community. RAM is located under the canopy of the Fuller Warren Bridge on Riverside Avenue in Jacksonville's Riverside neighborhood. The address is 715 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204.  RAM is open every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, rain or shine year-round. 

The market features a wide variety of artists and artisans selling their handmade goods, including paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery, textiles, and more. It's a great place to find unique, locally made items, and also hosts local farmers selling fresh produce, herbs, plants, and flowers. Additionally, numerous food vendors offer a diverse selection of cuisine, ranging from international dishes to traditional southern fare.

Throughout the day, RAM often features live music and entertainment from local musicians and performers. There are also occasional special events, themed markets, and activities for families and children.

Jacksonville also boasts a growing collection of public art and murals scattered throughout the city like the First Wednesday Art Walk. These artworks often reflect local themes, history, and community values. The main art walk event typically starts at Hemming Park in downtown Jacksonville. This park serves as a central gathering point and often features live music, food trucks, and other activities during the First Wednesday Art Walk held on the first Wednesday of each month.  Hemming Park is located at 135 W Monroe St Jacksonville, FL 32202

From Hemming Park, participants can explore various galleries, studios, and pop-up venues throughout downtown. The art walk route usually includes several blocks around Laura Street, Adams Street, and nearby areas where local artists and vendors showcase their work.  

If you take a stroll along King Street and other areas of the Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods, you'll also discover colorful artwork. The historic neighborhood of Springfield features murals that reflect the community's heritage and evolving artistic expressions. Murray Hill is another neighborhood with a growing number of murals showcasing both local and international artists' work. Also, the Art Republic District is specifically designated for public art. It also hosts the annual Art Republic Global Mural Conference, which features large-scale murals by renowned artists. And although a bit outside Jacksonville proper, these beachside areas of Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach often have murals that capture the coastal lifestyle and local themes.

Jacksonville is also home to a notable, cultural institution, Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, which houses a diverse collection of artworks spanning centuries and continents. The institution plays a crucial role in preserving artistic heritage and educating the public about art history and contemporary trends. The museum is located on the banks of the St. Johns River in the Riverside neighborhood of Jacksonville at 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204.

The museum's collection includes over 5,000 works of art, spanning from ancient art to contemporary pieces. Highlights of the collection include significant holdings of European and American paintings and a notable collection of Meissen porcelain. 

The Cummer Museum also offers a variety of educational programs, including workshops, lectures, tours, and classes for both children and adults. These programs often integrate art appreciation with hands-on activities and engagement with the museum's collections.

The Cummer Gardens feature historic gardens that date back to the early 20th century. The gardens showcase formal designs, reflecting pools, fountains, and several distinct garden rooms. They are a serene retreat within the urban setting of Jacksonville.

In addition to its galleries and gardens, the Cummer Museum has facilities for events, weddings, and special occasions. It also houses a gift shop offering a selection of art-related merchandise and books.

Overall, the Jacksonville art scene has something to offer everyone year-round.  It's well worth planning your stay at VRDR and taking in the arts and activities offered throughout the Jacksonville area. 

Atlanta Daytrips from Braves Battery Central

When visiting Braves Battery Central, our Smyrna, Georgia - Atlanta, Georgia location serves as an excellent base for exploring various day trip destinations, ranging from natural wonders to historical sites and charming towns. Here are some popular day trip options near Atlanta:

1. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: This series of parks along the Chattahoochee River provides opportunities for hiking, picnicking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore miles of scenic trails and enjoy outdoor activities just a short drive from Atlanta.

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3. Stone Mountain Park: Located just east of Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park features the world's largest piece of exposed granite and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, scenic railroad rides, and the Summit Skyride, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.

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5. Helen, Georgia: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is known for its charming Bavarian-style architecture and picturesque surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll through the town center to admire the Bavarian architecture, quaint shops, and charming restaurants, or enjoy a relaxing float down the Chattahoochee River on a tube. You may also enjoy the hiking trails in and around Helen and explore the local vineyards and wineries in the area. And be sure to catch one of Helen's many festivals or events, such as Oktoberfest, the Christkindlmarkt (Christmas market), or the Bavarian Nights of Summer.

1. Serenbe: Located about 30 miles southwest of Atlanta, Serenbe is a sustainable community known for its farm-to-table dining, art galleries, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the picturesque countryside, visit local shops, or enjoy a meal at one of the community's acclaimed restaurants.

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3. Dahlonega, Georgia: About an hour and a half north of Atlanta, Dahlonega is a charming town known for its gold mining history and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, visit gold mines, or go wine tasting at one of the area's wineries.

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5. Buford Highway International Corridor: Food enthusiasts can embark on a culinary adventure along Buford Highway, a multicultural corridor in the northern suburbs of Atlanta. This vibrant area is home to numerous international restaurants, markets, and bakeries, offering a diverse array of cuisines to explore.

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7. Red Top Mountain State Park: Situated on the shores of Lake Allatoona, Red Top Mountain State Park offers opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. The park also features picnic areas, campgrounds, and scenic overlooks, making it a great destination for outdoor recreation.

These are just a few examples of day trip options near Atlanta. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, historical sites, or cultural experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy within a short drive of the city.

Jacksonville Jazz Festival

The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is an annual event that celebrates the rich history and vibrant culture of jazz music in Jacksonville, Florida. Here's some information about the festival:

History: The Jacksonville Jazz Festival has been a staple event in the city since its inception in 1981. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest jazz festivals in the Southeast, attracting thousands of music lovers from around the country.

Location: The festival takes place in downtown Jacksonville, with various stages set up throughout the area. Performances are held in venues such as Hemming Park, The Florida Theatre, and other outdoor stages along the riverfront.

Dates and Schedule of Music Performances: The Jacksonville Jazz Festival typically will take place over the Memorial Day weekend, spanning several days from Friday to Sunday. The festival features a lineup of world-class jazz musicians and performers, including local talent and internationally renowned artists. Attendees can enjoy a diverse range of jazz music styles, including traditional jazz, smooth jazz, Latin jazz, fusion, and more. The festival showcases performances by jazz legends, up-and-coming artists, and local bands, providing something for every music lover to enjoy. Check out the 2024 Schedule and lineup.

Activities and Attractions: In addition to live music, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival offers a variety of activities and attractions for attendees to enjoy. These may include art exhibits, food and beverage vendors, jazz workshops and clinics, family-friendly activities, and more.

Community Engagement: The festival is not only a celebration of music but also a way to engage the community and promote cultural enrichment. It provides opportunities for local musicians to showcase their talent, fosters connections between artists and audiences, and contributes to the cultural vibrancy of Jacksonville.

Admission and Tickets: Many of the performances and activities at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival are free and open to the public, making it accessible to everyone. Some indoor concerts may require tickets, which can be purchased in advance or at the door.

Overall, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival is a beloved annual tradition that celebrates the timeless art form of jazz music and brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy live performances, community camaraderie, and the cultural richness of Jacksonville, Florida.

Cruising and Fishing in Jacksonville

Jacksonville, Florida is home to several cruise and fishing ports that serve as gateways to the Atlantic Ocean and beyond. While you're there, be sure to take the opportunity to stay with us at VRDR. We're conveniently located less than 20 minutes from each of these adventures. Come and enjoy all that Jacksonville has to offer before or after your cruise or fishing trip. See below the main cruise and fishing ports in Jacksonville:

Cruise Port:

1. JAXPORT (Jacksonville Port Authority): JAXPORT operates multiple terminals along the St. Johns River in Jacksonville, including the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal. While not as large as some of the major cruise ports in Florida, JAXPORT offers cruise itineraries to the Bahamas and other destinations in the Caribbean. Carnival Cruise Line has been a primary operator at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal.
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Fishing Ports:

1. Mayport Village: Located at the mouth of the St. Johns River, Mayport Village is a historic fishing village and home to a vibrant fishing community. The Mayport area has several marinas and docks where commercial and recreational fishing boats operate. It's a popular destination for anglers looking to fish inshore, offshore, or deep-sea waters.

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3. Sisters Creek Marina: Sisters Creek Marina is situated in northeast Jacksonville near the Mayport area. It provides access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean, making it a convenient departure point for fishing charters and recreational boating trips. The marina offers various amenities and services for boaters, including boat rentals, fuel docks, and fishing supplies.

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5. Dames Point Marina: Dames Point Marina is located along the St. Johns River in northeast Jacksonville, near the Dames Point Bridge. While primarily a full-service marina catering to recreational boaters, Dames Point Marina also serves as a departure point for fishing charters and excursions. It offers boat slips, fuel docks, and amenities for boaters.

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1. St. Johns River: Jacksonville is situated along the St. Johns River, which flows north to south through the city and serves as a natural waterway for recreational and commercial boating activities. Anglers can fish for a variety of species in the river, including flounder, redfish, trout, and bass. Public boat ramps and docks along the river provide access for boaters and fishermen.

These ports and marinas in Jacksonville offer a range of opportunities for cruising enthusiasts and fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're setting sail on a cruise ship or casting your line for the catch of the day, Jacksonville's waterfront destinations provide access to the ocean and a gateway to maritime adventures. Hope to see you there soon!