Monday, June 22, 2026 / by Janell Smith
When most people think about catching a sunset in Northeast Florida, they picture sandy toes, crashing waves, and an ocean horizon. Don't get me wrong, our beaches put on quite a show. But some of the most beautiful sunsets in our corner of Florida happen far from the shoreline.
In fact, some of the best sunset views can be found along rivers, marshes, historic waterfronts, and quiet parks where the crowds are smaller and the scenery feels a little more personal. If you're looking for a new place to end the day, here are a few local favorites worth adding to your sunset bucket list.
One of the most underrated spots has to be the waterfront in downtown Fernandina Beach. As the sun begins to dip behind the marshes, the sky often explodes with shades of orange, pink, and purple that reflect off the water and dance around the shrimp boats docked along the harbor. Grab an ice cream, take a stroll down Centre Street, and make your way toward the marina for a front row s ...
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real estate, florida, florida life, fun, ne florida, trips, vacation, family, kidapproved
Thursday, June 18, 2026 / by Claire Morgan
Sunshine, fresh produce, and that unbeatable feeling of community — there’s no better time than summer to hit up your local farmers market! Whether you’re grabbing juicy peaches, listening to live music, or just enjoying the good vibes, Northeast Florida is full of markets that make your weekend plans easy (and delicious).
Why Summer + Farmers Markets = A Perfect Match
Summer is peak season for produce — think watermelons, sweet corn, tomatoes, berries, and fresh herbs galore. But it’s not just about the food. The longer days, warm mornings, and lively atmosphere make it the perfect time to stroll, sip, and shop outdoors. Whether you’re grabbing groceries or just there for the people-watching and popsicles, farmers markets are the place to be all season long.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best farmers markets to explore this summer across the 904 and beyond:
1. Riverside Arts Market (Jacksonville)
Saturdays, 10 AM & ...
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florida, florida life, fun, ne florida, trips, vacation, family
Monday, June 8, 2026 / by Janell Smith
Jacksonville Zoo is Having a Moment and Honestly, It Deserves It!
Some places are just part of growing up around here, and the Jacksonville Zoo is one of them. For a whole lot of us, it is tied to field trips, sticky hands, stroller days, family outings, and that one child who absolutely had to see the giraffes before anybody else. But the Jacksonville Zoo is not just a childhood memory that has managed to stick around. It is a Jacksonville staple that has continued to grow, change, and somehow keep getting better with age.
The zoo’s roots go all the way back to 1914, when it first opened in Springfield with just a tiny animal collection. In 1925, it moved to its current home along the Trout River, and over the years it has grown into a 122 acre destination with more than 2,000 animals and over 1,000 plant specimens. That alone is impressive, but what really makes it special is the way it has become more than just a place to look at animals. It ...
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buyers, real estate, florida, florida life, fun, ne florida, trips, vacation
Friday, June 5, 2026 / by Claire Morgan
Living in Northeast Florida means you are perfectly positioned for some of the best day trips in the Southeast. Whether you are craving charming small towns, outdoor adventure, or coastal relaxation, there is no shortage of options just a short drive away.
If you are looking to explore beyond Jacksonville, here are some of the best day trips from Northeast Florida that deliver memorable experiences without the need for overnight planning.
1. St. Augustine – Historic Charm Meets Coastal Beauty
Distance: About 45 minutes from Jacksonville
There is something timeless about St. Augustine. As the oldest city in the United States, it offers a mix of history, walkability, and coastal views.
What to do:
Explore Castillo de San Marcos
Stroll down St. George Street for local shops and cafes
Grab lunch near the bayfront and enjoy the breeze
Visit nearby beaches like Vilano or Anastasia
Why it’s worth it:
Perfect for a relaxed day filled with culture, charm, and great ...
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ne florida, fun, trips, vacation, florida lif, florida life, florida