wopel

We would like to go to Jacksonville for the day and am looking for ideas of what to do. We are coming from St. Augustine.
Also plan a day trip to Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach another day.

longhorn55

We fly into Jacksonville when we go to Jekyll Island on vacation, but have never spent any time there. If you don't find anything that interests you there, you might want to visit St. Mary's, Georgia and take the boat to Cumberland Island. We found that to be a great day trip from JI. Depending on the time of year, you'll want to book the boat tour well in advance. See www.nps.gov/cuis

Another good day trip for you might be Jekyll Island. See www.jekyllisland.com for ideas on what to see and do there.

starrs

I agree with Cumberland Island. The ferry for day visitors (or campers) leaves from St Marys GA. If you want a REAL treat and can stay overnight at the Greyfield, that ferry leaves from Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach.

Cumberland is an amazing experience. An almost deserted island with miles of gorgeous beaches and wild horses.

SAnParis2

There is little reason to spend a day in JAX, Amelia ISalnd is a much better bet. Lots of info, trip reports on Amelia on here. When are you traveling.

wopel

Thank you one and all. I'm guessing that's why I couldn't come up with a plan for JAX!

gmoney

One place we found quite interesting is Kingsley Plantation just north of Jacksonville.

http://www.nps.gov/timu/historyculture/kp_visiting.htm

321go

gmoney, I thought Kingsley Plantation was quite interesting, too.

wopel, if you're interested in animals, Jacksonville has a very good zoo: http://www.jacksonvillezoo.org/things/exhibits/ Feeding the giraffes is a great experience.

sunshinespreading

Have to echo some of the ideas already expressed. The Jacksonville Zoo is a really nice zoo and very reasonable prices. And it's not too close to downtown Jacksonville so it's easier to get to without traffic headaches. If you are set on seeing part of Jacksonville, try the Riverside area of the city. Much nicer area with lots of restaurants to visit and a nice park along the river.
Amelia Island is one of my all-time favorite locations. It's one of the few Florida beach destinations that does not nickel and dime you. There's a quaint historic district home to local restaurants, boutique shops, pubs, museum, fishing charters, tours, etc and they have free public parking. On top of that you'll find all the beaches are easy to access, and once again free parking. Try to find some sharks teeth as you comb the beaches. Definitely have a meal or two in the area but ask the locals for their favorite recommendations. I give a thumbs up to The Surf (near the beach), 29 South Eats (historic district) or if you want a burger joint with awesome shrimp baskets to boot, you must find T-rays!
St. Marys and Cumberland Island are also excellent recommendations. Take some time to walk around the St. Mary's waterfront and enjoy the public park. Then hop the National Park Service ferry to Cumberland and either follow the ranger for a guided tour, or take a map and your camera and go for it on your own. You'll surely see the wild horses and maybe a turkey or pig too, and I always find nice big seashells on my outings to Cumberland. Wear comfy clothes and bring food and water in a back pack. There are restroom facilities on the island, but not anywhere to find food/beverages. Unless you book a stay at the Greyfield Inn as previously mentioned (though the boat for that departs from Amelia Island, not St. Marys).
The stretch of coast from Amelia Island to Jekyll Island is such a beautiful area that seems to be a well-guarded secret by those of us who frequent the area. It never feels crowded and you don't hear a lot of talk of the area, but those who know the area love it and return frequently... or do like me and move there LOL