The Mocama tribe first inhabited the territory of Jacksonville. At the time of encountering Europeans, all Mocama villages were centered around the mouth of St. Johns River. French explorer Jean Ribault Charted and named the St. John River, calling it the River of May because May was the month of his discovery. Philip II of Spain ordered Pedro Menendez de Aviles to attack the French at Fort Caroline. A Spanish force from St. Augustine attacked Fort Caroline in 1565, nearly killing all the French soldiers that defended it. Following the expulsion of the French, the fort was renamed San Mateo. Florida was ceded to the British by Spain in 1763 as part of the Treaty of Paris, which came in the aftermath of the Seven Years' War. The British constructed the King's Road, which connected Georgia to the city. The British also introduced the cultivation of indigo, fruits, and sugarcane and exported lumber. In the aftermath of the American Revolutionary War, Defeat saw Britain return control of the territory to the Spanish in 1783 via the Peace of Paris treaty. The U.S. gained control of the city after Spain ceded it to the U.S. in 1821.

Beaches
Easily one of the most notable reasons to buy land in Jacksonville, the city is home to an array of beaches. Known for having the most shoreline of any city in the country, Jacksonville is perfect for you if you love ocean breeze, water, and sand between your toes. No matter what you love doing at a beach, Jacksonville has a beach that caters to it. Build a sandcastle or read a book under the sun at Neptune beach. Put your fish catching skill to test on the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier or learn how to surf at Jacksonville Beach. Love wildlife? Check out Amelia Island, which features 13 miles of sandy beaches, pristine waters, golf courses, and beautiful wildlife.

⁠Recreational Centers
There's more to Jacksonville's recreational scene than its numerous beaches. Engage in the perfect family adventure by visiting the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, which features 1,000 plant varieties and over 2,400 rare and exotic animals. Prefer putting balls in small round holes? Spend your afternoon and evening playing golf at the Top Gold Jacksonville, which features a 65,000 square foot golf center. It also has a full-service restaurant, arcade games, and a bar, all dedicated to ensuring you have a great time.

A fan of hiking? Check out the beautiful Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens, home to gorgeous hiking trails, wildlife, streams, and a lily pond. Take Instagram-worthy pictures while enjoying the facility's peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Have you ever imagined being in close contact with the world's tallest and largest fountain? Well, it's right there in Jacksonville. The Friendship Fountain is situated on the Southbank waterfront between Acosta bridges, and Main Street has over 17,000 gallons of water, and a height of 120 feet.

⁠Culinary Scene
Ranked by Forbes as one of the five surprising food cities in the nation, Jacksonville's food scene has enjoyed tremendous growth in recent times. While its food scene might not be as renowned as many other big cities, you can expect to find famous chefs, bold flavors, and culinary works of art in Jacksonville.

Load up on mac and cheese or pulled pork at The Bearded Pig at San Marco at Jax Beach. Have breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company, featuring flaky biscuits that will melt in your mouth or sticky chicken maple biscuit covered in maple syrup. Craving a bit of French and Southern flavor? Order any of the Paris bistro classics at Restaurant Orsay on Park Street.