It’s vacay time! Do you know where you’re headed?
We thought it would be fun to enlist the help of fellow mamas across the blogosphere to give us the low-down on their hometowns — places you might consider traveling this summer.
Next up is blogger Carrie With Children, an awesome mama who’s a native to Jacksonville, Florida. She shares the scoop here on Blog 66:
When I’m in Jacksonville, I should definitely plan to eat at …
Bistro Aix . Located in the historic San Marco neighborhood, It’s my favorite place to eat in Jacksonville. It’s a locally owned restaurant that changes its menu seasonally. I love their French onion soup and the homemade potato chips drizzled in blue cheese.
The best shopping can be found at …
The St. Johns Town Center. With shops like West Elm, Urban Outfitters, DSW Shoe Outlet and even a Louis Vuitton and a Tiffany & Co. – there is something for everyone here. Plus, it’s an outdoor shopping center – you can soak up some sunshine as you make your way to one of their 150 shops.
You do NOT want to miss seeing …
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. The Cummer Museum’s gardens, located on the riverfront are breathtaking and you can’t miss the spectacular oak trees! Inside the museum holds a fantastic art collection, along with a hands-on kids area.
Be sure to take your kids to …
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens! It has a great splash park for kids, train rides and even a carousel…not to mention all the cool animals there too! My favorite place at the zoo is the giraffe overlook – you can feed the giraffes! So fun!
The most kid-friendly hotels are …
The Quality Suites Oceanfront Jacksonville Beachhas a mini-fridge in each room, with every room having a private balcony. Start your morning off overlooking the sunrise. The hotel also has beach equipment for rent. No need to bring your bikes, sand castle supplies or even a towel – they’ve got everything you need!
For couples-only excursions, stay here …
One Ocean Resort & Spa is an oceanfront resort within walking distance of great nightlife and dining. It’s a great place for a weekend getaway with your loved one. 
Besides all that, they even have a personal butler service! Who doesn’t love that idea?!
The best time of year to visit Jacksonville is …
the springtime! There are numerous family-friendly events in the area – including the Springing the Blues music festival at the beach, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, THE PLAYERS Championship with the world’s best golfers in town, the World of Nations celebrating different cultures and the Shrimp Festival!
The cool thing about Jacksonville is …
The Riverside Arts Market each Saturday from March-December. Shop the local arts/crafts and pick up some produce from the local farmers. Each week the market hosts live entertainment – jugglers, singers, dancers and sometimes clowns too!
After seven years as a PR professional, Carrie is now mom to Maggie, age 3 ½ and two-year old Molly (born with Down syndrome). CarrieWithChildren.com is a lifestyle/mom blog focused on parenting, inspiring stories about Down syndrome, product reviews, giveaways, food, travel and fun! A native of Jacksonville, you can follow Carrie on Twitter at @CarrieWChildren.
