Exploring Jacksonville with a Jumbo Shrimp

Beyond the year-round warmth and easy access to the beach, one of Tyler Higgins’ favorite things about the years he spent living in the South—specifically Jacksonville, Florida—is the barbecue.

“I absolutely love the barbecue here,” says the Michigan native who currently pitches for the Jumbo Shrimp, Jacksonville’s minor-league baseball team. “Obviously, every city you travel to has a McDonald’s or something similar. But not every place has something as unique as barbecue.” His favorite in town? Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q, which has sliced, chopped and smoked brisket since 1949.

Having lived in the so-called Bold New City of the South for the better part of four years, Higgins has become well versed on where to go and what to do in Jacksonville. Here’s a rundown of what the Midwest transplant recommends for out-of-towners who visit Jacksonville.

Catch a game, of course

Though he’s a bit biased, Higgins recommends that every visitor head to the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville for a Jumbo Shrimp baseball game. “The atmosphere is electric, especially for night games,” he says. “Downtown is the backdrop, so you have skyline views, plus you can see EverBank Stadium, where the Jacksonville Jaguars play.” (Bonus: Depending on how the wind is blowing that night, you may get strong whiffs of freshly roasted coffee beans courtesy of the nearby Maxwell House plant.)

After a game, Higgins suggests a trip to one of Jacksonville’s newest breweries: Intuition Ale Works. His top recommendations include the easy-drinking session IPA or the barrel-aged Belgian stout. All of the beers pair well with the Southern-inspired menu, which includes fried pickles, a brisket sandwich and pimiento cheese and crackers. If you’re feeling ambitious, make the walk to The Jacksonville Landing. With the St. Johns River as its backdrop, the Landing has become a hot spot for shopping, food and outdoor concerts.

Visit the beautiful shoreline

While downtown is a draw, Higgins believes a trip to Jacksonville would not be complete without a visit to the beach. He’s drawn to the water almost every day. His top destination is Atlantic Beach, where he takes his chocolate Lab, Emma, for off-leash runs in the mornings. This beach’s long stretches of sand are perfect for Higgins’ special time with his dog, who was born on the same day he had Tommy John surgery on his arm—he never takes those moments at the beach with Emma for granted.

If you have extra time, a visit to St. Augustine is a great add-on. Chock-full of history (it’s the country’s oldest city), St. Augustine boasts narrow cobblestone streets that are charming and romantic, not to mention full of a mix of unique bars, like Ice Plant, and uncommon cafes—check out Planet Sarbez for live music, draft beer and gourmet grilled cheese—that should appeal to just about every visitor.

Eat with the locals

Atlantic Beach’s Seafood Kitchen, which has served diners for three decades, is known for its large portions and fresh seafood

Jacksonville’s proximity to the coast means access to fresh, locally caught seafood—and Higgins takes full advantage. Higgins’ favorite place is the Seafood Kitchen in Atlantic Beach. “Their crab or grouper is probably my favorite meal,” he says. Another of Higgins’ favorite spots is Angie’s Subs, a Peruvian-style sandwich shop with counter service. “It’s dive-y but so good,” he says.

Looking for something a bit more refined? Head to Black Sheep in Jacksonville’s Five Points district. The rooftop deck, Higgins says, boasts expansive city views for diners who enjoy the restaurant’s modern take on Southern favorites. If you want to try something beyond their smoked bacon, grass-fed beef burger, opt for the poutine, featuring house fries smothered in cheese curds, pastrami and smoked short rib gravy.

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