So, You Want to Measure Jacksonville? How Many Miles of Sunshine, Gators, and Sweet Tea Does it Take?
Ever wondered just how big Jacksonville, Florida is? Like, could you walk it? Maybe roller skate it in roller skates with neon legwarmers (because that's totally how we measure distance these days... or maybe not). Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive into the wacky world of Jacksonville-sized facts (and some helpful tips on how to measure this sunshine state metropolis).
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| How Many Miles Is Jacksonville Florida |
Jacksonville: A City That Spreads Like Buttermilk Pancakes on a Sunday Morning
Jacksonville holds the prestigious title of the largest city in the contiguous United States by land area. We're talking a whopping 841 square miles! That's bigger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined (don't worry, those little states, we love you both). Imagine all the places you could get lost in: exploring hidden parks, getting tangled in Spanish moss on centuries-old oak trees, or just getting happily sidetracked by a flock of friendly manatees (okay, maybe not that last one, but a man can dream).
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
But Wait, There's More! How Far Does Jacksonville Actually Stretch?
Alright, so we know Jacksonville is sprawling, but how far does it sprawl exactly?
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
- North to South: If you fancy a brisk north-south jaunt, you'd be trekking for about 40 miles. That's like running four marathons... but without the whole, you know, running part.
- East to West: Feeling adventurous? An east-west Jacksonville expedition would clock in at around 27 miles. Just be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and water, because Florida sun is no joke.
Jacksonville by the Numbers: Fun Facts That Don't Involve Measuring Tape
- Jacksonville has more than 840 square miles of landmass, which is about the size of your average elephant herd stampede (don't try this at home, or anywhere for that matter).
- The city boasts the longest stretch of the St. Johns River, which winds its way through Jacksonville like a friendly, gator-filled (but mostly not gator-filled) necklace.
- Jacksonville's urban park system is the largest in the entire nation, meaning there's plenty of space to spread out your picnic blanket and contemplate the vastness of it all (or maybe just take a nap).
How To Explore Jacksonville's Immensity: A Totally Unofficial Guide
How to Walk Jacksonville: Not recommended. We like our vacations relaxing, thanks very much.
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
How to Bike Jacksonville: Rent a bicycle and a very large water bottle. Be sure to factor in rest stops for admiring the scenery (and maybe dodging rogue squirrels).
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
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How to Drive Jacksonville: This is the most common method. Just be prepared for some serious sunshine and maybe a rogue flock of seagulls trying to steal your french fries (it happens).
How to Boat Jacksonville: The St. Johns River awaits! Just remember, manatee speed limits are a thing, and for good reason (those guys are gentle giants, but you wouldn't want to bump into one).
How to Take it All In: Relax, soak up the sunshine, and let Jacksonville's charm wash over you. There's no need to conquer every square mile; sometimes the best way to experience a place is to simply wander and enjoy the ride.
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