Jacksonville’s Westside includes a broad expanse of communities stretching west from the St. Johns River and south from I-10. The northern end of the region is only a short drive from downtown while a trip to the Beaches can take 30-45 minutes.
Many military families live on the Westside as Jacksonville’s Naval Air Station (NAS Jacksonville) is located just north of I-295 on Roosevelt Boulevard. The Orange Park Mall offers Westside residents a variety of shopping options, with retailers including Belk, Dillard’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, JCPenney, and Sears. Everyday mainstays such as Publix, Target, and Wal-Mart are easily accessible. For a bite out, locals frequent restaurants including La Nopalera, Gator’s Dockside, and The Hilltop Club.
Jennings State Forest is a popular site for picnicking, swimming, hiking, and horseback riding. Wildlife including otter, alligator, wild turkeys, and wading birds reside in the state forest’s more than 15 unique biological communities. The Cecil Recreation Complex on Normandy Boulevard houses a fitness center, basketball gymnasium, indoor pool and equestrian center. Within the complex is The Jacksonville Equestrian Center, a 4,000-seat indoor arena that hosts concerts, events, festivals and rodeos. The Cecil Commerce Center is being developed to attract and retain industrial, manufacturing, and distribution businesses.
