TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

11 Must-Have Travel Products—Including Black Friday Discounts

11 Must-Have Travel Products—Including Black Friday Discounts

Are you staring at an empty suitcase and wondering what to pack?

We’ve all been there—looking at our belongings and wondering about the best travel products to pack. It’s a deceptively important part of a good trip.

Packing mindfully prevents you from paying overweight fees at the airport. Beyond saving you a few dollars, having a perfect packing list also empowers you to get more out of your trip. With all the right pieces in place, all you need to do is show up and start having fun.

But what pieces, exactly, should you have in place?

Aside from packing the right clothes, shoes, and toiletries for your latest adventure, I also recommend having all those must-have products that avid travelers rely on.

Ready to take a fine-tooth comb to the best travel products that will have an immediate and positive influence on your trip? Let’s dive in. No fluffer, no mainstream recs—only items that travelers rave about.

*Tis the season for Black Friday sales! I’ve listed all discounted products with an asterisk. That being said, I work hard to keep this list affordable and accessible—even without hefty Black Friday discounts.

Quick look at the best travel products on the market

Remember, all items marked with an asterisk* are on sale for Black Friday. Get ’em while they’re hot!

What we looked at

  • Reviews, reviews, reviews—if real-life travelers don’t love it, we don’t list it
  • Quality of materials
  • Long-term durability
  • Packability—our products are light, small, and easy to ferret away in your suitcase
  • Affordability

11 must-have travel products

*SARISUN Wrap-Around Head Pillow

Amazon

Is it pretty? No. Will other passengers wonder how it works? Probably.

But I don’t care about my image on a long-haul flight… and especially not on a red-eye.

For years, travel pillows have tried and failed to support the neck and prevent poor posture while snoozing. Worst of all, taking a red-eye and not getting any sleep is one of the worst ways to start off a vacation.

Get the rest you need when you need it most with the SARISUN Wrap-Around Head Pillow.

*Unfortunately, these types of wrap-around head pillows won’t work on every flight. They only work when airlines offer those adjustable headrests. That being said, most longer flights include these types of headrests, meaning you’ll get to use the SARISUN when you need it most.

*Turtl Travel Pillow

Amazon

Equally odd as the SARISUN, this scientifically studied sleep support has a cult-like following. This pillow wraps around your neck like a cozy little anaconda, letting you rest your head on its rigid insert.

Less neck strain = deeper sleep = more restful flights. While I’d prefer the SARISUN because it lets you avoid bending your neck, it won’t work for any flight. The Turtle Travel Pillow, on the other hand, is highly versatile.

You can use it to sleep on planes… or buses, trains, car rides, boat rides, hay rides, and more.

Twelve South Bluetooth Connector

Twelve South

Like the SARISUN wrap-around head pillow, this is a game-changer that I can believe wasn’t on the market before. The Twelve South Bluetooth Connector is a tiny device that you plug into a plane’s entertainment center.

Toggle a few buttons to pair your listening device, then forget about the passengers around you. Given how important headphones are for calmer trips, this is a fantastic solution for anyone who flies and is sick of those disposable airplane earbuds.

*Tile by Life360 Pro or Galaxy SmartTag2

Amazon

If we’re putting chips in our dogs then why not use geo-locators for our luggage, too? While there’s a growing list of tech-forward luggage out there, just about any suitcase will do the trick so long as you can find it when your plane lands.

If you’re already using a Galaxy, the Galaxy SmartTag 2 will easily sync with your device. The Tile by Life360 Pro can be used for either Apple or Android products.

*INIU Portable Charger or *Anker Power Bank

Anker Power Bank, Amazon

Here’s the thing about portable charging banks—they’re useful but they tend to be heavy. I suggest bringing one of these along only if you think you’ll really need one.

The Anker Power Bank is great because of its compact size—seriously, it’ll fit in your pocket and you might forget it’s there. The INIU Portable Charger is also slim, but it’s a bit heavier, meaning you need to keep it in a bag.  

*VYLEE Universal Travel Adapter

Amazon

Worldwide, there are 15 different types of electrical sockets in use—and six of those you’ll find in European countries, along with another 11 in Asia.

My suggestion? Keep the VYLEE Universal Travel Adapter with you anytime your trip includes more than one country. That’s doubly true if you’re going on an extended, multi-month journey.  

*BAGAIL Compression Packing Cubes

Amazon

Packing cubes, at best, make it easier for you to find your panties when you’re in a jam. At their least effective, they’re aesthetic. But if you’re packing something in your suitcase, it should be immediately useful.

Forget the regular fodder of packing cubes and focus on options that actually compress your clothes, giving you more space to pack. The BAGAIL Compression Packing Cubes aren’t particularly cute (boo!), but they suck in a suitcase’s gut like a Victorian corset.

Did I mention they’re also water-resistant?

*BAGGU Standard Set of 3 Totes

BAGGU

Tiny bags have a big impact when you need them most. You probably won’t need all the totes sold in this BAGGU Standard Set of 3 Totes, but if you decide to toss them in at the last minute, they’ll take up hardly any space and not bog down your suitcase with added weight.

I’ve used them as last-minute carry-ons when I had to check my bag, grocery bags for snack shopping, and even as a blanket to sit on in filthy places.

*GaiaTop Mini Portable Fan

Amazon

Do you need a portable fan? I would say no but my partner, and most other Americans, would probably say yes. If you’re prone to overheating and you’re vacationing in a warm climate (especially those with limited AC), having the GaiaTop Mini Portable Fan around can make a world of difference.

Nobody is happy when they’re sweating buckets and gasping for breath—especially not in a coffee shop in Rome on a European extravaganza.

Gaiatop is a great choice because it has a little lanyard that lets you strap it to any type of bag for easy carrying. It’s also lightweight and high-power, meaning you’ll get a lot of breeze for your buck—without weighing down your luggage.

*BAGSMART Toiletry Pack with Hooks

Amazon

Each year, my toiletry bag grows. I’ve been shamed at multiple airports for the amount of liquids I have and I couldn’t care less. I need my toiletries—and I want them organized once I arrive at my rental or hotel.

Simply put, toiletry bags with hooks make it easy for you to wash your face in small bathrooms, put on makeup, do your skincare routine, and do whatever else you need to do.

I like the BAGSMART Toiletry Pack with Hooks for a few reasons. First, you can choose which size you need. Second, its modular packs are protected with a clear lining, letting you find what you need. Third, the large version is big enough for couples to pack their toiletries together. 

*TecQach Small Pill Box

Amazon

There are two reasons I like pill boxes—and one of them is slightly controversial. The main appeal of a pill box is to let you conveniently pack your favorite medications.

I won’t leave home without my trusted ibuprofen or fast-acting melatonin. Little pill boxes like the TecQach Small Pill Box make it easy to bring what I need without packing pill bottle after pill bottle.

Now onto my controversial take: pill boxes are also great for storing jewelry. I rarely bring along enough necklaces, earrings, or rings to warrant packing a separate jewelry box, which makes the TecQach pill boxes a two-for-one deal.

Plus, it has little removable separators so you can segment your pills (and gold hoops) more easily.  

Qifutan Car Phone Mount

Amazon

If you’re renting a car during your trip, you absolutely need a car phone mount. It’s really that easy. The Qifutan Car Phone Mount should be your first choice thanks to its adjustable arm. That means you can rig this bad boy in just about any type of car, from massive SUVs to cramped Fiats.

You can even mount them on the windshield if needed. With a solid suction cup base and a lock switch, you also don’t need to worry about the mount dislodging during bumpy rides.

Black Friday vs Travel Tuesday: Shopping Advice for Travelers

Everyone knows that Black Friday is the paragon of the shopping season.

Still full from their Thanksgiving meals, millions of Americans pack into lines outside major stores on the hunt for hefty savings. Slowly, the trend has extended over the holiday weekend.

There’s Small Business Saturday, for example, followed by a single day of rest before Cyber Monday takes the internet by storm. Like the name suggests, Cyber Monday is a prime time to take advantage of online deals.

And then there’s the latest guard in post-Thanksgiving shopping: Travel Tuesday. Travel Tuesday is focused on hotels, airlines, and other hospitality and tourism sectors.

Simply put, travelers can access serious savings across a broad range of travel brands on Travel Tuesday. If you’ve been eyeing any trip packages, flights, or even suitcases, it’s a perfect time to hit ‘buy’ before the Black Friday craze ends.

But with high-profile deals revolving around both Black Friday and Travel Tuesday, is there a secret catch? What do you need to know about shopping on Black Friday vs Travel Tuesday? Let’s explore.

Black Friday vs Travel Tuesday: Which has better deals?

Black Friday is geared more toward retail product sales. Travel Tuesday, by contrast, is focused on all types of travel deals—from transportation to hotel stays to green travel reimbursements.  (If a company offers its sale from Black Friday through Travel Tuesday, don’t worry about shopping on a particular day.)

Simply put, you’ll find steeper savings for all travel deals on Travel Tuesday compared to Black Friday.

Dozens of travel companies launch their offers on Tuesday, December 3, and close them out at the end of the day or the next day. The degree of savings is greater so the window to take advantage is smaller.

That being said, don’t write off Black Friday. If you’re on the hunt for travel accessories, you can access great deals starting on Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Remember: Travel Tuesday is geared toward travel offers like those from organizers like Railbookers or manufacturers like Away, for example.

A question of waiting

Here’s the catch—should travelers who have their sights set on a specific type of trip wait to try to book a cheaper deal on Travel Tuesday? That depends on how flexible you are.

Travel Tuesday is well-known in travel circles, meaning you won’t find the crème of the crop in terms of offers. Because it’s a competitive time to book, many flights, hotel rooms, and similar offers fill up fast. You can miss out if you’re not aggressive enough with your booking plans.

That being said, if you’re more flexible with your travel dates and destinations, then you can find insane deals on Travel Tuesday. In fact, some jet-setters let the deals decide where they go, crafting a last-minute trip based on the offers they find on Travel Tuesday.

Don’t forget about the fine print

You might have noticed one clear distinction between Black Friday vs Travel Tuesday at this point. Black Friday is geared toward one-time product purchases while Travel Tuesday is geared toward broader, experiential deals that can be used to create a vacation.

But both types of deals come with fine print.

You should be especially focused on the terms and conditions tacked on to Travel Tuesday deals. As outlined above, they tend to offer really steep savings on flights, hotels, and other high-profile travel offers—and, unsurprisingly, they come with plenty of requirements.

One common condition is a time limit; for example, you can only book discounted flights in 2025. Another is geography; for example, you might only be able to book deals associated with certain routes, states, or regions. Take a closer look to make sure you know what you’re really buying.

Lastly, be ready to buy. Travel Tuesday deals might only be live for 24 hours, meaning you need to be organized and ready to take advantage of deals.

Throwing a Bachelorette Party in Las Vegas? Where to Stay & What to Do

Nashville is the United States’s capital of bachelorette getaways.

And I think we can guess the de facto capital of bachelor parties: Vegas, baby.

But let’s not cross a ladies’ trip off the docket indefinitely. Over the last decade, Sin City has transformed into a no-holds-barred entertainment mecca for all genders.

While the Strip is certainly home to many establishments that focus on the art of showing men a good time, that’s hardly the case across the board. I’m not even talking solely about strip clubs—Vegas is also home to man-centric activities like the Dig This heavy equipment construction playground, for example.

Women can expect similar treatment in the City of Lights, too.

There are highly Instagrammable spots across the city, plus a bevy of world-class spas, high-profile restaurants, world-famous musical residencies, top-notch shows, and neon-lit nightclubs.

In short, you’ve got all the necessary pieces to throw an unforgettable bachelorette party in Las Vegas.

Thinking about taking your bridal party to the City of Lights? Here’s your bachelorette party guide to Las Vegas, including the best hotels, top rentals, and can’t-miss things to do.

Basics of a great bachelorette party in Las Vegas

As mentioned above, spas, great restaurants, and nightlife contribute to a fantastic bachelorette getaway—but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Along with great company, bachelorette parties need a few other elements, from space to recover from hangovers to customizable experiences for the bride-to-be.

Here’s why Vegas is a deceptively stellar choice:

  1. The best bachelorette parties involve personalization—and Vegas establishments have world-class hospitality staff that can make any bride-to-be feel perfectly special and seen.
  2. Great bachelorette parties also offer budget options that are appropriate for the whole group. Vegas is open to all budgets, letting you save when you need to and splurge when you don’t. For example, maybe your group sticks with a more basic rental in order to funnel those funds toward nightlife or big shows.
  3. You also need to consider the range of activities. In Vegas, you won’t get bored no matter what you decide to do. From its shopping malls to its golf courses, there’s a long list of things to do—and there’s little effort needed to make them a reality.

Top 5 hotel picks for your bachelorette party in Las Vegas

M Resort – One of my favorite hotel picks in the city (Booking)

Most bachelorette parties include the bride-to-be, a maid of honor, and three to four bridesmaids. My selections for the best hotels in Las Vegas for bachelorette parties include multi-bedroom options so that the whole crew can stay in the same unit.

  1. Elara by Hilton Grand: Premier Two-Bedroom Suite
  2. Luxor: Pyramid Premier Double Suite
  3. Bellagio: Resort King Room
  4. Excalibur: Stay Well Resort Tower Two Queen
  5. M Resort: Deluxe Double Room

Top 5 rentals for your bachelorette party in Las Vegas

LUX HOME (listed below, Airbnb)

Depending on the type of bachelorette party you’re opting for, you might prefer to stay off the Strip and away from the hustle. (I wouldn’t blame you, either.)

In that case, you’ll find dozens of quality rentals geared toward large groups. You can shop around for your own here—or stick with my picks, below.

  1. City Chic – This location gives you a gorgeous bird’s-eye-view of Las Vegas. Though it’s a bit smaller with only one bedroom, it sleeps up to six. It also has a hyper-modern and very chic design, which pairs well with a Vegas adventure. Plus, it’s a steal in terms of pricing. 
  2. House 3bed 3bath – If you want a bit more space to roam and are on a tight budget, this is a great pic. With five beds, you won’t feel too cramped at night. Assuming you get any sleep, that is. Just beware that this selection is a bit far from the Strip.
  3. King Bed Spa Pool – The title says it all. This pick gives you a jacuzzi for stargazing at night, a pool for cooling off during the day, and tons of outdoor furniture for those late-night convos. With three beds only, you might be sharing—but I doubt you’ll mind at this lux-adjacent pick.
  4. Instagrammable – Once again, the title gives away the main appeal. If you’re part of a bridal group that loves to look good and snap photos, this rental will give you the prompts you need to shoot away. Plus, it sleeps up to nine.
  5. LUX HOME – Let’s assume you want those photographic spots without the kitschy setup—take this Airbnb instead. It’s effortlessly chic design makes just about every corner Instagrammable. (Aside from the bedrooms, that is—they’re comfortably plain.)

Top 5 things to do (hidden gem alert!)

Museum of Illusions (TripAdvisor)

To be blunt, you’re not going to get bored in Las Vegas. However, I wanted to list out a few of hidden gems dotting the city just in case you want to take your bachelorette party in Las Vegas into lesser-known territory.

  1. Bellagio Conservatory Garden
  2. The Gallery at Aria
  3. Museum of Illusions
  4. Titanic: The Artifact Museum
  5. Dig This

Best Thanksgiving Menus from Restaurants Across the US

Not everyone wants to toil over the stove on Thanksgiving day.

In fact, depending on where you live, that might not even be an option. New Yorkers, for example, to use their ovens for shoe storage more than baking.

Still, the traditional American vision of Thanksgiving involves a lot of kitchen hustle. Even when families contribute to the meal in a potluck style, the average person has probably spent at least a few hours whipping, roasting, and searing their dishes.

But what about the alternative Thanksgiving feast?

But let’s say you don’t want to deal with a Thanksgiving meal at all—what are your options then?

Given most fast food chains and other nationwide eateries keep their doors open on major holidays, there’s always a meal to be found. That being said, you’ll need to dig a bit deeper to find a proper Thanksgiving feast available from a traditional restaurant.

But that doesn’t mean they aren’t out there.

Restaurants in major cities across the United States offer highly curated and drool-worthy Thanksgiving menus, from in-house dining to pick-up orders.

Though you’ll probably pay a pretty penny for those gravy-covered mashed potatoes, I promise every bite is worth it—at least, if you stick to these restaurants.

I’m counting down the best Thanksgiving menus from restaurants, starting from the East Coast and moving west. I’ve got picks in Boston, NYC, Chicago, NOLA, and Los Angeles.

First up: Beantown.

Best Thanksgiving menus from restaurants

Grill 23, Boston

This gorgeous steakhouse is worth a visit any time of year. That stately, grand interior also bodes well for classic and homely Thanksgiving feasts. For years, this storied steakhouse has celebrated Thanksgiving in-house.

There’s even a specialized menu, which includes a proper roasted turkey, stuffing, butternut squash puree, gravy, and cranberry sauce. All the classics plus all the fixins.

Reserve a table

The Smith, NYC

This restaurant is known for its innovative dishes and focus on sustainability. If you like trendy takes on Thanksgiving meals, then the Smith should be your NYC pick.

From its raw bar to its apple brioche stuffing to its pumpkin cheesecake, there’s something for everyone. In other words, it’s one of the best Thanksgiving menus you’ve never seen the likes of before.

Reserve a table

Jacob’s Pickle, NYC

Jacob’s Pickle offers a pretty standard Upper West Side menu with a strong focus on Southern culinary influences and—beyond the menu—community.

You can really feel that in their Thanksgiving Day offerings. With multiple time slots to choose from, tons of décor and fanfare, and a delectable menu with all the favorites, you can’t go wrong.

Reserve a table

Bubby’s in NYC, NYC

Bubby’s is a casual eatery—and that extends to Thanksgiving, too. For anyone in the Big Apple who wants that home-town feel, head to Bubby’s for a great buffet.

In lieu of more elevated and experimental Thanksgiving dishes, the hearty minds at Bubby’s stick to the good old-fashioned fixings—if it ain’t broke, why fix it, after all? Gimme that green bean casserole!

Reserve a table or order for pickup

Cherry Circle Room, Chicago

Similar to Boston’s Grill 23, Cherry Circle Room is a gorgeous and grand restaurant and lounge—one that you should consider visiting after Turkey Day ends.

(Did you know that Chicago’s themed bars are some of the coolest in the country—and some, like this one, are housed in boutique hotels? The more you know, my friend.)

For the big day, you can expect a delectable menu from head chef Mari Katsumara.

Reserve a table

Brennan’s, New Orleans

Brennan’s is a big deal in New Orleans—and so is its Thanksgiving Day meal. But there’s a big NOLA twist here. You’ll notice plenty of Cajun and Creole influence on the menu, from its classic turtle soup to its cane syrup glazed beef tenderloin. 

Reserve a table

Eiffel Tower in Paris, Las Vegas

The Eiffel Tower is one of Vegas’s most iconic landmarks… and it’s also home to yet another one of the city’s top-notch restaurants. What makes this one of the best Thanksgiving menus out there? It covers all the classics.

I place a lot of faith in bougie Vegas chefs, so those menu items like duck confit, potato gratin, and portobello roulade are making my mouth water. The magic here? That Parisian twist.

Reserve a table

Bistro NA’s, LA

Chinese food, anyone? Whether you need a great meal on Turkey Day, New Year’s Day, or beyond, Americans know to rely on local Chinese restaurants.

That’s the case in Los Angeles at upscale eatery Bistro Na’s. Its Thanksgiving menu serves up tasty staples from the East and West, letting you give thanks for our country’s delectable diversity. 

Reserve a table

Bridgetown Roti, LA

Thanksgiving sounds like a great time to get addicted to Caribbean food, in my humble opinion.

At Bridgetown Roti, you get a front-row taste of some of the islands’ best dishes—and tons of love and warmth from founders Rashida Holmes, Joy Clarke-Holmes, and Malique Smith.

On Thanksgiving, you can pick up a feast and take it home to share with others, from whole mac’n cheese pies (God bless) to vegan patty boxes.

Order for pickup

The Hideaway, LA

This Beverly Hills staple usually serves up elevated Mexican dishes—but on Thanksgiving, it switches gears into pure Americana territory.

From marshmallow yams to mushroom gravy to roasted turkey, you’ll feel like you’re back home with grandma. In a good way.

Reserve a table

Best Rentals in Boston’s North End

Have you heard? Boston’s North End is one of its most sought-after neighborhoods for travelers.

It’s not hard to see why. Also known as Little Italy, this portion of the city is home to dozens of Italian-American establishments—but it was first settled back in 1646, making it one of our country’s oldest continually inhabited neighborhoods.

Unsurprisingly, historic buildings line North End’s streets.

You’ve got the Paul Revere House (built in 1680), the Old North Church (built in 1723), and the Pierce-Hichborn House (from 1711). Today, all new constructions are regulated in order to preserve these stately constructions.

Today, however, the neighborhood is better known for its Italian-American shops, restaurants, and overall culture. It lends well to the area’s overall European feel, which can be felt in its narrow, winding streets, historical buildings, and tight-knit community.

No wonder tourists are flocking.

Still, navigating these types of small-but-iconic neighborhoods can be difficult. If you’re planning a trip to Bean Town and want to find the best rentals in Boston’s North End, start here.

These Airbnbs will take your North End adventure to the next level.

Best rentals in Boston’s North End at a glance

Best rentals in Boston’s North End

Top pick for couples: Primo North End Studio

Airbnb

Clean, bright, and recently renovated, this studio is great for couples who want a landing pad in the North End.

Despite its small size, you’ll have all the finer amenities you could dream of, from a washing machine to a dishwasher. As an added bonus, guests are raving about this spot for a variety of reasons, including feeling safe, having a great location, and the host’s responsiveness. 

Check it out

Best budget: 2B TDGarden

Airbnb

This unique selection is both affordable and stylish. It’s got exposed brick throughout the rental, which dates back to the 18th century, along with a modern open floor plan.

The ceiling also has exposed wooden beams, which lets you really soak up the historical feel of this selection. Don’t worry—the host offers a humidifier so you can sleep in total comfort during the dry winter.

Just keep in mind that this isn’t a true two-bedroom. It’s a studio with a pullout couch.

Check it out

Coolest rental: Capricornus

Airbnb

If you’re heading to the North End with hopes of spending time at the waterfront, why not book a stay at this houseboat?

The Capricornus has a gorgeous interior with plenty of space. The windows also showcase the view—but I imagine guests will spend more time on the massive deck where they can really soak up that panoramic view of Boston. 

Check it out

Most historic rental: La Gemma

Airbnb

Most homes in Boston’s North End are historic—no specification needed. Many were built in the 1900s and then renovated in the 1970s.

But this unique gem dates back to the 1700s. You’ll be able to feel the history soaking through those exposed brick walls, small spiral staircase, and parquet floors. Even the layout harkens back to the 18th century.

Despite the living history at La Gemma, it’s got all the modern amenities you need.

Check it out

Best for larger groups: Perfect North End Apt

Airbnb

Ideally, large groups can book a stay at the North End Family Villa (below), but with a hefty price point, this two-bedroom solution is probably more within reach.

This North End selection includes a bright and open layout complete with mid-century modern pieces. Along with a great location and plenty of room to stretch, guests have also mentioned how responsive and helpful the hosts are. 

Check it out

Best luxury pick: North End Family Villa

Airbnb

With a custom design and a perfect layout, this family villa is ideal for large groups willing to splurge. And it’s well worth that hefty price tag, I might add, with its three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two living rooms spread across three floors.

One bedroom also has two sets of bunk beds, letting you fill the house with little ones. Just be mindful that parking isn’t included, which might be an issue for those who arrive with a car.

Check it out

Florida’s Big-City Secrets: 9 Best Tours in Jacksonville

When I think of Jacksonville, I think of two things: Shahid Khan and Jaxson de Ville.

If you’re a fan of sports, you might know them both. Shahid Khan is a famous businessman and owner of the Jacksonville Jaguar NFL team—and Jaxson de Ville is its intrepid, larger-than-life mascot.

Also, I know Jacksonville is by the beach. That’s about it.

In reality, this East Coast metropolis is far and away Florida’s largest city. It’s home to close to one million residents—far overshadowing Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Tallahassee, and beyond. The closest contender is Miami with 460,000 residents, as per 2024 estimates.

Is there a reason Jacksonville hasn’t climbed to the same heights as other famous Florida vacation destinations?

Is it a matter of weather, tourist infrastructure, and beachy vibes?

Let’s dig in to explore why Jacksonville flies under the radar for most of us—along with the tours that highlight why this city is worth exploring. It’s time to fall in love.

Why has Jacksonville flown under the radar?

Jacksonville has flown under the radar for tourists heading to Florida for two main reasons.

First and foremost, it has a serious urban sprawl, even more so than other suburban Floridian centers. That type of sprawl rarely packages up well for tourists because of transportation costs.

That being said, hotspots around Jacksonville like Ponte Vedra and Amelia Island regularly attract hundreds of thousands of guests. nd it’s also got one of the larger downtown areas in Florida—home to skyscrapers, a financial district, and a massive NFL stadium.

The second reason Jacksonville isn’t quite as popular for tourists is that it’s close to Georgia. With the state border so close, Jacksonville is sometimes clumped more broadly with other Southern cities… not destinations like Miami and Orlando.

Maybe Jacksonville is just a harder egg to crack than the other two cities, which have well-trodden tourist tracks and larger-than-life reputations. And what’s one of the best ways for tourists to get a closer look at the true identity of a city?

Its tours. If you want to know more about what defines this city and life for its residents, make sure to keep some of the best tours in Jacksonville on your radar.

Best tours in Jacksonville

CraigCat Boat Tour

Viator

Want to experience a go-kart-on-water while you explore Jacksonville’s gorgeous Fernandina Beach? Welcome to the CraigCat, a specialized and small boat.

You’ll get to enjoy the waterways of Amelia Island while also keeping a lookout for marine wildlife like dolphins. Just be sure to get a good night’s sleep beforehand, as you’ll be driving the CraigCats alone.

Book a tour

Guided Arcimoto FUV Tour on Amelia Island

Viator

No idea what Jacksonville has against normal vehicles, but the arcimoto sure looks fun.

These two-person mini-vehicles are electric and easy to maneuver. That bodes well for this tour, as your guide will point out some of the coolest spots on Amelia Island. You’ll learn about history, architecture, and more.

Book a tour

Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek

Viator

If the arcimoto sounds a little weird, head to the water instead. This guided kayak tour lets you meander through Lofton Creek, exploring Amelia Island from its swamp-like canals.

From the pictures, it looks like a foray into the area’s gorgeous natural scenery. There are also plenty of families who go on the tour, hinting that the tour is more mellow and exploratory than a full-steam ahead type of kayak adventure.

Book a tour

Guided Kayak Eco Tour

Viator

This guided kayak tour is different than the one listed above in two ways. First, you’ll have a Master Naturalist at your side who can point out distinct flora and fauna—with a few factoids thrown in, of course.

This tour also places a stronger emphasis on wildlife sightings, from shorebirds to gators.

Book this tour

Half-Day City Tour in Downtown Jacksonville

Viator

Hear what makes Jacksonville cool from the horse’s mouth. This tuk-tuk tour takes you straight to the city’s most popular spots, from Veterans Memorial Arena to Friendship Fountain.

As an added bonus, the tour guide will pick you up from your hotel (in most cases).

Book this tour

Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included)

Viator

If history isn’t your thing, head to the boozy tuk-tuk instead. This 3.5-hour tour takes you around the city to four of its most beloved, locally-owned breweries.

Not only do you get to sample local ales and lagers, but—once again—the guide will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.

Book this tour

75 Minute Jacksonville Candy and Cocktail Guided Class

Viator

If beer isn’t your thing, sample this cocktail-making course. But know that it comes bundled with a candy class at Sweet Pete’s Candy.

It’s best for those who want to learn about the making of cotton candy and similar treats… along with hyper-sweet cocktails. Given Sweet Pete’s is a bit of an institution, this is a great way to dig a little deeper into Jacksonville’s identity.

Book this tour

Riverside/5 Points Culinary Tour

TripAdvisor

Eat and drink your way through Jacksonville’s tastiest neighborhood, Riverside. This tour sounds amazing for a few reasons.

First, your guide is there to help you pair food and wine. Second, it’s a walking tour, meaning you won’t feel overly full with those little breaks. Third, Riverside is scenic as hell, letting you soak up one of the city’s prettiest neighborhoods.

Book this tour

Riverside Brunch Tour

TripAdvisor

If you’re a big fan of brunch, go with this food tour instead. You get the same great experience in Riverside—just with a brunch-centric focus.

Keep in mind that this tour is for people over the age of 21. The best brunches are boozy, after all.

Book this tour