Duval County Community

Summary of Duval County

What is Duval County?

Duval County is one of Florida’s most dynamic counties, home to the consolidated city of Jacksonville—the largest city by land area in the continental United States. It’s a coastal community where urban life meets natural beauty, wrapped up in Southern hospitality. Learn more at the City of Jacksonville official site.

Where is Duval County?

Situated in Northeast Florida, Duval stretches from the Atlantic Ocean on the east to the St. Johns River that winds through the heart of the county. It borders Nassau, Baker, Clay, and St. Johns counties.

When was it founded?

Duval County was established on August 12, 1822, named after William Pope Duval, Florida’s first territorial governor.

How does it work today?

In 1968, Duval County and the city of Jacksonville merged their governments to form a consolidated government—a move that’s often cited as a model for efficiency and modernization.

Why do people love it?

With affordable living, top-rated parks, rich culture, and access to stunning beaches, Duval County strikes a rare balance of urban energy and laid-back coastal charm. You can check out Visit Jacksonville for local travel ideas and guides.

History of Duval County

Duval’s roots run deep in Florida’s story. The county was carved out of St. Johns County in 1822, during Florida’s early territorial days. Named for Governor William Pope Duval, it was one of the original counties created after the U.S. acquired Florida from Spain.

In 1968, Duval made history again by consolidating Jacksonville with the surrounding cities and towns within the county. This included the communities of Arlington, Mandarin, Riverside, Northside, Beaches (Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach), and others.

This bold consolidation simplified governance and allowed Jacksonville to grow as a unified metropolitan hub—one of only a few U.S. cities to take this approach.

Visiting Duval County

Quick Tourism Stats

Over 22 million visitors pass through Jacksonville and Duval County each year.
Tourism supports more than 50,000 local jobs.
Duval boasts over 1,100 miles of shoreline, 400 parks, and 7 state parks.

Things to Do in Duval County

🎉 Events

Jacksonville Jazz Festival – A world-class music event that takes over downtown every spring.
Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair – A fall favorite for families.
Jax River Jams – Free live concerts along the riverfront.
Art Walk – Downtown’s monthly celebration of local artists and makers.

🍴 Restaurants

Salt Life Food Shack in Jacksonville Beach – seafood with an ocean breeze.
Metro Diner – Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.
Black Sheep in Riverside – rooftop dining with bold Southern flavors.
Blue Bamboo – award-winning Asian fusion.

🌳 Parks & Outdoors

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park – Lakes, trails, and a quiet beach all in one.
Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve – Nature and Native American history together.
Memorial Park – A peaceful riverfront escape in the heart of Riverside.

🏖️ Beaches

Jacksonville Beach – Lively and full of surfers, restaurants, and a classic pier.
Neptune Beach & Atlantic Beach – Quieter spots with a local vibe.
Huguenot Memorial Park – Drive right onto the sand and enjoy a peaceful day by the dunes.

Best Time to Visit

Locals will tell you: every season in Duval has its charm, but here are the highlights:

Spring (March–May): Ideal beach weather, festival season.
Fall (September–November): Fewer crowds, cooler temps, college football buzz.
Winter (December–February): Mild days, holiday lights, and no snow shoveling!

Welcome to Duval County