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The Milk Road
Awaken your senses at veteran-owned The Milk Road, born out of the owners’ desire for the coffee and liege waffles they fell in love with during deployment. The waffles’ yeast-risen dough is studded with pearl sugar that caramelizes during cooking, creating a sweet, irresistible crunch.
Sturgeon City Park
Start exploring Jacksonville’s 23 miles of paved trails and greenways that connect downtown parks and city sights. Download a map and put on your walking shoes or hop on your bike. Try the Sturgeon City Park Trail for incredible waterfront views, or follow Segment 15 of the statewide Mountains-to-Sea Trail from downtown all the way to the beach.
Walton’s Distillery
Itinerary Stop Description: Sample other liquors, wine and beer distilled in North Carolina at Duck’s Grille and Bar, where highlights include beer flights, all-you-can-eat wings and fries on Mondays, and an extensive wine list. Entertainment — bands, karaoke and comedy — changes nightly.
Blend Cafe
Begin the day with breakfast at veteran-owned Blend Cafe, known for its inviting decor, coffee, acai bowls and artisan toasts. Enjoy the view of New River and dine on the porch on sunny days.
Zing Zumm Children’s Museum
Time to kick the kids’ brains into high gear. The Zing Zumm Children’s Museum is a perfect stop for families where kids up to 10 years old can explore highly interactive and sophisticated exhibits. And after everyone’s learned a thing or two, the next stop is nearby.
Lejeune Memorial Gardens
Walk among touching memorials that honor Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Vietnam Memorial, for example, is the nation’s second largest and lists those missing, taken prisoner or killed in the war. The Beirut Memorial honors the 273 Marines who gave the last full measure of devotion in Lebanon and Grenada in 1983. And the 9/11 Memorial is built around a World Trade Center girder that was delivered by a New York City fire engine. Adding to the experience in 2026 is the Carolina Museum of the Marine, which will honor the legacy of marines and sailors.
Jeff’s Burgers, Dogs, and Shakes
Unique flavor combinations on the burgers and dogs are the stars of the show here. Add hand-cut fries and a milkshake, and you’ll see why Southern Living magazine called it a must visit.
Hammocks Beach State Park
This is one of NC’s best spots to search for seashells. From April through October, a short ferry ride will take you from the mainland section of the park in Swansboro to Bear Island. Or travel south from Jacksonville to North Topsail Beach for soft sand and quiet waters.
Marrakesh
Come hungry to Jacksonville and Onslow County, where US Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station New River bring cultural ties — and tastes — from countries around the world. Try authentic Mediterranean flavors at Marrakesh, known for its stuffed grape leaves, lamb chops and moussaka.
Plan your visit
Visit more restaurants on the International Food TrailKettle Diner
Looking for a hometown favorite where locals go for breakfast? Head uptown to Kettle Diner, just one place where you can enjoy a hearty meal for a reasonable price. The menu includes omelets, breakfast burritos, French toast and more.
Jacksonville’s Blueway Trails
Some background: Built in the early 1940s, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune uses much of the coastline in Jacksonville to train and practice amphibious landings. But the ocean, rivers and creeks also welcome kayakers and canoeists, especially early in the day when the air is cool. Rental kiosks — complete with a kayak, paddle and life jacket — can be found at three different park locations, and you simply use your phone to open the lock and pay. Float past osprey, wildlife, and iconic landmarks and bridges. Not ready to paddle yet? Book a trip with a fishing guide year-round.
Plan your visit
Jacksonville LandingMission BBQ
Head to Mission BBQ for lunch when the national anthem is played as a daily salute to country, military and first responders. Mission is serious about barbecue too. While the brisket sandwich is a popular choice, you can order smoked chicken, pork or turkey. If you can’t decide, ask for the sampler and create your own combos with sauces from around the country.
Saigon Sam’s Military Surplus
The family can’t leave Jacksonville without some souvenirs. Find plenty of options at shops inside Jacksonville Mall and along Western Boulevard. Save time for Saigon Sam’s Military Surplus, where you’ll find outdoor gear and clothing.
Mike’s Farm
Visit Mike’s Farm for country cookin’ served family-style — but it’s so much more than a restaurant: Kids can pet and feed farm animals free of charge; the gift shop is a shopper’s dream with year-round Christmas decorations; the bakery offers famous sweets such as the 10-layer chocolate cake; and the North Carolina Products Barn sports a robust collection of goods produced, manufactured and crafted in the Tarheel State.
In addition to many free and affordable activities, Jacksonville offers several lodging options, from campsites to AirBnBs to nationally respected chain hotels.
This trip idea was produced in partnership with, and photos are courtesy of, Visit Jacksonville NC.
Snapshot Module
Your trip at a glance
Stop 1
The Milk Road
Stop 2
Sturgeon City Park
Stop 3
Walton’s Distillery
Stop 4
Blend Cafe
Stop 5
Zing Zumm Children’s Museum
Stop 6
Lejeune Memorial Gardens
Stop 7
Jeff’s Burgers, Dogs, and Shakes
Stop 8
Hammocks Beach State Park
Stop 9
Marrakesh
Stop 10
Kettle Diner
Stop 11
Jacksonville’s Blueway Trails
Stop 12
Mission BBQ
Stop 13
Saigon Sam’s Military Surplus
Stop 14