Some cities, like Miami, have never capitalized on their fortunate location astride a river. It's a win-win combination that not only takes advantage of the river's natural beauty but also has revitalized the waterfront, which once was held in so little regard that the city's jail was built there. Its prisoners have some of the city's best views.
Few visitors are aware that Jacksonville is the biggest city in the United States.
That's biggest in area, not population, let us hasten to add. Some years ago, Jacksonville annexed the entire county of Duval, a total of 840 square miles, making it the largest in land area in the contiguous United States. But after working hours, it's time to play, and the district now offers a variety of activities. Tempting them in this riverfront entertainment complex are dozens of retail outlets and restaurants, some with decks overlooking the water. Concerts frequently are staged in the open plaza fronting on the river, the music wafting over the river to woo Riverwalk strollers on the opposite bank.