Jacksonville: The Best Kept Secret in North Carolina

Jacksonville, North Carolina is one of the East Coast’s best-kept secrets. As one of the aptly described “sweet spots” experiencing the fastest growth rates in the state of North Carolina, Jacksonville also has definitely come a long way since its humble 19th-century origins as a small fishing village previously named Wantland’s Ferry. Since its establishment, the town has experienced steady growth contained by the limits of industry and is the site of Onslow County’s seat of government. The town continues to have the appeal and feel of small-town America with a fast-growing economy, due in part to the growth of businesses, jobs, and salaries; but with most growth occurring due to the United States military undertook considerable development of the area in installing the gigantic military base known as Camp Lejeune.

Camp Lejeune is a massive 246-square-mile military installation that serves as the “Headquarters” of the United States Marine Corps. It was constructed in 1941 during the military buildup just previous to the United States entering World War II. The installation of Camp Lejeune jump-started population growth to the area in and around Jacksonville, even though the city’s residents and the interests of the military have clashed throughout their shared-existence history. However, since 1987, a combination of factors have transformed the Jacksonville area into one of the youngest, healthiest, and fastest-growing out of all of the current up-and-coming places to live.

First of all, though, it’s important to understand that the area would not exist as-is without the government’s decision to place Camp Lejeune in Onslow County, which had a population of fewer than 900 people before the arrival of the military, and which now boasts a little over 72,000. Because of the Camp’s necessity in the administration, training, and other operations vital to the functioning of the United States’ Marine Corps, young soldiers have contributed to the emergence of a society of younger adults, giving Jacksonville its current “youngest city” moniker that it now enjoys.

However, even though you may still find your touch of old-school military communities in and surrounding a base, Jacksonville seems to have an atmosphere about it that is very inviting and open to newcomers. For those who are considering a temporary visit or a permanent move alike, consider adding some of the following places to your itinerary upon arrival.

Things to Do and Places to Stay

Attractions

Camp Lejeune Memorial Gardens. As a testament to the military background of the city, the Camp Lejeune Memorial Gardens is a place of peaceful reflection dedicated to those who gave their lives to serve our nation during the Vietnam War. This memorial is the “must-visit” place for those finding themselves living in or visiting Jacksonville. Currently, a new vast facility, called the “Carolina Museum of the Marine” is being constructed within Camp Lejeune as well, which will add new features and attractions to the current memorial site.
Lynnwood Park Zoo. A great attraction for both lifelong residents of Jacksonville as well as a great place to visit during a weekend retreat, the Lynnwood Park Zoo offers visitors the ability to observe some of the most exotic wildlife on the planet. Like all zoological parks, the Lynnwood Park Zoo is a great place to bring your children, but the stunning variety of reptiles, mammals, birds, and everything in-between make is a great place to go for those without children who are looking for a fun way to spend the day.

Adult-Themed Destinations

Walton’s Distillery, where you can stop and get a taste test of their craft spirits; and of course, featuring craft whiskeys and legal moonshine. This is one of Jacksonville’s most inviting spots, and it features a ton of small-batch distilled beverages in a variety of flavors. Learn about the process involved in bringing grain from the field all the way through its transformation into mash and then ultimately to the bottle or jar. Fan-favorite flavors include salted caramel. Make sure to check out the gift shop on site for one-of-a-kind keepsakes memorializing your visit.
Cracked It! Escape Games. While the venue states that it is an “all ages” place for those 10 and up, this is the type of place that truly appeals to those who have at least reached their teenage years and is equally fun for adults. Here, parties between 2-12 people are locked in a room, given a mission with limited clues, and are tasked with escaping the room within 60 minutes. Escape room venues appeal to a wide variety of groups, such as double dates, families, and even corporate team-building strategy.

Lodging/Places to Stay

Airbnb Options. There are well over 300 Airbnb locations within the Jacksonville, NC area. Clicking the link will take you to a list of available rooms directly on the Airbnb website. The upside to choosing a private room instead of traditional lodging at a hotel is that you get a more authentic experience of the area. Of course, for those who prefer the hotel experience, there are several great options to choose from as well.
Staybridge Suites Jacksonville. Close to Camp Lejeune, Staybridge is an affordable option for those visiting on a vacation as well as those needing extended-stay options. This location is centrally located with easy access to many of Jacksonville’s worthiest attractions such as those described above as well as to necessities such as Onslow Memorial Hospital. This hotel offers free food and drinks on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings through its event special, aptly named “The Social.” Rooms are competitively priced and can be booked via the link or by calling the hotel directly at 910-353-2513.
Candlewood Suites. This location offers fast access to many of Jacksonville’s most popular destinations and includes many business amenities including free dry cleaning service. It also includes other amenities, including a fitness center, BBQ grill, laundry, and free internet.

Jacksonville, NC is one of the fastest-growing towns in North Carolina, and also has the distinction of being a town with a relatively young population. The presence of the US Marine Corps, through locations such as Camp Lejeune, Camp Jackson, and other smaller installations, guarantees that these demographics will remain constant while growth continues. As a result of this young population, Jacksonville will continue to offer visitors and new residents a plethora of fun things to do, whether visiting for a weekend or moving permanently. As a military community, crime statistics are generally lower when comparing to other areas of similar size, making Jacksonville the perfect community in which to raise a family. Whether you plan on enjoying a bit of moonshine distilling education and taste testing at Walton’s, plan a room escape adventure with your family, or decide to visit one of Jacksonville’s venues not listed here, one thing is for certain – you will enjoy yourself thoroughly and will leave with a great story to tell!

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