Things To Do In Jacksonville FL: Your Guide To Fun In Florida's First Coast

Are you thinking about a trip to Florida's biggest city by land area? You are in for a real treat. Jacksonville, Florida, often called "Jax," has so much to give, so it's almost a perfect spot for any kind of traveler. From sunny beaches to interesting history, and a really good food scene, there are plenty of things to do in Jacksonville FL that will make your visit special.

Perhaps you are looking for a relaxing beach day, or maybe you want to explore some art and culture. You might even be hoping for a bit of outdoor excitement. Whatever your idea of a good time, Jacksonville truly offers a wide range of activities for everyone. This city, sitting right on the St. Johns River, just a little bit from the Atlantic Ocean, has a unique mix of urban appeal and natural beauty, you know?

This guide will show you some of the best spots and activities that make Jacksonville a memorable place to visit, as of May 2024. We will cover everything from popular attractions to some hidden gems, helping you plan your perfect trip. So, if you are wondering what to do in Jacksonville, just keep reading, okay?

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Table of Contents

• Explore the Sandy Shores: Jacksonville's Beaches
  • Jacksonville Beach
  • Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach
• Discover Nature and Wildlife
  • Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
  • Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve
  • Hanna Park
• Art, Culture, and History
  • The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
  • Museum of Science & History (MOSH)
  • Riverside Arts Market
• Food and Drink Experiences
  • Riverside and San Marco Dining
  • Jacksonville Ale Trail
• Family-Friendly Adventures
  • Adventure Landing
  • Autobahn Indoor Speedway
• Frequently Asked Questions About Jacksonville

Explore the Sandy Shores: Jacksonville's Beaches

When people think of Florida, they often think of beaches, and Jacksonville definitely delivers on that front. The city's coastline offers wide, sandy stretches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just a good walk. There's plenty of space, so it's almost never too crowded, which is nice.

Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville Beach, or "Jax Beach," is a lively spot. It's really popular for surfing, especially when the waves are good. You can rent surfboards or even take a lesson if you're new to it. The pier here is a great place for fishing or just taking in the ocean views, you know?

Around Jax Beach, you'll find lots of places to eat and drink. There are casual spots for burgers and fries, and also some nicer restaurants with fresh seafood. It's a pretty easygoing vibe, so you can just relax and enjoy the coastal air. Parking can be a bit tricky on very busy days, but there are options, thankfully.

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Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach

Just north of Jacksonville Beach, you'll find Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach. These areas are a bit quieter, offering a more relaxed beach experience. They have charming town centers with unique shops and local eateries. Atlantic Beach, in particular, has a very nice feel to it, with many places to grab a coffee or a meal.

These beaches are perfect if you want to escape the bigger crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the water. They are great for families, too, with plenty of room for kids to play. You can easily walk or bike between these three beach towns, which is pretty convenient, actually.

Discover Nature and Wildlife

Jacksonville is home to a lot of green spaces and natural areas, offering chances to see local wildlife and enjoy the outdoors. It's not just about the beaches; there's a whole other side to the city. You can find places that feel far away from the city, even when you're still quite close.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a really impressive place. It has animals from all over the world, including big cats, elephants, and primates. The exhibits are well-designed, giving the animals plenty of room, and it feels like you are walking through different parts of the globe. It's a fun day out for all ages, seriously.

Beyond the animals, the gardens themselves are beautiful. There are different themed gardens to walk through, offering a calm and pretty experience. They also have special events and shows, so it's worth checking their schedule before you go. It's a very popular spot, especially for families, and it's easy to spend hours here.

Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

For a true taste of Florida's wild side and some history, the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is a must-see. This huge preserve protects salt marshes, coastal dunes, and hardwood hammocks. It's home to a wide range of birds and other wildlife, and you can explore it by hiking, kayaking, or even a boat tour. It's pretty cool, in a way, to see such untouched nature.

Within the preserve, you'll find historical sites like Fort Caroline National Memorial, which tells the story of early French attempts to settle in Florida. There's also Kingsley Plantation, one of the oldest surviving plantation houses in Florida, offering a look into a difficult past. It’s a place that makes you think, and it offers a really quiet escape from the city.

Hanna Park

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is another great outdoor spot. It has more than 20 miles of biking trails, which are popular with mountain bikers of all skill levels. There's also a freshwater lake for kayaking and paddleboarding, and a lovely beach area. It's a versatile park, offering a bit of everything for outdoor lovers, you know?

The park also has camping spots, if you want to stay overnight and really get into nature. It's a fantastic place for a picnic or just to enjoy the fresh air. You can spend a whole day here, just exploring the different areas, or perhaps just relaxing by the water. It's definitely a good choice for active folks.

Art, Culture, and History

Jacksonville has a growing art scene and a rich history that you can explore in its museums and cultural spots. It's not just about outdoor activities; there's plenty to learn and see indoors too. The city has a story to tell, and these places help share it, sort of.

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is a true gem. It has a collection of art spanning from ancient times to modern works. The museum itself is beautiful, but the gardens are truly a highlight. They are set right on the St. Johns River and feature stunning landscapes, including a historic English garden and an Italian garden. It's a very peaceful place to spend an afternoon, honestly.

Walking through the gardens, you get amazing views of the river, and it's a great spot for photos. The museum often has special exhibits, so there's always something new to see. It's a wonderful blend of art and nature, and it's pretty much a must-visit for anyone who likes beauty and calm.

Museum of Science & History (MOSH)

For something more interactive and family-friendly, the Museum of Science & History, known as MOSH, is a fantastic choice. It has hands-on exhibits that cover everything from local ecosystems to the human body and space. Kids, and adults too, can learn a lot in a fun way. It's a place where you can really get involved with the exhibits, you know?

MOSH also has a planetarium, which offers amazing shows about the stars and beyond. It's a great way to escape the heat on a hot day and still be entertained and educated. There's always something interesting happening, and it's a place that makes learning pretty cool, in a way.

Riverside Arts Market

If you happen to be in Jacksonville on a Saturday, you absolutely have to check out the Riverside Arts Market (RAM). This outdoor market, under the Fuller Warren Bridge, is a lively gathering of local artists, food vendors, and farmers. You can find unique handmade crafts, fresh produce, and delicious prepared foods. It's a really good place to find a souvenir or just enjoy the atmosphere, basically.

There's usually live music playing, and it's a great spot for people-watching. It's a wonderful way to experience the local culture and support small businesses. The market runs most of the year, so it's a fairly consistent weekend activity, and it's honestly a lot of fun to just walk around and see what's there.

Food and Drink Experiences

Jacksonville's food scene has grown a lot, offering everything from fresh seafood to international flavors and a booming craft beer industry. You can find pretty much anything you're in the mood for, seriously. It's a city that likes to eat well, and that's obvious in the variety of places you can try.

Riverside and San Marco Dining

The Riverside and San Marco neighborhoods are known for their diverse dining options. Riverside has a bohemian feel with many independent restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find anything from casual pizza places to upscale dining. It's a great area to just walk around and see what catches your eye, honestly.

San Marco, with its historic square, offers a more refined dining experience. There are award-winning restaurants serving creative dishes, often with outdoor seating. Both areas are very walkable and offer a nice evening out. You'll find a lot of local favorites here, and it's definitely a good place for a date night or a special meal, you know?

Jacksonville Ale Trail

For beer lovers, the Jacksonville Ale Trail is a fun way to explore the city's craft breweries. There are many breweries spread across different neighborhoods, each with its own unique brews and atmosphere. You can pick up a "passport" and get stamps at each brewery you visit. It's a really good way to try different local beers, and meet some nice people, too.

Many breweries also offer food trucks or their own kitchens, so you can grab a bite while you enjoy your drink. It's a relaxed and social activity, perfect for an afternoon or evening with friends. It's pretty much a growing scene here, so there are always new places popping up, which is cool.

Family-Friendly Adventures

Jacksonville is a great city for families, with plenty of activities that kids and adults will both enjoy. There are places that offer thrills and spills, and others that are more about just having a good time together. It's pretty easy to find something for everyone, you know?

Adventure Landing

Adventure Landing is a popular spot for family fun. It has a water park during the warmer months with slides and wave pools, which is pretty much a blast on a hot Florida day. Beyond the water park, there's also an amusement park with go-karts, mini-golf, and an arcade. It's a place where you can easily spend a whole day, and the kids will definitely be tired out by the end.

It's a good option if you're looking for something with a lot of different activities in one place. You can pick and choose what you want to do, so it's quite flexible. It's a pretty lively spot, especially on weekends, but there's plenty of fun to be had, absolutely.

Autobahn Indoor Speedway

If you're looking for a bit of speed and competition, Autobahn Indoor Speedway offers high-speed electric go-karting. It's an indoor track, so it's a great activity no matter the weather. The karts are fast, and the track is designed for a thrilling experience. It's definitely something that gets your heart going, you know?

They have different race formats, and it's a fun activity for groups of friends or older kids. It's a bit different from your typical outdoor go-kart track, offering a more professional feel. If you're into racing, this is pretty much a must-try. It's a really good way to get some excitement, in a way.

Learn more about Jacksonville's unique neighborhoods on our site, and check out this page for more regional fun.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jacksonville

Is Jacksonville worth visiting?

Yes, Jacksonville is definitely worth a visit! It offers a mix of beautiful beaches, interesting historical sites, great outdoor activities, and a growing food scene. It's a city that has something for every taste, whether you like relaxing or exploring. There's a lot to discover, so it's pretty much a good choice for a trip.

What is Jacksonville known for?

Jacksonville is known for its extensive coastline, including Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. It's also recognized for its large urban park system, the St. Johns River that runs through it, and its professional sports teams, like the Jaguars. It's also a place where you can find a lot of nature and history, you know?

How many days do you need in Jacksonville?

To really get a good feel for Jacksonville and enjoy its main attractions, you might want to plan for three to five days. This gives you enough time to explore the beaches, visit a museum or two, enjoy some good food, and perhaps even get out into nature. You could certainly spend more time if you want to see everything, but that's a good start, honestly.

So, whether you're looking for sunshine, culture, adventure, or just a good meal, Jacksonville, Florida, has a lot to offer. It's a city that welcomes you with open arms and gives you plenty of reasons to smile. Go ahead and plan your trip to discover all the amazing things to do in Jacksonville FL. You'll find something truly special here, for sure. You can even find more information about the city's events and attractions on the official Visit Jacksonville website.