Jacksonville, Florida: Beaches, Wildlife & Riverfront Wonders
Jacksonville offers a variety of easy-to-enjoy spots, from wide beaches and quiet nature preserves to lively museums, markets, and riverfront walks. Whether you want a calm beach day, a hands-on zoo visit, or a night of live music and local food, this city has options for every mood.
Plan your visit around must-see stops—beaches, islands, a top zoo and gardens, historic sites, and a busy riverfront—to experience the best of Jacksonville and its local flavor.
Key Takeaway
- Diverse attractions: Beaches, nature preserves, museums, markets, and riverfront.
- Options for every mood: From calm beach days to lively nights out.
- Must-see stops: Beaches, islands, a top zoo, historic sites, and a busy riverfront.
- Comprehensive guide: Covers top attractions, dining, history, sports, and quick escapes.
Guide Overview
This guide covers top attractions, beaches and islands, parks and preserves, arts and markets, history and downtown activities, local dining and shopping, plus sports and quick escapes to help you build the perfect itinerary.
Top Places to Stay in Jacksonville, FL
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| The Flamingo House Jacksonville, 32207, United States of America | 104 |
| Sunshine Villa One 1712 Helena Street, Jacksonville, FL 32208, United States of America | 108 |
| Comfort Inn & Suites Jacksonville - Orange Park 8001 Parramore Road, Jacksonville, 32244, United States of America | 644 |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville - Town Center, an IHG Hotel 10573 Brightman Boulevard, Jacksonville, 32246, United States of America | 895 |
| Residence Inn By Marriott Jacksonville-Mayo Clinic Area 4905 San Pablo Road South, Jacksonville, 32224, United States of America | 244 |
| Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park 4812 Deer Lake Drive West, Jacksonville, FL 32246-4409, United States of America | 576 |
| Hotel Indigo Jacksonville-Deerwood Park, an IHG Hotel 9840 Tapestry Park Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32246, United States of America | 793 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Jacksonville Deerwood Park 4415 Southside Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32216, United States of America | 526 |
| Hyatt Place Jacksonville St. Johns Town Center 4742 Town Center Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32246, United States of America | 939 |
| Tru By Hilton Jacksonville South Mandarin, Fl 2970 Hartley Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257, United States of America | 887 |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville Downtown 357 Oak Street, Jacksonville, 32204, United States of America | 136 |
| TownePlace Suites by Marriott Jacksonville East 13741 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, 32224, United States of America | 199 |
| Tru By Hilton Jacksonville St Johns Town Center 4640 Tropea Way , Jacksonville, FL 32246, United States of America | 501 |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville South Bartram Park 13942 Village Lake Circle, Jacksonville, 32258, United States of America | 118 |
| Hampton Inn Jacksonville I-10 West 548 Chaffee Point Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32221, United States of America | 176 |
| Home2 Suites By Hilton Jacksonville South St Johns Town Ctr 10715 Deerwood Park Blvd , Jacksonville, FL 32256, United States of America | 167 |
| Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville JTB/Deerwood Park 9745 Gate Parkway North, Jacksonville, FL 32246, United States of America | 350 |
| Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel 10605 Deerwood Park Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32256, United States of America | 234 |
| Candlewood Suites - Jacksonville - Mayport, an IHG Hotel 2073 Mayport Road, Jacksonville, 32233, United States of America | 216 |
| Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville I-295/East Beltway 9815 Lantern Street, Jacksonville, FL 32225, United States of America | 205 |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Jacksonville W - I295 and I10, an IHG Hotel 1120 Suemac Road, Jacksonville, FL 32254, United States of America | 118 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Jacksonville Beach Boulevard/Mayo Clinic 13733 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32224, United States of America | 608 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Jacksonville South - Bartram Park 13950 Village Lake Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32258, United States of America | 280 |
| Marriott Jacksonville 4670 Salisbury Road, Jacksonville, 32256, United States of America | 250 |
| Aloft Jacksonville Airport 751 Skymarks Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States of America | 1,151 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Jacksonville - Mayport / Beach, an IHG Hotel 2040 Mayport Road, Jacksonville, FL 32233, United States of America | 754 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Chaffee - Jacksonville West, an IHG Hotel 537 Chaffee Point Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32221, United States of America | 234 |
| Courtyard Jacksonville Butler Boulevard 4670 Lenoir Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32216, United States of America | 231 |
| Hampton Inn Jacksonville South/I-95 at JTB 4681 Lenoir Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32216, United States of America | 201 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Jacksonville-South, an IHG Hotel 4675 Sailsbury Road South, Jacksonville, FL 32256, United States of America | 591 |
| Springhill Suites Jacksonville 4385 Southside Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32216, United States of America | 452 |
| Renu at Jacksonville 4460 Hodges Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32224, United States of America | 277 |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville Butler Boulevard 10551 Deerwood Park Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32256, United States of America | 184 |
| Fairfield Inn & Suites Jacksonville West/Chaffee Point 561 Chaffee Point Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32221, United States of America | 169 |
| Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront 225 East Coastline Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202, United States of America | 1,633 |
| Hyatt Place Jacksonville Airport 14565 Duval Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States of America | 1,410 |
| Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville East, an IHG Hotel 53 Jefferson Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225, United States of America | 975 |
| Embassy Suites by Hilton Jacksonville Baymeadows 9300 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256, United States of America | 673 |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville South - I-295, an IHG Hotel 11262 Old Saint Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257, United States of America | 533 |
| Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Airport/ Northeast 14668 Duval Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States of America | 274 |
| Fairfield Inn & Suites Jacksonville Butler Boulevard 4888 Lenoir Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32216, United States of America | 152 |
| Courtyard Jacksonville Flagler Center 14402 Old St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258, United States of America | 150 |
| Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Jacksonville, FL 5945 Youngerman Circle East, Jacksonville, FL 32244, United States of America | 984 |
| Holiday Inn Jacksonville E 295 Baymeadows, an IHG Hotel 11083 Nurseryfields Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32256, United States of America | 777 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Jacksonville-Airport 13551 Airport Court, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States of America | 458 |
| Home2 Suites By Hilton Jacksonville Airport 13475 Ranch Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States of America | 389 |
| Hampton Inn Jacksonville - East Regency Square 1021 Hospitality Lane, Jacksonville, FL 32225, United States of America | 364 |
| Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville Airport 13503 Ranch Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States of America | 388 |
| Fairfield Inn & Suites Jacksonville Airport 1300 Airport Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States of America | 339 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Jacksonville Airport, an IHG Hotel 1200 Airport Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States of America | 331 |
Experience Jacksonville’s Must-See Attractions
Mix outdoor time, art, and wildlife rescue work. Enjoy hands-on encounters, riverfront gardens, and rescued big cats in safe, educational settings.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens sits on a riverfront site and houses over 2,000 animals and many plant species. Feed giraffes at the African Overlook, watch otters in the Wild Florida area, and walk through the Australian Adventure to see colorful birds.
The Zoo offers family programs, seasonal events, and conservation talks that explain how staff protect species. Attend timed keeper chats and map your route to avoid long lines at popular exhibits.
If you drive, use the main Zoo Pkwy entrance and check online for ticket times and saver bundles. Plan at least half a day to see major exhibits and eat at on-site cafes.
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens combines galleries with riverfront gardens dating back to the early 20th century. View European and American paintings, rotating contemporary shows, and a hands-on children’s gallery where kids can create art.
Outside, stroll formal gardens along the St. Johns River with sculptures, fountains, and shady paths—great for photos and quiet breaks. The museum hosts classes, family days, and special exhibitions; check the calendar for evening events and free admission days.
Buy tickets online and arrive early to enjoy both galleries and gardens without rush.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary rescues tigers, lions, and other big cats from poor or dangerous situations. Tours and night-feeding events let you learn individual animal histories and the sanctuary’s care routines.
Volunteers lead educational walks that cover feeding, enrichment, and veterinary care. The ranch focuses on safety and rehabilitation, so you’ll have informative, respectful viewing from secure areas.
Buy tickets in advance for limited-capacity events and check rules on photography and behavior to keep animals and visitors safe. The ranch sits west of central Jacksonville and offers a meaningful, up-close experience.
Enjoy Jacksonville Beaches and Coastal Destinations
Soft sand, clear water, and nearby parks make these beaches easy to enjoy. You’ll find surf, family spots, fishing, and casual shopping near the shoreline.
Jacksonville Beach
Jacksonville Beach centers on a long stretch of sand and the iconic Jacksonville Beach Pier. Walk the pier for fishing, dolphin sightings, or sunset views. Rent boards or lessons from local surf shops near the pier.
The beachfront has a wide promenade with cafes, casual restaurants, and public showers. Parking is available at meters and city lots. For live music or events, check the schedule at Seawalk Pavilion nearby.
Practical tips:
- Best for: surfing, pier fishing, beach strolls.
- Facilities: restrooms, showers, concession stands.
- Timing: early morning for quieter beaches and better fishing.
Neptune Beach & Beaches Town Center
Neptune Beach keeps a quieter, small-town vibe while staying a short walk from Beaches Town Center. Find low-rise shops, local bakeries, and outdoor seating along First Street.
Beaches Town Center offers boutique stores, casual dining, and occasional street events. Beach access points have ramps and shaded picnic areas. Neptune’s shoreline is good for families and calm swims most days.
Local tips:
- Best for: family beach days, casual dining, strolling shops.
- Highlight: mix of neighborhood feel with walkable town-center amenities.
- Parking: street parking and small public lots; bike racks make short trips easy.
Atlantic Beach Getaway
Atlantic Beach feels the most residential and relaxed of the three. Pass parks and quiet access points that are ideal for a slow beach day or birdwatching along the dunes.
The town has a handful of seafood restaurants and a few surf shops, but less commercial activity than Jacksonville Beach. For peaceful shorelines, take the short walk to public access points and seek the less crowded stretches.
Quick notes:
- Best for: peace, nature walks, light surf.
- Facilities: smaller public lots, restrooms at main access points.
- Pro move: combine a beach visit with a meal at a local seafood spot in town.
Explore Nature Parks and Island Adventures
Find sandy beaches, shaded trails, and coastal scenery where you can bike, paddle, fish, or picnic. Each spot offers a different mix of dune beach, maritime forest, and tidal creek for wildlife watching and outdoor play.
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park covers 450 acres and blends beach, lake, and wooded trails. Ride the paved multi-use trail for 20 miles of loops for biking, running, or walking. The campground has sites with utilities if you want to stay overnight.
The park’s freshwater Lake Geneva is popular for paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. On the ocean side, you’ll find a broad sandy beach with lifeguards in season and public restrooms. Look for shorebirds, osprey, and gopher tortoises on the inland trails.
Amenities include a playground, picnic shelters, and a visitor center with park maps. Parking is on-site and fees apply; bring water and sun protection during hot months.
Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island State Park offers nearly pristine shoreline and quiet maritime forest. Walk straight from the parking area onto wide, natural beaches, or take shaded boardwalks through salt marshes where herons and migratory birds feed.
Trails lead to dunes, live oaks, and coastal scrub—perfect for spotting native plants and small wildlife. Fish from the beach or try clamming where allowed. Camping is backcountry-style at the primitive sites, so pack essentials.
Facilities are limited: expect simple restrooms and picnic tables but no full-service stores. The park’s undeveloped feel makes it a top choice if you want quieter beaches and good birdwatching.
Big Talbot Island & Boneyard Beach
Big Talbot Island State Park features the famous Boneyard Beach and unique blackrock beach formations. The shoreline is lined with salt-bleached live oaks and cedar trees that have fallen and bleached into sculptural shapes—perfect for photos at low tide.
Explore short trails that lead to bluff overlooks and tidal pools where crabs and shorebirds forage. The Blackrock Beach area exposes dark coquina rock and eroded formations that contrast with the pale driftwood, creating a dramatic coastal landscape.
Bring sturdy shoes for rocky sections and check tides before you go. No on-site food service, so pack snacks, water, and a camera. The park attracts photographers and nature lovers seeking a unique coastal scene.
Huguenot Memorial Park
Huguenot Memorial Park sits at the mouth of the St. Johns River and combines wide beaches with dunes and maritime forest. Fish from the beach or river side, launch small craft from the boat ramp, or birdwatch along the tidal creeks.
The beach has picnic shelters, restrooms, and an onsite tackle shop for basic supplies. Trails lead through dunes and shaded hammocks where you’ll often see shorebirds and wading birds. The park manages nesting areas seasonally, so respect posted closures during turtle or bird nesting times.
Parking is pay-to-park; arrive early on weekends for the best spots.
Discover Arts, Markets, and Cultural Hotspots
Find lively markets, contemporary galleries, and historic sites that give Jacksonville its cultural flavor. Each spot offers hands-on experiences, local artists, and close-up views of the city’s creative life.
Riverside Arts Market
Riverside Arts Market runs every Saturday under the Fuller Warren Bridge at James Weldon Johnson Park. Browse over 200 vendors selling handmade crafts, fresh produce, and food trucks. Live local music plays on the weekly stage, and street performers add energy throughout the market.
Arrive early for best parking and the freshest produce. The market is family-friendly with a kids’ corner and supports local artists through rotating vendor spots. The bridge and river views make a great photo backdrop.
Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville
MoCA Jacksonville focuses on contemporary art from local, regional, and national artists. See rotating exhibitions of painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media, plus special events like artist talks and workshops.
The museum sits near downtown, so you can pair your visit with a walk or nearby dining. Check the website for current exhibits and free community days. MoCA offers clear labels and friendly staff to guide your visit.
Ritz Theatre and Museum
The Ritz Theatre and Museum preserves African American history and culture in Jacksonville. Located in the historic LaVilla neighborhood, the Ritz highlights exhibits on local music, civil rights, and the city’s jazz legacy.
Tour restored theater spaces, view artifacts, and read displays about figures from Jacksonville’s Black community. The museum also hosts cultural programs, youth workshops, and performance events that connect history with today’s arts scene.
Embrace Jacksonville’s Historic Landmarks
Walk sites where people lived, fought, and worked centuries ago. See preserved buildings, coastal forts, and large natural areas that hold both history and wildlife.
Kingsley Plantation
Kingsley Plantation sits on Fort George Island and shows life on a 19th-century cotton plantation. Walk the grounds and see the main house built in 1814, the tabby slave quarters, and the sugar mill ruins. Signs explain the family who owned the property and the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
Rangers offer guided talks and occasional living-history programs. Bring water and wear sun protection—the grounds are exposed and can be hot in summer. The site is part of the Timucuan area, so you can combine your visit with nearby trails and river viewpoints.
Practical info:
- Location: Fort George Island
- Tip: Check park hours and ranger program times before you go.
- Accessibility: Some paths are unpaved; call ahead for details.
Fort Caroline National Memorial
Fort Caroline National Memorial marks a 16th-century French settlement and the clash between European powers here. You’ll find a reconstructed earthwork, a visitor center with exhibits, and a short trail that overlooks the St. Johns River.
Interpretive panels describe the French settlers, Spanish forces, and the area’s native Timucua people. The site is quiet and good for a short, focused visit. Look for special events and ranger talks explaining archaeological finds and the broader story of early colonization.
Visitor tips:
- Location: Near the mouth of the St. Johns River
- What to bring: Binoculars for river views and insect repellent for warmer months.
- Good for: History-focused visitors and families with school-age kids.
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve
The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve protects 46,000 acres of wetlands, waterways, and cultural sites across northeast Duval County. You can paddle salt marsh creeks, hike boardwalks, and visit historic places like Kingsley Plantation and Fort Caroline within the preserve.
Visit separate units—some are beachside, others are inland marshes. Trails range from short boardwalks to longer nature paths where you might spot egrets, ospreys, or river otters. Bring a map or use the preserve’s website to pick a unit that fits your time and interest.
Quick facts:
- Size: ~46,000 acres
- Activities: Hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, and cultural site tours
- Tip: Tide timing affects paddling and wildlife viewing—check local tide charts.
Immerse Yourself in Downtown and Riverfront Activities
Explore wide waterfront paths, public art, picnic spots, and easy access to cafés and museums. You can walk, bike, or sit and watch river traffic while enjoying green spaces and fountains.
Riverwalk and St. Johns River Park
The Riverwalk runs along the St. Johns River and gives you a paved path right at the water’s edge. St. Johns River Park stretches beside it with benches, shade trees, and signs that point out landmarks, making it easy to plan a short stroll or a longer walk.
You can buy a drink at a licensed riverfront business and carry it in the city’s specialty cup within the Riverwalk’s open container area during posted hours. Watch for pedestrian bridges and access points connecting the Riverwalk to downtown shops, museums, and parking areas.
Bring a bike to cover more ground, or go on foot to stop at public art pieces and viewpoints. The setting works for morning runs, sunset photos, and casual people-watching as boats move along the St. Johns River.
Friendship Fountain & Southbank Riverwalk
Friendship Fountain sits at Treaty Oak Park and links directly to the Southbank Riverwalk, a quieter riverfront route across from downtown. The fountain is a popular photo spot; its large circular basin and water jets create a pleasant backdrop for families and couples.
The Southbank Riverwalk runs along the southern river edge and connects to parks, restaurants, and the Riverwalk via pedestrian bridges. You’ll find places to sit that face the river and skyline, and a clear path for walkers and runners.
Events and weekend activity often spill into this area, so check local listings if you want to visit during a market, concert, or festival. Evening lighting makes the fountain and bridges especially pretty after dark.
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens lies a short drive from downtown and offers several miles of trails through native woodlands. You can follow boardwalks, shaded paths, and interpretive signs that explain local trees and plants.
Bring sturdy shoes for varied terrain and expect short loop options from easy to moderate difficulty. The arboretum hosts seasonal classes and volunteer events if you want a guided experience or a hands-on way to learn about local ecology.
Pack water and a camera; the gardens provide peaceful spots for birdwatching and nature photography. The site works well for family visits, solo walks, and quiet breaks from the bustle of the riverfront.
Local Flavors, Shopping, and Entertainment
Find big-name shops, local treats, craft beer stops, and live shows all within easy reach. You can shop top brands, taste handcrafted candy, follow a beer trail across town, and catch concerts or theater in historic and modern venues.
St. Johns Town Center
St. Johns Town Center sits off I‑95 near JTB and River City Drive. You’ll find over 175 stores and more than 20 restaurants across open‑air promenades.
Look for anchors like Nordstrom and Dillard’s, plus national brands and local boutiques for fashion, tech, and home goods. The layout makes it easy to park near each row and walk between shops.
Dining ranges from fast casual to sit‑down spots with patios. If you need a break, choose one of the many coffee shops or grab a quick bite at the food hall. Several hotels near the Town Center make it simple to stay close to shopping and evening dining.
Events run through the year — seasonal sales, pop‑up markets, and outdoor fitness classes. You’ll also find family‑friendly options like kid play areas and stroller‑friendly paths.
Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop
Sweet Pete’s sits in historic downtown, a short walk from the Southbank Riverwalk. When you step inside, you’ll see confectioners making chocolates, taffy, and hand‑pulled candy in view of guests. You can buy classic candies, single‑origin chocolates, and decorated sweets made on site.
The shop offers scheduled factory tours that show the candy process from recipes to wrapping. Tours often include tastings and a stop at the novelty candy wall. You can book group visits or pick up themed boxes for gifts and events.
Sweet Pete’s also hosts candy‑making classes where you can temper chocolate or pull taffy yourself. Those sessions make a hands‑on souvenir and are family‑friendly when noted on the booking page.
Jax Ale Trail
The Jax Ale Trail maps craft breweries, taprooms, and brewpubs across Jacksonville neighborhoods. You can follow it to try a wide range of beers — from hazy IPAs and barrel‑aged stouts to light lagers and seasonal sours. Most stops list core pours and limited releases on their websites or Untappd pages.
Pick a neighborhood (Five Points, Riverside, or Southside) and plan a short loop. Many breweries serve food trucks or let you order delivery from nearby restaurants. Check hours before you go; weekend releases and tap takeovers sell out fast.
The trail also links to events like beer festivals and brewery anniversary parties. If you want a keepsake, some breweries stamp a passport or sell branded glassware and shirts.
Florida Theatre
The Florida Theatre sits on Forsyth Street and dates to the 1920s. You’ll see ornate architecture, a large stage, and a classic marquee that still lights up downtown. The venue hosts concerts, comedy shows, dance, and film screenings — from national touring acts to local productions.
Buy tickets in advance for popular shows and consider balcony seating for a full view of the stage and auditorium. The theater is walkable from nearby parking garages and close to restaurants for pre‑show dining.
Daily’s Place, just a short drive away, serves large concerts and festivals if you want an outdoor arena experience instead of a theater setting.
Sports, Events, and Nearby Escapes
You can catch professional football, hear live orchestral music, or slip away for a quiet beach day near the city. Each option has easy logistics, clear highlights, and things to plan for.
Jacksonville Jaguars & EverBank Stadium
If you like big-game energy, head to EverBank Stadium to watch the Jacksonville Jaguars play. Arrive early to explore the tailgate scene, grab local food trucks, and visit the team store near the stadium entrances. Parking fills fast on game days, so use official lots or park-and-ride options and give yourself extra time for security lines.
Seating ranges from sideline views to club-level amenities if you want a more comfortable experience. Check the Jaguars’ schedule for preseason, regular season, and special-event games. You can also tour the stadium on non-game days to see locker rooms and the field up close.
Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra
The Jacksonville Symphony offers concerts at the Times-Union Center and outdoor pops at local parks. You’ll find classical programs, family concerts, and themed pops nights featuring film scores or holiday music. Buy tickets online and pick seat locations that match your budget and hearing comfort.
Arrive 30–45 minutes early to find your seat and enjoy pre-concert talks or lobby displays. The orchestra also runs community outreach and youth programs, so check their calendar for special matinees or discounted family rates. Dress is usually casual to smart-casual.
Day Trips to Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach
Amelia Island sits about 30–40 minutes northeast and makes a tidy day trip for beach walks and historic downtown shopping. In Fernandina Beach, stroll Centre Street for boutique shops, seafood restaurants, and Victorian architecture. Bring sunscreen and a hat—the beaches get bright and breezy.
You can rent bikes to explore seaside parks or book a guided eco-tour to see local marshes and wildlife. If you want a longer stay, there are bed-and-breakfasts and inns along the waterfront. Watch ferry and bridge schedules if you’re driving at peak times to avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jacksonville offers beaches, parks, museums, and food spots. You can plan a beach day, a zoo visit, a riverwalk stroll, or a museum stop depending on your mood.
What are some top-rated attractions to visit in Jacksonville?
Visit the Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens to see giraffes and otters up close.
Stroll the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens for art and riverside gardens.
Walk the North and Southbank Riverwalks for skyline views.
Stop by Friendship Fountain and the St. Johns Town Center for photos and shopping.
Can you recommend any family-friendly activities in Jacksonville?
Take kids to the Jacksonville Zoo for animal encounters and a kid-friendly layout.
Spend a morning at the Riverside Arts Market for food, crafts, and live music.
Go to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park for beaches, biking, and a lake with paddleboard options.
The Cummer Museum has an interactive children’s area that families enjoy.
Where can I find the best local eats in Jacksonville?
Try food trucks and local stalls at the Riverside Arts Market for casual bites.
Explore Beaches Town Center in Atlantic and Neptune Beach for seafood and beachside cafes.
Check restaurants near St. Johns Town Center for a wide mix of cuisines and sit-down options.
Look for craft breweries along the Jax Ale Trail if you want local beers and pub food.
What outdoor adventures are available in Jacksonville?
Paddle or kayak around Big and Little Talbot Island and Boneyard Beach for tide pools and driftwood.
Hike the trails at Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens for easy wooded routes.
Fish or camp at Huguenot Memorial Park, the one beach you can drive on nearby.
Bike or walk the multi-use trails in Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park and along the riverwalks.
Are there any cultural or historical sites that I shouldn’t miss in Jacksonville?
Tour Kingsley Plantation to learn about 19th-century plantation history and tabby structures.
See shows or events at the Florida Theatre, a historic 1920s movie palace.
Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) for modern works and rotating exhibits.
Board the USS Orleck Naval Museum to explore a restored destroyer and naval history.
What hidden gems in Jacksonville do locals love?
Visit Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary to see rescued big cats and join guided tours.
Check out Treaty Oak in Jessie Ball duPont Park for a peaceful spot and a historic tree.
Take a behind-the-scenes tour at Sally Dark Rides to discover animatronics and ride design.
Ride the Mayport Ferry to reach Fort George Island and enjoy quiet coastal trails.