Jacksonville, Florida, has a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy. It has a lively city center, as well as a multitude of options where you can enjoy the city. Our former home, it’s a place we know well and love.
Here are a few fun things to do in Jacksonville
Visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is home to more than 2,000 animals representing over 400 species, as well as a variety of plants and gardens. Some of the animals you can see at the zoo include gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, jaguars, giraffes, elephants, flamingos, and many more. The zoo also has several themed areas, including the Range of the Jaguar, the Giraffe Overlook, and the African Forest. In addition to the animal exhibits, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens also has several gardens, including the Butterfly Garden, the Herb Garden, and the Orchid Garden. The zoo also has a number of educational programs and activities for visitors, including animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and conservation talks.
Take a stroll through the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens
The Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens is a 120-acre natural area located in Jacksonville, Florida that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the things you can do at the arboretum include:
- Hiking: The arboretum has several miles of trails that wind through a variety of ecosystems, including pine flatwoods, sandhills, and hardwood hammocks. You can explore the trails on foot or by bike.
- Birdwatching: The arboretum is home to a diverse array of bird species, including woodpeckers, warblers, and hawks. Bring your binoculars and see how many different species you can spot.
- Photography: The arboretum is a beautiful and photogenic place, with a variety of plants, animals, and landscapes to capture.
- Picnicking: The arboretum has several picnic tables and benches scattered throughout the grounds, making it a great place to enjoy a meal or a snack outdoors.
- Nature education: The arboretum hosts a variety of educational programs and workshops throughout the year, covering topics such as bird identification, wildflower identification, and nature photography.
- Special events: The arboretum often hosts special events, such as nature walks, birdwatching trips, and educational programs. Check the arboretum’s website or social media accounts to see what events are coming up.
Take a trip to the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit organization located in Jacksonville, Florida. It is home to a variety of rescued exotic animals, including tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, lynx, and more.
The ranch is open to the public for tours and education programs, and its mission is to provide a safe and caring home for rescued animals, as well as to educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation.
The ranch also offers special events and programs, such as “Twilight Tours,” where visitors can see the animals at night, and “Feeding Frenzy,” where visitors can help feed the animals.
Go to a Jaguars Game
There are several reasons why you might want to consider going to a Jacksonville Jaguars game in Jacksonville, Florida.
First, attending a live football game can be an exciting and thrilling experience. The atmosphere at a professional football game is electric, with thousands of fans cheering on their team and experiencing the excitement of the game in person.
Second, the Jaguars play at TIAA Bank Field, which is a state-of-the-art stadium that offers a wide range of amenities, including luxury suites, club seating, and a variety of food and beverage options. The stadium also features a number of interactive features and activities, such as a play area for kids and a fan zone with games and activities.
Finally, Jacksonville has one of the up-and-coming teams in the league, including Trevor Lawrence – the 1st overall pick in the 2021 draft. If you’re a fan of sports, Jacksonville has plenty to offer!
Go to the Beach
Jacksonville has several beaches to choose from, including Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Neptune Beach.
There are many things to do in Jacksonville Beach. Jacksonville Beach is known for its beautiful beaches and is a great place to relax, go swimming, or try water sports such as surfing or stand-up paddleboarding. Additionally, you can check out the Jacksonville Beach Pier. The Jacksonville Beach Pier is a popular destination for fishing, sightseeing, and dining. You can also take a stroll along the pier to enjoy the ocean views.
Atlantic and Neptune Beaches are smaller, but more relaxed and often visited by locals. There are many bars along Highway A1A, as well as the legendary Seahorse Hotel, which is home to a popular beach-facing bar that is crowded by locals year-round.
Go Golfing
There are several great golf courses in Jacksonville, Florida that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play a round of golf. Here are a few options:
- TPC Sawgrass – This course is home to the PGA Tour and is known for its iconic island green 17th hole.
- Timuquana Country Club – This private club is located on the St. Johns River and features a challenging course designed by Donald Ross.
- Marsh Landing Country Club – This private club features a Jack Nicklaus-designed course that has received rave reviews from golfers.
- Eagle Landing Golf Club – This public course features a challenging layout with water hazards and bunkers throughout.
- San Jose Country Club – This private club features a traditional course with tree-lined fairways and small greens.
Overall, Jacksonville has a variety of great golf courses to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that suits your preferences and skill level.
Explore the Local Parks
Jacksonville, Florida has many beautiful parks and green spaces to visit. Some popular options include:
- Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve: This preserve features 46,000 acres of wetlands, marshes, and forests, as well as several historic sites. It’s a great place to explore the natural beauty of the region and learn about its history.
- Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park: Located on the Atlantic coast, this park offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, surfing, and hiking. It also has a playground, picnic areas, and a campground.
- Fort Caroline National Memorial: This historic site offers a glimpse into the early history of the region, with exhibits and guided tours of the fort, which was built by French explorers in the 16th century.
- Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens: This 120-acre park is home to a variety of plant species and is a popular spot for nature walks and picnics.
No matter which park you choose, be sure to follow any local guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Check out the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra
Are you a music or theater lover? The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra is a professional orchestra that performs a wide range of classical and contemporary music.
Among many of the Orchestra’s we’ve been to, it may be surprising to hear that Jacksonville has one of the best, that plays a great schedule including theatrical favorites as well as works from classical masters such as Bach, Beethoven, Schumer, Liszt, and more!
Visit the Museum of Science and History
The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) in Jacksonville, Florida is a hands-on science and history museum that offers a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages. Some things you can do at MOSH include:
- Explore the museum’s permanent exhibits, which cover a wide range of topics including dinosaurs, space, Florida history, and more.
- Participate in hands-on demonstrations and experiments in the museum’s Science Works galleries.
- Visit the IMAX theater to see films on a giant screen.
- Check out the museum’s special exhibitions, which showcase unique collections and interactive exhibits on a variety of subjects.
- Attend a workshop or program led by MOSH educators, which cover topics such as robotics, engineering, and more.
- Take a stroll through the museum’s outdoor nature trails and gardens.
- Join a guided tour of the museum led by a knowledgeable docent.
Shop and dine at the Beaches Town Center
Beaches Town Center is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, located in Neptune Beach, Florida. There are many things to do and see in this bustling area. Some ideas for things to do at Beaches Town Center include:
- Visit the beach: The main attraction at Beaches Town Center is the beautiful Atlantic Ocean, which is just a short walk from the town center. You can spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming, or building sandcastles.
- Shop and dine: Beaches Town Center is home to a variety of boutique shops and restaurants, offering everything from beach gear and clothing to souvenirs and locally made crafts. You can also find a variety of dining options, ranging from casual beachside cafes to fine dining restaurants.
- Take a stroll: The town center is a pedestrian-friendly area, making it easy to explore on foot. You can take a leisurely walk along the main street, stopping to browse the shops and enjoy the scenery.
- Check out local events: Beaches Town Center often hosts events and festivals, such as farmers markets, art fairs, and live music performances. Be sure to check the event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
- Go on a nature walk: The town center is located near several nature preserves areas, including the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve. You can take a scenic walk through these protected areas, or even rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the waterways.
- Take a boat tour: There are several companies that offer boat tours in Jacksonville Beach, including fishing charters, dolphin tours, and sunset cruises.
Enjoy the Nightlife
Jacksonville has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and clubs to choose from.
Here are some popular bars in downtown Jacksonville, Florida:
- The Volstead – This cocktail bar is located in the historic neighborhood of Riverside and offers a variety of classic cocktails, craft beer, and small plates.
- The Blind Rabbit – This speakeasy-style bar is located in the historic San Marco neighborhood and offers a selection of craft cocktails, craft beer, and small plates.
- The Garage – This bar is located in the historic neighborhood of Riverside and features a variety of craft beers, cocktails, and a menu of burgers, sandwiches, and other pub-style fare.
- The Ivy Ultra Bar – This rooftop bar is located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville and offers a selection of craft cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as a menu of small plates and appetizers.
- Dos Gatos – We saved our personal favorite for last! This swanky hideout is well designed and has some of the best cocktails and ambiance in town. It’s commonly voted as one of the best bars in Florida
These are just a few options, and there are many other great bars in the downtown Jacksonville area to choose from.
Explore the St. Johns Town Center
This outdoor shopping mall features more than 175 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. No matter what you’re looking to shop for, St. Johns Town Center is a place (yes, with a TopGolf!) that you can simply get lost in and explore all day.
Some additional things you can do in Jacksonville include:
Visit the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. This museum features a collection of art ranging from ancient to contemporary, as well as beautiful gardens that are perfect for a leisurely walk.
Go on a brewery tour. Jacksonville has a thriving craft beer scene, with several breweries offering tours and tastings.
Go fishing. Jacksonville is known for its excellent fishing, with a variety of species found in the area’s rivers, creeks, and the Atlantic Ocean.
