Activities
Recreational Activities
Beaches: Jacksonville boasts beautiful beaches like Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and beachside dining.
Parks and Trails: Explore the city’s numerous parks and trails, such as:
- Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens: Offers scenic walking trails, gardens, and educational programs.
- Huguenot Memorial Park: Known for its beautiful beaches and birdwatching opportunities.
- Riverside Park: A historic park with walking paths, playgrounds, and community events
Golf: Jacksonville is home to several world-class golf courses, including:
- TPC Sawgrass: Famous for its challenging course and the iconic 17th hole, known as the “Island Green.”
- The Golf Club at North Hampton: Offers a beautiful course designed by Pete Dye.
Water Sports: Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing on the St. Johns River or nearby lakes and waterways. Popular spots include the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve and the Trout River
Fishing: The city offers excellent fishing opportunities, from inshore to offshore. Visit the Jacksonville Beach Pier or charter a boat for deep-sea fishing.
Educational Activities
Museums:
- The Museum of Science & History (MOSH): Features interactive exhibits on science, history, and technology, including a planetarium.
- The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens: Showcases a diverse art collection and beautifully landscaped gardens.
- The Jacksonville Historical Society: Offers insights into the city’s history and heritage.
Library:
- Jacksonville Public Library System: Includes various branches throughout the city offering educational programs, workshops, and community events.
Educational Tours:
- Fort Caroline National Memorial: Learn about the area’s early history with interpretive exhibits and guided tours.
- Jacksonville University and University of North Florida: Both institutions offer a range of public lectures, cultural events, and educational programs.
Family-Friendly Activities
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: Home to over 2,000 animals and a variety of botanical gardens, it’s a great spot for family outings.
Adventure Landing: A family entertainment center with mini-golf, go-karts, and a water park.
Children’s Museum: Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities designed for young children.
Kingsley Plantation: Offers a historical look at plantation life with educational tours and family-friendly activities.
Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex: Provides skating rinks for ice skating, hockey, and roller skating.
Other Activities
Cultural Events and Festivals:
- Jacksonville Jazz Festival: An annual event celebrating jazz music with performances by renowned artists.
- Jacksonville Film Festival: Showcases independent films and provides opportunities to engage with filmmakers
Shopping and Dining:
- St. Johns Town Center: A major shopping and dining destination featuring a variety of retail stores and restaurants.
- Historic Five Points District: Known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere.
Performing Arts:
- Florida Theatre: Hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, theater, and comedy shows.
- Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra: Offers classical and contemporary music performances throughout the year.
Sports:
- Jacksonville Jaguars: Catch NFL action at TIAA Bank Field, the home stadium of the Jaguars.
- Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp: Enjoy minor league baseball at 121 Financial Ballpark.
Jacksonville’s diverse range of activities ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a local resident or just visiting. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, the city offers a rich array of options to explore and enjoy.