The 10 Best Things To Do In Jacksonville Florida 

Are you looking for southern hospitality and charm? Then Jacksonville is a great place to consider for your next trip. Located in the northeastern corner of Florida, Jacksonville is the largest city in land mass in America.  The warm sandy beaches and vibrant city are sure to surprise you! The “River City by the Sea” boasts over 20 miles of sandy beaches perfect for relaxing. Use this guide to Jacksonville Florida to plan to perfect vacation to this unique destination. 

The 10 Things To Do In Jacksonville 

Relax On Jacksonville Beaches

With over 20 miles of picture-perfect sandy beaches, of course, they top the list of things to do. Whether you want to lounge in the Florida sunshine with a good book or get in the water to swim or boogie board, a trip to Jacksonville’s beaches will fit the bill.

There are 4 major beach areas, each with its own draws. 

• Jacksonville Beach – popular with surfers, Jacksonville has concession stands, equipment rentals, and even a fishing pier. 
• Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach – lie north of Jacksonville and offer a more quaint beachfront appeal than the hectic and chaotic Jacksonville Beach. 
• Ponte Vedra Beach – idyllic, stunning, palm-fringed shores just south of Jacksonville. The calm, family-friendly vibe at Ponte Vedra makes it a sanctuary for beach lovers.

Take A River Cruise On the St. John’s River

A popular way to explore Jacksonville is by kayaking or paddle boarding on one of the city’s scenic waterways. Still those physical activities aren’t fit for all travelers, and weary paddlers aren’t always able to travel as far as they’d like. Another option is a river cruise along Jacksonville’s waterways, past the region’s flora and fauna, including dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, and even wild horses.

Stroll The Jacksonville River Walk

The Jacksonville River Walks has a ton of trails that extend on both sides of the St Johns River. This means you can join an urban trail while still exploring the city. Head to the banks of the river to enjoy lunch and dining options, ranging from casual cafés to fine dining eateries. The River Walk also has a variety of nightlife options, buzzing bars, and elegant lounges.

While strolling keep your eyes on the water, you might even spot a dolphin!

Jacksonville Zoo

As one of Jacksonville’s top attractions, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens features a unique walking safari. During this visitors can view the zoo’s 2,000 animals and 1,000 exotic plant species. The zoo was started in 1914 and covers an impressive seventy acres of land. 

The zoo is located at the mouth of the Trout River, the zoo and gardens offer a real family adventure with a range of outstanding exhibits. You’ll want to check out the award-winning ‘Range of the Jaguar,’ the beautiful Savanna Blooms Garden, and the fun Giraffe Overlook. 

Jacksonville Zoo| 370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218| (904) 757-4463

Visit Amelia Island

While it’s not technically within city limits, those looking for a break from the city will love Amelia Island. The island has incredible beaches and makes the perfect day trip where you can relax and just enjoy the surf. 

If you’re up to it, take one of the island’s hiking trails, go horseback riding, or even pop into the cozy museum. 

Take A Sip On The Jax Ale Trail

If you’re a beer lover then you’ve got to check out the Jax Ale Trail. Offering a unique adventure with self-guided tours of some of the best craft breweries in the city. 

Several companies run the Brewery Tours, Play Harder Tours, and Brew Bus Jacksonville. Breweries include Aardwolf Brewing Co., Bold City Brewery, Engine 15 Brewing Co., and many more. 

Tours visit restaurants and bars that brew their own beer, such as Seven Bridges, where you’ll get to sample and taste some local craft beers and delicious local cuisine. 

You’ll receive a Jax Ale Trail Brewery Passport to stamp at every brewery visited to receive cool prizes and giveaways. How fun?

Jax Ale Trail| 208 N Laura St, Jacksonville, Florida 32202| 800-733-2668

Take In Art At The Cummer Museum

As one of Florida’s most beloved art museums the Cummer Museum hosts one of the best art collections in the Southeast. These works of art are housed in a series of twentieth-century buildings that overlook the St. John’s River. 

The Cummer Museum has over 6,000 works of art spanning 2100 B.C. and the 21st century. It features distinct genres of European and American paintings. It also boasts the Wark Collection of Early Meissen Porcelain, something you’ll want to see. 

This museum is also surrounded by stunning manicured gardens, the oldest dates to 1903. Some of the gardens have recently been added to the National Register of Historic Places. The 2.5 acres garden features tranquil reflecting pools, ornate fountains, and eye-catching sculptures. 

The garden is also home to the majestic Cummer Oak, one of the oldest trees in Jacksonville. Its broad canopy reaches a staggering 150 feet. 

The Cummer Museum|829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32204| 904-356-6857

Explore Little Talbot Island State Park

Little Talbot Island State Park offers miles of pristine beaches, forests, dunes, and untouched salt marshes. This gorgeous haven for relaxation and one of the best things to do in Jacksonville. 

This secluded barrier island in Northeast Florida is home to a variety of wildlife, including river otters, marsh rabbits, and a plethora of beautiful birds.

Nature lovers will love exploring the park because it offers a variety of outdoor activities. These include beachcombing, hiking, fishing, and surfing. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the park, there is a campground along the eastern salt marshes of Myrtle Creek. The shoreline can be explored with rented kayaks and paddleboards or a guided tour.

Little Talbot Island State Park| 12157 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226| (904) 251-2320

Chow Down At A Fish Camp

Nothing says Jacksonville quite like visiting a fish camp for their amazing fresh catches! Some may call them fish shacks, holes in the wall, or dives – but in Jacksonville they are called Fish Camps! The city is virtually surrounded by water, making noshing on fresh seafood a must do!

Each fish camp is unique and offers a different dining experience. Some Jacksonville favorites are 

For a posh fish camp visit – Julington Creek Fish Camp

Known for its Mayport Shrimp & Grits and soft-shell crab, Julington Creek offers refined dining. Perfect for foodies, the food and ambiance are both top notch at this fish camp. 

Julington Creek Fish Camp| 12760 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223| (904) 886-2267

For beachside eats head to – North Beach Fish Camp

Locals know North Beach Fish Camp is the best spot along the sandy shores of Neptune Beach. You’ll want to start off with an order of spicy pimento cheese dip, you can’t miss this Southern staple! Followed this with the salt and pepper seared tuna, which is cooked to perfection, and thank me later.

North Beach Fish Camp| 100 First St, Neptune Beach, FL 32266| (904) 249-3474 

For a family favorite visit – Palm Valley Fish Camp

The Palm Valley Fish Camp debuted has a goal of being a family-friendly restaurant that feels like the neighborhood go-to. It has undoubtedly become a favorite of locals in Ponte Verde. 

Enjoy classics like crab cakes or smoked fish dip. Or for those looking for something a bit different on a seafood menu consider trying the salmon BLT, which comes with house-made tartar sauce and pickled zucchini, delicious!

Palm Valley Fish Camp| 299 Roscoe Blvd N, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082| (904) 285-3200

MOSH Out At The Museum Of Science and History

The MOSH! or The Museum of Science and History specializes in a variety of outstanding exhibits that focus on science and local history. You can find this museum on the famous Southbank Riverwalk.

Signature exhibits include ‘Brain Teasers,’ featuring skills to explore the innermost workings of the mind. Traveling exhibits include full-scale skeletons, fossils from around the globe, and ‘Dinosaurs Unearthed,’ an awesome interactive exhibition featuring life-sized dinosaurs.

The Museum Of Science And History| 1025 Museum Cir, Jacksonville, FL 32207| (904) 396-6674

Jacksonville is a great destination in Florida! Although it may get overlooked by flashier neighbors such as Orlando or Miami, it’s a great place to visit.  Not only does it have a lot of great tourist attractions to fill your vacation itinerary, but it is also less crowded than the most popular Florida destinations.