Top Things to Do in Jacksonville

About the City

Discovering Jacksonville, United States Nestled in the northeastern corner of Florida, Jacksonville is a sprawling urban playground where the St. Johns River meets the Atlantic Ocean. This city, affectionately known as 'Jax', boasts a compelling mix of outdoor adventures and city comforts. A big plus for nature enthusiasts, Jax offers miles of untouched beaches perfect for sunbathing or catching waves. Not to mention, the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve stands as a testament to Florida's lush wetlands and rich history. Now, if concrete jungles are more your scene, downtown Jacksonville will not disappoint with its skyline silhouette and the vibrant Riverside Arts Market. On the flip side, Jacksonville is not without its quirks. The city sprawl can be challenging, with a reliance on cars to get around, making traffic something to sigh about. And with the great Floridian weather comes the uninvited guests – yes, we're talking bugs! But what's a little insect repellant when there's so much to explore? Whether it’s the chant of 'Duval' at a Jaguars game or a quiet paddle through the marshes, Jacksonville's blend of urban and natural experiences makes it a place full of contrasts, where every traveler can find their little slice of happiness.

Things to Do in Jacksonville

Chomp into a Gator Tail

Food & Drink

Take a walk on the wild side and sink your teeth into something uniquely Floridian – gator tail! Fried to perfection, it's like a taste of the swamp, but way more delicious than you might think.

Paddle the Expanse of Big Talbot Island State Park

Outdoors

Grab a paddle and hit the waterways of Big Talbot Island! Glide through the serene marshes, say 'hello' to the birds, and feel like an explorer finding hidden creeks. Just don't tip over; the fish mig...

Embark on a Local Coffee Shop Crawl

The Unexpected

Who needs bar hopping when you can buzz from one local coffee joint to the next? Get your caffeine fix with a side of jazzy vibes or artsy interiors.

Navigate the Nooks of an Indie Bookstore

The Unexpected

Fancy a literary adventure? Swap your beach read for some indie cred. Sneak into a cozy nook with a novel from local authors or eye-opening histories of the sunshine state.

Conquer the Escape Room Challenge

The Unexpected

Lock yourselves in and brainstorm your way out! You've got 60 minutes to crack codes, unravel riddles and outsmart a themed room designed to thrill.

Jazz up Your Evening at a Speakeasy Bar

The Unexpected

Shh... step into the roaring 20s with a twist! Find the hidden door and whisper the secret password to sip on Prohibition-era cocktails with a side of live jazz.

Disc Golf at Ed Austin Regional Park

Outdoors

Schwing! If you've got a frisbee and a knack for aiming, test your skills at the disc golf course. It's a fun way to spend an afternoon!

Catch a Wave at Atlantic Beach

Outdoors

Ready to hang ten or just wipeout with style? Atlantic Beach is your ocean playground! Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just starting out, the waves here are ready to tease and please. Surf's up, d...

Beach Horseback Riding at Amelia Island State Park

Outdoors

Ever dreamed of riding a horse on the beach, wind in your hair, feeling all majestic? Well, giddy up! Amelia Island State Park is where you can live that dream. The horses are chill, the views are bre...

Hike Through History at Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve

Outdoors

Get your boots on and hike through the past, my friend! Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve is like a living museum where the trails tell tales. Wander through lush landscapes, learn about the ind...

Bite into a Jacksonville Jumbo Lump Crab Cake

Food & Drink

Everything's bigger in Florida, including the crab cakes! These jumbo-sized treats are filled to the brim with fresh, succulent lump crab meat – no skimpy fillers, all killer flavor!

Dive into Jacksonville's Naval History

Sights

Anchor's aweigh! Explore the mighty USS Orleck and get your navy nerd on. Don't worry, you won't have to swab the deck – just enjoy the shipshape history!

Stroll Around the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens

Sights

Get wild with the locals of the four-legged variety at Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens! Roam among the roars, squawks, and growls as you discover creatures from around the globe. It's a walk on the wild si...

Climb to the Top of Little Talbot Island

Sights

Get those calves burning with a climb up the undulating dunes of Little Talbot Island. Conquer the sandy summits and be rewarded with a stunning panorama of the Atlantic Ocean. It's nature's own stair...

Gaze Upon the Friendship Fountain

Sights

Spark a connection with Jacksonville by chilling out next to the iconic Friendship Fountain. Watch the water dance to lights and music, and maybe make a new friend or two. Who knew H2O could be so mes...

Visit the Kingsley Plantation

Sights

Step back in time where cotton was king and explore the remnants of an era long past at the Kingsley Plantation. Feel the breeze off the Fort George River and uncover the stories rooted deep in the so...

Munch on a Monster Sub

Food & Drink

Get ready to unhinge your jaw, 'cause these subs are no joke. Stuffed with all the meats, cheeses, and toppings you can dream of, eating one of these bad boys is like a fitness challenge for your stom...

Slurp Up Some Datil Pepper Chili

Food & Drink

Get ready to feel the heat with Jacksonville's own fiery twist on chili. Datil peppers are the local secret weapon, packing a punch that'll spice up your meal and your trip!

Discover the Pecan Park Flea Market Eats

Food & Drink

Dive into the local flavors at Pecan Park Flea Market, where you can taste a variety of homegrown treats, from hot and spicy jerk chicken to sweet and sticky funnel cakes!

Swing Through the Treetops

The Unexpected

Ever wished you could fly? Well, it's time to channel your inner Tarzan and swing through the trees! There's this cool spot where you can zip-line and navigate aerial obstacle courses. It's pretty hig...