Jacksonville, one of the largest cities in Florida, has a lot to offer! From a pristine coastline, beautiful beaches, and galleries galore, there are tons of the best things to do in Jacksonville scattered across the city.
Well, while Jacksonville may not get the same amount of attention as some of its Floridian City siblings, such as Fort Lauderdale, Miami or Clearwater – it’s still an epic place from which to explore North Florida.
We absolutely loved our road trip through the state and North Florida was a big surprise for us.
To be honest, we hadn’t really thought much about visiting before our road trip (we focused more on southern Florida) – but luckily that changed. We were so wrong; The north is amazing and there are so many gems that we cannot hear about (from across the pond).
To help you get the most of your time in Jacksonville, we’re sharing some of our top attractions in the city.
Check out the best things to do in Jacksonville below. Have the best trip to Florida!
1.) Stroll the Jacksonville River Walks
The Jacksonville River Walks have a ton of hiking trails that stretch on either side of the St. Johns River. This means you can indulge yourself as you can join an urban trail while exploring much of the city at the same time.
Just make sure you keep your eyes on the water. If you are lucky you might even spot dolphins.
Next, visit Treaty Oak Park to see one of the city’s most famous living southern oaks. It should be over 250 years old!
Read more: Best Things to Do in Florida
2.) Visit the Kingsley Plantation
Kingsley Plantation, the former home of Zephaniah Kingsley, is located in Fort George Island State Park
Hiding a dark side of history, Kingsley Plantation is a former plantation where enslaved people were extensively exploited. Today you can learn more about this terrible time of forced labor. It’s so sad to read about it, but something that must never be forgotten.
After you’ve taken in all of the accounts on the plantation, head to some of the paths that line the park. It’s an absolutely breathtaking area – but watch out for the mosquitos!
Read more: Best Things to Do in Florida
3.) Relax on Jacksonville’s beaches
Located in the The Beaches area of Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach is beautiful to visit, especially if you’re looking for a relaxing day out.
This beach has many good restaurants and a beautiful sandy beach! It’s great for surfing and kayaking, Atlantic Beach is almost entirely meant for chilling out! Well that’s my apologies for not doing anything there! 😉
Getting hungry? Head to North Beach Fish Camp for an incredible seafood menu. Their cajun fried crab claws are too good to miss.
Alternatively, drive 30 minutes from Jacksonville and explore Ponte Vedra Beach, which is a breathtaking stretch of white sand dreams! For a few nights on the beach, check out the Ponte Vedra Inn. It’s so dreamy and right on the beach.
4.) Hike in Big Talbot Islands State Park
One of the most unique places in North Florida, Big Talbot Islands is one of the best things to do in Jacksonville if you fancy a day in the great outdoors.
There are tons of tidal streams for you to relax in and slide between the islands. Be sure to rent your equipment before your visit, especially at peak times of the year. We used Kayak Amelia and they are great.
Big Talbot Island State Park is a sandy beach in Sandy State Park that is home to wetlands, swamps, bike trails, and secret beaches. The main highlights are Blackrock Beach and Boneyard Beach. You can also go hiking and kayaking here.
If you’d like to take part in a paved hike, head out on the 3-mile Timucuan Trail. When walking through the beautiful scenery of the park this is a great place even on hot days. As you can see, much of the trail is shaded by the huge tree cover, which makes it much cooler in summer.
Read more: Best Things to Do in Florida
5.) Visit Amelia Island
While Amelia Island is technically out of the city area, one of the best things to do in Jacksonville if you feel like staying away from the streets is one of the best things to do in Jacksonville.
With the most incredible beaches, it’s the perfect day trip where you can relax and just enjoy the surf. Alternatively, if you feel like it, try it You can join a hiking trail, ride a horse or visit the cozy museum.
Best of all, getting to Amelia Island is no problem! Connected to mainland Florida via Highway 200, you can easily drive directly to the island.
6.) Stroll through the Cummer Museum of Art
Founded way back in 1958, the Cummer Museum is one of the best things to do in Jacksonville whatever the weather!
With more than 5,000 works by various artists and centuries of history, the art museum is a breathtaking place to visit for a few hours. In truth, it would take days to see it all.
Oh, and it’s great for a stroll through the gardens which are absolutely peaceful.
7.) Find the Florida Theater
The nearly 100 year old Florida Theater is something of a Jacksonville institution. It’s the perfect place to see a show, comedy, or play while you explore the city.
However, be sure to book tickets before you arrive in Jacksonville. Some shows sell out quickly, especially for notable tours.
8.) Museum of Science and History (MOSH)
The city’s most visited museum, the Science and History Museum, is one of the best things to do in Jacksonville when the weather gets a little wet. While this isn’t the only reason you should go, it’s totally cool for the whole family and well worth a few hours.
Check out the seasonal exhibits and take part in one of the upcoming events and soirees held each month. Oh, and remember, the MOSH host has sponsored days all year round too! This means that every participant has free entry. Check his website to see if one happens during your visit.
9.) Visit the Fort Caroline National Memorial
Fort Caroline National Memorial tells the story of the 16th century French colonial population in Florida that is incredible to learn about.
On the banks of the St. John’s River, it’s absolutely unique and well worth exploring if you’re interested in Florida’s human history. There is also a 1.3 mile nature trail in the park, and the Spanish Pond Trailhead isn’t too far away either.
Read more: Best Things to Do in Florida
12 best places to visit in Florida
