15 Best Things to Do in Jacksonville, Florida, According to Locals (2024)

Planning a Florida getaway often conjures thoughts of sunbathing in Fort Lauderdale, dancing the night away in Miami, and seeking thrills at one of Orlando’s theme parks. And while all of these images are accurate — and great ideas for any vacation — there’s so much more to the Sunshine State.

If you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist hot spots and still get a taste of the best that Florida has to offer, look no further than Jacksonville. Located in the northeastern part of the state, Jacksonville is home to 22 miles of beaches, world-class museums, and more — not to mention a country flair that locals are proud of.

To help plan your trip to this Florida gem, we spoke to locals who gave us the lowdown on the best things to do in Jacksonville. Read on for their tips on where to go, what to do, and what to see so you can make the most of your trip.

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Spend the day at Jacksonville Beach.

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It wouldn’t be a Florida vacation without a visit to the beach, and Jacksonville has plenty of ways for visitors to enjoy the coastline, thanks to its year-round sunshine. Walk along the “sandy highway” during low tide, take a dip in the Atlantic, or try your hand at several other recreational activities like kayaking, surfing, paddleboarding, and fishing from the pier. You can also “walk down memory lane at Beaches Museum to remember how Jacksonville’s beaches got to where they are now,” says Curt DeWitt, owner and operator of Beach Life Rentals and Salt Air Inn & Suites.

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Explore the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail.

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Hike, bike, or ride along what was once part of a CSX railway line and now showcases a different, more forested side of Jacksonville’s natural beauty. The 14.5-mile trail has a multiuse asphalt path smooth enough for skating and cycling, along with a parallel unpaved path for off-road biking and horseback riding. “It's a great place to see the ‘country’ side of Jacksonville and Florida,” says DeWitt.

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Hang with big cats at Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary.

Animal lovers shouldn’t miss a trip to this somewhat hidden gem in Jacksonville. Providing a safe haven for big cats who may have been mistreated or have nowhere else to go, Catty Shack Ranch is home to a large variety of animals, including bobcats, foxes, leopards, tigers, and lions. “It's a fun place to learn about how some ‘pets’ can be mistreated, and how a sanctuary can help provide a comfortable, safe space for the animals to live with each other,” says DeWitt. “They do not allow visitors all the time … so it does not overstimulate the animals and treat them like they are in a zoo.”

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Find healing at Auntie Peaches.

“A mystical apothecary with a vibe both earthy and ethereal, Auntie Peaches is a hidden gem in historic Springfield,” says Ernest White II, who grew up in Jacksonville and is the executive producer and presenter of travel docuseries Fly Brother with Ernest White II. “Come here for traditional African herbal and natural medicines, scented candles and aromatic teas, and incredible stories about African American life from Jacksonville and around Florida.”

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Have a beach picnic at Huguenot Memorial Park.

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“I grew up going to this sandy strand north of the mouth of the St. Johns River. The long, wide beach in this public park is a great place to splash in the surf and watch the ships sail in and out of the river on the other side of the jetty,” says White II. Visitors are also allowed to drive down onto the beach to set up their barbecue or picnic for the day. While there, be sure to look for the historic marker that commemorates the landing of the French Huguenots on May 1, 1562.

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Enjoy a family-friendly day at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

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You can easily spend the entire day at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, gawking at the 2,000-plus creatures and 1,000 varieties of plants. Feed the animals at the Giraffe Overlook, watch for adorable floating otters at the Wild Florida exhibit, and get a unique view of tigers roaming above your head at the Land of the Tiger exhibit. There’s something to keep both adults and children entertained.

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Get a dose of art and culture at Florida Theatre.

For nearly 100 years, the Florida Theatre has served as a beacon of entertainment. Originally opened as a movie theater, the venue, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, now hosts hundreds of events per year, from ballet and opera performances to a variety of musical concerts.

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Admire the masterpieces at Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens.

As the largest fine arts museum in northeast Florida, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens has a collection of nearly 5,000 pieces spanning several centuries, cultures, and continents. The beauty continues in the museum’s historic and lush 2.5-acre garden. “I love the Cummer because you can stroll through the serene gardens, marvel at ancient artifacts, and admire European and American masterpieces all under one roof,” says Burton.

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Go shopping at Riverside Arts Market.

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Open every Saturday, rain or shine, the Riverside Arts Market “ is an embodiment of Jacksonville's artistic soul,” says Natasha Burton, head chef, founder, and owner of Mixed Fillings Pie Shop. With more than 100 vendors, you’ll find art, handmade jewelry, beauty products, local farmers' produce, food trucks, and more. “It's a weekend must-do for anyone craving a dose of local flavor, and the location can't be matched,” Burton adds.

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Learn about Jacksonville’s Black history.

The role of Black residents throughout Jacksonville’s fascinating history is often overlooked, but Explore Jax Core is trying to change that with its Black heritage tours. The company offers a general history tour, as well as other options focused on architecture or murals and mosaics. “I vouch for Explore Jax Core’s Black History tours because they’re not just tours,” says Burton. “They’re eye-opening experiences that delve into the soul of Jacksonville. They bring to life stories that often remain untold, celebrating the resilience, triumphs, and contributions of the Black community.”

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Explore a darker side of history at Kingsley Plantation.

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Like many destinations in the South, Jacksonville has a complicated history, and nowhere is this more apparent than at Kingsley Plantation. Head to this site to learn about the 1814 plantation house and the people who lived there — both enslaved Africans and plantation owners. You can take a self-guided audio tour, but for a deeper dive into its history, book a tour with a park ranger.

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Enjoy the outdoors at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park.

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This oceanfront city park has a bit of everything for outdoor enthusiasts: 1.5 miles of beautiful beaches, more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, campgrounds and cabins, an expansive lake, picnic shelters, equipment rentals for kayaking, and more. This park is also a top spot for surfing. Beyond its recreational activities, Hanna Park is significant as it was once Manhattan Beach, the first African American beach resort in Florida.

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Stroll along St. Johns River.

Be sure to enjoy the views of the mighty St. Johns River along the Northbank Riverwalk (two miles) or Southbank Riverwalk (1.25 miles). These concrete pathways are ideal for going on a walk or jog, relaxing on the benches, or launching a kayak from one of the designated areas. “Enjoy the art and murals along the way and hopefully catch a glimpse of the river dolphins, a hybrid salt and freshwater dolphin only found in the St. Johns River,” recommends Katie Mitura, chief marketing officer at Visit Jacksonville.

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Catch a concert at the Ritz Theatre and Museum.

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Located in the historic neighborhood of LaVilla, the Ritz Theatre and Museum showcases the Black history and culture of Jacksonville in an area that was a hot spot for Black entertainment, nightlife, and music from the 1920s to 1960s. Explore the museum’s many galleries and keep an eye on the event calendar to catch a concert in the beautiful 400-seat theater.

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Marvel at the stars at the Museum of Science & History.

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With the goal of fostering lifelong learning, Jacksonville’s Museum of Science & History has a wide range of interactive exhibits, teaching about health and the human body, coastal animals in northeast Florida, diverse energy sources, and the lives of Jacksonville’s first Native Americans. The crowning jewel of the museum is its planetarium. As one of the largest single-lens planetariums in the U.S., you can easily explore the wonders of the universe from the comfort of planet Earth.

15 Best Things to Do in Jacksonville, Florida, According to Locals (2024)

FAQs

How do you spend a day in Jacksonville? ›

  1. 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville. ...
  2. Electric Bike Tours in Amelia Island. ...
  3. Public Art Tour in Jacksonville. ...
  4. Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek. ...
  5. Jacksonville Scavenger Hunt: Jacksonville, From The Ashes. ...
  6. Stumpy's Axe Throwing Activity from Jacksonville.

What is Jacksonville best known for? ›

Known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere, the city also boasts diverse and mouthwatering cuisine. Offering everything from fresh seafood to soulful Southern dishes, Jacksonville's culinary scene has something for every food lover.

Where to stop in Jacksonville? ›

Attractions Jacksonville, FL
  • Sally Dark Rides. 4.8 (4 reviews) ...
  • Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary. 4.7 (186 reviews) ...
  • Floating Sea Aquatics. 4.7 (43 reviews) ...
  • Treaty Oak Park. 4.3 (31 reviews) ...
  • Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. 4.3 (430 reviews) ...
  • Museum of Science & History. 3.9 (149 reviews) ...
  • Jacksonville Naval Museum. ...
  • Five Points.

How much does it cost to walk on the Jacksonville Pier? ›

Here is what you need to know if you are walking the pier: General Admission: $2. Duval County residents and all hotel guests with a valid hotel key card in Jacksonville: $1.

What is the city of Jacksonville known for? ›

With a rich history and diverse cultural scene, Jacksonville is known for its museums, art galleries, and lively music festivals. The city's extensive park system, including the stunning Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, provides ample recreational activities and exploration opportunities.

What food is jax known for? ›

Garlic crabs aren't the only dish of Gullah Geechee origin that's pervasive in Jacksonville. Others that can be found across the city include the seafood boil, shrimp and grits, Hoppin' John, salmon patties, gumbo, many rice dishes, she-crab soup and of course, barbecue (more on that in a minute).

What is the richest part of Jacksonville? ›

Isle of Palms

With a median home price of $1,149,691 and a median rent of $1,534, Isle of Palms is the most expensive neighborhood on our list. Based on the growth in home prices in Isle of Palms over the last 3 years, it ranks No. 1 among all the neighborhoods in Jacksonville.

What are people from Jacksonville called? ›

People from Jacksonville are known as Jacksonvillians and, informally, as Jaxsons or Jaxons (both derived from Jax, the shortened nickname for the city).

What is the safest part of Jacksonville, Florida? ›

If you love Atlantic Beach, then look no further than Girvin. Girvin is one of the safest places to live in Jacksonville, FL, and is full of exciting things to do. The Intercoastal Waterway separates Girvin from the popular area of Atlantic Beach.

What is the best street in Jacksonville? ›

Situated in the historical and cultural epicenter of Jacksonville, Florida, Laura Street welcomes daytime and nighttime visitors alike, and brings dynamism to the heart of the city. Laura Street is always buzzing, and people of all ages find activities and events that they can attend and enjoy year round.

Where does Jacksonville rank on crime? ›

The Wirepoints report ranked the top 75 largest cities in the U.S. based on their homicide rates, and the results showed that Tampa and Miami were ranked at 49th and 50th, while Orlando ranked 55th. Florida's murder capital, Jacksonville, was ranked significantly higher than the rest at 23rd.

Where to avoid in Jacksonville FL? ›

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Jacksonville, FL
  • East Jacksonville. East Jacksonville is the most dangerous neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. ...
  • Hogan's Creek. Hogan's Creek is another area to avoid in Jacksonville. ...
  • College Gardens. ...
  • Fairfield. ...
  • Lackawanna. ...
  • 45th and Moncrief. ...
  • Moncrief Park. ...
  • Allendale.
Apr 24, 2024

Does Jacksonville have a boardwalk? ›

From the early days along the boardwalk to today's oceanfront accommodations and Jacksonville Beach Pier, outdoor adventures are plentiful here. Morning strolls along the beach and hopping on a beach cruiser for a leisurely bike ride along First Street are a way of life in Jax Beach.

Is there a lot to do in Jacksonville? ›

Some of the most popular things to do in Jacksonville are visiting the Crummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Museum of Science & History, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, and Hands On Children's Museum.

Is Jacksonville a walkable city? ›

From the open-air St. Johns Town Center, featuring a mix of high-end and popular stores, to the charming boutiques along San Marco Square, you'll find a variety of shopping options within walking distance. Living in Jacksonville, Florida offers an exceptional walkability experience.

Can you get around Jacksonville without a car? ›

The Best Options for Visitors

Once settled, take advantage of the Skyway, water taxi and free trolleys to explore major downtown neighborhoods without a car. The trolleys in particular make it easy to visit shops, dine at restaurants and enjoy attractions in Jacksonville Beach and Riverside/Avondale.

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