Jax to its friends, this youthful city in Northeast Florida occupies a huge area, the largest of any in the contiguous United States. So, you can soak up the big city energy downtown, watch the Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field, walk the riverfront and hop across the river aboard the Jacksonville Water Taxi. But also, you’ll find some of the most ancient artifacts in the country have been discovered in the Timucuan Preserve. You thought we were done? There’s still more! Some of the best things to do in Jacksonville also include gigantic protected spaces with wetlands. Then there’s the forgotten plantations and eerie beaches where maritime woodland has been overcome by the Atlantic.
With vaccinations rolling and the state of things looking optimistic, we’re all looking for something to do outside of the confinement of our homes. So, here’s Roomi’s guide to some of the best things to do in Jacksonville, FL!
Outdoor activities in Jacksonville, FL
1. The Jacksonville Arboretum
Located in the historic Arlington neighborhood, the Arboretum is by far one of the best-hidden spots in Jacksonville. Great hiking trails, different ecosystems, wildlife (turtles everywhere!), streams, and a beautiful and peaceful pond covered in lilies. The arboretum is pet-friendly and a great outdoor spot for a family hike.
Timings:
Open 8AM-7PM; Mon-Sun
Costs:
The entrance is free, though the gardens suggest a $3 donation per visitor.
2. Surf Lessons with Jax Surf & Paddle
You can’t come to Northeast Florida without learning how to surf. But you don’t want to go out to the pier at Jax Beach and embarrass yourself, right? That’s where these surfing lessons come in. They are by far one of the best things to do in Jacksonville if you love the water. Jax Surf and Paddle will take you out and teach you how to surf for an hour. They are kind and patient and will get you on your board in no time, even if you’re feeling nervous. Jacksonville has a close-knit surfing community that’s a wonder to be a part of, with a surf that’s one of the most underrated in the region.
Costs:
Vary based on service
Timings:
Based on your convenience
3. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a nonprofit dedicated to providing a forever home for endangered big cats. They’ve also taken on a commitment to teaching visitors about big cats (as well as a few foxes, coatimundis, and bobcats). They offer daytime tours, as well as exciting night feedings. This one’s bound to be one of the best things to do in Jacksonville if you’re a cat lover. This place is really special as it is currently housing 29 leopards, cougars, and tigers. It’s definitely a great opportunity to get up close and personal with big cats in a way that’s not attainable at the zoo.
“Tours begin at 1:00 PM and leave approximately every 30 minutes. Tours last about 45 minutes and you are encouraged to ask questions of the guide as he or she tells you about the animals. Following your tour, you are free to wander on your own as time allows and revisit the animals. We also have a concession stand with an assortment of drinks and select food items available. The last tour leaves at 3:00 PM and we close the entrance gate at 3:15 PM. The facility is mostly packed dirt or grass, accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Bring your camera and take as many pictures as you like!!” — www.cattyshack.com
Costs:
Adults: $12 | Children $5 (3-11) | 2 & Under Always Free
Timing:
Daytime Tours are every afternoon from 1:00 – 3:00 PM
4. Ecomotion Tours
Nature enthusiasts enjoy historic tours through nature from Fort George Island and up to Kingsley Plantation. All the while, guides discuss flora and fauna, while telling the history of the island. These tours are offered throughout Jacksonville in our lush natural habitats. One of the easiest ways to book your tickets is through EcoMotion Tours.
Timing:
Morning Tour: 10-11:30AM; Afternoon Tour: 2-3:30PM; Custom timing is also available.
Costs:
$25 per person
Sports to enjoy in Jacksonville, FL
Whether you’re following your team into town or visiting to experience one of our own, Jacksonville’s sports scene is a must for any true fanatic. From NFL Football to indoor football, college football, minor league baseball, professional surfing, competitive fishing, basketball, hockey and soccer, Jacksonville has every sport and team to get your cheering fix on.
5. Sports Complex, Downtown Jacksonville
The Sports Complex in Downtown Jacksonville is home to TIAA Bank Field, voted one of the Top Fan Experiences in the NFL. This arena includes two swimming pools, cabanas, live DJs, VIP Suites, and great food options. And if you want to keep it local while in Jax, you can always tailgate before your game! All while enjoying local food, craft beer, and spirits at Intuition Ale Works and Manifest Distilling, both located inside the Sports Complex.
Costs:
Average of $57
Timing:
2-3 hours prior to a game.
6. Inshore Fishing: Jacksonville’s favorite pastime
Fishing is a major pastime in the Jacksonville area for locals with boats (or those who have friends with them). Again, if you love getting a little competitive in the water, this is one of the best things to do in Jacksonville! Traditionally, fishing charters have always catered to visitors who want to get out on the many inshore waterways. But you’ll also find lakes here, along with creeks, preserves, and state parks that offer plenty of opportunities to drop lines!
Costs:
Membership based
7. Autobahn Indoor Speedway & Events
If speed gets you going, this is by far one of the best activities to get your adrenaline rushing in Jacksonville! Accelerate into this European-style indoor go-karting arena! With an 80,000 square feet state-of-the-art facility, this arena is the largest completely indoor air-conditioned karting facility in Florida with perfect racing conditions every day. But that’s not all! They also have Two Grand Prix-style tracks and F1-inspired electric karts that reach speeds of up to 50 mph!
Timings
Everyday, 10 AM to 10 PM.
Costs:
Reservation specific.
Museums in Jacksonville, FL
One of the best things to do in Jacksonville – a place that is so full of arts and culture – is visiting the many museums that are here! With over a dozen rich museums, Jacksonville has everything that the science, arts, and history buff in you is looking for! Here are our top picks out of the many museums we love in Jacksonville.
8. Beaches Museum
Experiencing history and culture at the beaches of the Beaches Museum is like traveling back in time. But not just traveling back in time; it is also an interactive and informative experience through exhibits that display the deep history of the Beaches community. This museum also rents its chapel grounds for events including wedding ceremonies!
Costs:
Free
Timing:
Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM;
Sunday: 12:00PM to 4:00 PM.
Monday closed.
9. Clara White Mission/Eartha M.M. White Museum
The Clara White Mission was founded in 1904 by Clara English White. She was a former slave, who was moved to advocate for the poor in Jacksonville’s LaVilla neighborhood. The Clara White Museum serves as a memorial to Clara White and her daughter Dr. Eartha White, showcasing the lives and careers of these two pioneering women and their impact on Jacksonville’s community.
Cost:
under $5
Timing:
8:30AM — 4:30PM
10. Durkeeville Historical Society
Durkeeville was a community founded in the 1930s for African Americans during the period of racial segregation in Jacksonville. It was filled with rich local African American history, personalities, and landmarks. Nowadays, the Durkeeville Historical Society has re-created exhibits of materials and historical artifacts from the community to tell its story. Tours available with an appointment.
Cost:
Available on request
Timing:
Available as per reservation
Experience the culture in Jacksonville
11. Interactive art at the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville.
When you walk through the front doors of the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, the current Project Atrium exhibit looms behind the registration desk. The installation changes throughout the year with each work specifically commissioned for uniquely vertical dimensions of the narrow space that spans the museum’s three floors. Pakistani-American artist Anila Quayyum Agha, whose intricate lanterns created a play of light and shadow on the walls and ceilings, sums up best why Project Atrium is so loved!
Cost:
- ADULTS: $8
- Seniors, Military, Students*: $5
- CHILDREN (2-12): $5
- Children younger than 2: FREE
- Free For: COVID-19 Frontline Workers, Visitors on Unemployment, MOCA Jacksonville Members, UNF Students, UNF Employees, and One Guest
Timings:
TUESDAY – SATURDAY // 11:00 A.M. – 5 P.M.
SUNDAY // 12 P.M. – 5 P.M.
CLOSED MONDAY.
12. Go back in time with the Cowford Chophouse
Dinner here is always an early affair, and is always followed by a show to catch. Cowford Chophouse takes anyone who walks in, back in time, almost seamlessly.
The restaurant pays tribute to history, taking its creative notes from the Roaring Twenties. The art deco-inspired illustrations and typography for the menus are stunning, and the bar’s mixologist has crafted a dozen signature cocktails that update martinis and old fashioned.
The dinner menu follows the model created by other signature steakhouses, the meat playing a starring role with dozens of shareable a la carte options for starters and sides. Choose your entrée, or more notably the size of your entrée first, and then build the rest of your meal. Cuts of meat can start as small as a 4-ounce portion of A-5 Satsuma Wagyu to a 40-ounce Porterhouse. Service is impeccable and waiting staff will help you navigate the optional add-ons as well as the rest of the menu. If you arrive early or want a less formal dining experience, head to the rooftop bar for river views and sunset.
Cost:
$31-60
Timing:
4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
13. Live entertainment at the Times-union Center For The Performing Arts.
Jacksonville boasts five live entertainment venues downtown. However, the Times Union Center for the Performing Arts is by far one of the most interesting things to do in Jacksonville. Home of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, site of the FSCJ Artist Series which includes productions of the touring Broadway shows and some mid-size concerts.
Food, Indulgence & Shopping in Jacksonville, FL
Believe us on this one: no other Florida city has more unique flavors than Jacksonville. It’s a melting pot of cultures and tastes, with a thriving culinary culture pioneered by local chefs that have been nationally and internationally trained. Jacksonville’s food scene is an eclectic hybrid of inspired casual elegance and classic southern comfort, infused with the flavors of the coast and a dash of international flair. Here are some of the best things to do in Jacksonville for the foodie in you!
14. Pete’s Bar
Many family businesses are handed down from generation to generation. However, this local business has the distinction of being the oldest of its kind in the Jacksonville area, owned by the same family for almost 8 decades. You can consider this a landmark legend where people come to meet and history is made. You’ll find everything you need for a good night at this bar, and then some more fun!
Costs:
$15 or less
Timings:
Open daily: 12:00 pm – 2:00 am
15. Maple Street Biscuit
This is one of those hearty restaurants where you don’t (and probably shouldn’t!) look at the calories when you’re ordering. At Maple Street Biscuit, the peppered gravy with thick chunks of sausage swamps a fried chicken breast topped with melted cheddar and pecan wood-smoked bacon all sandwiched between a flaky, buttermilk biscuit. It’s knife-and-fork heaven on a plate.
Costs:
$11-30 / order
Timings:
Everyday, 7 AM to 2 PM
16. Riverside Arts Market
Come rain or shine, Jacksonville witnesses the Riverside Arts Market (RAM) every Saturday! This is a collaborative effort produced by Riverside Avondale Preservation, Inc. RAM features a variety of small businesses: everything from artists to farmers to makers and bakers. Artists can apply online to put up their stalls, and visitors can witness some of the most eclectic pieces of creativity featuring food, art, and plants from all over the world!
Costs: Vary
Timings: Every Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
D’you know what else Roomi does outside of helping its readers find things to do in Jacksonville? With our ever-increasing lists of rooms and roommates across the world, we help you find your perfect match! Download the app here and hop on the easiest ride home, ever!
