Family Adventures Await: Best Places to Visit in Jacksonville, FL

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS

1/21/20253 min read

Jacksonville, Florida, offers a wide variety of activities perfect for families looking to enjoy nature, history, and adventure. Below are some of the best family-friendly places, their locations, things to do, and why they’re great for families.

1. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

  • Location: 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218

  • What to Do: Explore over 2,000 animals in beautifully designed exhibits, including African Savanna, and the newly renovated Giraffe Overlook. Enjoy the splash park, train ride, and seasonal events.

  • Why It's Great for Families: The zoo is interactive and educational, offering engaging experiences for all ages, including kids' play areas and close-up animal encounters.

2. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

  • Location: 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204

  • What to Do: Stroll through art galleries filled with American and European art, or take in the beautiful, serene riverfront gardens. Participate in family art workshops and events.

  • Why It's Great for Families: The museum offers art-related activities for children, including family days, and its outdoor gardens provide a relaxing space for picnics or exploring nature.

3. Jacksonville Beach

  • Location: Jacksonville Beach, FL (mainly along 1st Street N to 16th Street N)

  • What to Do: Enjoy the sandy beach, swim in the Atlantic Ocean, or explore the local pier. Try beach games, surf lessons, or rent bikes to ride along the beach boardwalk.

  • Why It's Great for Families: Jacksonville Beach offers calm, family-friendly waters perfect for children. There's plenty of space to play, and local eateries make it easy for families to spend a whole day here.

4. MOSH (Museum of Science & History)

  • Location: 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207

  • What to Do: Discover interactive exhibits about science, history, and space. Enjoy the planetarium shows, explore hands-on exhibits, and check out the dinosaur displays.

  • Why It's Great for Families: MOSH is perfect for all ages, with engaging exhibits that spark curiosity and offer educational opportunities for children. It's both fun and informative for the entire family.

5. St. Johns River Taxi & Water Tours

  • Location: Various departure points along the St. Johns River (mainly from Jacksonville Landing or Riverside/Avondale district)

  • What to Do: Take a scenic boat ride along the St. Johns River, enjoying views of the city’s skyline, waterfront homes, and nature. Choose from various guided tours or hop on and off at different stops.

  • Why It's Great for Families: The boat rides are relaxing and offer a unique way to explore the city from the water. Kids can enjoy seeing wildlife and enjoying the breeze, while parents can relax.

6. Fort Caroline National Memorial

  • Location: 12713 Fort Caroline Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225

  • What to Do: Learn about early French settlements in Florida through exhibits, a visitor center, and walking trails that lead to the fort. The park also offers canoeing and nature walks.

  • Why It's Great for Families: Fort Caroline offers both history and nature, making it educational and fun. Kids will enjoy exploring the fort and surrounding trails, while parents can learn about Florida's early colonial history.

7. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

  • Location: 500 Wonderwood Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32233

  • What to Do: Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, or picnicking. Spend the day at the beach, swim, or rent kayaks and paddleboards. The park also offers camping for families looking for a weekend adventure.

  • Why It's Great for Families: The park offers a mix of outdoor activities, from water sports to hiking, making it ideal for families with different interests. It’s a great place for both relaxation and adventure.

8. Adventure Landing

  • Location: 1944 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

  • What to Do: Enjoy go-kart racing, mini-golf, laser tag, an arcade, and water park attractions. Adventure Landing also features a splash park and seasonal events for families to enjoy.

  • Why It's Great for Families: This family fun center has something for everyone, from thrilling rides to relaxing water activities, ensuring kids of all ages stay entertained.

9. The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens

  • Location: 1445 Millcoe Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225

  • What to Do: Walk along scenic trails through lush gardens and discover a variety of plant species. Enjoy nature walks, bird-watching, and explore the park’s beautiful surroundings.

  • Why It's Great for Families: The arboretum offers peaceful walks and educational programs for families to enjoy. It's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to connect with nature.

10. Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve

  • Location: 12713 Fort Caroline Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225 (same as Fort Caroline National Memorial)

  • What to Do: Explore salt marshes, trails, and historic sites. The preserve offers programs on local ecology and history, and you can enjoy kayaking or hiking through the natural environment.

  • Why It's Great for Families: The preserve is a natural wonder with opportunities for adventure and learning. Kids can enjoy wildlife viewing while parents learn about the area’s rich cultural and natural history.

Disclaimer:

The information provided above is for general informational purposes. Activities, hours of operation, and availability may change based on seasons or unforeseen circumstances. It is recommended to check the official websites or contact the venues directly for the latest details before planning your visit.