Jacksonville is buzzing with activity this week! From outdoor adventures along our beautiful coastline to vibrant arts and culture events downtown, there's something for everyone. Get ready to explore the best of Jax – let's dive in!
Embrace the outdoors at Huguenot Memorial Park, where you can enjoy bird watching on the Great Florida Birding Trail. With the largest urban park system in the nation, you can find adventure for every level. You can also enjoy camping, kayaking, and hiking.
Tip: Bring your binoculars and a bird guide to spot some unique avian species!
Cycle, walk, or even horseback ride along this scenic 15-mile paved trail located just west of downtown. The trail is surrounded by scenic uplands, wetlands, and pine flats. Much of the trail is covered by dense tree canopies, creating a shady and pleasant experience.
Tip: Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and catch the best light for photos.
Paddle through the creeks and tributaries winding through the Talbot Island State Parks. This park offers an unforgettable opportunity to escape city life and get active in nature's playground. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife while enjoying a peaceful paddle.
Tip: Check the tide charts before you go to plan your route and avoid getting stuck in low tide.
Explore themed gardens and winding trails at this 120-acre urban woodland. Enjoy a peaceful escape into nature with easy-to-navigate trails that loop around a lake. The Arboretum offers a beautiful opportunity to connect with nature.
Tip: Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
Enjoy French cuisine with Southern influences at this popular Avondale bistro. Restaurant Orsay is known as one of the best places to eat in Jacksonville for fine dining with a warm and casual atmosphere. Make sure to make reservations ahead of time.
Tip: Try the duck confit or the escargots – you won't be disappointed!
Dine with a view at this waterfront restaurant on Southbank, offering creative Prime Rib, steak and seafood. The Chart House overlooks the city's gorgeous downtown riverfront and is known as one of the most interesting buildings in the city. Designed by famous architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg and inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Tip: Request a window seat to spot dolphins swimming in the St. Johns River.
Consistently voted one of the best restaurants in Northeast Florida, bb's restaurant and bar never ceases to please and surprise the palate of discerning diners, locals, and visitors alike. bb's is conveniently located in Jacksonville's South Bank Area, mere minutes from Historic San Marco and the downtown business district. Their award-winning wine list, creative daily specials, and house-made desserts will have you return for more.
Tip: Be sure to try one of their gourmet pizzas, like the Jambalaya Pizza!
Located in the heart of historic San Marco, Matthew's Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Jacksonville's fine dining scene for over 27 years. The culinary team blends classic French techniques with seasonal, farm-to-table ingredients and sustainably sourced seafood to craft artfully plated dishes. Guests enjoy attentive, expert service in a refined yet relaxed setting, with personalized wine and food pairings drawn from an extensive, award-winning wine collection.
Tip: Consider the tasting menu for a comprehensive experience.
Head to Downtown's entertainment district for a night of bar-hopping, live music, and dancing. The Elbow is a collection of more than 20 bars, restaurants and performance venues centered around the historic Florida Theatre in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville. Check out live music at Jack Rabbits Live in San Marco.
Tip: Check out the Florida Theatre's schedule for a show – it's a beautiful historic venue.
For an alternative nightlife experience, visit Eclipse in Riverside. Enjoy live music, themed nights, karaoke, and special events in the heart of Riverside. Eclipse is Jacksonville's premier alternative nightlife venue.
Tip: Friday nights are popular for karaoke, so get there early to sign up!
Enjoy rooftop cocktails with ocean views at this Jacksonville Beach staple. The Penthouse Lounge overlooks the ocean. This is a great place to unwind with a drink and enjoy the sea breeze.
Tip: Go during happy hour for discounted drinks and appetizers.
Enjoy the unique atmosphere and some of the best live music Jacksonville has to offer at Cuba Libre Ultra Lounge. Cuba Libre offers live music and a place to dance at a club with a DJ.
Tip: Check their website for upcoming events and themed nights.
Explore a collection spanning from 2100 B.C. through the 21st century, then stroll through the historic gardens along the St. Johns River. Art in Bloom brings together nature-inspired works of art, enhancing the Cummer Museum's grounds.
Tip: Check their website for special events, workshops, and free admission days.
Every Saturday, enjoy local art, crafts, food, and live music under the Fuller Warren Bridge. The Riverside Arts Market features a variety of small businesses from farmers to artists to makers and bakers. The riverfront amphitheater seats 350 people and features hours of live music.
Tip: Arrive early for the best selection of goods and to avoid parking hassles.
Discover modern and contemporary art at this downtown museum. The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville's original curated exhibitions of modern and contemporary art cultivate the diverse community.
Tip: Check for special events like MOCA Spring Family Day.
Catch a show at this beautifully restored historic theater in the heart of downtown. From ballet and opera to contemporary pop, rock, jazz, country and blues, the Florida Theatre offers over 200 cultural and entertainment events annually for every taste and age.
Tip: Take a moment to admire the theater's stunning architecture before or after the show.
Spend a day soaking up the sun at Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, or Neptune Beach. Explore the surrounding beaches. Each beach has its own unique vibe, from the lively Jacksonville Beach to the more serene Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach.
Tip: Atlantic Beach now allows leashed dogs year-round and any time of day!
Visit the oldest farmers market in Florida, open seven days a week. The Jacksonville Farmer's Market attracts 25,000 visitors a week. Here, one can find seafood, flowers and plants, honey, boiled peanuts, syrups, gourmet dressings, produce and more.
Tip: Go early for the freshest produce and best selection.
Take a self-guided tour of the murals in downtown Jacksonville and Springfield. Each November, art platform ArtRepublic brings artists from all over the world to create new murals, so the scene downtown is always dynamic.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Explore the history of the Jacksonville Beaches at this free museum. Besides the main building, the grounds include a historic chapel as well as an old steam train. It's worth a stop if you're in the area with an hour of free time.
Tip: The volunteers here are super friendly and happy to chat and answer all of our questions.
Explore diverse wildlife exhibits and botanical gardens at this popular attraction. Don't miss the award-winning Range of the Jaguar or the interactive Stingray Bay, where kids can touch and feed these fascinating sea creatures. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a massive park featuring incredible animal exhibits.
Tip: Buy your tickets online beforehand to skip the long entry lines, especially on weekends.
Engage in interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational for children. Also, you can partake in an evening yoga class under the stars of the planetarium. MOSH is a great indoor option for a rainy day.
Tip: Check their website for special events and planetarium shows.
Connect with nature through hiking trails, interactive exhibits, and wildlife encounters. Tree Hill Nature Center is a great place to learn about nature and animals. This serene oasis offers families a chance to connect with nature.
Tip: Visit the mini zoo to see chickens, goats, and reptiles.
Let the kids burn off some energy at this popular playground near the beach. This playground offers a fun and safe environment for children of all ages.
Tip: Bring sunscreen and water, as the playground can get hot during the day.