The Best Things to do in Jacksonville
By Ananya Bakshi
Jacksonville is often overlooked as just another stop on the Florida map, but this city has more going on than you might think. From beaches to cultural spots, there's something here for everyone—if you know where to look.
1. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens isn’t your typical zoo experience. It’s where I go when I want to pretend I'm on a safari without the jet lag. There’s a range of animals, from big cats to tiny frogs, and let’s not forget the gardens, which offer a nice break from the animal antics. I’ve spent more afternoons than I care to admit wandering through the jaguar exhibit, trying to figure out if I could pull off spots as well as they do. And for those with kids in tow, the splash pad and train ride are lifesavers.
2. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
The Cummer Museum is the place to be if you're looking to feel a little cultured while in Jacksonville. It's got everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces, not to mention a collection of nearly 5,000 works of art. But the real showstopper is the gardens overlooking the St. Johns River—manicured lawns, reflecting pools, and massive oak trees draped in Spanish moss. I recommend grabbing a coffee from the café, taking a leisurely stroll through the grounds, and pretending you’re the protagonist in a period drama.
3. Riverside Arts Market
Every Saturday, RAM sets up shop under the Fuller Warren Bridge, and it’s where you can find a little bit of everything. There’s local artists selling handmade jewelry, live music, and food trucks serving up everything from BBQ to vegan tacos, so there’s no shortage of things to see, buy, or eat. I’ve made it a habit to visit regularly, if only to sample the latest pastries from the local bakers and check out the street performers who range from truly talented to “bless their hearts.” It’s one of those places where you can spend the day or just pop in for a quick bite and a wander.
4. Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island State Park is my go-to spot for when I need to escape the city without actually leaving it. This place is all about long stretches of undeveloped beach, salt marshes, and dunes that make you feel like you’re a million miles away from everything. I usually pack a lunch, grab a kayak, and paddle through the estuaries, pretending I’m on some grand adventure. The hiking trails are great too—nothing too strenuous, but enough to make you feel like you’ve earned your picnic.
5. The Jax Ale Trail
No visit to Jacksonville is complete without exploring the local craft beer scene, and The Jax Ale Trail makes it easy. Pick up a passport from any participating brewery and start collecting stamps as you sample your way through the city's best brews. It’s like a pub crawl, but with more purpose and significantly better drinks. I've done the trail a few times and still find new favorites. The best part? The passport comes with prizes if you manage to hit all the stops—though to be honest, the real prize is the beer you drink along the way.
The Complete Guide to Jacksonville
Best Things to do in Jacksonville
Jacksonville is often overlooked as just another stop on the Florida map, but this city has more going on than you might think.
Jacksonville’s Best Restaurants
Jaxsons love to eat. From fine dining to down-home comfort food, it’s all here—and we’ve tasted our way through the city.
The Best Hotels in Jacksonville
There’s more than a few Jacksonville hidden gems for those in the know. Here are some spots that make it worth the stay.
By Ananya Bakshi
I arrive in Jacksonville on a humid Thursday afternoon, the kind of day where the sun seems determined to burn off all semblance of the morning's cool breeze. My husband’s childhood stories of growing up on the St. Johns River fill my mind as I navigate the city’s winding streets, feeling both familiar and foreign at once.