Named after President Andrew Jackson (did you know that?) Jacksonville is the largest city in the United States by area. It’s growing in popularity and in populous, with more young people settling down in this growing area. There are parks, restaurants, a growing nightlife scene, professional sports, and so much more.

Frankly, there’s so much to see and do here, it’s difficult to narrow things down! That’s where we come in. We’ve nominated a list of 9 activities, eateries, and attractions that are must-dos next time you’re in Jacksonville. Some you’ve clearly heard of, others are more hidden gems, but all of them are worth your time.

So read on and start planning your next trip!

Originally Published: March 27, 2019

Top 11 Jacksonville Activities

The Potter’s House Soul Food Bistro

The Soul Food Bistro was opened in 1998. This fresh and exciting restaurant has a contemporary flair with a welcoming atmosphere. Whatever the occasion, The Soul Food Bistro accommodates with the perfect ambience and fantastic food and drinks.  

Marker 32

Owner and operator Ben is a Jacksonville native who grew up fishing and crabbing right on the waters where his unique and refreshing restaurant now sits. This cool spot creates a unique dining experience for the food-lovers. Family-owned-and-operated, Marker 32 has been a staple of the community for more than 20 years.

Cummer Museum

The Cummer Museum holds one of the finest art collections in the Southeast, with more than 5,000 objects in its Permanent Collection. The Museum offers world-class art spanning from 2100 B.C. through the 21st century, features diverse special exhibits, and is home to the Wark Collection of Early Meissen Porcelain. They also have gorgeous historic gardens and a world-class educational program.

Museum of Science and History

Jacksonville’s Museum of Science & History makes science, history and innovation accessible for all! Whatever your age or interest, there’s always something to see and explore across three levels of exciting exhibits. Indulge your imagination with a science or live animal show, or explore distant galaxies in one of their planetarium programs. 

World Golf Hall of Fame

The mission of the World Golf Hall of Fame is to celebrate golf and preserve the legacies of those who have made it great. The museum offers engaging, interactive storytelling and exhibitions featuring artifacts, works of art, audio, video and photography significant to the history of golf and its members.

Adventure Landing

Adventure Landing is a leader in the regional theme park industry. The Flagship Park, Adventure Landing and Shipwreck Island Water Park in Jacksonville Beach, is the largest Family Entertainment Center in northeast Florida. 

Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville

The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville promotes the discovery, knowledge, and advancement of the art, artists, and ideas of our time. The Museum continues to be a cornerstone of Jacksonville’s multibillion dollar downtown revitalization plan, its exhibitions and programs bringing new visitors to the civic core during the day, at night and on weekends. Educational programming includes children’s literacy initiatives and weekend art making classes as well as regular tours, lectures, films, and publications for children and adults.

Jacksonville Arboretum

The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens is a 120-acre urban woodland full of trails for you to explore and enjoy. Hike, stroll or just sit on a bench and take it all in! 

Orsay

This fantastic restaurant strives to provide a warm, genuine dining experience without pretense in a bustling, fun atmosphere with smiling, attentive service.

Author

Hi, I'm Paul, I'm a travel writer and I love everything about the salt life. I grew up in the northeast, but we visited family in Florida often ... and I was hooked! I've been writing about the Sunshine State for two decades. I enjoy helping travelers find the best places to stay, to eat, and to play in Florida.

Comments are closed.