While you may be surprised to know that Jacksonville is the largest city in the continental US by landmass, that just means that there’s a lot of space for fun things to do both indoors and outside! We moved to Jacksonville in 2020, and have had a great time exploring this city as a family. Here are some activities that we recommend if you’re planning a family trip to Jacksonville.
Jacksonville Zoo
The Jacksonville Zoo is a great place to take the kids! Aside from dozens of animal exhibits, there’s also a a lush botanical garden (and the beautiful Asian Bamboo Garden). The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs, special events, and activities for kids. For example, there is a Splash Ground, a wildlife carousel, and a train offering scenic rides around the zoo. Kids will also love the Reptile Encounter and the Sting Ray Bay touch tanks. The zoo also has a giraffe feeding station where visitors can get up close and personal! With so many fun and educational activities, the Jacksonville Zoo is a great place for the whole family to explore and learn about animals.
Museum of Science and History (MOSH)
The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) in Jacksonville offers a wide range of exhibits for the whole family to explore. While I do think the museum is a little dated, it is a great place to beat the heat or take the kids on a rainy day. The core exhibits there include “Health in Motion,” the Space Science Gallery, and the Powerplay energy exhibit. The museum also features a simulated space mission, a 3-D planetarium, and a dinosaur gallery. Additionally, visitors can explore the galleries and exhibits on the history of the local area, including the Timucua Indians, the Civil War, and the African American experience in Jacksonville. MOSH is a great place to learn about the history and science of Jacksonville and the surrounding region. And afterwards, you’re just steps away from the Southbank Riverwalk, where you can get some scenic views of downtown Jacksonville.
Adventure Landing
Adventure Landing is a family fun center located near Jacksonville Beach. One of its main draws is the Shipwreck Island Waterpark, which has a splash zone with slides, water cannons, and plenty of other water features like waterfalls. There’s also a wave pool, lazy river, and thrill rides like The Hydro Halfpipe and Eye of the Storm. And if you’re not feeling up for the waterpark, there’s a lot of traditional dry activities as well. There’s miniature golf, go-karts, laser tag, batting cages, an arcade, and a candy shop. Ultimately there’s plenty of variety for the whole family to have fun!
Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
The Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens offer a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. The gardens feature a wide variety of native plants, trees, and shrubs, as well as walking trails. There are also several wildlife viewing areas in the gardens, where visitors can observe birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. There are also a variety of special programs available, like Native Plant Gardening 101, a tree seed giveaway, and more throughout the year. With its tranquil setting and diverse range of activities, the Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a great place for the whole family to enjoy nature!
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is the #1 rated attraction in Jacksonville according to TripAdvisor. Operating as a non-profit, the Catty Shack Ranch has a mission to provide a safe home for endangered big cats while educating the public about animal rescues and wildlife in captivity. The wildlife sanctuary has public tours where you can see lions, tigers, foxes, bobcats, horses, and other rescued species.
Cummer Museum of Art
The Cummer Museum of Art in Jacksonville has a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits that explore art from many different time periods and cultures. The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 5,000 works from 2100 B.C. all the way to 21st Century art. The Cummer Museum also hosts a variety of beautiful gardens, some of which provide scenic views of the St. Johns River. There is also a wide variety of classes for all ages, where you can learn new art techniques and practice bringing out your creative side. With its extensive collections and engaging activities, the Cummer Museum of Art is a great place to explore art and learn about its history.
Big Talbot Island State Park
Located in northeastern Jacksonville, Big Talbot Island is a barrier island just south of the more popular Amelia Island. Although there are long stretches of beach, we recommend going to Driftwood Beach, where you’ll find dozens of large pieces of driftwood. This driftwood gives the beach a very dramatic and unique vibe, and is a great activity for the kids to climb on and explore as you spend a leisurely afternoon at the beach.
LeaderBoard Arcade Bar & Pizzeria
Located in southwest Jacksonville, LeaderBoard is an arcade bar where the family can spend a fun afternoon playing games. They have multiple sections for pinball, arcade games, dancing games, and even an area with Japanese rhythm games that aren’t common to find in typical arcades. Their bar is fully stocked with drinks and draft beer, and the pizza will keep the family fed so they can continue to enjoy the games. We love coming to LeaderBoard and are always looking out for when they bring in new games to try out.
Mind Bender Escape Rooms
If you’re a fan of escape rooms, then Mind Bender will be a great activity for the family. They currently have 5 rooms available: Mystery in Chinatown, The Four Kingdoms, The Jewel Heist, The Wood Shed, and Jack the Ripper. We went in December when they had a Christmas-themed escape room, and our kids (ages 10 and 7) loved it. The team is attentive while you’re working on solving the puzzles in the escape room, and also offer hints when needed. We look forward to trying out more of their themed rooms soon, and highly recommend Mind Bender!
Take a Surf Lesson
If you’re looking for the perfect family vacation activity, why not consider taking a surf lesson in Jacksonville, Florida? With miles of stunning beaches and waves that are ideal for beginners, There are plenty of experienced instructors who can help you get started. From teaching basic safety techniques to helping you understand the local conditions, these instructors will make sure that everyone has a great time out on the water—all while making sure that everyone stays safe.
Local Concerts/Sporting Events
Jacksonville, Florida is the perfect hub for music and sports lovers alike. Spectators can choose from a myriad of amazing venues within the city—from concerts, conventions and more. Jacksonville’s sporting venues are among the best in the country, with professional football at TIAA Bank Field and professional baseball at 121 Financial Park. These venues offer unique experiences for spectators who want to cheer on their team or take in an evening of music from their favorite artist. With a wide variety of entertainment options available, there is something for everyone in Jacksonville!
