Top 23 Jacksonville Highlights: Unmissable Things to Do

Immerse yourself in the rich wildlife of the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens! Experience more than 2,000 rare and exotic animals amidst the stunning 117-acre naturalistic exhibits. The zoo isn't just a zoo, it's also a botanist's paradise, with a huge garden and bamboo forest. A little insider detail: don't miss the unique "Range of the Jaguar" exhibit, an award-winning depiction of the Pantanal region of South America. Nearby is the charming Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll.

Experience exciting encounters with wild animals at St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park in Jacksonville! It is home to all kinds of crocodiles, a variety of reptiles, lemurs, toucans, monkeys and more. A hidden gem is the bird sanctuary where native herons, egrets and spoonbills nest. Just 10 minutes from the park, you can discover historic treasures at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. You will have an unforgettable adventure here in Jacksonville!

A visit to the "St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum" is a climb into history. You'll trudge up 219 steps and be rewarded at the top with an unparalleled view of the coast. It was built in 1874 and is still the tallest lighthouse in Florida. You can learn generations of seafaring history at the Maritime Museum. Don't miss the captivating ghost tours, where you'll learn about the lighthouse's eerie past. Just a stone's throw away, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park invites further exploration.

Immerse yourself in history and the rugged beauty of nature at Fort Clinch State Park. At this perfectly preserved 19th-century fort, you can meet reenactors who bring history to life. Traverse the miles of pristine coastline, find shark teeth and marine treasures on the beach, marvel at the breathtaking wildlife, and relax with an overnight stay under the stars. Nearby historic Amelia Island offers a quaint downtown with an eclectic mix of stores, eateries and charming Victorian architecture. This destination is a must-see!

Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is the perfect place to step back in time. Known as the original site of the first European settlement in Spanish Florida, it's not just a fountain, but a sprawling waterfront historic park. Drink from the legendary Fountain of Eternal Hope. Explore the Timucuan Village, planetarium and archaeological exhibits. Just across the street is the popular Castillo de San Marcos, an ancient fortress with breathtaking views. See history unfold right in Jacksonville!

Explore the natural beauty of Jacksonville at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Here you'll find 120 acres of breathtaking trails and natural habitats that are home to a variety of native fauna and flora. The Jones Creek Trail is a must-see - a gently winding path along the creek that leads to a scenic view from Lake Loop. Don't miss the canopy of Live Oaks! The Arboretum is just minutes from Dutton Island Preserve in East Arlington, another nature lover's paradise.

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena is a must-see for all sports and entertainment fans. The monumental architecture will leave you in awe. It is the heart of Jacksonville's entertainment industry. Experience the roar of the cheering crowd at Jacksonville Icemen hockey games or get carried away by the rhythms of your favorite artists. It's known for its fantastic acoustics and comfortable, intimate seating. Right next door, you'll find Jacksonville's baseball fields, giving you a perfect two-pack of sports excitement!

Immerse yourself in a world of beauty at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens in Jacksonville. In addition to an extraordinary art collection of more than 5,000 works ranging from 2100 B.C. to the 21st century, the museum features breathtaking riverfront gardens. A hidden gem, the oldest documented living oak tree, complements the beauty of the Italian and English style gardens. And if that's not enough, just a half-mile south you can visit the Riverside Arts Market for a taste of the local art scene.

A visit to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a must when you're in Jacksonville! Famous for its scenic trail system perfect for hiking or biking, a freshwater lake for fishing, paddling and kayaking, and a beach to enjoy the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. A delightful mix of exploration and relaxation. And guess what? In nearby Atlantic Beach, you can explore Dutton Island Preserve - a natural oasis known for bird watching. Jacksonville awaits, packed with adventure!

Immerse yourself in the world of the weird and wonderful at "Ripley's Believe It or Not!" in Jacksonville. This place is a house of oddities with fascinating exhibits like shrunken heads and unusual artwork. The Odditorium turns skepticism into fascination with every corner you turn. Don't miss the fascinating 7D motion theater. Nearby is Old Town St. Augustine, where historic tours are available, and the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine invites you to take a cultural break.

Visiting the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary in Jacksonville is an exciting experience for animal lovers. Here, you'll witness the remarkable big cat rescue efforts and participate in nighttime feeding tours - a unique spectacle. Don't miss seeing the sanctuary's stars: the majestic lions and tigers that are hand-fed at night. Just a short drive away, you can also visit the beautiful Kingsley Plantation, which adds a historical dimension to your adventurous trip.

Immerse yourself in the eerily lifelike sculptures of Potter's Wax Museum, a must-see in Jacksonville! The museum houses over 150 wax figures, including famous historical and fictional characters to celebrities. Its fame among locals is a testament to its charm. Looking at Angelina Jolie or Albert Einstein will make you feel like a star. The historic district of neighboring St. Augustine is perfect for a stroll after a museum visit, and the famous Castillo de San Marcos is just a few blocks away!

If you want to experience history like a real pirate, don't miss a visit to the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum. It houses the world's largest collection of authentic pirate artifacts, including a chest belonging to the infamous pirate captain Thomas Tew. Experience the thrill of firing cannons and board a replica pirate ship. Then, explore the nearby historic St. Augustine Distillery, where Prohibition-era spirits are made. A perfect blend of history and adventure awaits you!

A visit to Memorial Park in Jacksonville is like a quiet retreat in the heart of the city! Its scenic beauty includes sweeping views of the St. Johns River and the inspiring bronze "Life" sculpture, which is a perfect backdrop for your Instagram posts. Fun Facts: The park is one of the oldest in Florida and was designed by the Olmsted brothers. Don't miss the vibrant Five Points neighborhood with its unique stores, restaurants, and Sun-Ray Cinema.

Visit Oceanfront Park, a piece of hidden paradise in Jacksonville! Relax amid pristine sand, crashing waves, and breathtaking scenery. Perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing and picnicking, the park offers an irresistible combination of relaxation and recreation.

A tour of the iconic Florida Theatre will give you a taste of Jacksonville's cultural history. It hosts ballet, opera and pop concerts, and its Spanish-Moorish style architecture is a feast for the eyes. It is one of only 4 movie palaces built in Florida during the 1920s Mediterranean Revival architecture boom. From the romantic rooftop terrace, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the city. Just steps away, you can indulge your taste buds at "Bellwether," one of the area's most popular restaurants.

Escape to Amelia Island State Park, a stunning oasis on the Jacksonville coast! Kissed by the Atlantic Ocean, this park is known for its abundant wildlife and pristine marshes. Try a horseback ride on the beach or watch the cute sea turtles. On the other side of the island, you can visit the historic Amelia Island Lighthouse - a great sunset spot! Fort Clinch State Park is also just a few miles away, offering scenic hiking trails and Civil War reenactments. Jacksonville is never short on natural beauty and adventure!

History comes alive at Kingsley Plantation! This 19th-century estate provides a tangible picture of life during the plantation era. Stand in the preserved slave cabins, imagine the paths the slaves walked, and enjoy the ocean views. This provides an essential and humbling perspective of America's past. Also, don't miss the citrus orchards just a mile away that bear seasonal fruit. And yes, be sure to visit the nearby Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve for a nature retreat.

The Riverside Arts Market in Jacksonville is a must for art and food lovers. It's an exuberant weekly street market filled to the brim with local art, delicious food and live music. Great insider detail - go find it: the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is just a short walk away and will amaze you with its impressive art collection and stunning gardens.

A visit to the Friendship Fountain in Jacksonville is an absolute must! This beautiful, large water structure is a mesmerizing sight both during the day and at night when it is aglow with the city lights. Located in St. Johns River Park, the fountain offers a panoramic view of the Main Street Bridge, a popular sight for photographers.

The Jacksonville Beach Pier is an absolute must-see! It stretches halfway into the Atlantic Ocean and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the city skyline. Try your hand at fishing or simply enjoy a picnic by the sea. On weekdays, the pier is less crowded - a perfect retreat! Visit the nearby Sea Walk Pavilion for exciting events and festivals. Don't forget to stop by the Casa Marina Hotel, a historic landmark right on the beach.

At Huguenot Memorial Park, you can explore a unique blend of beach and wildlife. This city-run park has an idyllic beach where you can surf, swim or fish. Experience the magic of the bird sanctuary, home to over 200 species of birds. Don't miss the panoramic view of Fort George Inlet.

Walter Jones Historic Park in Jacksonville takes you back to the time of Florida's early settlers. Discover moss-covered trees, a 19th-century farmhouse and the famous Mandarin Store and Post Office. Immerse yourself in Mandarin's ancient history or picnic along the majestic St. Johns River. After this tranquil experience, the vibrant energy of the nearby Mandarin Museum is just a short walk away to enrich your historical explorations. A true hidden gem!