35+ Fun Things To Do With Kids in Jacksonville, FL

Whether you’re a local or planning a family trip to Jacksonville, you’ll find a plethora of activities to keep your kids entertained. This vibrant city in NE Florida is a treasure trove for families with kids of all ages with outdoor adventures, tons of great spots to learn about history, fun water activities, and even free fun excursions. From toddlers to teenagers, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? Many of these activities are just a short drive away in the Jacksonville area. 

Before diving in, some helpful information and history of Jacksonville. Jacksonville, Florida has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. Originally inhabited by the Timucua people, the area was later settled by the French, Spanish, and British before becoming a part of the United States. The city played a significant role in the Civil War and later prospered as a major port and transportation hub. Over the years, Jacksonville has experienced growth and development and is a major center for business, culture, and tourism. Today, remnants of its past, including historic neighborhoods and architectural landmarks, blend with modern developments, showcasing the city’s fascinating evolution over time.

With these suggestions, I hope to help you plan a memorable and enjoyable trip with your little ones, or older kids, in Jacksonville. 

Fun Things To Do with Kids in Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a must-visit for animal lovers. Home to a diverse range of animals from around the world, the zoo offers a unique opportunity to see majestic lions, playful otters, and colorful birds up close. The beautifully landscaped gardens, interactive exhibits, and daily animal encounters make it a thrilling experience for your little ones. Plus, there’s always a chance to feed the animals, a large playground area, a theatre, and more. You are also welcome to pack lunch and enjoy it at the picnic tables! 

Adventure Landing. In the warmer months, enjoy a day at the water park or play miniature golf at Adventure Landing. This amusement park offers a range of attractions, including water rides, go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, and arcade games. It’s the perfect place for some wholesome family fun and friendly competition.

The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) is a treasure trove of interactive displays and educational programs. With exhibits on space exploration, human anatomy, and natural history, your kids can engage in hands-on learning experiences and even catch a show at the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. It’s a fantastic destination for a fun and enlightening day out.

Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary. Dedicated to providing a safe, loving, forever home for endangered big cats, such as tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, and bobcats. The sanctuary is committed to educating the public about these majestic animals and the importance of conservation. Visitors have the opportunity to see and learn about these incredible creatures while supporting the sanctuary’s mission.

The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is a beautiful natural and historical site. This preserve covers over 46,000 acres and offers a diverse range of ecosystems including salt marshes, coastal dunes, and hardwood forests. It also contains various historic sites and structures, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the area. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, bird watching, and exploring the remains of the 18th-century Fort Caroline.

Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens hosts some of our favorite events- like Lantern fest, though it’s a great place for a peaceful afternoon just outside of the city. It spans over 120 acres and features a diverse range of ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and meadows. The arboretum is home to an impressive variety of native plants and trees, providing visitors with a wonderful opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Play some games at Beach Bowl. This place is a vibe! The outside is beautiful, and the indoor activities are so much fun. A great option for family-friendly activities like bowling or an arcade, but also a very fun night for a group of mom friends if you are local! 

The Cummer Museum of Art is a renowned art museum known for its impressive collection of art, including European and American paintings, decorative arts, and a notable collection of Meissen porcelain. The museum’s beautiful gardens, situated along the banks of the St. Johns River, are also a standout feature, offering visitors a serene and picturesque setting to enjoy in addition to the art on display. 

Visit Springfield. The oldest neighborhood in Jacksonville has beautifully restored mansions, many local small businesses, murals, breweries, and amazing southern charm. Local events like Porchfest and the Tour of Homes are two seasonal events fun for the whole family. 

Go ice skating or see an Icemen hockey game. The Community First Igloo offers a delightful ice skating experience. On the other hand, attending an Icemen hockey game is an exciting and action-packed event that promises adrenaline-pumping moments for sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking a fun-filled family activity or a lively sports event, both options at the Community First Igloo offer fantastic entertainment in Jacksonville. 

Flight Adventure Park is an exciting amusement park featuring thrilling and adventurous activities for people of all ages. From zip lines and obstacle courses to free-fall drops, it offers a wide range of exhilarating experiences. Visitors can enjoy a day of fun things to do and adventure while challenging themselves physically and mentally. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a unique day out, Flight Adventure Park has something for everyone.

Kids Empire is now open in Jacksonville! Kids of all ages can enjoy climbing, exploring, sliding, jumping, etc., in this giant indoor playground! With locations all over the country, they have locked down how to provide an amazing experience for kids.

The Alhambra Theatre & Dining is a historic and iconic venue located in Jacksonville. It offers a unique combination of dinner and live theater, providing guests with a memorable and immersive entertainment experience. With a rich history dating back to 1967, the Alhambra continues to delight audiences with a diverse selection of performances and delicious dining options.

Sweet Pete’s Candy is a well-known confectionery company that specializes in handmade candies and chocolates- the best sweet treat options! They offer a wide variety of treats, ranging from gourmet lollipops and decadent truffles to old-fashioned favorites like caramel and taffy. Sweet Pete’s prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and traditional candy-making techniques to create delicious and visually stunning confections. Their products are popular for special occasions and as thoughtful gifts for candy lovers. Sweet Pete’s is a great option for a birthday party or field trip! 

The Riverside Arts Market is a vibrant open-air market located in Jacksonville, alongside the St. Johns River. It features a variety of local artists, artisans, food trucks and vendors selling a wide range of products including fresh produce, handmade crafts, jewelry, and delicious food. The market also hosts live music and entertainment, making it a popular weekend destination. In my opinion, this is one of the best things to do on a weekend in Jacksonville for an inexpensive outing! 

Rent a kayak or power boat for a day on the St Johns River. The St. Johns River offers the perfect setting for a relaxing day out on the water. Whether you choose to kayak or rent a boat, you’ll be treated to stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. With its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings, the St. Johns River provides an ideal opportunity to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Head to the beach! Within minutes of downtown, you will find 22-miles of beautiful beaches where you can spend a day playing in the sand, shopping, eating at amazing restaurants, or partake in one of the many events throughout the year. 

• Jacksonville Beach (aka Jax Beach). It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its wide sandy beaches and lively atmosphere. The beach offers various activities such as swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. Additionally, the Jacksonville Beach Pier is a favorite place for fishing and enjoying panoramic views of the coastline. The area is also dotted with restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a vibrant and entertaining place for visitors.
• Neptune Beach is a charming coastal city neighboring Jacksonville Beach. Known for its laid-back vibe and pristine beaches, Neptune Beach is a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing seaside escape. The city boasts beautiful residential areas along with a quaint downtown area featuring local shops, delicious eateries, and vibrant nightlife. With its wide sandy shores and picturesque dunes, Neptune Beach offers excellent opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Additionally, the community hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its inviting and friendly ambiance.
• Atlantic Beach is a directly next to Neptune Beach and is a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing seaside escape. The wide sandy shores and picturesque dunes of Atlantic Beach offer excellent opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. In addition to its natural beauty, Atlantic Beach hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its inviting and friendly ambiance. Whether it’s live music performances, art festivals, or local community events, there’s always something happening in Atlantic Beach to entertain both residents and visitors.
• Mayport is a fishing community making it a haven for seafood aficionados. Home to one of Northeast Florida’s oldest fishing villages, where visitors can witness the bustling activity of local fishermen bringing in their daily catches. The village’s historic Mayport Fishing Village is a delightful place to stroll and observe the authentic working waterfront, lined with seafood restaurants featuring the freshest catches from the local waters. Another fun activity here is the St Johns River Ferry.

See live music. If you want to add a bit of culture to your trip, consider taking your kids to a performance at the Jacksonville Symphony. The symphony hosts family-friendly concerts throughout the year, giving kids the opportunity to experience the magic of live orchestral music. You could also look into the events by Jacksonville Children’s Chorus, they also have great summer camps! 

Zing Zumm Children’s Museum has over 20 interactive museum exhibits designed for families to explore and mimic real-life. Enjoy grocery shopping at Publix, story time for young children, learning about finances, or how to get stronger in “Kid Fit”. A truly unique experience for kids and has great indoor play areas to beat the heat in the summer months!

Take a walk along the south bank of the river to Friendship Park. The large water fountain was recently reopened and is beautiful to see! Free activities in this area are walking along the water, crossing over the St Johns River via a bridge, or having a picnic by the fountain. 

Book a camping trip and rent an RV from White Sparrow Caravan Co! If you are looking for an inexpensive but unique weekend adventure, there are countless camp ground in the Jacksonville area! Make it more exciting by renting an Instagram worthy RV!

Parks and Playgrounds in Jacksonville

There is no shortage of parks in Jacksonville. Northeast Florida is home to more than 80,000 acres of park systems. From city parks, state parks, national parks and local gardens, there is something for children of all ages. 

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a great way to enjoy Jacksonville’s natural beauty. The park offers beach access, hiking and biking trails, and a freshwater lake for kayaking and fishing. It’s the ideal spot for a day of outdoor adventure and picnicking.

Tree Hill Nature Preserve is a beautiful sanctuary nestled in the heart of the city. It offers a peaceful retreat for visitors with its lush trails, diverse wildlife, and serene atmosphere. The preserve provides a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Sunshine Park which has a large playground, skateboard park, multiple sports areas like soccer fields and baseball and a splash pad. There are often birthday parties being hosted and larger groups at the park on the weekends so this is a great option for weekdays! 

Talbot Islands provides a variety of beaches and coastal woodlands. You can take a four-mile hike through Little Talbot Island State park, or visit the hidden gem Black Rock Beach at Big Talbot Island. The park offers bike rentals and camping sites, though it’s a great day trip as well! 

Fort George Island is a historic island known for its rich history and natural beauty. The island is home to the Kingsley Plantation, which is a well-preserved cotton plantation dating back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore the plantation grounds and learn about the lives of the people who lived and worked there. Additionally, Fort George Island offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park is a beautiful natural area with diverse wildlife, including a variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals. Visitors can enjoy hiking while taking in the scenic landscapes and peaceful surroundings. The park also offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing along Pumpkin Hill Creek, allowing visitors to explore the waterways and observe the rich ecosystem from a different perspective. With its expansive marshes, forests, and waterways, Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park provides an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

Indoor Playgrounds & Cafes in Jacksonville

The Enchanted Cottage in Jacksonville. Their website mentions that their space is designed to be “a place where new parents go to find their community,” and I couldn’t resonate with that more! There is something special about doing life with people in the same stage as you. This indoor play village is well-designed to encourage children to grow and explore on their own and with guided assistance in some cases.

Trinity’s Indoor Playground is located inside Tinity’s church at their Hammond Plaza. It’s currently the largest indoor playground in the area and offers free wifi, a cafe, space to meet with friends and more. The Plaza serves Bold Bean coffee and offers snacks.

Play Factory and Cafe in Jacksonville offers unlimited all-day play for children to explore the Montessori-focused play area. Encouraging creativity and community, this is a fun space for families to visit together.

The Little Social is located in St Johns County. It is a beautifully designed play cafe where children can flourish with Montessori elements, pretend play features, and a thoughtfully designed setup. A cafe is available for parents to enjoy their time while children play.

Things To Do Near Jacksonville

St Augustine is a 30-45 minute drive, depending on where you are in Jacksonville, and it has enough activities to last a few days on its own! If you are interested in seeing alligators, climbing a lighthouse, seeing historic buildings, and more, I highly recommend spending time in the St Augustine area. This post include free things to do and paid-for experiences while in town.

Conners A-Maize-Ing Acres Farm is a family-owned farm located in Hilliard, Florida. With a wide range of attractions, including a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and petting zoo, it’s a popular destination for families and visitors of all ages. The farm also offers various seasonal events and educational farm tours, making it a great place to experience agriculture and outdoor fun. 

Amelia Island Nature Center is a beautiful and serene place where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Amelia Island in Florida. The center offers educational opportunities about the island’s diverse wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation efforts. Visitors can explore nature trails, observe native wildlife, and learn from knowledgeable staff about the importance of preserving this unique environment. Whether it’s wandering, hiking, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, Amelia Island Nature Center provides a wonderful experience for everyone. 

Sykes Family Farms is a local favorite for seasonal events! In October, you can go through The Maze, hang out with the farm animals, take a hayride, bounce on the bubble mats, blow ginormous bubbles, and more. They also have a lovely event in December- Christmas on the Farm. 

Tips for Visiting Jacksonville

• Look into Kids Free November! Depending on the timing of the activities you are planning, during the month of November you can experience discounted or free entry to many of the local museums and experiences. 
• It will be helpful to have a vehicle if you are traveling into the area. There are plenty of activities for everyone, but it is a little spread out and we don’t have a great public transportation system.

No matter the age of your children, Jacksonville has something for everyone. You will also find fun indoor activities like escape rooms, iFLY, IKEA, and more within the city of Jacksonville. With its diverse range of attractions, the city promises an exciting and enriching experience for families. So pack your bags, gather the little ones, and get ready for a memorable adventure in Jacksonville!