Jacksonville: A Two-Day Adventure for the Whole Family
Discover endless family fun in Jacksonville, where unforgettable memories are made!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Embark on a memorable family adventure to Jacksonville, United States, where you'll find an array of family-friendly activities. Take a stroll through the vibrant Riverside neighborhood, exploring its numerous parks, playgrounds, and charming shops. Venture to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, home to over 2,000 animals and stunning botanical gardens, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Settle into the beachside Holiday Inn Resort, complete with a pirate-themed waterpark that'll have even Captain Jack Sparrow feeling envious.
- Embrace your inner scientist with a visit to MOSH (Museum of Science & History), offering interactive exhibits that'll leave your curious little ones buzzing.
- Take a stroll through the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, where you'll spot majestic big cats and learn about their conservation efforts.
- Explore the hands-on exhibits at the Hands On Children's Museum, where imaginations run wild and creativity knows no bounds.
- Indulge in a seafood extravaganza at Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant, where ocean-fresh catch meets Southern comfort in a culinary dance of flavor.
- Begin your day at Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, where masterpieces come to life amidst vibrant flora and stunning river views.
- Immerse yourselves in Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, where you'll embark on a wild safari through various animal habitats.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the Riverside Arts Market, where local vendors offer a kaleidoscope of arts, crafts, and delectable treats.
- Hop aboard the Jacksonville Water Taxi for a scenic boat ride along the St. Johns River, capturing glimpses of the city's skyline and natural beauty.
- Dig into a fusion of Latin and Southern flavors at Gilbert's Social, transporting your taste buds to a fiesta of unforgettable culinary delights.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The most convenient way to get to Jacksonville is by plane. You can fly into Jacksonville International Airport, which is located just north of downtown Jacksonville. There are numerous airlines that offer direct flights to Jacksonville from major cities across the country, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Miami, and New York.
Car
Driving is also a great option for getting to Jacksonville, especially if you're coming from nearby cities such as Orlando, Tampa, or Miami. Jacksonville is easily accessible by several major highways, including I-95, I-10, and I-295. If you're renting a car, you can pick it up at Jacksonville International Airport or at several locations throughout the city.
Train
While there is no direct train to Jacksonville, you can take an Amtrak train to nearby cities like Orlando, Tampa, or Savannah and then take a bus or rent a car to get to Jacksonville. The closest Amtrak station is in Palatka, which is about an hour's drive from Jacksonville.
Boat
Jacksonville is home to several marinas and is a popular stop for cruise ships traveling along the East Coast. If you have your own boat, you can dock at one of the many marinas in the area, such as the Jacksonville Landing Marina or the Sadler Point Marina. Alternatively, you can take a cruise to Jacksonville from other ports along the East Coast or the Bahamas.
Bus
Jacksonville is well-connected by bus, with several national and regional bus operators such as Greyhound, Megabus, and RedCoach offering direct services to Jacksonville from cities across the Southeast and beyond. The major bus station in Jacksonville is the Greyhound station, located in downtown Jacksonville.