Jacksonville Journey: 3 Days of Family-Friendly Fun!

Discover family fun in Jacksonville - where adventure meets relaxation!

19 July 2023

Jacksonville, located on the eastern coast of Florida, is perfect for a family-friendly trip with its array of attractions and outdoor activities. Explore the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, where kids can get up close to a diverse range of animals or spend a fun-filled day at Adventure Landing, a water and amusement park. Don't miss the stunning beaches, like Jacksonville Beach or Neptune Beach, offering ample opportunities for swimming, sandcastle building, and picnicking.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Fun in the Sun

  • Check into Hotel Aloha, a tropical oasis inspired by all things beachy and breezy. Time to kick off your shoes and relax!
  • Head to Jacksonville Beach and catch some waves or build sandcastles with the little ones. Don't forget your sunscreen!
  • Explore the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, where you can hang out with giraffes, feed stingrays, and get up close with majestic tigers.
  • Grab a bite at Safe Harbor Seafood, a laid-back waterfront eatery serving up lip-smacking seafood dishes, from fish tacos to crab legs.
  • Finish the day with a sunset stroll along the Jacksonville Riverwalk, soaking in the picturesque panoramic views of the St. Johns River.
Day 2

Artistic Adventures

  • Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Conifer Eatery, a charming cafe known for its farm-to-table menu and creative twists on classic dishes.
  • Visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, where you can admire stunning artwork from different eras and explore the tranquil and scenic gardens.
  • Take a detour to MOSH (Museum of Science & History) for some interactive exhibits, including a planetarium show that will leave the whole family in awe.
  • Grab lunch at Bold City Brewery, a local hotspot serving up craft beers and mouthwatering pub fare. Try their famous beer cheese soup!
  • Spend the afternoon at Riverside Arts Market, browsing unique crafts, listening to live music, and tasting local treats from food trucks.
Day 3

History and Riverside Charm

  • Enjoy a Southern-style breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company, where you can indulge in fluffy biscuits smothered in tasty homemade gravies.
  • Take a guided tour of the Kingsley Plantation, a glimpse into the past with its preserved plantation house and slave quarters.
  • Visit the Jacksonville Beach Pier for some fishing or a leisurely stroll, and maybe even spot dolphins frolicking in the ocean.
  • Dine at the trendy Black Sheep Restaurant, known for its farm-to-table menu, rooftop bar, and stunning views of the St. Johns River.
  • End the trip with a leisurely walk through the quaint neighborhood of Five Points, filled with eclectic shops, art galleries, and charming cafes.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Jacksonville

Welcome to the land of sunshine, warm beaches, and Jaguars...the football team, not the animal. Get ready for some southern charm, great food, and plenty of 'y'alls' in Jacksonville.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Jacksonville Jam: 4 Fun-Filled Days of Family Adventure

A family trip to Jacksonville, United States offers a perfect blend of exciting activities and relaxation. Begin your adventure at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, where kids can interact with animals and explore beautiful botanical gardens. Later, head to the sandy shores of Jacksonville Beach for sun, sand, and water sports, or visit the Museum of Science and History for educational fun. With numerous family-friendly attractions, Jacksonville promises an unforgettable vacation for the whole family.

Jacksonville Journey: 3 Days of Family-Friendly Fun!

Jacksonville, located on the eastern coast of Florida, is perfect for a family-friendly trip with its array of attractions and outdoor activities. Explore the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, where kids can get up close to a diverse range of animals or spend a fun-filled day at Adventure Landing, a water and amusement park. Don't miss the stunning beaches, like Jacksonville Beach or Neptune Beach, offering ample opportunities for swimming, sandcastle building, and picnicking.

Experience Jacksonville's Charm in 2 Days

As a tourist vacationing in Jacksonville, visitors can enjoy a plethora of outdoor recreational activities such as kayaking, hiking, and paddleboarding. The city also boasts several attractions, including the famous Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and the vibrant Riverside Arts Market. Food lovers will enjoy the diverse culinary scene with an abundance of seafood restaurants and southern-style cuisine.

Jacksonville in 3: Beaches, Brews, and History

Jacksonville, United States is a great destination for those who are on a limited budget. You can explore the city's beautiful beaches, museums, parks, and cultural landmarks without breaking the bank. Affordably priced hotels and restaurants add to the charm of this affordable destination.