Jacksonville Jam: 4 Fun-Filled Days of Family Adventure
Discover family fun in Jacksonville: where memories are made!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
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- Check into the trendy One Ocean Resort & Spa, where luxurious accommodations and a pristine beach will transport you to paradise.
- Spend the morning catching the gnarly waves at Jacksonville Beach, where surfers of all skill levels can ride the Atlantic swells.
- Chow down on scrumptious seafood at Joe's Crab Shack, a lively joint with a claw-cracking good time that the whole family will enjoy.
- Explore the vibrant Jacksonville Beach Pier, where you can fish, people-watch, or simply soak up the electric atmosphere.
- Embark on a sunset cruise with St. Johns River Taxi and witness the breathtaking colors of the sky while learning fascinating facts about the city.
- Immerse yourself in nature at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, where you can meet over 2,000 animals from around the world.
- Don't miss the Wings of the World bird show, where majestic eagles, parrots, and owls will swoop right above your head.
- Experience feeding time at the zoo's African Plains exhibit and watch giraffes munch on treats while you capture Instagram-worthy moments.
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Bearded Pig, a BBQ joint with mouthwatering meats, finger-licking sauces, and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe.
- Embark on a thrilling airboat ride with Airboat Adventures, gliding through the marshes and spotting alligators, turtles, and other fascinating wildlife.
- Discover the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, featuring a remarkable collection of European masterpieces and stunning riverfront gardens.
- Stroll through the historic Riverside district, lined with charming shops, boutiques, and art galleries that will capture your heart.
- Indulge in a delightful brunch at Maple Street Biscuit Company, serving lip-smacking Southern fare like buttermilk biscuits smothered in gravy.
- Take a relaxing river cruise with Jacksonville River Taxi along the St. Johns River, savoring panoramic views and spotting dolphins frolicking in the water.
- Treat yourself to a sweet afternoon at Sweet Pete's Candy, a whimsical candy wonderland with a rooftop bar serving boozy confections for adults.
- Embark on an adventure at Hanna Park, exploring its trails, biking through the scenic forest, and enjoying a refreshing swim in the lake.
- Grab a light lunch at M Shack, a local favorite famous for its drool-worthy burgers, hand-cut fries, and unique milkshake flavors.
- Experience the adrenaline rush at Adventure Landing, a family entertainment center featuring go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, and an epic water park.
- Dine at The Candy Apple Café & Cocktails, a whimsical eatery serving modern comfort food in an eclectic setting, perfect for a vibrant family dinner.
- End your trip with a spectacular sunset at the Jacksonville Pier, as you bid farewell to this sunny and vibrant city, already longing for your next visit.
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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.