Start your trip with a visit to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, home to over 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species. Get up close and personal with the animals by taking a train ride, feeding the giraffes, or joining an animal encounter. This 120-acre zoo also features a Splash Ground for kids and a Wildlife Carousel.
Take a day trip to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the country. Explore the historic streets, visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, and walk along the shore of St. Augustine Beach. Take a trolley tour to learn more about the city's rich history, or visit the Alligator Farm Zoological Park for a unique experience.
Enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens. This 120-acre park features over 16 trails to walk or hike, showcasing a wide variety of plant species. Stop by the Lake Loop to see the turtles and fish, or the Koi Pond to relax by the waterfall.
Discover the wonders of science and history at the Museum of Science & History. This interactive museum features exhibits on astronomy, local history, and marine life. Don't miss the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium for a journey through the stars.
Get up close and personal with big cats at the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary. This non-profit sanctuary provides a home to many big cats, including lions, tigers, and cougars. Take a tour to see the cats up close and learn about their unique stories.
Spend a day at the beach at Jacksonville Beach. This family-friendly beach features soft sand, calm waves, and a wide variety of restaurants and shops. Check out Beaches Museum & History Park for a glimpse into the beach's vibrant history.
Admire the beauty of art and nature at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. This museum features over 5,000 works of art and 2.5 acres of historic gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about the museum's history, or join an art class to unleash your creativity.
Take a break and relax by the Friendship Fountain. This 60-foot fountain is a popular spot for families to take a picnic or just enjoy the view. Take a stroll along the Southbank Riverwalk or rent a bike to explore the city's many parks and neighborhoods.
Discover the natural beauty of Florida by visiting Little Talbot Island State Park. This pristine beach provides visitors with a true wilderness experience, with over 5 miles of shoreline and plenty of hiking trails. Stop by the Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center to learn more about the area's unique history and ecosystem.
Learn about the history of firefighting at the Jacksonville Fire Museum. This museum houses vintage firefighting equipment, antique fire trucks, and exhibits on the city's firefighting history. Don't miss the opportunity to try on real firefighting gear or climb aboard a fire truck.
Travel back in time by visiting the Fort Caroline National Memorial. This historic site marks the spot where French explorers established a settlement in the 16th century. Take a guided tour to learn about the first contact between native tribes and European explorers, or explore the area's trails to see native flora and fauna.
Say goodbye to Jacksonville and prepare for your departure. Make sure to grab a souvenir and take plenty of family photos to remember your trip.
If you have more time, consider visiting other nearby attractions such as the Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve or the Kingsley Plantation. For a more adventurous day, head to the Adventure Landing amusement park, or take a kayaking tour of the St. Johns River. For families with young children, the Hands-On Children's Museum or the Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex are great options. If you have less time, consider skipping some of the attractions that are further away, such as St. Augustine or Little Talbot Island State Park.