Explore the city of Jacksonville without stretching your wallet. Dive in to discover an array of activities you can enjoy for free in this lively destination.
Here’s What This Article Covers
- 19 Free Things to Do in Jacksonville
- What to Expect in Jacksonville: Weather and Events
- Find the Best Hotels and Car Rentals in Jacksonville
19 Free Things to Do in Jacksonville
These are the must-try free experiences when you’re in Jacksonville:
- Visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
- Take a Walk Along Jacksonville Beach
- Explore the Riverside Arts Market
- Enjoy a Picnic at Friendship Fountain Park
- Visit the Kingsley Plantation
- Walk or Bike Along the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
- Stroll Through the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
- Check Out the Artwork at the Art Center Cooperative
- Explore the Jacksonville Farmers Market
- Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art
- Hike the Theodore Roosevelt Area at Timucuan Preserve
- Take a Self-Guided Tour of the Jacksonville Fire Museum
- Explore the Treaty Oak Park
- Enjoy the Views at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
- Visit the Beaches Museum & History Park
- Explore the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
- Check Out the Jacksonville Maritime Heritage Center
- Stroll Through the Riverside Neighborhood
- Visit the Fort Caroline National Memorial
1. Visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
Image Credit
Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens by
Michel Curi is licensed under
CC BY 2.0.
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is a cultural gem you can explore in Jacksonville. It boasts an impressive collection of artworks and beautifully manicured gardens, offering a feast for both your eyes and soul. This free attraction is a must-visit for art and nature lovers alike.
- Location/Address: 829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and on Fridays, it extends its hours to 9 PM. It’s less crowded midweek.
- Nearby Landmarks: Riverside Park, Five Points, St. Johns River.
- Tips: Take advantage of the free admission on Tuesdays and Fridays from 4 PM to 9 PM to save on your visit.
2. Take a Walk Along Jacksonville Beach
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New Jacksonville Beach Pier, Jacksonville Beach, Florida by
Boston Public Library is licensed under
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Jacksonville Beach is an engaging destination where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The long sandy coastline offers a perfect path to take a relaxing walk, enjoy the sound of waves, and feel the cool sea breeze. This is a delightful way to recharge and experience Jacksonville without spending a dime.
- Location/Address: Jacksonville Beach, Jacksonville, FL 32250.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The beach is open 24 hours a day, but for a peaceful walk, early morning or late evening is recommended.
- Nearby Landmarks: Jacksonville Beach Pier, Adventure Landing.
- Tips: Keep an eye on the tide times for a safer walk along the beach. Also, bring comfortable footwear for the sandy terrain.
3. Explore the Riverside Arts Market
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Pretty Police State by
Michel Curi is licensed under
CC BY 2.0.
Unleash your inner artist and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at the Riverside Arts Market in Jacksonville. As you wander through the market, you can discover a plethora of unique crafts, fresh produce, and live music performances that truly reflect the soul of the city.
- Location/Address: 715 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The market operates every Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM. Spring and fall are particularly enjoyable due to the mild weather.
- Nearby Landmarks: Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Memorial Park.
- Tips: Bring a reusable shopping bag to carry any purchases and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
4. Enjoy a Picnic at Friendship Fountain Park
Experience the tranquility of Friendship Fountain Park in Jacksonville, a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. With its serene fountain and panoramic views of the city skyline, you can unwind amidst nature’s beauty without spending a dime.
- Location/Address: 1015 Museum Cir, Jacksonville, FL 32207, United States.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The park is open from 8 AM to 10 PM. For the best picnic experience, consider going in the late morning or early afternoon.
- Nearby Landmarks: Museum of Science and History, Southbank Riverwalk.
- Tips: Bring along a blanket to sit on and some sun protection on sunny days.
5. Visit the Kingsley Plantation
Image Credit
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve and Fort Caroline National Memorial, Jacksonville, Florida by
Ken Lund is licensed under
CC BY-SA 2.0.
Step back in time and explore the rich history of Jacksonville at the Kingsley Plantation. You can walk through the plantation’s grounds, take a peek inside the preserved structures, and learn about the African-American history of the region.
- Location/Address: 11676 Palmetto Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32226.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The Kingsley Plantation is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is in the morning when it’s cooler and less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: Fort George Island Cultural State Park, Ribault Club.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the plantation grounds are quite expansive and require a fair amount of walking.
6. Walk or Bike Along the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
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Raiford RR Station Marker along Raiford Rail Trail by
DanTD is licensed under
CC BY-SA 4.0.
Experience the natural beauty of Jacksonville by taking a walk or biking along the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail. This 14.5-mile long trail offers a serene escape from the city, where you can immerse yourself in lush greenery, local wildlife, and historical landmarks.
- Location/Address: Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, Jacksonville, FL 32220.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The trail is open from sunrise to sunset. Early mornings and late afternoons are usually the best times for a cooler temperature.
- Nearby Landmarks: Camp Milton, Baldwin Station.
- Tips: Ensure you have sunscreen and water with you, especially in the summer months. Insect repellent can also enhance your experience on the trail.
7. Stroll Through the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
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Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens, Jacksonville, FL by
idea ablaze is licensed under
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Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Jacksonville by taking a leisurely stroll through the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens. This 120-acre urban woodland full of trails and stunning garden displays provides a perfect escape from the bustling city life. Here, you can discover a variety of local plants and wildlife, enhancing your knowledge of Jacksonville’s rich environment.
- Location/Address: 1445 Millcoe Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The Arboretum & Gardens is open from 8 AM to 5 PM. Early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal to avoid the midday heat.
- Nearby Landmarks: Mill Cove Golf Club, Blue Cypress Park.
- Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water and apply sunscreen, especially during summer months.
8. Check Out the Artwork at the Art Center Cooperative
Immerse yourself in Jacksonville’s thriving art scene at the Art Center Cooperative. Here, you can explore a diverse range of artwork, from traditional paintings to contemporary sculptures, all crafted by local artists. It’s a cultural haven where creativity comes to life, and the best part is – it’s free!
- Location/Address: The Art Center Cooperative, 31 W Adams St, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The Art Center is open from 10 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday to Saturday. The place is less crowded in the early afternoon.
- Nearby Landmarks: Jacksonville’s Hemming Park and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Tips: Try to coincide your visit with the monthly Art Walk, when the center hosts special exhibits and artist talks.
9. Explore the Jacksonville Farmers Market
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20120126-OSEC-UNK-0014 by
USDAgov is licensed under
CC BY 2.0.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the Jacksonville Farmers Market. This bustling marketplace, brimming with fresh produce and unique goods, allows you to engage with local farmers and vendors. You can discover seasonal fruits, vegetables, and handmade crafts, all while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
- Location/Address: 1810 West Beaver Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The market is open from 7 AM to 6 PM daily. However, the best time to visit is early morning when the produce is freshest.
- Nearby Landmarks: Beaver Street Fisheries, S-Line Urban Greenway.
- Tips: Bring your own reusable bags to carry your purchases and support sustainability.
10. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art
Image Credit
Museum of Contemporary Art MOCA by
Michel Curi is licensed under
CC BY 2.0.
Explore a world of creativity and innovation at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Jacksonville. This haven for modern art lovers offers an array of thought-provoking exhibitions that are certain to inspire and engage you. Best of all, you can enjoy this cultural experience absolutely free of charge.
- Location/Address: 333 N Laura St, Jacksonville, FL 32202, USA.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 11 AM to 5 PM Tuesday through Sunday. Visiting in the afternoon allows you to take your time exploring the exhibits.
- Nearby Landmarks: Hemming Park, Jacksonville Public Library.
- Tips: While the museum is free, a small donation is encouraged to support ongoing exhibitions and programs.
11. Hike the Theodore Roosevelt Area at Timucuan Preserve
Experience the natural beauty of Jacksonville by hiking the Theodore Roosevelt Area at Timucuan Preserve. This scenic trail offers you a tranquil escape from the city, where you can immerse yourself in the lush surroundings and enjoy the picturesque views over the marshland. A perfect way to spend a peaceful day at no cost.
- Location/Address: 13165 Mt Pleasant Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225, USA.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The area is open from sunrise to sunset. Early morning or late afternoon hikes are ideal for cooler temperatures and wildlife sightings.
- Nearby Landmarks: Fort Caroline National Memorial, Ribault Monument.
- Tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during your hike.
12. Take a Self-Guided Tour of the Jacksonville Fire Museum
Immerse yourself in Jacksonville’s rich firefighting history by taking a self-guided tour of the Jacksonville Fire Museum. This fascinating museum offers an array of exhibits showcasing antique fire engines, historic fire-fighting equipment, and engaging educational displays about the evolution of firefighting techniques.
- Location/Address: 1406 Gator Bowl Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 9 AM to 4 PM, Tuesday through Friday. However, it’s recommended to visit in the morning when it’s less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: TIAA Bank Field, Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena.
- Tips: Make sure to check out the ‘Fire Safety House’ exhibit, where you can learn crucial fire safety techniques.
13. Explore the Treaty Oak Park
Image Credit
Treaty Oak in Jacksonville, FL by
James Willamor is licensed under
CC BY-SA 2.0.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at the Treaty Oak Park in Jacksonville. This 250-year-old Southern live oak is a sight to behold and the surrounding park offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Here, you can unwind, have a picnic, or simply admire the beauty of the majestic tree.
- Location/Address: 1123 Prudential Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32207, United States.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The park is open from sunrise to sunset. Early morning or late afternoon offers a particularly peaceful ambiance.
- Nearby Landmarks: The Museum of Science and History, The Southbank Riverwalk.
- Tips: Bring a blanket for a comfortable picnic under the shade of the oak.
14. Enjoy the Views at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream in Jacksonville. With its stunning views of the Atlantic, you can enjoy a tranquil stroll along the beach or explore the park’s diverse ecosystems via its extensive trail network.
- Location/Address: 500 Wonderwood Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32233.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The park is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, with the most pleasant weather usually in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Nearby Landmarks: Mayport Lighthouse, Mayport Naval Station.
- Tips: Check out the lake area for some bird-watching opportunities.
15. Visit the Beaches Museum & History Park
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FL Jax Beaches Msm01 by
Ebyabe is licensed under
CC BY-SA 4.0.
Immerse yourself in local history and culture at the Beaches Museum & History Park in Jacksonville. This free attraction offers you the chance to explore the city’s rich past through engaging exhibits and historical landmarks. The park also features a beautifully preserved 19th century chapel and an original steam locomotive.
- Location/Address: 381 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM from Tuesday to Saturday, and 12 PM to 4 PM on Sunday. The best time to visit is early afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Nearby Landmarks: Jacksonville Beach, Adventure Landing.
- Tips: The museum often hosts special events and lectures, so check out their website before your visit to make the most of your experience.
16. Explore the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
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Lion by
LaggedOnUser is licensed under
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Embark on a wild adventure at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, an exciting free attraction in Jacksonville. You can marvel at the diverse collection of wildlife, stroll through beautiful gardens, and enjoy interactive exhibits that educate and entertain.
- Location/Address: 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The zoo is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, but early mornings are typically less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: The Trout River, Jacksonville International Airport.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo covers a large area and involves a lot of walking.
17. Check Out the Jacksonville Maritime Heritage Center
Immerse yourself in Jacksonville’s rich maritime history at the Jacksonville Maritime Heritage Center. This museum showcases a variety of exhibits, including model ships, maritime artifacts, and photographs. Plus, you can learn about the significant role that maritime activities have played in Jacksonville’s past and present.
- Location/Address: The Jacksonville Landing, 2 Independent Drive, Suite 162, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The center is open from 11 AM to 5 PM from Tuesday to Friday, and 1 PM to 5 PM on Saturdays. It’s best to visit in the afternoon when it’s less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: The Florida Theatre, Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville.
- Tips: The center is small but packed with information, so take your time to read and explore the exhibits.
18. Stroll Through the Riverside Neighborhood
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The Neighborhood: Aaron + Daniel Irving by
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Riverside is a charming neighborhood in Jacksonville that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. With its historic homes, eclectic shops, and beautiful parks, you can immerse yourself in a serene, picturesque setting that feels like stepping back in time.
- Location/Address: Riverside Neighborhood, Jacksonville, FL.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Riverside is accessible at all times, but the best time for a stroll is during the cooler hours of early morning or late afternoon.
- Nearby Landmarks: Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Memorial Park.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy your walk, and consider stopping at one of the local cafes for a refreshing break.
19. Visit the Fort Caroline National Memorial
Image Credit
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve and Fort Caroline National Memorial, Jacksonville, Florida by
Ken Lund is licensed under
CC BY-SA 2.0.
Immerse yourself in history at the Fort Caroline National Memorial in Jacksonville. This monument offers a glimpse into the life of the French colonists who first settled Florida. Here, you can explore the reconstructed fort and take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful surrounding nature.
- Location/Address: 12713 Fort Caroline Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The site is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is in the morning when the weather is cooler.
- Nearby Landmarks: Theodore Roosevelt Area, Timucuan Preserve.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the grounds.
What to Expect in Jacksonville: Weather and Events
Stay informed about the weather and events in Jacksonville:
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