Jacksonville, FL

What to do in Jacksonville, FL

Museum of Science and History

Hop on a water-taxi and spend an afternoon viewing extensive historical artifacts from the St John's River area, including the Maple Leaf Civil War Collection. Exhibits focus on the First Coast's maritime, natural, and archaeological history. "Tonca", a 25-pound alligator-snapping turtle resides in his own freshwater tank and his daily 1:30pm feeding is a popular event.

Zoological Gardens

This world-class sanctuary for endangered animals features (among many other species) a white rhinoceros and leopards viewed from a 1,000-foot elevated boardwalk. An animal show features an owl, a tree kangaroo, and others. Special habitats include a birds of prey exhibit and lion territory. There is also a petting zoo and a baby animal nursery, and much more.

Black Heritage Trail

Trace Northern Florida's black history through 9 sites depicting the influence and participation of African-Americans in the region's history and development. Highlights sites include Centennial Hall, Catherine Street Fire Station, Kingsley Plantation, and the Olustee Battlefield.

Anheuser-Bush Brewery

Sample the latest brews and take either a guided or self-guided tour through the brewery.

Golf

Jacksonville is home of the PGA Tour world headquarters and the Tournament Players Club. Sawgrass in Ponte Verda Beach is the site of The Players Championship, and there are several other world-class courses around the city, including Amelia Island. This is also the home of the Golf Hall of Fame and Museum.

Day Trip to St Augustine

This coastal town is America's oldest city and full of historical structures like churches, stores, residences, and monuments dating from the 16th to 20th centuries. Founded by a Spanish conquistador in 1565, the Plaza de la Constitution on St George Street and Cathedral Place is believed to be the site of the original settlement. Visit the Spanish Quarter for a glimpse into daily life of the first European settlers and then head for the 45 miles of uncrowded beaches!.

Day Trip to Orlando

Have a blast at Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, Epcot, MGM, Sea World and Wet 'n Wild, just for starters! Only 2+ hours away by car, this is a great excursion with the kids or just for grown-ups because there is also a fantastic nightlife and a host of outdoor activities around Orlando like water rafting, hiking, horseback riding. There's even more, with great shopping, antiquing, and world-class dining!.

Day Trip to Silver Springs

Florida's "wild kingdom" is the home of world-famous glass-bottom boat rides and a 350-acre natural theme park with exciting rides, shows, attractions, headline concert series, and an award-winning year-round calendar of special events including the Swim at the Springs and the Native American Festival. All just a 2-hour drive from Jacksonville!.

Day Trip to the Okefenokee Swamp

Georgia's Okefenokee Swamp is deep, dark, and mysterious but far from dank or dangerous. Two rivers, the Suwannee and the St Mary's, flow through the shallow, 700-square mile basin, keeping the water fresh and cycled. There are walking trails and sites include a restored 1920s homestead. A three-quarter-mile boardwalk leads to a 50-foot observation tower. The "Land of the Trembling Earth" is just a one-hour drive from Jacksonville.

Tennis

This is the home of the ATP Tour International Headquarters for Men's Professional Tennis, the foundation of a first-class tennis community. There are excellent courts and instructional clinics on Amelia Island and throughout Jacksonville. If your timing is lucky, you can watch the pros practice!.