20 Things to Do in Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville, Florida’s sprawling metropolis, boasts miles of beaches, scenic riverfronts, and lush parklands, offering visitors a diverse array of experiences. While the city has plenty of paid attractions, discovering its unique charm and natural beauty doesn’t require a hefty budget; there are numerous fantastic free things to do in Jacksonville, Florida, making it an accessible destination for budget-savvy travelers seeking sunshine and adventure. From sandy shores to vibrant markets, the River City provides ample opportunities for affordable fun.
This guide points you towards 20 specific activities and sights you can enjoy in Jacksonville completely free of charge. Whether you love relaxing by the ocean, exploring nature trails, soaking up local culture, or discovering historic spots, you can easily craft a memorable itinerary. Get ready to explore the best of Jacksonville without opening your wallet.
Beaches and Waterfront Fun
Jacksonville Beach Relaxation: Find public access points and spend the day enjoying the wide sandy shores of Jacksonville Beach. Sunbathe, swim in the Atlantic, or simply take a relaxing walk along the coastline.
Neptune Beach Stroll: Explore the sands of Neptune Beach, located just north of Jax Beach. Enjoy the slightly quieter atmosphere and look for seashells along the shoreline.
Atlantic Beach Walk: Discover the northernmost of Jacksonville’s main beaches. Enjoy a walk on the firm sand, perfect for strolling or beachcombing, and admire the coastal homes.
Jacksonville Beach Pier Viewing: Walk along the beach near the iconic Jacksonville Beach Pier. Admire the long structure extending into the ocean and watch surfers nearby without paying the pier access fee.
Jacksonville Riverwalks Exploration: Stroll along the paved pathways on both the Northbank and Southbank of the St. Johns River downtown. Enjoy skyline views, watch boats pass by, and connect between different downtown parks and landmarks.
Parks and Nature Escapes
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens: Explore miles of walking trails winding through diverse ecosystems and beautifully themed gardens. Discovering the peaceful natural settings and unique plant collections is always free.
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve Trails: Hike trails within this vast preserve protecting salt marshes and hardwood hammocks. Explore areas like the Theodore Roosevelt Area for scenic river views and nature walks.
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park (Walk/Bike In): While vehicle entry has a fee, pedestrians and cyclists can often enter this large oceanfront park for free. Enjoy exploring the walking trails, lake views, and beach access (confirm current walk-in policy).
Big Talbot Island State Park (Trails/Viewpoints): Explore trails like the Blackrock Trail leading to unique shoreline formations or visit Boneyard Beach with its dramatic driftwood. Accessing many trailheads and viewpoints is free (confirm parking fees).
Treaty Oak Park Visit: Stand beneath the branches of the magnificent Treaty Oak, estimated to be over 250 years old. Visiting this massive Southern live oak in Jessie Ball duPont Park downtown is a quick, impressive stop.
Little Talbot Island State Park (Beach Walk): Similar to Hanna Park, while vehicle entry costs, enjoy walking along the beautiful, undeveloped shoreline adjacent to the park from nearby public access points for free. Experience the natural coastal beauty.
Arts Culture and Markets
Riverside Arts Market (RAM): Browse local arts, crafts, produce, and food stalls under the Fuller Warren Bridge every Saturday (seasonal, check schedule). Enjoy the lively atmosphere, live music, and community vibe without any pressure to buy.
First Wednesday Art Walk: Explore downtown Jacksonville galleries, museums (some offer free entry during Art Walk), and businesses that open their doors for free on the first Wednesday evening of most months. Enjoy art, music, and local culture.
Downtown Jacksonville Murals: Take a self-guided tour to discover colorful murals painted on buildings throughout the downtown area and nearby neighborhoods like Riverside. Finding these public art installations is a fun urban exploration.
Jacksonville Public Library Main Branch: Explore the impressive architecture of the main library downtown. Browse the collections, view free art exhibits often displayed, or check their schedule for free events and programs.
The Jacksonville Landing Site Views: While the Landing itself was demolished, enjoy the views from the adjacent Riverwalks looking across the St. Johns River. It remains a central point for observing downtown waterfront activity.
History and Landmarks
Kingsley Plantation Grounds: Walk the grounds of this historic plantation site within the Timucuan Preserve. View the exteriors of the main house, slave quarters, and learn about the site’s complex history through interpretive signs; grounds access is free.
Fort Caroline National Memorial: Visit the site commemorating the short-lived French colonial presence in 16th-century Florida. Explore the visitor center exhibits and walk the trails overlooking the St. Johns River; admission is free.
St. Johns Cathedral: Step inside (respectfully, outside service times) this beautiful Gothic Revival Episcopal cathedral downtown. Admire the stained glass windows and historic architecture of this peaceful sanctuary.
San Marco Square Exploration: Stroll through the charming square designed to evoke Venice’s Piazza San Marco. Admire the fountain, browse the boutique windows, and enjoy the European-inspired atmosphere of this neighborhood hub.
