Last Updated on March 29, 2024
Looking for things to do in Jacksonville? We’ve put together a great collection of ideas just for you.
Jacksonville is a massive city in the Sunshine State, both in population and area. Not only is it the most populous city in Florida, but it also stretches across 840 square miles.
Did you know Jacksonville is the largest city in the United States by area? Yep, it’s true!
Even with its enormous size, Jacksonville has many hidden gems and charming historical sites.
This area is often referred to by lots of different names: Jacksonville Urban Core, Westside, Northside, Southside, Arlington, and the Beaches
Things to do in Jacksonville FL
On your next trip to Jacksonville, experience all the city has to offer. Visit these different neighborhoods that will give you a local perspective of Jacksonville.
Table of contents
- Things to do in Jacksonville FL
- Things to do in Jacksonville’s Rail Yard District
- Things to do in the Springfield Area
- Things to do in the Murray Hill Area
- Things to do in Jacksonville’s Brooklyn Area
- Things to do in the Downtown Area
- Downtown Jacksonville Experiences
- Things to do in Jacksonville’s Riverside Avondale Area
- Things to do in Jacksonville’s San Marco Area
Things to do in Jacksonville’s Rail Yard District
The unique Rail Yard District of Jacksonville is located west of the downtown area. It got its name after the nearby rail yards.
The rail yards have been in operation since 1858. Once known as the Beaver Street area, the Rail Yard District has over 100 unique small businesses.
The area is an up-and-coming neighborhood in the Jacksonville area.
Jacksonville Farmer’s Market
The Rail Yard District is home to the Jacksonville Farmers Market. It is the oldest continuously operating Farmer’s Market in all of Florida.
This Jacksonville Urban Core market has been providing the community with fresh produce, seafood, boiled peanuts, and handmade goods since 1938.
The market gets over 1 million people every year.
The best part about this farmers market? It operates daily from dawn to dusk and only closes each year for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Jacksonville Farmers Market Address: 1810 W Beaver St., Jacksonville, FL 32209
If you love a good farmer’s market, don’t miss these Fantastic Florida Farmers’ Markets.
Rail Yard District Brewery
This district is also known for its popular breweries/taprooms for visitors to explore. In fact, this area is known as the Jax Ale Trail.
Engine Brewing Co.
Engine 15 is one of those breweries, styled after a German-style Biergarten. This area is complete with a Pirate Ship play area for kids, a bocce court, and outdoor seating.
Make sure to stop by for their weekly Trivia Night competition on Tuesdays at 7 pm.
Engine 15 Brewing Co. Address: 1500 Beach Blvd. #217, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Rail Yard Area Shopping
Eco Relics
If antique shopping is your thing, your visit isn’t complete without a pit stop at Eco Relics. Eco Relics is the largest architectural salvage store in the Southeast United States.
As the district’s name suggests, this 50,000-square-foot store is located within an old rail depot.
Its mission is to keep materials out of landfills. They also sell salvage and building materials in addition to their vintage and antique finds.
Eco Relics Address: 106 Stockton St., Jacksonville, FL 32204
Rethreaded
While on your shopping spree, you can also stop by Rethreaded. This is a retail shop with handmade goods all crafted by victims of sex trafficking.
Pick up a unique gift: jewelry, scarves, bags, keychains, journals, and more. Not only will you be picking up a great gift, but you’ll be supporting a great cause.
Rethreaded Inc. Address: 515 E 9th St., Jacksonville, FL 32206
Things to do in the Springfield Area
This next district is located just north of the downtown Jacksonville Urban Core.
This area is up and coming. It is known for its hip restaurants, beautiful parks, and historic buildings.
Springfield is the oldest neighborhood in Jacksonville. It once was called home by the wealthy and silent film stars of Jacksonville.
Henry J. Klutho Park
Take in the beautiful scenery on the walking trails of Klutho Park, where you may see turtles and other authentic Florida wildlife.
Additionally, Klutho Park also has a fun Disc Golf Course and a Dog Park for visitors to enjoy.
We also love to stroll along the Story Walk trail, a series of signs featuring sequential spreads from a children’s picture book.
Klutho Park Address: 204 W 3rd St., Jacksonville, FL 32206
Jacksonville PorchFest
This district is also home to one of Jacksonville’s favorite annual events, the Jacksonville PorchFest. The event takes place in November.
This music festival is a free event that draws 10,000+ visitors to the neighborhood of Springfield.
Musicians from all genres perform on the historic front porches of homes in the Springfield neighborhood.
Springfield Area Restaurants
1748 Bakehouse
For foodies looking for a great local place to try, the Springfield district is full of delicious restaurants.
1748 Bakehouse is owned and operated by Allison and Kurt D’Aurizio, a married baker and chef duo.
While they’re known for their delicious homemade pies, we recommend stopping by the cafe for breakfast or lunch as well. You won’t be disappointed.
1748 Bakehouse Address: 1748 N Main St., Jacksonville, FL 32206
1 Foxy Lady Cafe
For Southern comfort food, stop by 1FoxyLadyCafe, which has been serving the Springfield area since 2015.
Shandon Benjamin-Fox owns the restaurant and serves food inspired by the meals her mother and grandmother. Their food was cooked for their family over the years in their home kitchen.
Now everyone gets to enjoy a homemade meal.
1FoxyLadyCafe Address: 1837 N Pearl St., Jacksonville, FL 32206
Sweet Spot and Urban Lounge
To shop ’til you drop, make sure to visit Sweet Spot and Urban Lounge. This is the go-to spot in the Springfield area to purchase handmade jams, jellies, and other delicious sweet treats.
Sweet Spot and Urban Lounge Address: 157 E 8th St. #118, Jacksonville, FL 32206
Things to do in the Murray Hill Area
Jacksonville’s Murray Hill district stands out by being one of the coolest neighborhoods in the area.
Murray Hill is incredibly hip. It’s known as the spot for young entrepreneurs to open their innovative restaurants and businesses.
Moon River Pizza
Grab a slice of pizza at what’s considered the best pizza in all of Jacksonville, Moon River Pizza.
You are sure to enjoy a delicious slice in a great atmosphere.
Moon River Pizza Address: 1176 Edgewood Ave. S, Jacksonville, FL 32205
The Dreamette
If you’re looking for a sweeter option, stop by the oldest dessert shop in all of Jacksonville, The Dreamette.
This cash-only sweet shop has been serving delicious ice cream and desserts to the people of Murray Hill since 1948 at its classic and authentic walk-up counter.
The Dreamette Address: 3646 Post St., Jacksonville, FL 32205
The Flamingo
For a pick-me-up, make sure to visit The Flamingo, a bar and craft coffee shop in the Murray Hill area.
The staff is super friendly and the atmosphere is homey. Don’t miss the strawberry vanilla oat milk latte.
The Flamingo even made our list of the best coffee shops in Florida. Check it out: 25 of Our Favorite Florida Coffee Shops and Roasters.
The Flamingo Address: 1176 Edgewood Ave. S STE 1, Jacksonville, FL 32205
Murray Hill Theatre
While visiting, make sure to check out the upcoming shows at the Murray Hill Theatre.
This music venue was once a movie theater that opened in 1948 but unfortunately closed its doors in 1993.
Since then, the building has been considered a historic site. It has been renovated into a venue that showcases events for all ages.
They feature artists and activities that focus on faith and positivity.
Murray Hill Theatre Address: 932 Edgewood Ave. S, Jacksonville FL 32205
Things to do in Jacksonville’s Brooklyn Area
Next, we’re headed to Brooklyn. Brooklyn, Jacksonville that is. Have you noticed how many of these neighborhoods have the same name as New York neighborhoods?
Originally a residential suburb, this popular district is considered part of the downtown Jacksonville area (even though Downtown is its own separate district).
Located along the St. Johns River, this neighborhood has delicious restaurants, unique shopping, and activities along the river.
Burrito Gallery
For great views and great food, stop by the rooftop of Burrito Gallery.
Not only will you be able to sit and enjoy beautiful views of the city, but you’ll also be able to try the best burrito in Jacksonville (voted six years in a row).
They are known for their curry chicken burrito, but anything you pick from the menu is guaranteed to be good (our readers rave about this place).
Burrito Gallery Address: 90 Riverside Ave. #601, Jacksonville, FL 32202 (Brooklyn Location)
Northbank Riverwalk
Work off that food with a stroll along the Northbank Riverwalk, a walking and running trail that stretches along the Jacksonville Riverfront.
To really get your workout on, stop by Corkscrew Park.
This park features an exercise tree, workout area, and workout equipment including free weights, yoga mats, jump ropes, and medicine balls.
Further down the riverwalk, you can find the Riverside Arts Market, a market filled with farmers, artisans, artists, and more.
This market is open on Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm and is located under the bridge.
You’ll be able to pick up produce, food, souvenirs, homemade goods, art, and more at this unique fusion of Art and a Farmer’s Market.
Riverside Arts Market Address: 715 Riverside Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32204
Things to do in the Downtown Area
Near the Brooklyn district and located on the St. Johns River, Downtown Jacksonville is full of historic buildings, unique restaurants, interesting museums, and more.
This Jacksonville Urban Core neighborhood is also a great spot to see dolphins and other marine life.
Just take a trip on the Jacksonville River Taxi.
This Jacksonville Urban Core has over 90 restaurants that you can choose from.
Cowford Chophouse
The Cowford Chophouse, located in a historic 1902 bank building. It has stunning rooftop views where you can see the skyscrapers of the city and enjoy delicious steak and seafood.
The building is historic because it is known as one of the first buildings to be built after the fires of 1901. This building help signal the rebirth of the city.
Cowford Chophouse Address: 101 E Bay St., Jacksonville, FL 32202
Sweet Pete’s
For a sweeter treat, stop by Sweet Pete’s, a local favorite for gourmet candies, chocolates, and ice cream.
Located in a Victorian-era mansion, this bright and colorful building decorates to the nines for every season.
Sweet Pete’s Address: 400 N Hogan St., Jacksonville, FL 32202
Downtown Jacksonville Experiences
Ritz Theatre and Museum
No visit to the downtown area would be complete without a stop to the museums of Jacksonville.
The Ritz Theatre & Museum was once the site of the 1929 Ritz Theater Movie House. Today, it’s an official theatre and museum (hence, its name).
The Ritz is a historic spot, especially for the African-American community, as the theatre was once known as the “Harlem of the South”.
Today, you can catch a show or visit their gallery full of beautiful art and artifacts.
The Ritz Theatre & Museum Address: 829 N Davis St., Jacksonville, FL 32202
Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville
Other great museums for the whole family to visit include the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, and the Museum of Science and History.
Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville Address: 333 N Laura St., Jacksonville, FL 32202
Museum of Science and History Address: 1025 Museum Cir., Jacksonville, FL 32207
Jacksonville Urban Core
If you want to discover all of the historic buildings that the downtown Jacksonville Urban Core area has to offer, make sure to check out the self-guided walking tour.
There are over 60 buildings to discover in the style of Art Deco, Gothic Revival, Modern, and Queen Anne, just to name a few.
There are lots of self-guided tour options on the Visit Jacksonville website.
Things to do in Jacksonville’s Riverside Avondale Area
This next Jacksonville district is characterized by its charming atmosphere, antique shopping, and trendy shops.
The Riverside area is also listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, and was voted as one of the country’s top 10 Great Neighborhoods.
Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
Stop by the the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens to take a stroll through beautiful oak trees, lush plants, reflecting ponds, and more.
You can also stop in the museum, which was bequeathed by art collector Ninah Cummer in 1958, to see the art galleries and current exhibits.
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens Address: 829 Riverside Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32204
Go Vintage Shopping
After taking in the art, go on a shopping spree at two of the most popular vintage stores in the Riverside Avondale area. Check out the collectibles, antiques, and odds and ends at 5 Points Vintage and Fans & Stoves Antique Mall.
Both are great choices to find that unique gift or vintage find that you’ve been searching for.
5 Points Vintage Address: 1046 Park St., Jacksonville, FL 32204
Fans and Stoves Antique Mall Address: 2270 Blanding Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32210
13 Gypsies
Another great local spot is 13 Gypsies, which brands itself as a Peasant Kitchen.
For over 35 years, 13 Gypsies have been serving traditional Mediterranean flavors by Andalucian Chef Antonio Gomez.
While everything at 13 Gypsies is delicious, all of their bread products are made from scratch each morning.
The bread is kneaded and shaped by hand – you won’t find a mixer here.
13 Gypsies Address: 887 Stockton St., Jacksonville, FL 32204
Things to do in Jacksonville’s San Marco Area
Rooted in Italian culture, San Marco gets its name from the neighborhood’s association with Venice, Italy.
This makes for delicious food that is a must-try for visitors to the area. This district, located minutes from Downtown, also features many historic buildings and sites with recognizable and distinguishable architecture.
Much of the San Marco district is centered around San Marco Square, marking the center of the neighborhood. This area is instantly recognizable by its iconic landmark and fountain with three lions.
The fountain area is known as Balis Park and is the perfect spot to take in the scenery and snap a photo in front of the beautiful fountain.
Theatre Jacksonville
The theatre is located right in the heart of San Marco Square. the Theatre Jacksonville is the oldest community theatre in the entire United States. Make sure to check out their current season offerings of plays and musicals for a fun night out on the town.
Theatre Jacksonville Address: 2032 San Marco Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207
San Marco Theatre
Another historic theatre in the area is the San Marco Theater.
Built in 1938 in traditional art deco style, this historic landmark is recognized as one of the ten best classic cinemas in the United States. You’ll be able to catch Hollywood’s latest and greatest films in a beautiful and historic setting.
Don’t miss the annual Jacksonville Film Festival every April.
San Marco Theater Address: 1996 San Marco Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207
San Marco Food Options
Some of Jacksonville and Florida’s most popular restaurants call the San Marco area home.
Two of these restaurants have been featured in other Authentic Florida articles.
V Pizza
V Pizza is a Jacksonville favorite for pizza, calzones, pasta, and wings.
V Pizza is also on our list of the best chicken wings in Florida. (Make sure to check out the full list: Just Wing It.The Best Chicken Wings in Florida).
V Pizza Address: 1406 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32207 (San Marco Location)
Good Dough Doughnuts
For a sweeter stop, grab a handmade donut at Good Dough Doughnuts.
What is the “good dough”, you might ask? Their house donut is a brioche-style yeast dough that is rich and buttery while still springy.
Good Dough Doughnuts Address: 1636 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32207
Check out the other doughnut shops that made our list of the best doughnuts in Florida: We Love These 12 Donut Shops in Florida a “Hole” Lot.
Check out the scoop on Jacksonville’s Bicentennial Celebration.
Looking for other fun things to do in the Northeast Florida region? Check out:
As a Jacksonville native, I approve this post!!!! I live in Murray Hill and LOVE it!
Great…informative article. Looking forward to visiting all the places mentioned in the article. Thank you from those of us who are winter only residents.