With over 20 miles of stunning beaches, a delectable dining scene, exciting attractions, and the largest urban park system in the country, Jacksonville, Florida, is an ideal place to spend your sunset years. Also affectionately known as Jax, Jacksonville offers something for everyone: gorgeous sunrises, fascinating history, world-class attractions, cultural delights, and so much more. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a new resident, or a local hoping to discover new corners of your beloved city, scroll down to explore some of the best things to do in Jacksonville.
Things to Do in Jacksonville, Florida
Relax at the Beach
We can’t talk about things to do in Jacksonville without mentioning the gorgeous beaches! Whether you prefer reading beneath an umbrella, strolling through the sand, or playing with your grandchildren in the waves, you’ll love the beaches in Jacksonville. Jacksonville Beach is just 30 minutes from downtown!
Eat Some Good Grub
Whether you’re a self-described foodie or you simply love to eat, you’ll find a wide array of culinary delights in Jacksonville. From fresh local seafood and Southern comfort food to flavorful Thai, mouthwatering BBQ, and gourmet burgers, Jax has it all. When you’re ready to fill your belly, check out Visit Jacksonville‘s Best 47 Bites, which were compiled according to word of mouth.
Delve into History and Culture
Interested in history? Stop by the Beaches Museum in Jacksonville Beach to explore the vibrant history and culture of the area. You might also enjoy touring Kingsley Plantation or visiting the Fort Caroline National Memorial.
Artists and art-lovers will adore Jacksonville’s world-class public art. Even if you’re not particularly artsy, be sure to stop by the Riverside Arts Market, which offers live music and food trucks in addition to goods sold by local artisans. We also encourage you to check out the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, which is the largest fine arts museum in Northeast Florida, and the Florida Theatre, which hosts concerts, operas, and ballet performances.
Visit Exciting Attractions
No matter what your age or interests, you’ll find fun things to do in Jacksonville. You could go shopping at St. Johns Town Center, an outdoor mall with over 175 stores, or say hello to the animals at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Learn something new at the Museum of Science and History, also known as MOSH, or root for the Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field.
Explore Nature
Did you know that Jacksonville is home to ten state parks and five national parks? To get a little exercise and soak in that Florida sunshine, walk, hike, or bike at one of these beloved parks. Some of the most popular include Little Talbot Island State Park, Big Talbot Island State Park, Amelia Island State Park, and Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park. As we mentioned above, Jacksonville is also home to the largest urban park system in the country, providing services at more than 337 locations across the city. Be sure to check out Memorial Park, the third-oldest park in the city, which was established just after World War I.
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You might be thinking, “But what about Jacksonville Arboretum or the Museum of Contemporary Art or Tree Hill Nature Center?” And it’s true – this list only scratches the surface. It would be impossible to list every attraction in Jacksonville, but isn’t that what makes Jax so great?
If you’re hoping to retire in Jacksonville, Florida, the Beach House could be the ideal place. It offers an exceptional location less than a mile from the Atlantic Ocean and near numerous restaurants, shops, museums, a golf course, and more. Our friendly and compassionate staff members offer individualized care 24/7, ensuring the safety, security, and happiness of all residents. The Beach House provides assisted living, memory care, and respite care, and we tailor these services to suit the unique needs of each resident. To learn more about our amenities or schedule a tour, please contact us online or give us a call at 904-615-8076. We look forward to hearing from you!