Jacksonville, FL holds the record for being the world’s largest city (land-wise), and yet it can often seem as if there is nothing to do in town. I was born and raised in the city, and I spent a lot of time growing up looking for stuff to do. These are a few of my favorite activities.
The Jacksonville Zoo The refurbishments done to the zoo over the past ten years have been amazing. While the majority of the animals are still outdoors, a mild winter or average spring day (Florida has a lot of these) makes walking through the zoo a really enjoyable experience as the animals will tend to be more active in the cooler weather. Be sure to bring a stroller for small children; there is a lot of walking. Also bring bathing suits; a recently opened splash park near the petting zoo area helps to keep kids cooled off if you chose to go during the summer.
Sports Jacksonville got its own NFL team about 12 years ago. Tickets are cheaper than in other big cities, and it is usually easier to get season passes or preferred seating at the stadium. The annual college football game between the University of Florida and University of Georgia is held in the stadium as well. There is a family seating section in the stadium that does not serve alcohol.
The Jacksonville Barracudas are a minor league hockey team that holds games in the convention center. The games try to be family oriented; but minor league hockey is definitely more violent than the major league. The convention center will also host ice skating days while the hockey team is not playing; ice skate rentals are available.
The Jacksonville Suns are a minor league baseball that holds games throughout the spring and summer. The team runs a number of promotional days with giveaways and ticket discounts. They also run programs through the school where kids with good grades can get to meet the players or run the bases before the game.
MOSH The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) has a number of great activities and learning centers for elementary-aged kids. Recently there have exhibits featuring animatronic dinosaurs and giant insects, a dress-up and play area with costumes and props resembling items from the 1800s, and walk-through models of human organs. Try to go on a weekday when the crowds are lower (if you can dodge the school groups) and the admission can be cheaper (depending on what promotions are running).
Shopping There are four big malls in the area and a ton of smaller ones. Regency Square Mall is geared more towards the tween and high school crowd. The Avenues and the Orange Park Mall have stores for everyone along with indoor playgrounds and seasonal events. St. John’s Center is geared towards more upscale clientele; it is also has an “open” plan, making it difficult to navigate with a stroller and dangerous for small children unless you can keep a close watch on them.
The Beach There are several public beaches in the city limits, and a lot more if you’re willing to drive for a bit. Unlike other beaches in Florida, no cars are allowed on the beach, which makes it safer for families with young children.
St. Augustine Although this areas isn’t technically within the city limits, it is just a half-hour drive away. The St. Augustine area is full of museums and unique shops. The Living History Museum has re-enactors playing the parts of Spanish settlers from the sixteenth century, while the St. Augustine Fort offers tours of the old city defenses every day. Be sure to stay for the firing of the cannon everyday in the afternoon (exact times can vary). There are also several beautiful parks for the kids to play in and the Bridge of Lions if you just want to sightsee.
