Are you planning a trip to Jacksonville but worried about the expenses? Worry not, as there are plenty of free things to do in Jacksonville that won’t cost you a dime. From exploring the city’s rich history to enjoying the outdoors, Jacksonville has something for everyone.
From exploring historic sites like the Kingsley Plantation to strolling through the Riverside Arts Market, there are plenty of opportunities to experience Jacksonville’s rich history and vibrant arts scene without spending a dime. Looking for some outdoor fun? Head to the beach, go hiking, or take a family bike ride through one of Jacksonville’s many parks.
By reading this article, you’ll know 58 free things to do in Jacksonville that will keep you entertained without breaking the bank. You’ll learn about the best parks, beaches, and cultural experiences that Jacksonville has to offer. So, whether you’re a local looking for something new to do or a tourist on a budget, keep reading to discover all that Jacksonville has to offer.
History and Origin of Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida, possesses a history as rich and diverse as its landscape. Founded in 1822, the city was named after Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States and a former territorial governor of Florida. Its location along the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean facilitated its growth as a major port for trade and travel.
The area was initially inhabited by the Timucua people and later became a pivotal site during the Civil War, changing hands several times. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Jacksonville blossomed as a winter resort for the wealthy and later became an important military and civilian deep-water port. Today, it’s known as the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, with a mix of urban charm and natural beauty, reflecting its storied past and vibrant present.
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60 Best Free Things to Do in Jacksonville
Embark on an adventure in Jacksonville without spending a dime with our guide, ’60 Best Free Things to Do in Jacksonville.’ From strolling along pristine beaches to exploring historic neighborhoods and soaking in the vibrant local culture, Jacksonville offers a plethora of cost-free activities that promise fun and discovery for everyone.
1. Explore Jacksonville Beach
Take a stroll along Jacksonville Beach and enjoy the ocean breeze. You can also fish from the pier or watch surfers catch waves.
2. Walk the Riverside Arts Market
The Riverside Arts Market is a weekly event that features local artists, and food vendors. It’s a great place to spend a Saturday morning.
3. Hike in Timucuan Preserve
Timucuan Preserve is a beautiful natural area that offers miles of hiking trails. You can explore wetlands, forests, and beaches all in one place.
4. Visit the Cummer Museum
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers free admission every Tuesday from 4-9 pm. You can explore the museum’s art collection and stroll through the gardens.
5. Stroll through Friendship Fountain
Friendship Fountain is a beautiful landmark in downtown Jacksonville. Take a walk around the fountain and enjoy the view of the St. Johns River.
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6. Bike along Baldwin Rail Trail
The Baldwin Rail Trail is a 14-mile paved trail for biking or walking. You’ll pass through forests, wetlands, and farmland along the way.
7. Picnic at Memorial Park
Memorial Park is a fantastic Riverside park perfect for a picnic. You can relax in the shade of the oak trees and enjoy the view of the St. Johns River.
8. Go bird-watching at Hanna Park
Hanna Park is a great place to go bird-watching. You’ll see various birds, including ospreys, herons, and egrets.
9. Tour Kingsley Plantation
Kingsley Plantation is a historic site that offers free tours. You can learn about the plantation’s history and explore the grounds.
10. Skate at Kona Skatepark
Kona Skatepark is the oldest skatepark in the world, and it’s free to skate. You can watch skaters perform tricks or try some of your own.
11. Play disc golf at Ed Austin Park
Ed Austin Park has a free disc golf course perfect for beginners. You can enjoy a round of disc golf while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
12. Admire Treaty Oak Park
Treaty Oak Park is home to the oldest tree in Jacksonville. You can admire the tree and learn about its history.
13. Watch wildlife at Fort Caroline
Fort Caroline National Memorial is a great place to watch wildlife. You’ll see various animals, including deer, alligators, and turtles.
14. Jog around Friendship Fountain
Take a jog around Friendship Fountain and enjoy the view of the St. Johns River. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.
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15. Explore Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park is a historic site that offers free admission. You can explore the fort and enjoy the beach.
16. Attend Riverside Craft Market
The Riverside Craft Market is a monthly event that features local artists and crafters. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and support local businesses.
17. Paddle at Black Creek Outfitters
Black Creek Outfitters offers complimentary paddleboard and kayak demos every Saturday. You can try out different watercraft and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
18. Discover The Jacksonville Arboretum
The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens is a beautiful natural area perfect for hiking. You can explore the trails and see a variety of plants and wildlife.
19. Visit Karpeles Manuscript Museum
The Karpeles Manuscript Museum is unique and features rare manuscripts and documents. You can learn about the history and see some amazing artifacts.
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20. Fish at Hanna Park Pier
Hanna Park Pier is a great place to go fishing. You can catch various fish, including redfish, flounder, and trout.
21. Roam in Tillie K. Fowler Park
Tillie K. Fowler Park is a beautiful park located on the west side of Jacksonville. It features a large lake, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
22. Observe Animals at Tree Hill Nature Center
Tree Hill Nature Center is a 50-acre nature preserve that features hiking trails and a variety of animals, including birds of prey, reptiles, and mammals.
23. Bike the Baldwin Trail
The Baldwin Trail is a 14-mile paved trail that runs through the heart of Jacksonville. It’s perfect for biking, jogging, and walking.
24. Walk the Southbank Riverwalk
The Southbank Riverwalk is a scenic walkway along the St. Johns River. It offers stunning skyline views and is a great place to stroll.
25. Stargaze at Bryan-Gooding Planetarium
The Bryan-Gooding Planetarium is located in the Museum of Science and History (MOSH) and offers free stargazing events yearly.
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26. Hike the Theodore Roosevelt Area
The Theodore Roosevelt Area is a beautiful nature preserve that offers hiking trails and picnic areas.
27. Tour Jacksonville Fire Museum
The Jacksonville Fire Museum is a free museum that features exhibits on the history of firefighting in Jacksonville.
28. Attend the Beaches Art Walk
The Beaches Art Walk is a free event held on the third Thursday of every month. It features local artists and food trucks.
29. Play Tennis at Boone Park
Boone Park is beautiful with tennis courts, a playground, and picnic areas.
30. Explore Castaway Island Preserve
Castaway Island Preserve is a nature preserve featuring hiking trails, a boardwalk, and stunning marsh views.
31. Take Photos at Jacksonville Zoo
The Jacksonville Zoo is a great place to take photos of animals, flowers, and landscapes. Admission is free for members on certain days.
32. Go Geocaching in Jacksonville
Geocaching is a fun and free activity that involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden treasures. Jacksonville has many geocaching sites to explore.
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33. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is a free museum that features exhibits on modern art and culture.
34. Explore Kathryn Abbey, Hanna Park
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a beautiful park with hiking trails, a lake, and a beach.
35. Watch the Sunset at Beach Blvd
Beach Blvd is a great place to watch the sunset over the ocean. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
36. Skateboard at Kookaburra Park
Kookaburra Park is a free skate park with ramps, rails, and other obstacles for skateboarders to enjoy.
37. Jog at Losco Regional Park
Losco Regional Park is beautiful with jogging trails, picnic areas, and a playground.
38. Admire the MOSH Planetarium
The MOSH Planetarium is a free attraction that features shows on astronomy and space exploration.
39. Take a Selfie at Jax Beach Pier
Jax Beach Pier is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Stroll down the pier and snap a selfie with the beautiful Atlantic Ocean in the background.
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40. Watch a Sunset at Huguenot Park
Huguenot Park is a great place to watch the sunset. Pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful views of the St. Johns River.
41. Play Basketball at Memorial Park
Memorial Park is a fantastic place to shoot some hoops. The park has several basketball courts that are free to use.
42. Visit the Ritz Theatre
The Ritz Theatre is a historic theatre that hosts various free events annually. Check their website for upcoming shows and concerts.
43. Explore Jacksonville’s Chinatown
Jacksonville’s Chinatown is a vibrant community with many exciting shops and restaurants. Take a stroll down the streets and explore the unique culture.
44. Hike the S-Line Urban Greenway
The S-Line Urban Greenway is a 4-mile trail running through Jacksonville’s heart. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and jogging.
45. Picnic at Klutho Park
Klutho Park is beautiful with plenty of green space for picnics and outdoor activities. The park also has a playground and basketball courts.
46. Go Horseback Riding at Diamond D Ranch
Diamond D Ranch offers free horseback riding tours of their beautiful property. Reservations are required, so be sure to call ahead.
47. Visit Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
The Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail is a 14.5-mile trail perfect for hiking and biking. The trail is free to use and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
48. Walk the Jacksonville Riverwalk
The Jacksonville Riverwalk is a scenic trail along the St. Johns River. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.
49. Attend Riverside Arts Market
The Riverside Arts Market is a weekly event that features local artists and food vendors. The market is free to attend and is a great way to experience the local culture.
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50. Visit Tree Hill Nature Center
Tree Hill Nature Center is a beautiful nature preserve with hiking trails and educational exhibits. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
51. Explore the MOSH Museum
The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) is a great place to learn about the history of Jacksonville. Admission is free on Tuesdays from 4-8 pm.
52. Stroll Through Riverside Park
Riverside Park is beautiful with plenty of green space and a playground. Take a stroll and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
53. Go Kayaking in the St. Johns River
Kayaking is a great way to explore the St. Johns River. Several companies offer free kayak rentals, so check them out.
54. Visit LaVilla Museum
LaVilla Museum is a great place to learn about the history of African Americans in Jacksonville. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
55. Tour Jacksonville Maritime Museum
The Jacksonville Maritime Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the city’s port. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
56. Attend the Springfield Arts Festival
The Springfield Arts Festival is a free event that features local artists and food vendors. The festival is a great way to experience the local culture.
57. Explor, DuPont Park
Jessie Ball DuPont Park is beautiful with plenty of green space and a playground. Take a stroll and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
58. Visit Fort George Island Cultural State Park
Fort George Island Cultural State Park has excellent hiking trails and historical exhibits. Admission is fart collections are appreciated.
Is Jacksonville a Walkable City?
Yes, Jacksonville is a walkable city, especially in its downtown area. The downtown area is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with wide sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals. The city has a well-maintained Riverwalk along the St. Johns River, providing a scenic route for walkers and joggers. The Riverwalk also connects several parks, museums, and restaurants, making it a great way to explore the city on foot.
Additionally, Jacksonville has several walkable neighborhoods, such as Riverside and Avondale, known for their historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and pedestrian-friendly shopping districts. These neighborhoods have residential and commercial properties, allowing residents and visitors to walk to shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
How Do I Spend a Day in Jacksonville, FL?
If you’re looking for free things to do in Jacksonville, you’re in luck! This vibrant city has many activities that won’t cost you a dime. Here’s how to spend a day in Jacksonville without breaking the bank:
Morning:
Start your day off by taking a stroll along the Jacksonville Riverwalk. This scenic pathway winds along the St. Johns River and offers stunning city skyline views. You’ll also pass by several parks and monuments along the way.
After your walk, head to the Riverside Arts Market. This weekly market features local artisans and food vendors. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and browse unique handmade goods.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, head to the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. While admission is typically not free, the museum offers free admission every Tuesday from 4-9 pm. Stroll through the beautiful gardens and explore the museum’s impressive art collection.
Next, head to the beach! Jacksonville has miles of beautiful beaches to choose from, all free to access. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and playing in the waves.
Evening:
Finish off your day by catching a free outdoor movie at the Seawalk Pavilion. The pavilion hosts free movie screenings every Friday night during the summer months. Bring a blanket and snacks, and enjoy a movie under the stars.
There are plenty of free things to do in Jacksonville to keep you busy for a day. From scenic walks to beach days to cultural experiences, this city has something for everyone.
Is it Safe to do Free Things to Do in Jacksonville?
Exploring Jacksonville through its array of free activities is generally considered safe, much like in any other major city. Jacksonville offers numerous safe and enjoyable options such as strolling along its beautiful beaches, visiting parks like the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, or exploring the Riverside Arts Market.
As with any destination, it’s always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when in less familiar areas or during nighttime. Common sense safety measures, like not displaying valuables and staying in well-lit, populated areas, further ensure a secure and pleasant experience in this vibrant city.
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Is it Worth Visiting Jacksonville?
Visiting Jacksonville is certainly worth it for those seeking a blend of urban charm and natural beauty. As the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, Jacksonville offers a vast array of attractions. From the picturesque beaches along the Atlantic coast to the sprawling urban park system, including the renowned Friendship Fountain, there’s something for everyone.
The city’s vibrant arts scene, historic neighborhoods like Riverside and Avondale, and the bustling Downtown with its riverfront marketplaces add to its allure. Whether it’s exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage or enjoying outdoor activities like boating and fishing, Jacksonville provides a unique Florida experience that combines relaxation with adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Free Things to Do in Jacksonville
Here you can find a few commonly asked questions about free things to do in Jacksonville.
What are the best family-friendly activities in Jacksonville that don’t cost anything?
Jacksonville offers many family-friendly activities that don’t cost anything. Some great options include visiting the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens on the first Tuesday of the month, exploring the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens on Tuesdays from 4 pm to 9 pm, and taking a stroll through the Riverside Arts Market on Saturdays.
Where can I find free museums or cultural experiences in Jacksonville?
Jacksonville has many free museums and cultural experiences. Some options include the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, the Beaches Museum and History Park, and the Kingsley Plantation.
Are there any outdoor activities available in Jacksonville that are free of charge?
Yes, many outdoor activities in Jacksonville are free of charge. You can hike through the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens, explore the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, or visit the beautiful Big Talbot Island State Park.
What can adults do for free in Jacksonville, especially during the evening?
There are many free adult activities in Jacksonville, especially during the evening. You can visit the Riverside Arts Market or stroll through the historic San Marco neighborhood.
How can visitors enjoy Jacksonville’s beaches without spending money?
Visitors can enjoy Jacksonville’s beaches without spending money by taking a walk or bike ride on the Jacksonville Beach Pier, exploring the beaches’ many parks and playgrounds, or simply relaxing on the sand and soaking up the sun.
What are some cost-free events or attractions in Jacksonville this weekend?
There are many cost-free events and attractions in Jacksonville this weekend. You can check out the Riverside Arts Market on Saturday, visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens on the first Tuesday of the month, or explore the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens on Tuesdays from 4 pm to 9 pm.
Conclusion
Jacksonville, FL is a city full of free activities and attractions that cater to all ages. From the beautiful beaches and parks to the rich history and vibrant arts scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Some of the best free things to do in Jacksonville include visiting the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, exploring the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens, and taking a stroll through the Riverside Arts Market. Additionally, the city offers a variety of free festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival and the Riverside Arts Market Night Market.
By taking advantage of these free activities, you can save money while still having a great time exploring all that Jacksonville has to offer. Don’t forget to share your experiences on social media and encourage your friends and family to visit this wonderful city!
