Things to do in Jacksonville

Jacksonville has a modest selection of attractions in comparison to higher profile Florida holiday destinations such as Tampa and Orlando; however, visitors should find enough to occupy their time here without too much difficulty. The citys coastal location is of course one of its biggest draw cards and its beautiful beach is a major attraction in its own right.

Jacksonville Zoological Gardens

Hailed as northeast Floridas only walking safari, the Zoological Gardens, located on Zoo Parkway in Jacksonville, are a popular visitor attraction, drawing tourists in their thousands to see an animal collection that comprises of over 1,000 rare and exotic creatures. The zoo is updated regularly with the addition of new animals and themed sections. The Plains of East Africa, Safari Lodge, Great Apes of the World and Australian Adventure are among the zoos most popular areas.

ALLTEL Stadium

The Jacksonville ALLTEL Stadium was once known as the Municipal Stadium and is the venue where American Football fans can catch games played by local teams, the Jacksonville Jaguars. The NFL season begins in September and coincides with the beginning of a busy tourist period. Consequently, many visitors come along to enjoy the great excitement and sense of local support generated at the Jaguar's games.

Captain Dave's Sportfishing Charters

Local fishing expert Captain Dave Sipler offers exciting trips aboard his well-equipped vessel, which carries visitors out to some of the areas best fishing spots. A standard trip lasts 6 hours and the captain promises to pack as much fishing as possible into that period. Alternatively, you can charter his boat for private trips to destinations of your choice.

Museum of Science and History

Otherwise known as MOSH, Jacksonvilles Museum of Science and History is a fascinating facility with something to interest visitors of all ages. The museum has an extensive collection of permanent exhibits as well as visiting exhibitions that change throughout the year. Currents of Time, Florida Naturalist and the Hixon Native Plant Courtyard are among the themed areas available for viewing at the facility. The Alexander Brest Planetarium, also on-site, offers visitors an interesting insight into the field of astronomy.

Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville Beach is in fact a district of the City of Jacksonville and one in which visitors will find miles of quiet, white sandy beaches that are perfect for a spot of relaxation, a game of Frisbee, a swim or the pursuit of organised water sports.

Adventure Landing

Adventure Landing is a centre aimed at the young and the young at heart, and is home to a variety of fun-filled attractions which will easily keep visitors occupied for the whole day. Some of the most popular attractions include the mega-arcade, the fast-paced laser tag game, the battling cages and the go-karts.

Jacksonville Museum of Modern Art

Lovers of culture and aesthetics should not miss out on a trip to the Jacksonville Museum of Modern Art, where a large collection of contemporary artworks are permanently on display and others are available for viewing via visiting exhibitions. A cinema within the facility regularly screens art house movies, while educational programmes are conducted throughout the year, with guest speakers presenting their opinions on key topics.