Planning your trip to Jacksonville? Whether you’re in town on business or taking your family on a vacation, it can be difficult to decide which attractions are worth your time and money—and which ones aren’t. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you! In this guide, we explore five of the top-rated attractions in Jacksonville, giving you an idea of what to expect at each one. Whether you plan to visit only one attraction while in town or all five, let this guide help you decide what Jacksonville has to offer!
1) Zoo Jaguars, monkeys, red pandas and more live at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, home to more than 2,000 animals representing over 300 species. Get up close to these animals during daily keeper talks and behind-the-scenes tours. Set inside 150 acres of woodlands, wetlands and gardens, there’s always something new to see or do at JZG. Adults pay $15 for a one-day pass; children under 3 are free. Parking is $6 per vehicle.
2) Museum of Science and History The Museum of Science and History offers a wide range of activities, including educational programs and camps for kids, public planetarium shows, an aquarium filled with fish from around Florida, and an exhibit space. The museums are free on Wednesday nights, starting at 5 p.m., with free parking and shuttle service available. On Friday nights at 8 p.m., you can catch a laser show followed by a science lecture (fees apply). Get more information about pricing here . Admission: Adults $12; ages 3 to 17 $10; ages 2 and younger free; Seniors 55+: $10 (for any combo ticket)
3) Landing The aircraft carrier USS Oriskany (CV/CVA/CVS-34) is docked at Naval Station Mayport. Originally commissioned as CVA-34, she was one of 24 Essex class aircraft carriers built during World War II for use by the United States Navy. She was recommissioned as an attack carrier CVA (Heavy) on 1 October 1952 and served until 20 February 1976, when she was stricken from the Naval Vessel Register and donated to become a museum ship. The Oriskany can be found at Exit 308 off Interstate 295 East Beltway; there are several tours offered daily and visitors can get up close to see where military aviators spent their time aboard before flying missions during Vietnam and other major conflicts. Southwest Airlines reservations 4) Friendship Fountain The Friendship Fountain is a notable fixture of Downtown Jacksonville, as it is a well-known landmark for locals and visitors alike. The fountain has water flowing from several tiers with an image of Neptune above. It was designed by world renowned artist and sculptor Lorenzo de Medici, who used a concept called fantasy architecture to bring mythological creatures to life on each level. The first three levels feature dolphins, turtles, and frogs while Neptune makes up the top tier where water flows over his head. This fountain can be found right on the riverfront which offers great views of downtown Jax and cool ocean breezes on nice days.
5) Hart Bridge Sculpture Garden By some measures, No. 1, but others rank it No. 2. Which makes me not want to rank it at all, because otherwise people will say I don’t know what I’m talking about—something they tend to say anyway (as in, Jacksonville Jaguars jerseys? What is up with that? Are you seriously wearing those things? Don’t you watch football?) On second thought, ranking #1 seems kind of impossible and undeserved for a couple reasons: It involves too much time sitting or standing on one’s butt; no kids allowed; and single digits can be super depressing when there are other options.
