Jacksonville Area Top Attractions and Activities

Florida’s First Coast is where coastal beauty and centuries of history come together. From the sandy beaches of Amelia Island and Jacksonville to the cobblestone streets of St. Augustine—the nation’s oldest city—this region has something for every traveler. Whether you’re planning a family beach trip, a romantic retreat, or a fun getaway with friends, our Florida’s First Coast vacation guide highlights the best places to explore, play, and unwind.

Concert Venues

• Daily's Place
• Florida Theater
• VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
• Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
• Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts

Museums

• Cummer Museum
• MOSH Museum of Science and History
• MOCA Museum of Contemporary Art
• USS Orleck Naval Museum
• Beaches Museum

Parks & Trails

• Baldwin Trail
• Emerald Trail
• Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
• Memorial Park
• Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Garden
• South Beach Park & Sunshine Playground
• Big Talbot Island State Park
• Spring Park
• Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Reserve

Professional Sports Teams

• Jacksonville Jaguars
• Jacksonville Giants
• Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
• Jacksonville Icemen
• Jacksonville Armada

Foodie Things

• Jacksonville Ale Trail
• Jax Coffee & Donuts Trail
• Mayport Shrimp Trail
• Distilleries
• Go Tuk'N Progressive Dinner

Beaches

• Jacksonville Beach
• American Beach
• Black Rock Beach
• Mickler's Landing
• Neptune Beach
• Atlantic Beach

Family Friendly

• Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
• K1 Speed Indoor Go-Carting & Arcade
• Stumpy's Hatchet House
• iFly Indoor Skydiving
• Cattyshack Ranch
• Topgolf
• Sweet Pete's
• Friendship Fountain

Shopping

• St Johns Town Center
• Riverside Arts Market
• St August Premium Outlets
• Beaches Town Center
• Fernandina Beach Main Street Shops
• Shops at Omni Amelia Island
• Shopping on Walnut - Green Cove Springs, FL

On the Water

• Kayaking
• Paddleboarding
• Surfing
• Fishing
• Fishing Charters
• Airboat Tours - Sea Serpent
• Sunset Cruise
• Dolphin Tours
• Backwater Catboat Tours
• Fury Water Adventures
• River Taxi Tours

Fun Things to Do

• Go Tuk'n Tours
• Pedal Pub Jax
• Explore Jax Core Tours
• Jacksonville Pub Walks
• Self Guided Mural Tour
• Jacksonville Walking Tours
• Shady Rest Alpacas
• Congaree & Penn

Sample Itineraries for the First Coast

4-Night Stay

Day 1: Ease into your trip with laid-back days at Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, or Atlantic Beach. In the evening, enjoy some bites and brews on the Jax Ale Trail or indulge in fresh seafood along the Mayport Shrimp Trail.

Day 2: Head south to St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city—wander its cobblestone streets, tour Castillo de San Marcos, and explore historical sites. On your way back, visit one of Jacksonville’s top museums like the Cummer Museum, MOSH, or MOCA.

Day 3: Explore lush nature at Big Talbot Island State Park, stroll the Emerald Trail, or discover the serene Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Garden. Cap your day with a sunset dolphin tour, kayaking, or a sunset cruise.

Day 4: Spend the morning at Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens or try something more unique like iFly Indoor Skydiving or Stumpy’s Hatchet House. Wrap up your day browsing local favorites like the Riverside Arts Market, St. Johns Town Center, or Fernandina Beach Main Street Shops.

5-Night Stay

Day 5: Venture to Amelia Island for coastal horse rides, beach exploration, or a stroll through its charming downtown.

6-Night Stay

Day 6: Start your day with a mural or walking tour in Jacksonville or a peaceful stroll through Spring Park or Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park. In the afternoon, embark on a sunset cruise or try a backwater catboat tour—a relaxing way to end your vacation on the water. For a final evening, enjoy a progressive dinner like Go Tuk'N, or check out a live performance at Florida Theatre or Daily's Place.

Your Dream First Coast Vacation Awaits

From sun-soaked beaches and dolphin-filled waters to cobblestone streets and food-truck feasts, Florida’s First Coast is where history meets good vibes. Dive in, wander around, and soak up the coastal fun—one adventure-packed day at a time.

Visit the blog to find more Jacksonville and Florida's First Coast vacation information.