With its storied past, unique neighborhoods, and location along the St. Johns River, Jacksonville, FL is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the state. The city is well known for its many golf courses, but it’s also home to a vast park system and a vibrant culture. You’ll want to make sure to add these exciting local attractions to your itinerary while you’re in the famous river city!
4 Favorite Local Attractions to Discover in Jacksonville FL
1. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
This 122-acre zoo is situated by the Trout River and showcases thousands of animal and plant species from Australia, Asia, and Africa, along with a variety of local wildlife. When visiting the Plains of East Africa, you’ll be able to observe savannah dwellers, like the southern white rhinoceros, African elephant, and imperial zebra. The elusive Florida panther can be found in the Wild Florida exhibit, which also features a large reptile house.
Beneath the Giraffe Outlook is the Savannah Blooms botanical garden, a recreation of a South African oasis that houses a variety of aquatic plant life. Visitors can take in a scenic view of the river at the Trout River Plaza’s beautiful Greek-style garden.
2. Kingsley Plantation
Located on Fort George Island, this well-preserved historical site offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of a 19th-century plantation owner and the slaves who worked in its fields. You can visit the main house, barn, and slave cabins and learn about them through the available guided tours. You’ll also hear the story of Zephaniah Kingsley, the master of the plantation, and his wife Anna, one of his freed slaves who ran the Laurel Grove plantation.
3. Museum of Science and History
Popularly known as “the MOSH,” this science museum is also dedicated to the history of the First Coast region, where many of the first European settlers landed. Interactive exhibits, such as the JEA Science Theater, will teach visitors about the science of explosions or let them have an up-close encounter with local wildlife at the Naturalist’s Center. The Currents of Time exhibit focuses on 12,000 years of Native American history.
During each spring, summer, and winter season, a one-day MOSH Discovery Camp is held there for younger school children. While at the camp, they’ll have fun learning about natural sciences through supervised experiments and take part in arts & crafts classes.
4. St. Johns River Ferry
One of the most fun ways to learn about Jacksonville while enjoying its gorgeous scenery is taking a ride with this friendly ferry service. In addition to providing transport across the river, they’ll take passengers on sightseeing tours that range from 60 to 90 minutes in length. The most popular tour is the Sunset Cruise, where you’ll get to see the city dramatically light up after the sun goes down.
On the fourth Thursday of every month, the ferry hosts prominent community figures who guest speak about important local issues.
Jacksonville is full of spectacular sights and experiences! Before you head out on your next trip in Jax, visit Tom Bush MINI today and check out an amazing inventory of new and pre-owned MINI vehicles!
Connect with us
