Things to Do in Jacksonville (2025)

A Saturday ritual beneath the Fuller Warren Bridge: farmers, makers, and live music in one lively market. Recommended by Southern Living and produced by Riverside Avondale Preservation, RAM spotlights small local businesses year‑round, rain or shine.

A riverfront jewel where art meets historic gardens. Cited by Southern Living and supported by local news, the museum’s 2025 hours and free‑access days invite picnics in freshly reopened gardens and gallery wandering.

Watch shrimp boats unload and then order the catch—true dock‑to‑plate Mayport flavor. Family‑run and praised by regional food writers, Safe Harbor showcases the area’s seafood heritage with unbeatable working‑waterfront views.

See the skyline from the water on history, dolphin, or sunset cruises run by a local team. Frequently highlighted by Downtown Jacksonville and travel guides, the River Taxi is an easy, scenic way to explore the riverfront.

An intimate art space linking exhibitions with civic dialogue, founded by longtime local arts leader Hope McMath. Open weekly with programs that draw praise from Jacksonville’s arts community for meaningful, community‑rooted shows.

A true listening room—quiet crowd, superb sound, and national songwriters alongside local jazz and bluegrass. Celebrated by music journalists and locals alike, it delivers intimate shows you’ll talk about long after the encore.

Downtown’s organic distillery offers guided tours and tastings of award‑winning spirits—an anchor of the Sports District. Covered by local media and Downtown Vision, Manifest pairs craft excellence with community‑minded events.

Lose yourself in miles of shelves at this legendary independent bookstore. With decades of praise from local writers and readers, Chamblin’s is where Jacksonville trades, discovers, and champions books of every stripe.

A working farm, cidery, and restaurant known for orchard strolls, farm passes, and seasonal dinners. Spotlighted by Garden & Gun, it’s a favorite for relaxed, agritourism‑meets‑culinary experiences minutes from downtown.

A 1927 Art Deco landmark and nonprofit venue with a packed 2025 calendar—comedy, concerts, film, and local showcases. Fresh from major renovations, it remains the city’s quintessential downtown stage.

A volunteer‑run big‑cat sanctuary offering afternoon tours and popular night feedings. Recognized by visitors and local tourism groups, it educates while providing a humane, permanent home to rescued animals.