Things to Do in Jacksonville, FL
All the Best Things to Do in Jacksonville by ExploreUNF
Explore Jacksonville beyond the UNF campus with local guides to outdoor adventures, events, and student-friendly spots. Whether you’re looking to unwind at the beach, get active on the trails, or connect with the city’s music and food scene, these resources help you make the most of student life in Jax.
Sports Events
Catch the action at Hodges Stadium or watch UNF Ospreys basketball and volleyball on campus. Prefer pro sports?
The Jaguars, Jumbo Shrimp, and Icemen play just minutes from UNF.
Concerts
Check out live shows at Daily’s Place, Underbelly, Jack Rabbits, and more.
From indie acts to big names, Jacksonville’s music scene is active year-round.
Explore Jacksonville Smarter, Not Harder
ExploreUNF is designed to save students time and cut through the clutter. Skip the endless searching and use our curated lists and maps to go from idea to action. Whether you’re planning a weekend beach day or just want great coffee near campus, we’ve got the info you actually need.
Common Questions
Escape Campus & Enjoy Jacksonville
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Outdoor Activities & Nature
Explore Jacksonville’s natural beauty through beach trips, scenic parks, and quiet trails perfect for recharging after classes. Whether you’re into sunrise runs, kayaking, or hammock naps under palm trees, the city has easy access to outdoor escapes for every type of student.
Beaches & Parks
Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach are just 20–30 minutes from UNF. Soak up the sun, hit the waves, or just relax with friends after a long week.
For a more active day, head to Hanna Park, which offers surf spots, nature trails, picnic areas, and even campgrounds.
| Beach | Distance from UNF | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville Beach | ~25 mins | Boardwalk, volleyball, surf |
| Neptune Beach | ~25 mins | Quiet, local vibes |
| Hanna Park | ~30 mins | Trails, beach, camping |
Hiking & Wildlife
Escape into nature without leaving the city. Walk the shaded trails at Tree Hill Nature Center or explore the UNF nature preserve right on campus.
For more scenery, check out the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens or Timucuan Preserve, both packed with photo ops and wildlife sightings.
Food & Dining
Jacksonville’s food scene blends Southern flavor, coastal seafood, and international variety—without blowing your budget.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between classes or a place to hang out with friends, there’s no shortage of tasty, affordable options near UNF.
Cheap Eats & Local Favorites
Some student favorites include:
- Metro Diner – famous for hearty comfort food
- Jenkins BBQ – a local staple with real Southern flavor
- TacoLu – laid-back tacos and solid happy hour deals
Seafood fans should try Mayport shrimp, caught locally and served all over the city.
| Restaurant | Known For | Distance from UNF |
|---|---|---|
| Metro Diner | Chicken & waffles | ~10 mins |
| Jenkins BBQ | Ribs, pulled pork | ~20 mins |
| TacoLu | Tacos, tequila | ~15 mins |
Coffee & Study Spots
Need a spot to grind or recharge? Check out these nearby cafes:
- Bold Bean – locally roasted coffee and strong WiFi
- Southern Grounds – relaxed space with food and outlets
Both offer great lighting, quiet corners, and plenty of caffeine to power through study sessions or Zoom calls.
Sports & Games
Whether you’re cheering on the UNF Ospreys, catching an NFL game, or just playing mini golf with friends, the variety of sporty things to do in Jacksonville make it easy to stay active and entertained. Game day energy is real here (and student discounts are common, too!).
Pro Teams
Jacksonville’s professional sports teams have long seasons, so there’s games every semester. The major professional sports teams in Jacksonville are:
- Jaguars – NFL football at EverBank Stadium
- Icemen – fast-paced hockey at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
- Jumbo Shrimp – affordable & fun minor league baseball downtown
| Team | Sport | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Jaguars | Football | Fall–Winter |
| Icemen | Hockey | Fall–Spring |
| Jumbo Shrimp | Baseball | Spring–Summer |
Fun With Friends
Looking for casual competition or group activities? Try:
- Escape rooms in Southside or Riverside
- Topgolf, just 10 minutes from campus
- Main Event for bowling, arcade games, and laser tag
These spots are perfect for birthdays, study breaks, or just blowing off steam after exams. Most are close to UNF and offer evening student deals or combo passes.
Arts, Museums, & Culture
Jacksonville has a laid-back but growing arts scene that’s perfect for exploring between classes or on weekends.
From interactive exhibits to live music and local murals, the city blends creativity with student-friendly access.
Museums
- MOSH (Museum of Science & History) is hands-on, fun, and close to Downtown.
- MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) features rotating exhibitions and student discounts.
Both are walkable from public transit and great for a low-key afternoon.
Street Art & Music
Catch shows at Jack Rabbits, Underbelly, and open mics near campus.
Snap mural pics in Five Points, Riverside, and the Beaches.
Nightlife & Events
Jacksonville’s nightlife is casual, creative, and easy to navigate from UNF. Explore Downtown, San Marco, and Riverside for everything from craft cocktails to dive bars with live music. Most spots are low-key, affordable, and packed with students or locals.
Popular recurring events include:
- Trivia nights at local breweries and bars
- Open mic nights for music, comedy, and poetry
- Food truck festivals with live DJs and games
Check out student boards and local calendars for weekly happenings, especially during fall and spring when events ramp up across the city.
Day Trips from Jacksonville
When you need a break from Jacksonville, there are plenty of nearby spots worth the short drive.
Amelia Island and St. Augustine are two of the most popular weekend getaways for UNF students, offering beach time, sightseeing, and local eats.
Top Picks for Day Trips
| Destination | Distance from UNF | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Amelia Island | ~1 hr | Quiet beaches, kayaking, bike paths |
| St. Augustine | ~1 hr 15 mins | Historic sites, ghost tours, shopping |
| Big Talbot Island | ~45 mins | Driftwood beach, hiking, photography |
Both towns offer a slower pace and a chance to explore Florida history, nature trails, and unique small businesses. You can also check out Fernandina Beach, Little Talbot Island, or Flagler Beach if you want fewer crowds.
Most places are best with a car, but some can be accessed by rideshare or group trips with friends.
FAQs
What are the best beaches near UNF?
Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Hanna Park are all within a 30-minute drive from campus. Jax Beach is the most popular for students, while Hanna Park offers hiking trails and camping in addition to shoreline access.
What food is Jacksonville known for?
The city is known for Mayport shrimp, caught locally and served at seafood spots all over town. You’ll also find plenty of Southern BBQ and classic comfort food, with places like Jenkins BBQ and Metro Diner topping student lists.
Are there free things to do in Jacksonville?
Yes! UNF’s nature trails, the Riverside Arts Market, public art walls, and beach days are all free and easy options. Some museums also offer free admission on select days.
What’s a fun weekend trip near Jacksonville?
St. Augustine and Amelia Island are under 90 minutes away and make for great day trips. Expect beaches, historic sites, and walkable downtown areas.
Where can I see live music in Jacksonville?
Check out Jack Rabbits, 1904 Music Hall, and Underbelly. All are near Downtown and host regular shows featuring indie, alternative, and local acts.
Does Jacksonville have student discounts?
Yes—many restaurants, movie theaters, and attractions offer student pricing with a valid Osprey1Card.
