If stunning nature walks, sparkling beaches and 840 miles of diverse eateries sound like they're up your alley, then you're in luck. Jacksonville is the largest city by land area in the United States, so it's sure to have something for your family to enjoy. We've compiled a kid-approved list of activities for your family to enjoy together, many within close proximity to top apartments in Jacksonville.
Atlantic Beach
Florida is a beach lover's paradise and with miles of Atlantic Ocean coast, Intercoastal waterways and the St. John's River, Jacksonville is the perfect place to soak up the sun. Atlantic Beach is a great place to enjoy a day of swimming, grilling out and throwing the football around. If you get tired of lounging around, there's paddle-boarding, kayaking and fishing to keep the family energized.
Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is one of the most popular outdoor spots in Jacksonville with views that are sure to take your breath away. The entire area is 1.2 miles and is filled with shops, restaurants, a museum and the marina, so pack your stroller for the littlest ones and plan to stop a few times to check out the shops or eat.
Tree Hill Nature Center
This is an ideal place for families renting apartments in the Arlington neighborhood to enjoy community environment programs and revel in the natural beauty of Jacksonville. The park, with its 50-acres of trails, gardens, butterflies and hummingbirds, requires a membership, but it comes with a few discounts and perks that you can check out here.
Friendship Fountain
Located near St. Johns County Apartments at the River Park, Friendship Fountain is a sight to see with 17,000 gallons of water spurting out every hour at a height of 120 feet. The park is open 8am to midnight, so be sure to check it out after dark to see the fountain accented by colorful lights.
Autobahn Indoor Speedway
Located in the 32216 zip code near a variety of great Jacksonville apartments, the Speedway offers guests a competitive Grand-prix style go-kart track complete with state-of-the-art timers and reflective barriers.
St. Augustine Aquarium
Embark on an underwater adventure at the St. Augustine Aquarium, just 30 minutes south of Jacksonville proper. The aquarium boasts a diverse array of animals such as sharks and stingrays and offers snorkeling for guests who want to interact with the wildlife.
Candy Apple Café
When the kids have had their fun and start begging for food, take them to Candy Apple Café for an establishment full of vibrant colors and festive decoration, French-inspired dishes and a kids menu sure to make the kids' mouths water. Once energy levels are back up, cross the street for a breezy afternoon in Hemming Park's play area.
It can be both exciting and daunting to reside in a city so large as Jacksonville. But no matter your family's interests and age-range, Jacksonville is sure to have something up your alley with vast beaches and nature parks as well as indoor thrills and family-friendly eateries. Just explore the area around your Jacksonville apartment, you may end up being pleasantly surprised by the gems in your own neighborhood.