With its status as one of the largest Southern cities, Jacksonville, FL, offers so much to see and do. When you want to refresh your routine with some new weekend activities, check out this list of our three local favorites.
3 Weekend Activities You Can Drive to Near Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
You can spend a whole day encountering thousands of plants and more than 2,000 animal species at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, which has been one of the city’s best attractions since it opened in 1914. View exotic and rare creatures from all over the world, including Sumatran and Malayan tigers, poison dart frogs, giraffes, elephants, rhinos, black bears, turtles, bald eagles, and many more.
In addition to acres of plants and animals, you’ll find other family fun attractions like a carousel and train ride. The zoo is located at 370 Zoo Pkwy, and you can visit seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission costs $29.95 for adults, $24.95 for kids ages 3 to 12, and $27.95 for seniors when you buy tickets online in advance at the official Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens website.
Little Talbot Island State Park
Take a day trip or camp for the weekend at this Florida state park, located right here in Jacksonville. Little Talbot Island State Park is one of the region’s few remaining natural barrier islands, completely free of commercial and residential development. You can bike or hike on 3 miles of trails or just relax on the untouched beaches. The park also allows kayaking on Myrtle Creek, swimming, surfing, fishing, picnicking, and birdwatching.
The park has rentals of both bikes and canoes for your convenience. While you’re here, you can spot migrating birds, bobcats, marsh rabbits, river otters, and many other species. Little Talbot Island State Park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset every day of the year. Admission costs $5 per vehicle. The park is located at 12157 Heckscher Dr. Check the official calendar to learn about educational events, such as ranger-led hikes.
Morning Yoga at the Riverside Arts Market
Jacksonville’s weekly Riverside Arts Market hosts free community yoga with a different volunteer instructor every Saturday morning from 9 to 10 a.m. through the end of November. After the class, you can browse the market for artisan goods like handmade jewelry and enjoy food from local vendors as well as live entertainment.
Riverside Arts Market takes place at 715 Riverside Ave. It’s open rain or shine from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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