Home of fun Stroll the Jacksonville River Walks, Visit the Kingsley Plantation, Chill at Jacksonville’s beaches and plenty of things to do in Jacksonville on Memorial Day. We've compiled some of the best activities to do in Jacksonville on this Memorial Day holiday.
The Jacksonville River Walks has a heap of trails that extend on both sides of the St Johns River. This means you’re in for a treat as you can join an urban trail whilst also exploring lots of the city during Memorila Day.
Just make sure to keep your eyes focused on the waters. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins.
Afterwards, head over to Treaty Oak Park to see one of the city’s most-famous Southern live oaks. It’s said to be over 250 years old!
The former home of Zephaniah Kingsley, the Kingsley Plantation is perched right within Fort George Island State Park.
Hiding a dark side of history, the Kingsley Plantation is a former plantation where vast exploitation of enslaved people occurred. Nowadays, you can learn more about this horrid period of forced labour. It’s so sad to read about this but something that must never be forgotten.
After taking in all the accounts at the plantation, head off onto some of the trails that line the park. It’s a totally stunning area – but watch out for the mosquitos during visit on Memorial Day.
Nestled within The Beaches” area of Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach is gorgeous to visit, especially if you’re looking for a relaxing day on Memorial Day.
This beach has many great restaurants and has a beautiful sandy shore to boot! It’s Great for surfing and kayaking, Atlantic Beach has almost been made for just chilling! Well, that’s my excuse for not doing anything when there!
Getting hungry? Head to North Beach Fish Camp for their incredible seafood menu. Their cajun fried crab claws are too good to miss.
Alternatively, drive 30-minutes from Jacksonville and explore Ponte Vedra Beach which is a totally stunning stretch of white sandy dreams! Also, if you’re looking to stay a few nights on the beach, check into the Ponte Vedra Inn. It’s so dreamy and right on the beach area.
One of the more unique spots in northern Florida, Big Talbot Islands is one of the best things to do in Jacksonville if you fancy a day in the great outdoors during visit on Memorial Day.
There’s a heap of tidal creeks where you can chillout and glide between the islands. Just be sure to hire your equipment before you visit, especially at peak times of the year. We used Kayak Amelia and they’re great.
Big Talbot Island State Park is a Sandy state park beach where you can find Wetlands, marshes, bike paths, and secret beaches. Its main highlights are Blackrock Beach and Boneyard Beach. You can also go hiking and kayaking here.
Also, if you’re looking to join a paved hike, head on the 3-mile long Timucuan Trail. Running through the gorgeous countryside of the park, it’s the kind of place that’s great, even on a hot day. You see, lots of the trail is shaded by the vast tree cover, which makes it much cooler in summer.
Although not technically in the city limits, Amelia Island is one of the best things to do in Jacksonville when you fancy a gander away from the streets on Memorial Day.
With the most incredible beaches, it’s the perfect day trip where you can chill out and just enjoy the surf. Alternately, if you’re feeling up to it, try your hand at a joining a hiking trail, horseback riding or popping into the cosy museum.
Best of all, it’s no faff to get to Amelia Island! Connected to mainland Florida via Highway 200, you’ll be easily able to drive right on the island.
Established all the way back in 1958, the Cummer Museum is one of the best things to do in Jacksonville during Memorial day, whatever the weather!
With more than 5,000 works from various artists and a history that spans centuries, the museum of art is a totally stunning place to visit for a few hours. Though, in truth, you’d need days to see everything.
Oh, and it’s great for a stroll through the gardens that are totally peaceful.
Almost 100 years old, the Florida Theatre is something of an institution in Jacksonville. It’s the perfect place to watch a show, comedy or play whilst exploring the city on Memorial Day.
Though, be sure to book tickets before you arrive in Jacksonville. Some shows sell out fast, especially for notable tours.
