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Make sure to include these can't-miss events while planning!
With so many fun things to do this season, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, so we curated the must do’s for you and your friends!
It’s not a Florida summer until you see some great Florida gators – and not just the football team! Alligator Farm is home to alligators, crocodiles and more right here in the 904! But our favorite way of checking out this wildlife is from above on their Crocodile Crossing zip line and aerial obstacle course.
Strapped into your harness in the trees above, you can see how these giant creatures spend their days basking in the hot Florida sun and cooling off with a dip in the water! Being above the gators brings the adrenaline level of this obstacle course to new levels and we love it!
Photo credit Visit St. Augustine
Paddling through the GTM Research Reserve is one of those experiences that makes it obvious why Florida is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. The Guana River offers routes heading both north and south, with two launch options: the Guana Dam (south launch) with parking, restrooms, a picnic area, and the on-site South Guana Outpost for kayak and SUP rentals, or Six Mile Landing six miles north for a more rugged, no-frills experience. The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve tells the story of this thriving estuary and just how vital Florida’s coastal ecosystems really are. Nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting to get out on the water will find something to love here.
Downtown Jacksonville got a serious glow-up, and RiversEdge is proof. Sitting right on the Southbank Riverwalk, this four-acre-plus recreation destination opened in late 2025 with four distinct park spaces: Heartbeat Park, Central Park, The Gym, and Healing Garden Park. It’s fully ADA accessible and packed with amenities like fitness equipment, a playground, a mist water feature, a boardwalk, a yoga lawn, transient boater slips, and even a kayak launch. Whether stopping in for a workout, a peaceful stroll, or just soaking up the riverfront views, RiversEdge is exactly the kind of place Jacksonville needed.
The villa crew is assembling across Jacksonville every Tuesday night for Season 8 of Love Island, and the watch party scene is giving main character energy. Spots like D’bo’s Daiquiris, Wings & Seafood, Alien Taco, The Block Jax, and Surfer the Bar are all getting in on the fun with themed drink specials, food deals, and plenty of group energy to go around. Whether rolling deep with the whole friend group or flying solo like a true bombshell, Jacksonville’s Love Island Tuesdays are the most fun way to spend a summer weeknight.
When the Florida heat has you melting faster than a scoop of Kilwins ice cream, it’s time to cool off with a little adventure at The Escape Game Jacksonville! Located in the St. Johns Town Center, where over 175 stores, great eats, and endless entertainment collide, this is the ultimate summer air-conditioning upgrade. Inside, five totally unique escape rooms are waiting to test your crew. Beat the heat and beat the room, if you can!
4720 Town Crossing Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32246-7423, United States
Cold craft beers, big laughs, and hurling sharp objects across the room — welcome to the best summer activity in Jacksonville. Axe Champs pairs you with your own personal coach, local brews, and delivered food for the ultimate good-time combo. Just one rule: leave the flip flops at home, or you’ll spend your session rocking “The Crocs of Shame.” Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
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Axe Champs, 1034 Edgewood Ave S, Jacksonville, FL 32205, United States
Jacksonville summers call for long evenings and something more fun than the same old routine, and Pine Royale delivers! This no-dress-code destination blends a lit-up par-3 course, nostalgic 18-hole mini golf, and a killer bar and restaurant all under the warm Florida sky. The best part? It’s illuminated for night play, so the fun keeps going long after the sun goes down.
Pine Royale,Callahan, FL, United States
Need a break from the summer chaos? The Fluffy Cow Cafe is a lush, shaded escape into something truly one-of-a-kind. During this 50-minute guided encounter, you’ll connect with Highland cows, camels, alpacas, donkeys, and more! Keep brushes and snacks in hand for genuinely magical moments. Groups are small, the vibe is unhurried, and an on-site food truck makes it an easy half-day outing. Spots fill up fast, so follow them on social and grab your reservation the moment they drop!
4485 SR-16, St Augustine, FL 32092, United States
The Block Jax is Jacksonville’s ultimate outdoor summer hangout! It’s a multi-acre space where a food hall, live music stage, kids’ play area, and dog park all come together in one place. Local vendors are serving up everything from coffee and ice cream to BBQ and Asian street food, while live music hits the outdoor stage daily. The kids can go wild in a life-sized Candy Land, and the pups can burn off energy at Kanine Social’s private dog park. Every day is a good time, every visit is a celebration!
Summer isn’t truly Summer without America’s Favorite Pastime! You absolutely have to watch a Jumbo Shrimp Game for it to be considered a Jacksonville Summer. From fun promotions and events like Thirsty Thursdays and Friday Night Fireworks to delicious ballpark hotdogs and cotton candy, nothing says Summer quite like an evening at 121 Financial Ballpark!
Be sure to head downtown and catch a Jumbo Shrimp game! Sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” and cheer on the home team for a unique Jacksonville Summer experience.
A beach picnic along Jacksonville’s pristine shoreline is the perfect addition to your summer bucket list. Spread a blanket on the soft Atlantic sands, unpack delicious treats, like Angie’s Subs or Donato’s Pizza, and let the gentle waves provide a soothing soundtrack to your meal.
Our recommendation: be sure to search the waves or sandy shore for special treasures like shark teeth and pretty shells!
Now that you’ve seen the city from the riverwalk, how about from above Get the most incredible aerial view of the 904 with Skydive Amelia Island! The team at Skydive Amelia Island is super professional and knowledgeable making your first jump a little less scary and whole lot more fun!
We love their blog all about looking good for the best skydiving selfie – sans the blown out cheeks – so you can post it to all the socials! Make sure to sign up and read up all about skydiving!
The Jacksonville Zoo is a must-stop spot on your 904 tour! This zoo is a major part of the Jacksonville area, hosting people on the daily to learn about conservation and the great animals and plant life that call the Jacksonville Zoo their home! A portion of every ticket goes to conservation efforts so you can feel like you’re giving back to the area!
We suggest hitting up the zoo in the mornings so you can beat the heat! Be sure to check out their Five Dollar Days happening on select days in July!
One of our absolute favorite views of our beautiful city is from the Jacksonville Southbank Riverwalk. We love strolling down in the cool nighttime area and looking at the city all lit up! The Riverwalk is always full of people enjoying the outdoors and admiring the city making it easy to get lost in the magic of Jacksonville and the awe of skyline.
From the here, you can get to so many other great Jacksonville finds and even some of our 904 bucket list stops! Check this spot off your bucket list on the way to your next spot for a two-for-one!
What better way to cool down in the summer heat than taking a surfing lesson with Jacksonville Surf and Paddle? These guys are the best at breaking down the need to know in surfing and finding the perfect waves for you to catch! The Atlantic Ocean is the ultimate spot to catch some waves in Florida with beginner to advanced waves all on one beach! We love taking a midweek break from the normal workout schedule to get wet and surf with Jacksonville Surf and Paddle!
Plus, if surfing isn’t your jam, they have stand-up paddle board classes and rentals to explore the coast at a slower pace! Be sure to add this to your Summer bucket list this season!
Don't forget to try some delicious bites during our favorite time of the year!
Let’s not forget about our favorite meal of the day this sunny season!
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With four locations throughout the area, spend a night at each to find your fave dish!
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We love hopping all over the area trying bites from new and old places with great eats!
This ale trail was set up to celebrate the many awesome breweries in Jacksonville!
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Nothing compliments each other like chilly ice cream and a hot summer's day!
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After a long (and hot!) day at the beach, there’s no better remedy than a frozen drink!
Learn more Don't miss these awesome things to do during your summer in Jacksonville.
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Photo credit Congaree and Penn
Congaree and Penn is a vibrant Florida farm and culinary destination where visitors can savor farm-fresh meals in a picturesque setting. Beyond their house-made ciders and agricultural offerings, they host a variety of events from holiday celebrations to Friday Night Fish Fries, making it perfect for special occasions and family gatherings. Guests can enjoy sunset tractor rides across the property, followed by exceptional farm-to-table dinners, while taking in views of the lake and visiting with horses, goats, chickens, and even emus. This local gem provides an unforgettable blend of dining excellence and agricultural charm that’s well worth adding to your must-visit list.
11830 Old Kings Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32219-1643, United States
Swing into summer fun at Fore Score Golf Tavern! This epic Jacksonville hangout lets you play virtual golf on famous courses (or zombie dodgeball!) while sipping cool drinks and munching on awesome bar food. Perfect for your squad of up to 8 friends, it’s a must-do whether you’re dodging summer rain or escaping the heat. Catch happy hour deals weekdays 3-6PM or Sunday brunch vibes. Cross this one off your summer bucket list for guaranteed good times, no actual golf skills required!
7570 Gate Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256, United States
Add a magical night under ancient oaks to your summer bucket list at Colonial Oak Music Park in St. Augustine! This hidden gem showcases live bands jamming beneath twinkling lights while you sip local brews and sway to the rhythm. The cool evening breeze, historic surroundings, and laid-back vibe create the perfect summer night escape. Pack your crew, grab a spot on the grass, and cross off “dance under stars in America’s oldest city” from your summer adventures. Pure Florida magic you’ll be talking about long after the season ends!
Rise and shine! Catch the sun popping up over the Atlantic at Jax Beach for a totally worth-it early morning adventure. The sky puts on a free light show of oranges and pinks that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous. Bring coffee, snag a spot on the sand, and watch the day kick off while most people are still snoozing. Bonus: you’ll beat the crazy Florida heat and crowds, leaving plenty of time for a celebratory breakfast afterward.
This Jacksonville Beach staple is a summer bucket list must! Enjoy endless bowling, arcade games, delicious food and craft cocktails at this iconic Jax Beach location. The interior has amazing upgrades, but the nostalgia remains forever! Visit for some epic strikes and unforgettable summer memories!
818 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250-4302, United States
With so much to do in the 904, you deserve some time off and an adventure-filled staycation! Staycations are perfect for taking time to yourself – especially when your city has so much to do and so many cool hotels to check out!
Grab your bestie and book yourself at an iconic 904 hotel and take time to drink through the city, eat at every burger joint, explore the waters, and finish it off with a beautiful sunset!
At Conner’s A-Maize-Ing Acres you can frolick through their beautiful sunflower fields for awesome golden hour photos and find pretty blooms to take home, too! Bright and cheerful just like a sunny summer day, we couldn’t think of a better summer bucket list item than spending a day in a field of sunflowers.
You can also meet some adorable farm animals during your visit! There’s tons of family fun, like games and other activities too. Be sure to check their website for select U-Pick Sunflower days, and don’t miss out on this “A-Maize-Ing” opportunity for Summer fun!
The 904 is all about the water, everything great happens out there so get in on the action by exploring by jet ski! Jax Jet Ski Rentals caters to all the Jacksonville explorers with their fleet of skis ready to tear it and maybe even catch some air time!
The Atlantic Ocean has choppier waters for the adrenaline seekers while the rivers are calmer giving you the nice easy going option to relax and maybe stop for a burger at a riverside hangout! We love renting with friends and fitting two per wave runner to laugh along with and spot some marine life while we’re at it.
Cool off from the summer heat with a trip to Florida’s Natural Springs! With gorgeous crystal clear waters that are 72 degrees year-round, take a refreshing dip in nature’s playground. With beautiful options all over Florida, there are plenty of spots just a short road trip from Jacksonville! From impressive underground caves to unique wildlife, there is so much to explore with it comes to Florida’s Natural Springs. Check out our list of favorites near Jacksonville below!
Soak up the sun this summer with some of our favorite rooftop dining options! Whether you want to feel the ocean breeze in your hair while sipping on a refreshing cocktail or want to take in the gorgeous city views while enjoying a delicious meal, there are tons of options! From upscale dining to fun beachside bars, be sure to check off this Summer Bucket List idea.
The River City is becoming the Music City with an awesome line up of festivals, concerts, and performances this Summer! From Luke Bryan to Third Eye Blind and Yellowcard, be sure to snag your tickets to these incredible upcoming concerts now!
These local favorite foodie spots are a must for your summer bucket list!
They offer a variety of breakfast options: bagels, coffee, and more, perfect for beach days!
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A neighborhood bar serving up craft cocktails and tasty dishes in St. Augustine!
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This speakeasy-style bar serves up amazing handcrafted cocktails in downtown Jax!
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Enjoy Columbia’s award-winning Spanish/Cuban cuisine in the Nation's Oldest City!
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This Downtown Jax brewery is the perfect stop before or after a Jumbo Shrimp game!
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Authentic meals from exceptional Italian sources, cooked in brick ovens made in Italy!
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Fresh cold-pressed juices, delicious acai and savory poke bowls for healthy meals!
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Explore the rest of our beautiful home state with a fun day trip! While Jacksonville certainly takes the cake for being our favorite city in the Sunshine State, there are plenty of other cool places to check out, from St. Augustine to Amelia Island and so much more! From iconic theme parks to gorgeous state parks, there are some pretty amazing spots just a short road trip away!
Looking to try a new recipe this Summer? Stock up on all your supplies at a local farmer’s market! Offering fresh fruits and veggies, a farmer’s market offers a wide variety of produce for only a fraction of the price you’d find at grocery stores! Plus, some of our favorites showcase some of the best local makers in the 904. From incredible handmade items to delicious homegrown ingredients, explore a local farmer’s market this Summer!
Who said football is a fall sport? Take part in all the action of your favorite team sport while enjoying the luxury of an indoor environment with the Jacksonville Sharks! Their season started in March, but you still have plenty of time to show up and support the home team as it lasts through July. Pick up some merch and head to the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena this Summer!
Photo credit Kona Skatepark
The World’s Oldest Surviving Skatepark is right in our backyards! With thrilling obstacles like half pipes, vert ramps, handrails and more, test out your skating skills at Kona Skate park. Featured in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 game, don’t miss out on this iconic piece of history.
If you’re looking for a great way to get outside and stay active this Summer, Jax Fray is a great option! Offering social sports leagues and tournaments to special events, there’s so many fan-favorite sports to choose from! You name it, they’ve got it – pickleball, cornhole, basketball, volleyball, soccer. Get outside, enjoy this great Florida weather, and join a team with Jax Fray!
Another great location for some outdoor fun, this open to the public sports and entertainment venue considers itself the social hub of Ponte Vedra Beach! Enjoy a 12-hole round of golf, play a thrilling game of tennis, or check out their colorful pickleball courts for a fun day in the sun. Once you’ve finished all that exercise, grab a refreshing cocktail and a delicious meal from their on-site restaurant, Argyle!
Want something a little less athletic, but still includes all the excitement? Try your hand at mini golf! Gregor MacGregor’s Mini Links & Drinks is the perfect spot to spend a summer day in Fernandina Beach. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail while playing a competitive (or friendly!) game of golf with some of your favorite people for an amazing day in the Florida sun.
Book these awesome attractions in Jacksonville and add them to your summer bucket list!
Enjoy a romantic date exploring Cumberland Sound, Fernandina Beach, or around Amelia Island with this gorgeous charter for two!
Photo credit Get Up & Go
Explore the springs like never before with this clear kayak adventure! You’ll be able to see what’s underneath you as you paddle through the gorgeous aqua waters!
Don't miss some of our favorite guides in the 904!
Let’s celebrate the 904 this summer and maybe even make it into a challenge – can someone complete these Summer Bucket List Ideas by 9-04! Keep us updated on your 904 bucket list progress by tagging us on Facebook and Instagram and using #StuffToDoInJacksonville! Download our app for even more 904 fun!
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