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Top picks in Downtown

Kid-friendly fun activities

Made for those who need to keep their children occupied and engaged to maintain their own sanity.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Jacksonville Icemen image 1
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Ice hockey club

Small arena offers cushioned seating and close parking for a comfortable visit. Crowd suits families and couples, with mascot entertainment enhancing the experience. Ticket prices remain affordable, and the team delivers an entertaining show in a well-organized setting.

The crowd stays family-friendly without vulgarity or craziness. The Icemen kids club offers free skate passes and fun items like a Tim Tebow bobblehead. Kids enjoy the mascots and ESports activities.

Games deliver an electric atmosphere and a fun fan experience. The Jacksonville Icemen games stand out as super fun events.

People are saying

"You'll love the electric fan experience at the live sports games."

"The games are an entertaining show, even for non-hockey fans."

"The games are a super fun fan experience."

Good to know

1

Tickets are generally affordable, with prices starting around $42.50 this year.

2

Parking is close and plentiful, making it easy to access the arena.

3

Visitors should have tickets ready and clear bags for entry.

02
RiversEdge image 1
Tourist attraction

Spacious park along a river with breathtaking paths and beautiful playgrounds for all ages. Quiet atmosphere with wide open lanes and areas for walking, biking, and family activities. Features include a peaceful rock garden, picnic spots, and a workout area, making it a versatile outdoor space.

Open spaces offer plenty of room for kids to run and play freely. A nice playground and challenging poles provide activities that engage kids' thinking and listening skills. Paths accommodate strollers, making it easy for families with babies to walk together.

Slides offer lots of fun and create an enjoyable atmosphere. Activities here keep things lively and entertaining.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with awesome playgrounds for all ages."

"The parks here offer beautiful, scenic views."

"The slides here are so much fun."

Good to know

1

There are no real bathrooms available, only a porta-potty.

2

Parking can be challenging on weekends due to high crowds.

3

The park features a large playground suitable for children of all ages.

03
USS Orleck Naval Museum image 1

Naval museum ship offers narrow passageways, steep ladders, and interactive exhibits that bring history to life. Spaces are carefully curated with unique views of naval heritage and optimized for exploration. Visitors experience a mix of music genres and enjoy impressive views around the ship.

Kids enjoy the scavenger hunt and exploring the entire ship. Interactive exhibits and hands-on tours engage children, including those with special needs.

Walking through the exhibits offers a fun and educational experience for all ages. The tour provides family-friendly fun that appeals to those looking for engaging activities.

People are saying

"The historical sites here have knowledgeable volunteers who share great insights."

"I learned so much about the ship's history; it was educational and fun."

"The staff here are so friendly and eager to help."

Good to know

1

The USS Orleck Naval Museum is currently undergoing renovation, so some areas are inaccessible.

2

The shipโ€™s steep ladders and narrow passageways might be challenging for some visitors.

3

The museum was not stroller friendly because strollers were not allowed at all.

04
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp image 1

Baseball stadium offers great views from every seat and a family-friendly atmosphere with fun entertainment between innings. Unique seating options include Power Alley with its own bar and restaurant, plus a Tiki Bar with a kids' waterpark. Fireworks displays after games stand out as some of the best in town.

Kids movie night and a play area keep children entertained off the field. Players sign autographs and the mascot interacts with kids, adding to the fun. Staff respond well to any issues, making it a safe environment for families.

Baseball games offer exciting action and fireworks that add to the fun. The venue provides affordable family entertainment suitable for all ages.

People are saying

"It's a great place for family fun activities."

"The friendly staff made watching live sports here a great experience."

"It's so kid friendly; my kids loved running the bases."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Food options at the venue are limited, consider eating before your visit.

3

Tickets are card only, so plan accordingly when purchasing.

05
Friendship Fountain image 1

Large fountain with impressive water effects sits beside a river, offering amazing city and bridge views. Atmosphere is relaxing and peaceful, enhanced by light shows and live music. Playground and shaded seating areas make it family-friendly and suitable for casual gatherings.

New playground offers fun for kids of all ages, keeping them busy for long stretches. The fountain provides a great visual attraction that kids and adults enjoy together.

Energy and fun fill the space with a beautiful fountain that offers a relaxing and amazing sight. Kids enjoy a family friendly park designed for memorable moments.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful view of the city and bridges across the water."

"The playground here is really nice and great for kids."

"It's a fun place for kids with a great playground."

Good to know

1

The event occurs on the second Saturday of the month at 7pm.

2

Friendship Fountain hosts shows with lights and music at 7, 8, and 9 pm.

3

The water show occurs at 8:00, 8:30, and 9:00 PM.

06
Jacksonville Public Library image 1

Majestic stone building spans multiple floors with impressive architecture and a rooftop courtyard. Quiet, welcoming atmosphere supports studying and exploration of local history. Large, colorful children's area includes a theater and interactive play spaces.

A large, colorful children's area on the second floor offers play and exploration with blocks, puzzles, and a beaded maze. Story Time programs and reading buddies like puppets create an engaging, fun environment for kids.

Story Time offers an engaging, fun program for young children. The large children's area on the second floor has plenty of cozy seats where kids can curl up with books.

People are saying

"The library staff are so helpful and knowledgeable."

"This reading spot is beautiful, clean, and has great lighting."

"The children's area has lots of fun seats for reading."

Good to know

1

The library hosts many free events throughout the year.

2

On ArtWalk Wednesdays, the library stays open until 9:00 pm.

3

The auditorium hosts various shows and events regularly.

07
Riverfront Plaza image 1

Open park space offers wide waterfront views of bridges and river, creating a calm atmosphere. Fully enclosed playground with multiple slides and a splash pad attracts families and children. The area feels safe and clean, with a layout that supports community gatherings and outdoor activities.

A fully enclosed playground offers multiple slides and a splash pad water feature for kids of different ages. One entrance and exit improve safety while children play and interact on the grass and climbing rocks.

Riding around Riverfront Plaza offers a fun and interactive experience. Festivals there add to the lively atmosphere with engaging lineups.

People are saying

"It's a kid-friendly park with an awesome splash pad and slides."

"You get a fantastic view of the river and bridges."

"Riding around here is so much fun."

Good to know

1

Public restrooms and water fountains are available on site.

2

Security officers and JSO are present, making the area safe and secure.

3

Phase 2 of the park will be completed soon, expanding its features and events.

08
Pour Taproom - Jacksonville image 1

Self-pour taps with over 80 beer options create an interactive drinking experience. The space combines retro arcade games, multiple seating levels, and a wine wall, blending a dive bar feel with a modern twist. Live music and multiple screens support a lively atmosphere suited for games and socializing.

Kids enjoy the mushroom pizza and Smash Burger options. A manager named Tommy offers accommodating service to families. Games keep the youngest entertained during visits.

Self-pour setup offers a fun and easy way to enjoy drinks. The self-serve concept adds an innovative twist that keeps the night engaging and enjoyable.

People are saying

"It's a cool concept to pour your own beer after a learning curve."

"The self-pour taps made trying lots of beers a fun activity."

"The burgers and pizza here are a huge hit with kids."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Self-service ordering is required; download the app to place your order.

3

Parking is available in a nearby garage, making access convenient.

09
VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena image 1

Arena offers phenomenal acoustics and electric energy with an engaged crowd. Spacious seating feels intimate and cozy despite the large size. Amenities include self-serve bars and family-friendly features, enhancing the overall experience.

Events like WWE and concerts keep kids engaged and excited throughout the night. Families enjoy a fun atmosphere with activities suitable for children of various ages.

Events here offer a fun atmosphere with activities like hockey games and WWE shows. Drones add a new layer of entertainment, making it a lively spot for concerts and championship games.

People are saying

"I had a great time watching the exciting hockey games here."

"I had a lot of fun at the hockey games and concerts here."

"It's a great place for family memories and making them."

Good to know

1

Parking can be expensive, often exceeding $20 for events.

2

Finding parking can be challenging due to limited signage.

3

Seating can be cramped with limited legroom in some areas.

10
Winston Family YMCA image 1
Fitness center

Facility spans three floors with stunning river views visible from large windows and an indoor track. Atmosphere feels family friendly and welcoming, supporting both casual and deeper conversations. Amenities include indoor pool, sauna, steam room, massage chairs, and well-equipped weight and cardio areas.

A fully fenced-in park lets toddlers run freely while parents relax. KidZone childcare allows workouts without worry, and heated indoor pools make swim lessons easy. Seasonal events and caring staff keep kids engaged and happy.

Classes like Zumba welcome all skill levels with fun and energy. The park offers just the right amount of playful space for young children to enjoy.

People are saying

"The river views from the gym are gorgeous."

"I loved the steam room and sauna; it was the best I experienced."

"I loved the fun activities like the Olympic-sized pool and massage chairs."

Good to know

1

Table tennis sessions are held every Tuesday and Thursday from 1 to 3 pm.

2

Zumba classes welcome dancers of all skill levels.

3

Membership provides access to a variety of group classes, including yoga and HIIT.

11
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts image 1

Concert halls showcase excellent acoustics and comfortable seating with no bad seats. The atmosphere feels elegant and spacious, supporting immersive performances by orchestras and theater productions. Amenities include wine bars and multiple concession stands, enhancing the overall experience.

Shows include children's music festivals, youth symphonies, and musicals like Frozen. Dance recitals and school jazz band performances also take place here, making it welcoming for kids.

Events combine live symphony music with popular films and shows, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Concerts and performances offer a pure fun experience that appeals to all ages.

People are saying

"I found the Symphony performances here to be amazing."

"I found the live shows and symphony experiences to be so much fun."

"It's so Kid Friendly, my daughter loved the Frozen musical."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street from the venue.

2

Expect high parking fees during popular events.

3

Entry to the venue is easy and accessible.

12
Jaguar Football Stadium image 1

Modern NFL stadium features viewing swimming pools and massive video boards that create a lively atmosphere. Fans bring great energy with music and entertainment activities enhancing game day. Easy access and unique amenities like a Bud Light party deck and free face painting add to the fun experience.

Kids get free face painting during games. Watching the game on the jumbotron keeps them entertained. Families cannot bring in bottled water for children.

Football games create a fun atmosphere with lively fans. The stadium offers an amazing experience that feels friendly and entertaining.

People are saying

"I thought it was a great place to watch a football game."

"It's a fun place with amazing experiences."

"The face painting here is beautiful and kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to access, but prices around the stadium have increased.

2

Food and drink prices at the stadium are generally very high.

3

Traffic management on game days can be poor, so plan accordingly.

13
The Southern Grill image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Southern restaurant offers a laid back atmosphere with live music and both indoor and outdoor seating. The space includes a spacious patio and multiple large TVs, creating a casual spot for food and games. The vibe is family-owned and community-focused, blending comfort with entertainment.

Friday nights feature a children-friendly atmosphere with live music and happy hour. High chairs, coloring books and crayons are available, and kids enjoy the fish tank while adults choose from an eclectic menu.

Live music with an awesome band creates a fun atmosphere. Staff serve good food, drinks, and keep the energy lively for groups of friends and family.

People are saying

"I found the food to be tasty and prepared perfectly."

"The food here is top-notch and delicious, especially the ribs."

"The food here is outstanding and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 PM.

2

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday with a lively atmosphere.

3

Live music features rotating bands on Friday nights.

14
Florida Theatre, Inc. image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic performing arts theater offers an intimate setting with beautifully restored architecture and excellent acoustics. Multiple bar areas and a lounge create a lively atmosphere during concerts and comedy shows. Seating includes handicap accessible options, enhancing comfort and accessibility.

Hosts kid events and sports conferences regularly. Supports school trips and family performances.

Shows like the Rocky Horror Picture Show create a lively and fun atmosphere. Every visit offers a consistently fun time no matter where you sit.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful old theater with preserved artistic details."

"The shows and performances here are fun and have great talent."

"It's a beautiful historic place."

Good to know

1

Tickets are sold directly through the Florida Theatre's website or box office.

2

Parking is conveniently located across the street from the Florida Theatre.

3

The Florida Theatre has accessible seating and facilities for wheelchair patrons.

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Downtown, Jacksonville

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