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Local picks

Kid-friendly unique spots in Riverside

You want to take your kids somewhere that offers an experience beyond the standard playground or play area.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
SENYAI Thai Street Food & Noodle Bar image 1
SENYAI Thai Street Food & Noodle Bar image 2
SENYAI Thai Street Food & Noodle Bar image 3
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Space blends subtle Thai decor with spacious seating and a clean, fresh scent that sets a calm, authentic tone. Background features Thai pop and K-pop music videos projected on walls, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The vibe recalls bustling Bangkok streets with a modern, chill energy.

Kids enjoy the Moo Ping and dumplings here. Even picky eaters like the crispy bok Choi.

Menu features lesser-known Thai specialties and dishes like the duck noodle bowl, Gui Tiaw Ped, which is unique to this spot. The green curry offers a unique twist on traditional flavors.

People are saying

"I found the food to be truly authentic and flavorful."

"The food here is so delicious, my kids loved it!"

"Their menu is unique, featuring lesser-known Thai specialties."

Good to know

1

The lunch special includes a dish, soup or salad, and a drink for a good price.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes for the price compared to other Thai restaurants.

3

They offer unique Thai specialties that are hard to find elsewhere.

02
Screaming Cat Ice Cream & Coffee image 1

Ice cream shop blends modern charm with historic elegance in a clean, inviting space. Fun, family-friendly vibe includes board games and dog-friendly amenities. Creative, rich ice cream flavors stand out alongside quality coffee.

Books and coloring books keep kids busy and entertained. Staff like Haley and Mel engage children with jokes and smiles, creating a fun atmosphere.

Selection includes unique and creative flavors of ice cream. Staff are friendly and the treats offer a one-of-a-kind experience with fun vibes.

People are saying

"Their ice cream selection is so creative and unique."

"The staff here is so nice and friendly, it's great for kids."

"Their ice cream flavors are so unique and creative."

Good to know

1

BOGO scoops are available on national ice cream day.

2

Prices for a scoop of ice cream start at $6.50.

3

Milkshakes are priced at $9 each.

03
Riverside Arts Market image 1
Farmers' market

Outdoor market sits under a bridge next to a river, offering beautiful river views and a tiered amphitheater with live music performances. The atmosphere is family-friendly and lively, with unique local art and a variety of vendors creating a vibrant scene.

Live music and kids' activities keep children engaged while adults browse. Staff and police stay calm and use walkie talkies to quickly locate lost kids, creating a safe environment.

Many vendors offer unique artsy items and functional gifts. Food trucks serve different and unique foods.

People are saying

"This local spot has amazing art and fresh produce."

"I found so many unique artsy items and local finds."

"It's a lively and engaging place for kids."

Good to know

1

The Riverside Arts Market is held every Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm.

2

Parking fills quickly, so arrive early for a spot.

3

Expect a variety of unique vendors and food trucks at the market.

04
Lola's Burrito & Burger Joint image 1

Mexican restaurant with funky decor and wooden bench seating creates a casual, chill vibe. Old school RnB music plays alongside TVs showing sports, blending relaxed and lively energy. Patio welcomes dogs, and margaritas, especially Key Lime and strawberry, stand out as popular drinks.

Clean and friendly environment welcomes kids with accommodating staff who interact nicely without being over the top. Food appeals to children, making it a solid spot for family time.

Fun and unique atmosphere with lots to look at, including a painted car hood as decor. Offers unique dishes that taste great and fun options to try.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the tacos and burritos."

"The chicken tenders on the kids' meal were really good."

"The decor here is really unique and fun to look at."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night on Wednesdays for select drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday offers $1 off all tacos.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday with fun activities.

05
Carolina Jax image 1
American restaurant

Small, crowded restaurant with cozy, tight space and fun pig decor creates a relaxed, family-friendly vibe despite a loud, bustling atmosphere. Sidewalk seating offers an alternative to the cramped interior. Walls display art and history, adding unique character to the old building setting.

Classic burgers, hotdogs, and nacho mama fries appeal to kids here. Sharing chili fries is common, and food to go suits families well.

Burgers stand out with unique options and distinctive flavors not found elsewhere. The Riverside burger highlights the menu's creative approach to classic dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always seasoned perfectly."

"I loved their unique burger options and amazing flavors."

"The burgers here are phenomenal, especially the Black Mountain."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so expect to walk if you canโ€™t find a spot.

2

Dining during lunchtime on Fridays is nearly impossible due to long lines.

3

Expect about 15 minutes in line to order and another 30 minutes for food.

06
Don Eduardo Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with beautiful flowered ceiling and large paintings creates a calm yet lively atmosphere enhanced by live music. The space feels like a little transport back to Mexico with fresh, vibrant decor. It attracts those seeking an enjoyable dining experience with a fun vibe.

Woodfired smoked tomatoes create a smoky salsa unlike typical Mexican salsas. The house salsa pairs with blue corn chips and the tres leche cake offers a unique flavor twist.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The quesadilla kidsโ€™ meal was fantastic."

"The salsa here is unique, smoky, and incredibly flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $2 off house margaritas until 7 pm on Saturdays.

2

Latin nights occur every Friday with live music and dancing.

3

The restaurant has a 20% auto gratuity added to the bill for larger parties.

07
Kickbacks Gastropub image 1

Gastropub combines steampunk cathedral design with dimly lit speakeasy vibe and unique penny wall decor. Basement features private liquor lockers and a spiral staircase leading to secluded booths. Patio welcomes dogs and offers a fireplace and smoking area.

Kids enjoy popcorn shrimp, a Nutella, strawberry, banana sandwich, and Mac and cheese as a side. The menu offers several kid-friendly options that appeal to younger tastes.

Rich artistry and a steampunk-like aesthetic give the place a unique and fun atmosphere. The food and beer are creative and flavorful, adding to its distinct character.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and tasty."

"The decor here is so unique, with pennies covering the walls."

"The decor here is so creative and unique, it's really cool."

Good to know

1

Kickbacks Gastropub stays open until 3am, making it a late-night option.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to bills after 10 or 11 pm.

3

The gastropub has a large selection of tap beers and food options.

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Riverside, Jacksonville

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