Jacksonville, Florida, with its sprawling riverfront views, gorgeous beaches, and cultural richness, offers a variety of shore excursions that can appeal to every type of traveler. From relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring historical landmarks, the city has an abundance of opportunities to enjoy a memorable time. Here are some of the best cruise shore excursions in Jacksonville that you shouldn’t miss:
1. Visit the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
Get a dose of art and culture at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Located in the historic Riverside neighborhood, the museum boasts over 5,000 works of art, ranging from ancient times to the contemporary era. The adjoining gardens, with their meticulous landscaping and serene atmosphere, provide a relaxing complement to the art collections.
Electric Bike Art and Architecture Guided Tour in Jacksonville
2. Take a Stroll through the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
For families and wildlife enthusiasts, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is an excellent choice. Spanning over 117 acres, it features more than 2,000 exotic animals and 1,000 plant species. Highlights include the Range of the Jaguar and the African Forest. This excursion is perfect for creating lasting memories with family and friends.
3. Explore the Riverside Arts Market
Every Saturday, the Riverside Arts Market comes alive underneath the canopy of the Fuller Warren Bridge. Here, visitors can explore local art, cuisine, and entertainment that showcase the vibrant community spirit of Jacksonville. It’s a perfect spot to pick up unique handmade goods, taste local food, and enjoy live performances.
Half-Day City Tour in Downtown Jacksonville
4. Relax on the Beaches of Jacksonville
No visit to Jacksonville is complete without spending some time on its beautiful beaches. Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville Beach are all within easy reach from the cruise port and offer sunny relaxation and a variety of water sports like surfing and paddleboarding.
Electric Bike Tours in Amelia Island
5. Tour the Kingsley Plantation
Kingsley Plantation, a historical plantation site located on Fort George Island, offers a peek into Florida’s early history. Visitors can tour the plantation house, slave quarters, and barns while learning about the plantation period of American history. This excursion is both educational and poignant, providing insight into the deep and complex history of the region.
Jacksonville Residential Architecture & History Tour
6. Kayak in the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve
For the adventure-seekers, kayaking through the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve will be remarkably rewarding. This preserve covers a vast area and supports a variety of wildlife. It also includes several historical sites that tell the story of 6,000 years of human history in the area. Guided kayak tours are available, allowing visitors to explore these natural and historical treasures closely.
Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek
7. Enjoy a Craft Brewery Tour
Jacksonville is known for its burgeoning craft beer scene. Many local breweries, such as Intuition Ale Works, Bold City Brewery, and Green Room Brewing, offer tours and tastings. This excursion is a great way to relax after a day of sightseeing and to experience some local flavors.
Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included)
Jacksonville’s diverse shore excursions offer a slice of everything from history and culture to nature and relaxation, ensuring that every cruise guest finds something to love. Whether you are looking to soak up some sun on the beautiful beaches or delve into the rich history and culture of the area, Jacksonville provides an array of activities that will enrich your cruise experience.