Welcome to the scorching summer of Jacksonville, where the sun casts its blazing rays upon the vibrant city, turning the streets into an oven. As the temperatures soar to unprecedented heights, seeking refuge from the heat becomes a necessity. Thankfully, Jacksonville offers a multitude of exciting events and activities that promise to keep both locals and visitors cool and entertained.
Beat the Heat:
Visit a Waterpark!
- Adventure Landing- The beloved aquatic oasis for cooling off and making cherished memories, remains open until September 2023, offering its final summer of fun before closing its doors permanently. Take a plunge down the half-pipe slide and float down the lazy river one last time before you say farewell to one of Jacksonville Beaches’ local gems. https://jacksonville-beach.adventurelanding.com/attractions/shipwreck-island-waterpark/
- Kids Splash Park (Hanna Park)- Designed with young adventurers in mind, this charming splash park provides a safe and playful environment for children to beat the heat during the hot summer months. With interactive water features, gentle sprays, and colorful fountains, little ones can cool off, giggle, and make new friends while parents relax in the serene surroundings of Hanna Park. Concessions, Picnic areas, and an open lake for fishing and kayaking are also available on-site! https://www.coj.net/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation-and-community-programming/kathryn-abbey-hanna-park.aspx
- Atlantic Center Splash Pad (Fernandina Beach)- A vibrant aquatic destination that promises endless fun and relief from the summer heat. Nestled along Florida’s stunning Atlantic coastline, this family-friendly splash pad offers an array of interactive water features and refreshing fountains, providing a safe and enjoyable space for kids of all ages to cool off and splash around. With its picturesque setting and countless water adventures, this community gem is a must-visit spot for families seeking summertime joy and relaxation by the beach. https://www.fbfl.us/277/Aquatics
- Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens Splash Pad- The splash pad at the Jacksonville Zoo is a delightful oasis within the zoo grounds, offering a refreshing and interactive water play area for children to cool off and have fun. Designed with vibrant colors and whimsical animal-themed features, the splash pad provides a safe and engaging space for kids to splash, run through water jets, and enjoy the excitement of water play. https://fun4firstcoastkids.com/Fun-Around-Town/Sprinkler-Parks/Jacksonville-Zoo-and-Gardens-Sprinkler-Pad/View-details
- Nocatee Splash Waterpark and Spray Park (Private Community)- For those that live in the Nocatee community, don’t forget about the wonderful waterparks there are to offer in your community. The Splash Water Park boasts thrilling water slides, a lazy river to unwind, and a massive lagoon pool for swimming and socializing. On the other hand, the Spray Water Park is designed explicitly for little adventurers, featuring an interactive playground, gentle water sprays, and splash zones to keep the youngest visitors entertained. The Nocatee Splash Water Park is available to Nocatee residents only and their accompanied guests, seasonal and annual passes are available for purchase. https://www.nocatee.com/lifestyle/splash-water-park/
Visit one of Jacksonville’s Museums
- Beyond King Tut Experience- The King Tut Immersive Experience in Jacksonville offers a captivating journey back in time to ancient Egypt, immersing visitors in the legendary world of the boy king, Tutankhamun. This state-of-the-art exhibition showcases a remarkable collection of replicas, painstakingly recreated based on the treasures discovered in King Tut’s tomb. Step into the pharaoh’s opulent world through impressive displays, interactive exhibits, and multimedia presentations that shed light on the ancient civilization’s rich history and mysterious customs. Delve into the enigmatic life of King Tut and the wonders of ancient Egypt, making this immersive experience an unforgettable adventure for history enthusiasts and curious minds of all ages. Experience Egyptian history and cool off from the summer heat at the NoCa Center in Downtown Jacksonville. https://beyondkingtut.com/city/jacksonville/?&utm_id=ga-009&utm_source=google&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=tut-jacksonville-pmax-conv-now_open&utm_content=responsive-content-retarget-bvg-bkt&gclid=Cj0KCQjwk96lBhDHARIsAEKO4xaPViqieT2H2AYOjT21O5yM0XstKNvxtnDNitMyph71lKME62nQ2M8aAlvIEALw_wcB
- Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens- an elegant cultural institution located in Jacksonville, Florida, boasts a rich history and a diverse collection of over 5,000 works of art, the museum offers a captivating journey through various artistic movements and styles. Visitors can admire European and American paintings, classical sculptures, decorative arts, and captivating exhibits that highlight regional and contemporary artists, all while keeping you out of the heat! https://www.cummermuseum.org
- Museum of Science and History- Inside MOSH’s engaging galleries, guests can explore fascinating displays on topics such as astronomy, biology, geology, and local history. The museum also houses the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium, which provides immersive celestial shows, taking visitors on a captivating journey through the wonders of the universe. MOSH goes beyond traditional museum experiences by offering interactive science exhibits, virtual reality experiences, and innovative displays that encourage visitors to participate actively in learning. It’s a perfect destination for families, school groups, and anyone with an inquisitive mind, as it provides a fun and enriching environment where science and history come to life. https://themosh.org/
- Museum of Contemporary Art- Dedicated to showcasing modern and contemporary art, the museum presents a diverse collection of thought-provoking and innovative works from both established and emerging artists. MOCA’s galleries feature a wide range of artistic mediums, including paintings, sculptures, photography, video installations, and mixed-media creations. By embracing the ever-evolving world of contemporary art, the museum fosters an atmosphere of creativity and exploration, inspiring visitors to engage with the art and the ideas behind it. One of Jacksonville’s Best Coffee shops, Setlan Coffee, resides inside the museum for your caffeine cravings! https://mocajacksonville.unf.edu/
Summer Fun in the Sun:
- Jacksonville Farmers Market (Every day)- Experience the flavors of Jacksonville at the Jacksonville Farmers Market. Open daily, this market offers an abundance of fresh produce, artisanal products, and delicious local fare. Support local farmers, savor the region’s culinary delights, and enjoy a unique shopping experience. (https://jaxfarmersmarket.com/)
Coming soon to Jacksonville!
As the scorching summer sun blazes down on Jacksonville, the city proves to be an oasis of refreshing activities and cool escapes. From the sandy beaches and exhilarating water parks to the serene gardens and captivating museums, beating the heat becomes a joyous adventure in this vibrant Florida destination. Whether you seek to dip your toes in the Atlantic waves, immerse yourself in art and culture, or indulge in water-filled thrills, Jacksonville offers an abundance of options to keep the heat at bay. So, embrace the warmth of summer and embark on a journey of memorable experiences, where the fun never stops, and the cool memories linger long after the season has passed. Stay cool, Jacksonville!