The end of the school year is here, and you might be wondering how to make this a memorable summer for the whole family. What’s great about living on the First Coast is you don’t have to go far to enjoy summer fun. With beaches, parks, museums, markets, and nature trails all just a few miles away, there is plenty to do.
Whether you are new to the area or a long-time resident, check out these ideas for summer fun on the First Coast.
Enjoy the outdoors at Hanna Park
The ultimate locale for Northeast Florida outdoor adventures, Hanna Park & Beach is the perfect destination for a wide range of adventures – including enjoying the beach, surfing, biking, hiking on nature trails, kayaking, paddle boarding, freshwater fishing, and camping.
The recently renovated Kids Splash Park is open and is a great way for little ones to have fun.
Learn at the MOSH (Museum of Science and History)
One of the best places to take the family this summer is the MOSH. Keep cool indoors while your kids learn about science and history through the museum’s highly interactive exhibits. The MOSH includes the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium, one of the largest single-lens planetariums in the country, as well as exciting exhibitions and kids’ activities all summer long.
This year, kids can become a “Dinosaur Explorer” during an all-new traveling exhibition happening now through September.
Explore history & nature at Fort Clinch State Park
For a wonderful day trip up the coast, head to Amelia Island and explore Fort Clinch State Park. Take a tour of the historic Fort Clinch and learn about its strategic importance in the Civil War. You can also enjoy the park’s beaches, nature trails, and outdoors activities like hiking, bird watching, camping, fishing, and shark-tooth hunting.
If you visit the first weekend of the month, you’ll get to see a soldier garrison fire cannons and demonstrate battlefield skills at the fort!
Walk the trails at Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
Find peace and connect with nature at a great hidden wonder: the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. The spacious 120-acre property is a wonderful place to enjoy nature, view beautiful gardens, and exercise under shaded trees.
With picnic areas available, you can pack a meal and gather with family and friends at a calming natural reserve.
Visit a local arts market
The First Coast is home to a vibrant art scene that can provide enriching activities for the family. The Riverside Arts Market is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine, and has everything from artists to farmers to live musicians. The Jacksonville Beach Arts Market is also open on select days this summer.
For more art-focused activities, you can never go wrong with visiting the Cummer Museum or the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA).
I hope you and your family enjoy a relaxing summer vacation! If you have any questions about First Coast living and finding the home of your dreams, reach out to me at 904-626-1551.
