Jacksonville Junior Explorers Summer Tour
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on an exciting adventure with our Junior Explorer Summer Tour! This interactive tour is designed to spark curiosity and ignite the imaginations of young explorers as they journey through Jacksonville’s coolest landmarks and hidden gems.
Available options
Jacksonville Junior Explorers Summer Tour
What's included
Scavenger hunt for the kids!
Junior Explorer Badge
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop #1: City Hall – Jacksonville’s Fancy Time Machine!
Welcome to City Hall! This big, beautiful building isn’t just where important city decisions are made—it’s also full of history.
Inside the atrium, look up! It’s bright, open, and super cool—like a mix between a museum and a castle. If we’re lucky, we might even peek inside the City Council Chamber, where local leaders make big decisions (kind of like superheroes for the city!).
Fun fact: This building used to be a fancy hotel over 100 years ago!
2
Stop #2: James Weldon Johnson Park – Jacksonville’s Oldest Park!
You’re standing in the oldest park in the city—right in the middle of downtown! This park has been here for over 150 years and has seen all kinds of history, from big parades to peaceful protests.
It’s named after James Weldon Johnson, a famous writer and civil rights leader from Jacksonville who wrote “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” He helped change the world with his words!
Today, this park is full of art, music, and fun. You’re walking through history—and a really cool place to hang out!
3
Stop #3: The Secret Treasure Room of the Library!
Welcome to the Special Collections Room on the 4th floor of the Main Library—one of the coolest hidden gems in Jacksonville!
This room holds rare books, old photos, and a map collection worth over half a million dollars! Some maps show what Jacksonville looked like long before cars, highways, or even air conditioning.
Everything here helps tell the story of our city in amazing detail—just waiting to be explored!
4
Bonus Stops: Jacob Jewelers Clock & Downtown Murals and Visit Jax Headquarters!
Take a look at that big green clock! The Jacob Jewelers Clock was built right after the fire of 1901 and has been a downtown landmark for 200 years. Locals have used it to tell time for generations—it’s Jacksonville’s own historic timekeeper!
While you’re exploring, keep an eye out for the downtown murals—huge, colorful paintings on the sides of buildings. They show off Jacksonville’s history, heroes, and artistic flair. Each one is like a giant storybook page!
What's not included
No food or drinks will be offered. However, there are food stops nearby that you can visit before or after the experience!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We will meet in front of City Hall
Important notes
Let us know if you have any questions.
About Jacksonville
Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, known for its beautiful beaches, extensive riverfront, and rich military history. It offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an appealing destination for a variety of travelers.
Top Attractions
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
One of the largest zoos in the southeastern US, featuring over 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species.
Nature
3-4 hours
Moderate ($25-$35 for adults, discounts for children and seniors)
Museum of Science & History (MOSH)
An interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, history, and natural history.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate ($15-$20 for adults, discounts for children and seniors)
Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
A museum featuring European, American, and contemporary art, as well as beautiful riverfront gardens.
Art
1-2 hours
Moderate ($10-$15 for adults, free for children under 18)
Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
A 14.5-mile paved trail perfect for walking, biking, and nature watching.
Nature
Varies (entire trail can be done in a day with a bike)
Free
Fort Clinch State Park
A state park featuring a well-preserved 19th-century fort and beautiful beaches.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free (parking fee of $5 per vehicle)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grits
A Southern staple made from ground corn, often served with butter, cheese, or shrimp.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (check for animal fat in preparation)
Fried Green Tomatoes
Unripe green tomatoes coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy.
Appetizer/Side
Vegetarian (check for animal fat in preparation)
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Southern dish featuring shrimp served over creamy grits.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Key Lime Pie
A tangy and sweet pie made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian (check for gelatin in some recipes)
Popular Activities
Kayaking and paddleboarding on the St. Johns River
Hiking and biking on local trails
Beachcombing and swimming at Jacksonville Beach
Spa treatments and relaxation at local resorts
Visiting local museums and art galleries
Attending live performances and events
Surfing and swimming at the beaches
Fishing and boating on the St. Johns River
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with lower humidity and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-30°C
60-85°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Jacksonville is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, there are areas and situations to be aware of. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Violent crime is less common but can occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Jacksonville International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown
By bus
Jacksonville Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is the primary form of public transportation in Jacksonville. It's affordable but can be slow due to traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Riverside
Beaches
San Marco
Avondale
Day trips
St. Augustine
50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day
The oldest city in the US, featuring historic sites, museums, and beautiful architecture.
Amelia Island
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
A barrier island featuring beautiful beaches, state parks, and historic sites.
Fernandina Beach
50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day
A charming beach town featuring a historic district, museums, and beautiful beaches.
Festivals
Riverside Arts Market (RAM) • Saturdays, year-round
Jacksonville Jazz Festival • Late April to early May
First Wednesday Art Walk • First Wednesday of each month
Pro tips
- Visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Explore the historic neighborhoods, such as Riverside and Avondale, for a unique and charming experience
- Take a guided tour of the St. Johns River for a unique perspective on the city's natural beauty and history
- Attend a Jacksonville Jaguars game for a taste of the city's sports culture and excitement
- Visit the Beaches Museum and History Park to learn about the history and culture of the Beaches area
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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