Secrets from the Locals — What to See, Do & Experience in Jacksonville, FL (When You're Not on the Sand)
So you’re posted up in Jacksonville Beach, Florida—surfboard on the deck, salt in your hair, cocktail in hand. Life is good. But let’s say you wake up one morning and feel the tug of curiosity: What else is out there?
Friend, we got you. Jacksonville (yes, the whole city—not just the beach) is bursting with events, eats, culture, concerts, art, and unexpected adventures. And Shell Yeah! is perfectly positioned to give you easy access to all of it.
In this guide, we’re spilling the insider tea on things to do in Jacksonville, FL, including hidden gems, local favorites, major attractions, and tips you won’t find on the travel brochures.
First Things First: Where Even Is Jacksonville Beach?
Great question. Jacksonville Beach is a barrier island just east of Jacksonville proper, separated by the Intracoastal Waterway. That means you're close to:
Downtown Jacksonville (20-25 minutes)
Riverside & Avondale (20 minutes)
San Marco (25 minutes)
The Mayo Clinic Jacksonville (10 minutes, perfect for folks visiting loved ones)
The St. Johns Town Center (20 minutes of straight shopping bliss)
Translation? When you book your stay at Shell Yeah!, you’re scoring both a serene beach escape and easy access to the city’s biggest experiences.
Concerts, Sports & Live Events: Jacksonville’s Got the Goods
VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
If a big name is coming through town, they’re probably playing here. From Luke Combs to Lizzo, this downtown arena hosts A-listers, family shows, and everything in between.
Daily’s Place Amphitheater
Outdoor concerts. Killer skyline views. Breezy vibes. Attached to the Jaguars’ stadium, this venue is intimate and electric. Think indie acts, country stars, and up-and-comers.
TIAA Bank Field (a.k.a. EverBank Stadium)
Home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, but also the go-to for monster concerts and events. If your visit lines up with a game, concert, or mega tailgate—do not miss.
The Florida Theatre
Historic and a little bougie in the best way. Catch jazz nights, film screenings, ballet, stand-up comics, or even the occasional burlesque show.
1904 Music Hall
Local bands, underground legends, and a hip crowd that knows how to vibe. Great if you're feeling adventurous.
Neighborhood Guide: Beyond the Beach
Riverside & Avondale
This area is full of turn-of-the-century charm, oak trees, and some of the best eats in the city. Walk along the St. Johns River, hit up vintage shops, or explore the artsy Five Points district.
Must-dos:
Riverside Arts Market (Saturdays under the bridge)
Black Sheep Restaurant (killer rooftop bar)
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens (historic mansion, epic views)
San Marco
Old-money architecture meets young-creative flair. This neighborhood is packed with indie shops, wine bars, and one very Instagrammable lion statue.
Hit these spots:
San Marco Theatre (retro cinema with beer + pizza)
Taverna (stylish Italian spot for dinner dates)
Aardwolf Brewing (craft beer with character)
Downtown Jacksonville
It’s not Miami. It’s not trying to be. But Downtown Jax is making moves—thanks to murals, festivals, food halls, and sports energy.
Don’t skip:
James Weldon Johnson Park (art installations, food trucks)
The MOSH (Museum of Science and History) – great for kids, curious adults, and cool planetarium shows
Jax River Taxi – cruise the St. Johns with skyline views for days
More Local Attractions You’ll Brag About Later
The Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
Legit one of the best zoos in the Southeast. Think giraffes, jaguars, and lush botanical gardens—not just for kids.
Catty Shack Ranch
A wildlife sanctuary with lions, tigers, and panthers (oh my!). Unlike anything else in the area. Go at night if you can—the big cats get rowdy.
Kingsley Plantation
A powerful, preserved piece of Northeast Florida’s history. The original plantation house, slave quarters, and interpretive trails tell the story of what was—and still is.
The Beaches Museum
Steps from Shell Yeah!, this low-key gem dives into Jacksonville Beach’s history with photos, stories, and local legends.
The Players Championship (TPC Sawgrass)
Golf lovers, take note: Ponte Vedra Beach is 15 minutes away and home to one of the world’s most iconic golf courses. Even if you’re not teeing off, walking the grounds is a vibe.
Events, Markets & Festivals
Jax Beach Festivals
Springing the Blues Festival – A legendary blues and rock fest held right on the oceanfront. Free and full of good energy.
Seawalk Music Festival – Live tunes + local art + food trucks = perfect weekend.
Downtown Jax Events
Art Walk (First Wednesdays) – 20,000 locals take to the streets to browse art, sip wine, and listen to street performers. It’s a scene.
Jax PorchFest – Bands playing from front porches in Springfield. It’s cooler than it sounds. Way cooler.
Farmers Markets
Beaches Green Market (Saturdays)
Riverside Arts Market (Under the Fuller Warren Bridge)
Your Home Base for All of It: Shell Yeah!
After a full day exploring Jacksonville’s neighborhoods, events, and attractions, there’s no better place to crash than Shell Yeah! Our vacation rental is:
Just 4 blocks from the beach
Only 10 minutes from Mayo Clinic
25 minutes from Downtown, San Marco, and Riverside
Loaded with amenities like a private saltwater pool, wellness spa (sauna + cold plunge), and an outdoor kitchen that slaps
We’re a family-run spot—no corporate vibes, no generic decor. Just a beautifully designed beach house made for memory-making and recharging between adventures.
Final Word: Jacksonville Is More Than You Think
This city doesn’t scream. It doesn’t boast. It just is. A little weird, a little wonderful, and full of personality once you get off the beaten boardwalk. Whether you're here for a weekend, a week, or a longer stay while someone gets treatment at Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville has something that’ll leave a mark (in a good way).
So next time you're beach-bound, remember: the city’s calling too. And from Shell Yeah!—you’re in prime position to answer it.
