20 Attractions to Explore Near St Johns Town Center

Alhambra Dinner Theatre is a unique entertainment experience that blends the traditional components of live theater with the trappings of a classic dinner. Visitors to the theater are treated to a night out of fine dining and professional plays, skits and musicals. It offers a variety of hit plays throughout its season, ranging from Broadway-style revivals to beloved classics. Their renovated auditorium provides top-level acoustics and lighting system to enhance every aspect of the production.

The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens is a stunning 125-acre preserve bursting with Florida’s native flora and fauna. The arboretum offers visitors five trails which weave throughout seven distinct landscapes. From mossy forests to picturesque ponds, each trail showcases the essence of Northern Florida’s unique ecology. The preserve also includes a Native Plant Demonstration Garden, an 80-foot observation tower, butterfly garden, educational kiosks and programs, as well as public events

Tree Hill Nature Center is a tranquil escape from our busy everyday lives. Nestled amongst the trees of native Florida woodland and wetlands, the center provides visitors with opportunities to view wildlife up close. The center features a one-mile loop of nature trails that wind through the surrounding forest, scenic boardwalks over the wetlands, and a butterfly garden where visitors can truly engage with their surroundings and observe hummingbirds, butterflies and various species of plants.

The Hart Bridge is a monumental structure providing an easy route across the St. Johns River. Built in the late 1980s and stretching just over 1.5 miles, it is a vital link connecting Jacksonville to bustling downtown Atlantic beach communities. Over 20 million vehicles crossed through on the bridge in 2018, making it one of the most typically utilized bridges in the state of Florida. It stands tall as a distinct piece of the infrastructure network found in and around Jacksonville.

Mathews Bridge is an iconic and beloved structure, which was built to connect the city of Jacksonville to Mandarin and San Jose Island, crossing the St. Johns River. This incredible bridge is supported by three steel arches and totals a length of 2,500 feet. Mathews Bridge was opened to traffic in 1953, making it one of the oldest and longest bridges in Florida. Not only does It serve as a significant transportation route for the city, but it is also popular among tourists for its majestic views

Jacksonville Beach is a wonderful destination for beachgoers. With its miles of white sand, gentle surf, and exciting amenities, Jacksonville Beach has something to offer every type of visitor. Among the popular activities you can find along the coast are parasailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Families can enjoy long days at the beach building sandcastles and playing games or take a break at one of the numerous restaurants located close to the shoreline.

TIAA Bank Field, is an outdoor football stadium that serves as home of the Jacksonville Jaguars professional football team. The stadium also hosts concerts, special events and other sporting competitions. Completed in 1995, the stadium has a seating capacity of 67,000 with 98 luxury suites and 10,000 premium club seats. With state-of-the-art sound systems and improved acoustics, TIAA Bank Field is capable of producing an electrifying atmosphere for all its guests.

Metropolitan Park is a nature lover's paradise. Whether you want to explore the rocky coastline along the St. Johns River, search for some of the region's native animal species, or take part in a variety of outdoor activities. A 0.8-mile trail wraps around the park's wetlands and offers opportunities to observe a variety of waterfowl and passerine birds. The park also provides visitors with a selection of educational programming that features art and nature classes.

The Theodore Roosevelt Area is an area rich in history and culture. It was once the home of many native tribes such as the Timucua and Mocama that have since vanished. Visitors to the area can explore the forests and wetlands, guided by an interpretive habitat trail highlighting the unique habitats and their inhabitants. In addition to these natural features, visitors will also find historical markers commemorating important sites including Fort Caroline and Kingsley plantation.

This Pier is one of the most iconic spots in the area. Stretching 750 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, it offers some of the best ocean fishing and sightseeing opportunities around. Anglers can find a wide variety of species here throughout the year such as tarpon, cobia, flounder, kingfish, Spanish mackerel and much more. This pier has a bait shop and tackle store so that you can remain fully equipped while fishing. In addition to this, you have access to stunning views.

Jacksonville Historical Society works to preserve and promote the city's rich historical narrative.This non-profit organization collects documents, buildings and other artifacts that reveal the story of Jacksonville for today's generations. The society offers educational classes about local history, guided tours led by experienced docents who share anecdotes about pivotal figures from Jacksonville's past and access to an expansive research library that holds primary sources.

Jessie Ball DuPont Park, is a stunning 42-acre sheltered nature park nestled beneath the canopy of live oak trees. It is home to hundreds of species and features a wealth of pathways that provide visitors with peaceful opportunities to take in the sights. From art to bird watching, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The park also offers special programs such as guided walks or kayak tours, where visitors can learn more about Duval County's diverse ecology and rich history.

An octopus-like Southern live oak estimated to be 250 years old and may be the single oldest living thing in Jacksonville, predating the founding of the city by Isaiah Hart during the 1820s.

The Southbank Riverwalk is a magnificent, 1.5-mile long walkway along the St. Johns River providing beautiful views. As one of the most beloved destinations in the county, it offers plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy such as shops, restaurants, and outdoor areas. It's easy to spend an entire day at Southbank, where in addition to dining, shopping, and sightseeing opportunities are live music events on Thursdays during Summertime and holiday-related festivities throughout the year.

Fort Caroline National Memorial serves as a monument to the brief presence of French colonists along the St. Johns River in 1564 - 1565. Visitors to the Fort can explore a recreated 16th century French fort, witness Native American shell mounds, pay tribute to those that died at this colonial battleground including Spanish soldiers who replaced the French at the fort, and even spot some variety of threatened species in their natural environment such as gopher tortoises or bald eagles.

A cable-stayed bridge over the St. Johns River in Jacksonville, Florida. Construction began in 1985 and was completed in 1989. The main span is 1,300 feet (396.2 m), and is 175 feet (53.3 m) high.

The MOSH is a great place to spend the day with friends and family. This museum has many interactive exhibits that all ages can enjoy, from dinosaurs and space exploration to an exploration of local history. The planetarium at MOSH offers educational programs and shows that make learning about astronomy fun for everyone. In addition to the exhibits, the museum also hosts events throughout the year such as lectures, movies, workshops, craft classes and more

The USS Orleck Naval Museum honors the 65-year service of the USS Orleck, a decommissioned destroyer escort ship operated by the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1983. Visitors can explore the ship and its various sections, including engineering spaces, living compartments, deck structures, armament systems and more. Through interactive displays and programs such as battle simulations and “leadership challenges” visitors will gain an appreciation of what it was like to serve aboard this vessel.

St. John's Cathedral is an Episcopal cathedral with a unique significance. It has served as not only a place of worship for the region since 1831 but also a gathering spot for historical and social events. The building itself is a strong symbol of architecture from the late 19th century; its exterior features several Grecian-style columns and a brick façade adorned with stained glass windows. Inside, visitors can appreciate intricate wooden structures and artworks spanning several centuries.

Florida Theatre is an independently-operated performing arts center that has been welcoming guests to its doors ever since its grand opening in 1927. This beautiful and historic theater offers year-round performances, ranging from concerts and plays to film screenings, comedy shows and more. Visitors of all ages have a wonderful time marveling at the awe inspiring architecture within this Duval County space, including balustrades, chandeliers and proscenium archways.