20 Attractions to Explore Near Boone Park

The Museum of Southern History invites guests to explore and learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Interactive exhibits showcase iconic artifacts from notable individuals who have shaped the local area and enriched the Southern lifestyle. The museum also features life-size dioramas that highlight important figures from the Civil War, World War II, and more. Additional exhibits featuring film and media representations bring the history to life for visitors.

Stockton Park is an excellent destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Stockton offers more than 370 acres of sprawling green moss-draped oaks, scenic trails, open meadows and marsh. It is the perfect place to explore nature by participating in activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding and camping. Additionally, the park offers kayaking, picnic areas with grills, a boathouse to launch your own boat or canoe and even opportunities for fishing or bird watching.

Friendship Fountain is an iconic, historical landmark that continues to captivate locals and tourists alike. Built in 1965 for the Palma Ceia Centennial Celebration, it remains one of Jacksonville's most recognizable symbols today. On a beautiful evening, visitors can take a peaceful stroll around the fountain and enjoy the colorful light displays and the sound of cascading waterfalls. The decorative tiled backdrop changes throughout the year with vibrant floral patterns.

5.85-acre (23,700 m2) public park, located on the St. Johns River in Riverside, one of the most historic neighborhoods near downtown Jacksonville, Florida.

Riverside Park is one of the city's most treasured public spaces. With a picturesque view of the St. John's River, the park offers visitors many recreational possibilities such as fishing, picnicking, leisurely strolls and bike rides. The park has recently been renovated to include new playground equipment for children, a 45 foot zip line and four swingset. Nature enthusiasts also have twenty-three acres of wetlands and woods to explore with over 200 species of birds visiting each year.

It was founded in 1961 after the death of Ninah Cummer, who bequeathed her gardens and personal art collection to the new museum. The permanent collection of the museum currently includes over 5,000 works of art dating from 2100 BCE to the twenty-first century. The museum's collection is especially strong in European and American paintings and also includes substantial holdings of Meissen porcelain.

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is a magical place to enjoy an afternoon. Located on the banks of the St. John’s River, the museum houses one of the largest collections of European and American art from antiquity to modern day. Visitors can view highlights such as Rembrandt’s Self Portrait or Pierre-Auguste Renoir's The Bathers, but also explore outdoor galleries, sculpture gardens, and contemporary art installations in the historic gardens of Nicolai Fechin and Arthur Adams.

The Riverside Arts Market in Baker County, Florida is a thriving destination for locals and visitors alike. Located along the scenic St. Johns River, the market brings together local artisans to showcase their craft during the outdoor winter season from September through March every Saturday morning. Visitors can expect to find everything from artisan jewelry and locally crafted furniture to handmade clothing and unique home décor.

The Acosta Bridge is a bridge spanning the St. Johns River in downtown Jacksonville, it connects San Marco to Southbank. Illuminations of colorful lights decorate the bridge at night, making it an iconic night-time landmark. At over 320 feet long and 70 feet tall, This Bridge offers spectacular views of the river waterfront below and an array of activities along both sides. In addition to foot traffic, large ships can easily pass beneath its large openings that accommodate rising river levels.

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

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.

This is a one-stop destination for arts enthusiasts of all backgrounds. It offers a wide range of performances and events designed to inspire, entertain and educate guests. The JCPA proudly hosts world-renowned Broadway show tours, local theatre and dance performances, comedy acts and interactive art classes. Its “School of Performance" curriculum provides instruction in music, drama, dance and vocal performance, allowing aspiring artists to hone their skills under the guidance of professionals.

The John T. Alsop Jr. Bridge,is an important part of the transportation system in the area and offers a convenient journey for thousands of drivers every day. Originally opened in 1957, the bridge spans across 4.1mi over St. Johns River and offers individuals a connection to intersecting highways such as I4 and SR90 that lie on either side of the river. The original design was meant to last up to 50 years and since then it has undergone numerous repairs and upgrades to keep in top shape.

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.

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.

James Weldon Johnson Park is a beautiful spot to explore. Full of flowers, trees and various other verdant foliage, this 16 acre park offers respite from the hustle and bustle of life and the perfect place to take a morning jog or enjoy an afternoon picnic. With benches scattered throughout the area, visitors can take time to relax and admire nature before they head out on one of several marked trails through the scenery. Plus, there's even a basketball court and playground for kids.

This is an incredible place to view and appreciate art from a wide range of periods. From classic Modernism to cutting-edge contemporary styles, MOCA consistently offers ambitious and thought-provoking exhibitions to spark dialogue and inspire reflection. With its robust collections, outstanding installations and dynamic educational programming, MOCA Jacksonville is an essential part of the cultural landscape in the area.

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.

The beautiful Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is an awe-inspiring sight. Built in 1873,which boasts two magnificent towers at its entrance and a stained glass window depicting Mary’s ascension into Heaven. Inside, visitors find soaring columns and intricately designed walls, featuring the fruits of decades of inspired artistry. The heart of the basilica is a stunning dome, framed with vibrant murals set against detailed mosaics. Here pilgrims can light candles in an offering of prayer.