25+ Things to Do Near NAS Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach, and More!

NAS Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Florida, offers a wide array of fun activities to keep you busy at your new duty station. Florida, with its subtropical climate, beaches, and wetlands, you’ll have a whole city at your feet with natural landscapes ready for adventures. Here are just a few things to try out while you’re here.

5 Places In Jacksonville That Are Military Friendly

Jacksonville is one of the most military-friendly cities in the U.S. thanks to the many bases nearby. We looked up some military-friendly places for you to explore. The following places offer military discounts, are veteran-owned, or have military significance.

USS Orleck Naval Museum

Check out a historic Naval Destroyer docked in downtown Jacksonville. You will see the inside of the destroyer, artifacts, a submarine encounter, and the Mount 52 experience, giving you the feel of being behind a gun mount. This is a must-see for anyone visiting the area to learn about the military heritage of the region.

Address: 610 E Bay St, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Hours: Wednesday through Friday, 0900-1500; Saturday, 0900-1600; Sunday, 1000-1600

Admission: Active-duty in uniform, free. Visit the website linked above for a full list of admission fees.

Duval County Veterans Memorial Wall

The Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Wall is a powerful tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. The 65-foot-long black granite monument honors over 1,700 Jacksonville-area service members from World War I through the War on Terror.

This is the nation's second-largest veterans memorial, second only to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It is the only wall that recognizes veterans from all seven branches of the military. At the heart of the memorial stands a torch with an eternal flame, symbolizing the enduring gratitude of our community.

Address: 1160 E Adams Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

Admission: Free

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Baseball

Jacksonville’s Minor League Baseball Team frequently hosts military appreciation nights with free admission for military and dependents. You can’t go wrong with a night at the ballpark.

Address: 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32202

Hours: Game times vary. Check the website linked above for game times.

Admission: Check the website for military promotions and regular ticket prices.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Explore over 100 acres of exhibits and gardens where you’ll be sure to find your favorite animals and plants. You’ll also experience art at the zoo with traveling sculptures and displays scattered throughout the gardens.

Address: 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218

Hours: Daily, 0900-1700

Admission: Military receive a 10% discount on general admission and memberships. Check the website linked above for a full list of admission prices.

USS Stark Memorial

The USS Stark was attacked in the Persian Gulf on May 17, 1987, killing 37 sailors. This memorial, located just inside the gates to Naval Station Mayport, is dedicated to those sailors. On site, you will find a monument, a memorial bell, and the ship’s preserved stern plate.

Address: Naval Station Mayport, Jacksonville, FL 32227

Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

Admission: Free

5 Restaurants Near NAS Jacksonville That Are Sure to Please

Whether you’re looking for the whole family or a special place for a special event, Jacksonville and the surrounding areas will not let you down.

Hangar Bay Cafe and Gallery

This popular, veteran-owned restaurant specializes in authentic ramen bowls and crispy fried chicken in an aviation-themed atmosphere.

Address: 2294 Mayport Rd #22, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Hours: Monday through Friday, 1100-0200; Saturday & Sunday, 1030-0200

Palms Fish Camp Restaurant

Ask the staff what’s biting because if you get any fresher, it would be swimming. Grab the locals’ favorite fresh seafood at this location on the beach. You'll experience the very freshest foods with a stunning view.

Address: 6359 Heckscher Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226

Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 1100-2100; Friday & Saturday, 1100-2200

Alder & Oak

At Alder & Oak, you’ll experience wood-fired Aegean and Mediterranean dishes in upscale al fresco seating.

Address: 400 Riverside Ave Unit 301, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Hours: Daily, 1100-2200

Matthew’s Restaurant

If you’re looking for elegant fine dining, Matthew’s Restaurant will not disappoint. Serving refined 6- or 8-course curated meals and award-winning wines, you will experience nothing but the very best.

Address: 2107 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Hours: Monday through Friday, 1100-0200; Saturday & Sunday, 1030-0200

The District SPR

This unique art deco-style cocktail lounge features New Orleans-inspired cuisine with both indoor and outdoor seating options. You can reserve air-conditioned geodesic domes, bohemian yurts, or Moroccan tents, making this a truly special destination.

Address: 2026 Walnut St, Jacksonville, FL 32206

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 1500-2200; Friday & Saturday, 1100-2200; Sunday, 1100-2100

What Are Some Pet-Friendly Places Near NAS Jacksonville?

Want to go out and explore but don’t want to leave your four-legged friend at home? There are plenty of spots to adventure and dine with your furry friends, bringing them in on the fun. Below are several pet-friendly outdoor spaces and restaurants in the areas surrounding NAS Jacksonville.

Outdoor Spaces

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

This 450-acre park welcomes leashed pets on the trails and the beach, making it a great place to stroll with your pet. The park also features surfing at The Poles, a splash park, picnic area, and more.

Address: 500 Wonderwood Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32233

Kanine Social

Jacksonville’s first dog park and craft beer/coffee bar. You will love the options for indoor and outdoor play and doggie daycare for members. Although there is a membership fee for entry, it ensures all visitors are vaccinated and protected.

Address: 580 College St, Jacksonville, FL 32204

Ed Austin Regional Park

Ed Austin Regional Park features sports fields, walking trails, playground equipment, and a 4-acre fenced dog park for your four-legged friend to run off-leash.

Address: 11751 McCormick Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Fur-Family Friendly Restaurants

The Bearded Pig (San Marco)

The Bearded Pig features Southern-style BBQ and tap brews with outdoor seating that welcomes your four-legged friend..

Address: 1808 Kings Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207

St. Johns Town Center

St. Johns Town Center is an open-air shopping center in Jacksonville, FL that offers many pet-friendly dining options like Bottlenose Brewing

Address: 4663 River City Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32246

European Street Cafe (Riverside/San Marco/Jax Beach)

Bring your pup to dine on the patio of this German-inspired local chain. Offering stacked sandwiches, desserts, and beer, this is a great place to bring the whole family.

Address: 1704 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207

5 Things For Couples to Do Near NAS Jacksonville

Whether you’re in the mood for quiet conversation, a driving tour of Jacksonville breweries, or more romantic time on the water, you’ll find something to make your date memorable near NAS Jacksonville.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

Take a relaxing stroll through the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. This serene creative destination will give you and your date time to take in the natural beauty and works of art dedicated to sparking discovery and well-being.

Address: 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32204

Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 1100-1600; Thursday, 1100-2000; Saturday, 1000-1600; Sunday, 1200-1600

Aardwolf Brewing Company

A locally owned and operated brewing company in a historic ice factory building is just what you need for a relaxing date sipping craft brews. Beer enthusiasts will enjoy the collection of brews, but there’s food on the menu too!

Address: 1461 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 1500-2300; Friday, 1500-2400; Saturday, 1200-0001; Sunday, 1200-2100

River & Post

River & Post has everything you want for a romantic dinner. Enjoy fresh cuisine in a warm, modern setting, then head upstairs to the rooftop lounge for drinks and conversation.

Address: 1000 Riverside Ave #100, Jacksonville, FL 32204

Hours: Monday, 1600-2200; Tuesday through Sunday, 1100-2200

Jax Ale Trail

Make a recurring date with the Jax Ale Trail. Take a tour of over 20 breweries in the Jacksonville area to get our passport stamped and earn prizes. You can print a passport, or use the digital app to collect stamps along the way.

Address: Variable. Check the website linked above for a list of participating breweries.

Hours: Hours vary by brewery.

St. Augustine Boat Tours

Get out on the water for your next date with St. Augustine Boat Tours. From private adventures to kayaking to Nights of Lights, you will find something for every season.

Address: 111 Avenida Menendez St., Augustine, FL 32084

Hours: Hours vary by excursion.

Check Out These Nearby Day Trips Perfect for a Quick Getaway

When you’re ready to explore a little farther, there are many options within a 2-hour drive from NAS Jacksonville.

Amelia Island, FL

Amelia Island offers coastal charm mixed with a beautiful Victorian downtown. Visit Fort Clinch State Park to hunt for shark teeth on the beach or explore downtown shops. Locals recommend stopping by the shrimp-boat docks for amazing sunset views.

Drive time: 50 minutes

• Fort Clinch State Park: This state park mingles history, nature, and beauty like no other. Camping, fishing, shelling, and shark tooth hunting are popular activities.
• Downtown Fernandina Beach: Strolling through the historic streets, you’ll be transported back in time as shopkeepers greet you, the smell of fudge floats on the breeze, and your eyes take in the beauty of Victorian-era architecture.
• Shrimp Boat Docks: Fernandina Beach is the birthplace of modern U.S. shrimping. The docks are located at Fernandina Harbor Marina, where you’ll see trawlers come and go, unload nets, and prepare for the next day at sea.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park, FL

Ichetucknee Springs State Park features a 6-mile river formed by 8 major crystal-clear springs, natural hiking trails, and an interactive visitor center. You can swim, float, kayak, or scuba in the clear water or explore one of the three pet-friendly trails.

Drive time: 1.5 hours

• Float the River: Grab a tube, kayak, paddleboard or canoe and float down the clear water river with concierge service through Paddling Adventures.
• Hiking: The park offers three trails for all experience levels.

Ocala, FL

Ocala, Florida offers much to do, from outdoor adventures to a bustling downtown district. You'll find horseback riding, ziplining, shopping, museums, and more. You won’t regret this day trip.

Drive time: 1.5 hours

• Canyons Zip Line Adventures: Don’t be afraid to get high above the canyons on zip lines. Not a fan of heights? Take a horseback ride through the canyons for a ground adventure or kayak the canyons by water. This is a one-stop shop for adventure.
• Appleton Museum of Art: Stop by the Appleton Museum of Art, an 81,610 square-foot museum featuring a collection of over 24,000 objects, outdoor sculptures, and temporary exhibits.
• Florida Horse Park: As the horse capital of the world, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to see horses in action at Florida Horse Park. Check the website linked above for upcoming events and activities while you’re in town.

5 Things For Kids to Do in Jacksonville

The military-friendly area surrounding NAS Jacksonville includes many kid-friendly museums and activities!

• Hands On Children’s Museum: Children will interact and engage with hands-on exhibits including a castle, grocery store, and more for child-led learning.
• Museum of Contemporary Art: The Museum of Contemporary Art is dedicated to making art accessible to children of all ages. Stop by the front desk for an activity sheet and crayons to help engage with your children as you tour the museum.
• K1 Go-Kart Racing: Find the need for speed with the whole family as you race around two tracks for winner status.
• South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground: This massive, fenced-in playground is a parent’s dream, featuring a splash pad, sensory toys, and a skate park.
• Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens: Spot turtles and lizards while you take a stroll through the family-friendly trails.

Don’t Miss These Seasonal Events!

We’re sharing 5 seasonal events taking place in Jacksonville that you won’t want to miss.

• Springing the Blues: Every April, this massive festival takes over the Seawalk Pavilion to honor the sound of the blues.
• Jacksonville Jazz Festival: Held on Memorial Day weekend, this annual tradition brings world-class musicians, food vendors, and a piano competition to the Riverfront Plaza.
• WasabiCon: Every October, the World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine Resort hosts this premier pop culture and anime convention featuring cosplay contests, celebrity guests, and gaming tournaments.
• Beaches Octoberfest: Head to the Seawalk Pavilion in October for Florida’s largest oceanside beer festival offering live music, traditional polka bands, and a massive authentic Bierhalle.
• Greater Jacksonville Agriculture Fair: Every November, you can expect 11 days of carnival rides, deep-fried foods, national concert acts, and more at the fair!

Don’t Miss Out on These Fun Things to Do Near NAS Jacksonville!

Whether you’re exploring on your own, with family and friends, or with furry friends, NAS Jacksonville and the surrounding communities have so much to offer. You’ll want to go out and explore today!

From the sun-drenched beaches of the Atlantic coast to the bustling, historic streets of downtown, your next great adventure is always just a short drive away.

Take advantage of the incredible year-round weather to discover new local favorites, whether that means kayaking a crystal-clear spring or unwinding at a neighborhood craft brewery. Embrace everything the "River City" has in store and make this assignment one you will remember for a lifetime.