Discover 38 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in San Marco.
10 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
⭐ ActivitySan Marco Boulevard offers a delightful neighborhood experience where kids can run and play in a pedestrian-friendly setting surrounded by charming boutiques and eateries. The centerpiece fountain provides endless entertainment for little ones who love splashing and people-watching, while parents can enjoy browsing the locally-owned shops and cafes that line this picturesque square.
🍦 Ice CreamThe Hyppo is an artisan popsicle shop in charming San Marco that transforms snack time into a special treat for the whole family. Kids will be mesmerized by the colorful array of creative, fruit-forward popsicles made with fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations that adventurous eaters and picky kids alike can enjoy. It's the perfect quick stop to cool down during a day of exploring historic St. Augustine.
☕ CafeChamblin's Uptown in San Marco offers a treasure hunt experience for young readers, with an extensive children's section that invites browsing and discovery. The cozy, independent bookstore atmosphere encourages kids to settle in with potential new favorites, making it a perfect rainy day activity or a quieter alternative to high-energy outings.
⭐ ActivityPainting with a Twist in Jacksonville's Southside neighborhood offers a fantastic creative outlet where kids and parents can paint together in a no-pressure, fun environment. With dedicated kids' classes, family painting events, and step-by-step instruction, even beginners create artwork they're proud to take home. The welcoming instructors make art accessible for all skill levels, turning painting sessions into memorable family bonding experiences.
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🛝 PlaygroundRiversEdge is a spectacular four-parks-in-one playground destination that's quickly become a Jacksonville favorite. With thoughtfully separated play areas for different age groups, outdoor swings, and refreshing cooling misters for Florida's warm days, this brand-new facility offers hours of entertainment in a safe, well-designed environment that parents and kids both love.
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🌾 FarmThe Riverside Arts Market transforms the space under the Fuller Warren Bridge into a vibrant Saturday morning destination where families can explore local art vendors, enjoy live music, and sample fresh food while kids run freely in a safe, riverfront setting. With over 180 vendors offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, plus regular family entertainment and activities, it's Jacksonville's most beloved weekend tradition for locals and visitors alike.
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🎨 MuseumThe Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers a perfect blend of culture and outdoor exploration for families, featuring interactive family backpacks filled with hands-on activities and the CREATE Cart with art projects kids can actually touch and make. The stunning 2.5-acre riverside gardens provide plenty of space for children to explore nature while parents enjoy world-class art, making it a rare museum where fidgety kids can genuinely have fun.
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🌳 ParkMemorial Park is a spacious riverside gem that offers something for every age, from its exciting splash pad and well-maintained playground to scenic walking paths along the riverfront promenade. With plenty of open fields for running around, shaded picnic areas, and stunning water views, this highly-rated park (4.7/5 from over 4,000 reviews) is a go-to destination for Jacksonville families seeking outdoor fun.
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🍦 Ice CreamSweet Pete's Candy is a magical wonderland that transforms candy shopping into an unforgettable experience for the whole family. This impressive multi-story candy emporium features nostalgic confections, handcrafted chocolates, and interactive candy-making demonstrations that captivate children while triggering sweet childhood memories for parents.
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🧗 AdventureSouthbank Riverwalk in Jacksonville offers families a beautiful 2-mile paved trail along the St. Johns River, perfect for stroller walks, bike rides, and introducing kids to outdoor exercise in a scenic setting. With its calm waters, playgrounds along the route, and stunning views of the downtown skyline, it's an ideal spot for active families who want fresh air without venturing far from the city.
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🛍️ ShoppingThe Shoppes of Avondale offers a charming, walkable outdoor shopping experience perfect for a relaxed family outing. This tree-lined historic district along St. Johns Avenue combines boutique browsing with numerous family-friendly restaurants, making it ideal for an afternoon of exploring, window shopping, and enjoying a meal together in a pedestrian-friendly environment.
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☕ CafeSweet Theory Baking is a delightful neighborhood bakery in Avondale that's become a local favorite for families seeking a sweet treat or casual breakfast. Kids' eyes light up at the colorful display of creative cupcakes, cookies, and pastries, while parents appreciate the quality ingredients and cozy cafe atmosphere perfect for a quick stop or leisurely morning outing.
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🍽️ RestaurantTaqueria Cinco brings vibrant Mexican flavors to Avondale's family-friendly shopping district with a colorful, casual atmosphere that kids love. The menu features kid-approved tacos and quesadillas alongside breakfast options, while the outdoor seating lets energetic little ones enjoy fresh air without feeling too confined in a traditional restaurant setting.
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🍦 Ice CreamDreamette is a charming, old-fashioned soft-serve ice cream stand that's been delighting Jacksonville families since 1948. This nostalgic walk-up spot serves generous portions of creamy soft-serve cones, sundaes, and frozen treats at budget-friendly prices, making it the perfect stop after a day at the park or as a special weeknight treat that won't break the bank.
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☕ CafeGrassroots Natural Market is a refreshing stop for health-conscious families looking for nutritious options kids will actually eat. This local favorite combines a natural foods market with a juice bar and café, serving up colorful smoothies, fresh snacks, and wholesome meals that appeal to even picky eaters. It's an ideal quick lunch spot or post-activity refuel destination where parents can feel good about what they're feeding their kids.
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10 upcoming family events in San Marco
🏎️ Go KartsK1 Speed Jacksonville is Florida's largest indoor go-kart facility, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience for families regardless of weather. With state-of-the-art electric Italian karts that reach impressive speeds, junior karts for younger drivers, and a full arcade, this 80,000 square foot venue keeps the whole family entertained for hours.
🌿 NatureTree Hill Nature Center offers 50 acres of hands-on nature exploration perfect for curious young minds. Kids can walk elevated boardwalk trails through natural Florida habitats, meet live native animals up close, and participate in engaging environmental education programs that make learning about ecosystems fun and interactive.
University Park is a welcoming neighborhood park in Arlington that offers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With well-maintained playgrounds for different age groups, sports facilities including baseball fields and basketball courts, and plenty of open green space, it's an ideal spot for letting kids burn off energy while parents relax at a picnic table or join in the fun.
🎳 BowlingBatt Family Fun Center is Jacksonville's ultimate indoor entertainment destination where families can enjoy an action-packed day under one roof. This massive 45,000 square foot facility combines classic bowling with modern arcade games and themed mini golf, making it perfect for birthday parties, rainy day fun, or weekend family outings where everyone from toddlers to teens can find something exciting to do.
🎮 EntertainmentDave & Buster's Jacksonville is the ultimate all-in-one entertainment destination where kids can burn energy playing hundreds of arcade games, compete in virtual reality experiences, and enjoy a full menu of kid-friendly food,all under one roof. Parents appreciate that they can relax with a meal and drinks while keeping kids entertained for hours with the rechargeable Power Card system that tracks game play and prizes.
🤸 Trampoline ParkFlight Adventure Park Jacksonville is a massive 40,000 square foot indoor trampoline paradise that keeps kids bouncing, flipping, and playing for hours. With 17,000 square feet of wall-to-wall trampolines, a trapeze experience, a dedicated junior Pilot Zone for younger jumpers, and a huge arcade, there's something for every energy level and age group under one air-conditioned roof.
🦁 ZooJacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens offers an unforgettable day exploring 115 acres filled with over 2,000 animals from around the world. Beyond animal exhibits, families can cool off at the splash ground, ride the historic carousel and train, and get up close with giraffes, colorful lorikeets, and stingrays through hands-on feeding experiences that kids absolutely love.
🍽️ RestaurantEl Potro Mexican Restaurant brings fiesta vibes to family dining in Orange Park with its colorful, festive atmosphere and budget-friendly menu. Known for generous portions that easily satisfy hungry kids and adults alike, this local favorite creates a welcoming environment where families can relax and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine without breaking the bank.
🎳 BowlingBowlero Southside offers the perfect combination of classic bowling fun and modern entertainment for families in Jacksonville. With 32 lanes equipped with bumpers for younger bowlers, plus an exciting arcade and on-site dining, parents can enjoy a complete entertainment experience without leaving the building. The venue's combination of activities means there's something to keep kids of all ages engaged while parents can relax between frames.
📚 LibrarySoutheast Regional Library is a gem for families in Jacksonville's Southside, offering much more than just books. With regular storytimes, hands-on educational programs, and a summer reading initiative that keeps kids engaged during break, this highly-rated community library provides a welcoming, air-conditioned space where children can discover the joy of reading while parents access valuable resources.
⭐ ActivityTotal Wine & More in Baymeadows offers a unique shopping experience where parents can browse an extensive wine and spirits selection while kids are supervised in designated safe areas during weekend events. The store hosts family-friendly tastings (for adults) and educational classes, making it possible to accomplish your shopping without arranging separate childcare.
Showing 10 events in and around San Marco