It’s summertime and the living’s easy, especially when your days consist of feeling the cool breeze and enjoying a drink on the St. Johns River. It’s easy to take for granted just how much to see along our Riverwalk, but spanning along both the Northbank and the Southbank, there are plenty of things to keep you busy, outside and active this Summer on the river!
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Work It Out
Getting in shape has never been so enjoyable, with so many sights and places to explore along the way in #DTJax. Walk, jog or run along the Riverwalk and get in your miles for Mayor Curry’s Journey to One – Mayorthon. If you’re looking for a little more guidance on where to run along the river, check out our #RunDTJax blog for specific routes. You can also grab some friends and head to Friendship Fountain for a serene group yoga session on the river. Additionally, we have a “Getting Fit Downtown” itinerary which provides cycling routes along the river so that even while you’re exercising, you have a great view!
The Iconic Skyline
Some say that Jacksonville has one of the most picturesque skylines and we agree. Whether you’re a amateur or a professional, you won’t have a hard time finding #DTJax’s best angle – they’re all great! Check out some of our favorite spots like the Mirrored River mosaic underneath the Main St. Bridge on the Southbank or the perfect headshot (*or Instagram selfie*) on the bridge with the skyline behind you.
Paddleboards, boat rentals and kayaks – oh my!
For those that are a little more adventurous, take your river experience off dry land. There are plenty of activities to choose from, ranging from stand-up paddle board rentals to kayak tours. Don’t forget to watch for dolphins and manatees who regularly make an appearance along the riverfront.
St. Johns River Taxi
The fun on the river doesn’t stop with boat rentals, enjoy the sights of #DTJax with a cruise along the riverfront on the St. Johns River Taxi! With new programming, a night out on the river has never been so fun. Every Thursday through Sunday from 7:30 – 8:30 p.m., enjoy the Sunset River Jam Cruise where you can enjoy live, local entertainment and bring your own food and beverages! Plus, every Saturday this Summer, take the River Taxi from Friendship Fountain Park to the Jacksonville Zoo for a day of family fun. Not sold yet? Read our DVI staff experience blog and then buy your tickets here today.
Dinner with a View
#DTJax is home to some of the best restaurants in Jacksonville (see our blog on Jacksonville Magazine’s 50 best restaurants). What is better than finishing up a delectable meal than watching the sun set over the St. Johns? Check out restaurants with riverfront dining such as River City Brewing Company, especially on Sunday-Funday with live music on the Brew House Lounge and Deck! Other riverfront dining options include Benny’s Steak & Seafood, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Fionn MacCool’s Irish Restaurant and Pub and the River Club to name a few!
Music by the River
Almost as iconic as the skyline itself, The Jacksonville Landing is a staple in #DTJax. Multiple times a week, The Landing hosts free music by the river in their courtyard at the Coca Cola Riverfront Stage every Friday and Saturday. The Landing also has ongoing events like the annual X102.9’s Rock on the River, Bud Lights Up The Landing and Caribbean Sundaze. Learn more about The Landing’s events on their website.
Just Around the River Bend
As if walking along the panoramic riverfront wasn’t enticing enough, there are many events, activities and things to see just a short walking distance from the Riverwalk. Every Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. visit the Riverside Arts Market, located under the Fuller Warren Bridge, which showcases the best local artists, food vendors, entertainers and non-profits in our area. Walk to 220 Riverside Avenue and find Unity Plaza, which is home to great restaurants like Hobnob and Brixx Pizza plus an array of events ranging from live music from the Chris Thomas Band, free yoga in the amphitheater, weekly Winston YMCA Y-Fit bootcamps and a monthly speaker series.
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In #DTJax, we’re lucky to have some of the best elements of our city right here. Enjoy one of the most beautiful attributes of Jacksonville with any of the activities above or let us know your favorite thing to do on the riverfront!
For more information, look to our website and download our free DTJax app today! Available on the Apple Store or Google Play store.