Family Fun: Jacksonville
Topgolf's Jacksonville location sits near St. Johns Town Center with 102 hitting bays across three floors, a rooftop terrace, and a full food and drink menu. The tech-scored games work for all skill levels, and complementary clubs mean you don't need to bring your own. Each bay fits up to six players, making it easy to split costs for a family outing. Kids under 16 need to be supervised by someone 21 or older. The venue also has a 14-hole mini golf course inside for younger kids who aren't ready for the driving range.
PopStroke reimagined the traditional putt-putt concept with two 18-hole putting courses designed by Tiger Woods' TGR Design team at its Jacksonville location near St. Johns Town Center. The courses use synthetic turf with real breaks, bunkers, and slopes that challenge adults while staying accessible for kids. The PopStroke app tracks scores and lets guests order food and drinks delivered to them on the course. The venue also includes a full-service restaurant, an ice cream parlor, and an outdoor playground. Located on Brightman Boulevard in Jacksonville near Town Center.
This independently owned 45,000-square-foot facility on Cassat Avenue is Jacksonville's best one-stop family entertainment center. It has 32 bowling lanes (including 8 VIP lanes), Krazie Glow Golf (18 holes of blacklight mini golf with optional 3D glasses), laser tag, and an arcade with 40+ games. Cosmic Bowling runs on Friday and Saturday nights with music, fog, and laser lighting. Birthday party packages are a local favorite. The snack bar covers the basics, and prices are reasonable compared to the bigger chains.
The Jacksonville Zoo is the only walking safari in Northeast Florida, spanning over 100 acres along the Trout River. More than 2,000 animals live across exhibits like Land of the Tiger, the Africa Loop with elephants and gorillas, and Stingray Bay where kids can pet and feed rays. The 2.5-acre Play Park and Splash Ground is a lifesaver on hot days. The zoo also offers train rides, a carousel, a 4D theater, and animal feedings. Buy tickets online at least a day ahead to save $5 per ticket. Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
MOSH sits on the south bank of the St. Johns River in downtown Jacksonville and delivers hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and rotating special exhibitions that keep kids engaged across a wide age range. The museum covers everything from Florida ecology to space and physics. The Bryan-Gooding Planetarium runs regular shows throughout the day. MOSH After Dark events offer adult-only evenings with cocktails and exhibits. The downtown location makes it easy to pair with a riverwalk walk or lunch in San Marco.
Hanna Park covers 450 acres at the Jacksonville Beaches with 1.5 miles of Atlantic beach, 20 miles of mountain bike and hiking trails, a freshwater lake for fishing and canoeing, and 293 campsites. The splash park is a go-to for families with young kids during the summer. The park is operated by the City of Jacksonville with a $5 vehicle entry fee. The trails range from beginner-friendly to technical singletrack for experienced riders. Campsite reservations fill fast during spring and summer, so book early.