Gotta Catch Duval – Fill Your Pokédex at Unique Jacksonville Destinations

Whether you are reliving your days as a youngster braving the Elite Four or you’re just trying to make sense of the whole Pokéworld craze for the first time, Pokémon Go has invaded social media with post after post of little creatures taking over landmarks all over the city.

And if you’re looking for the next stop on your journey to catch them all, we have you covered. With the largest urban parks system in the U.S. and unique sculptures, murals and art around every corner, Duval is the perfect place to fill out your Pokédex and have a little real world fun too!

Here are the best spots to pick up a few pocket monsters in Jax:

1. James Weldon Johnson Park

Downtown Jacksonville is virtually coated in landmarks, murals and other prime Pokéstop material – but for the best place to drop a lure and hang out for a bit choose James Weldon Johnson Park. With its fountain and proximity to the river, you can pick up a few water Pokémon and then cool off with a nice cold brew iced coffee from the brightly colored trailer that houses Vagabond Coffee Co. Or grab lunch from one of the daily food trucks and listen to live music as you wait around for Bulbasaur to show up. Once you’re done with lunch, head down Laura Street and stop in the Visit Jacksonville visitor center, and just like Gary’s sister, we’ll give you a map. On the same block you’ll find the historic Jacob’s Jeweler’s clock, which also happens to be a gym (the Pokémon kind of course).

Poké Tip – For some “rare candy,” visit Sweet Pete’s for a Pikachu inspired lollipop or one of their many other sweet treats. It’s located right next to Hemming Park on the corner of Hogan St. and Duval St., there’s even a Pokéstop inside!

2. San Marco

As you stroll the tree-lined streets of the San Marco Square, you are sure to find plenty of Pokémon among the trendy boutiques and restaurants. With its European statuary and fountain and San Marco’s historic neighborhood status, it’s easy to find the perfect Pokéstop for a lure while you start your day with a delicious breakfast sandwich at Maple Street Biscuit Company or end your night with a craft cocktail at Grape and Grain Exchange.

3. Memorial Park in Riverside

As another one of Jacksonville’s historic neighborhoods and home to a plethora of craft beer bars, farm to table restaurants, unique vintage shops and quaint pocket parks, Riverside is a must for anyone on the quest to be the very best Pokémaster. Stop by Grassroots Natural Market and pick up the makings of a Poké-picnic, then head to Memorial Park. This beautiful park was designed by the famous Olmstead Brothers (who designed New York’s Central Park) and is located right on the St. Johns River. It’s a great spot to enjoy a beautiful day and catch a few Pokémon along the way. You’re sure to see a few other trainers who might just be able to point you in the direction of that Squirtle you’ve been tracking.

Are you a Pokémaster with a hot tip about the Pokéstops that can only be found in Jax? Share your favorite places to catch Pokémon with us on social – Facebook.com/VisitJacksonville, Twitter: @visit_jax, Instagram: @visit_jax #onyinjax

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