Top 5 Romantic Things to Do in Jacksonville

Create your perfect romantic getaway to Jacksonville.

Whether you’re looking for romantic strolls on the beach, candlelit dinners, or an eco-adventure for two, couples can craft a picture-perfect time together in Jax!

Here are the top 5 ways to sweep your sweetheart off their feet in Jacksonville!

#1 For the couple looking for a staycation:

For a refined staycation, reserve a room at the historic Riverdale Inn in Riverside Avondale and be sure to schedule a traditional afternoon tea in the Tea Room for an elegant experience. Plus, the inn is within walking distance to restaurants, shops and the river. For the couple wanting to experience something a little more unique, book a stay at The Raven Hotel, a beautifully restored former funeral home in Jacksonville's LaVilla neighborhood near Downtown. Find more boutique hotel options here.

If you are looking to switch things up, try attending a concert or show. The Florida Theatre, FSCJ Artist Series and Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena always have great shows going on.

Elly Itriago @q33n.ellyVisit Jax Local Insider Tip

#2 For the couple looking for entertainment:

Head over to The Comedy Zone or First Coast Comedy for a show that will have you both laughing for days to come. Theater lovers can enjoy a performance at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining or Players by the Sea, while couples looking for something interactive can try escape rooms or a game night at a local arcade bar like Dart Bar & Games or Keg & Coin. However you choose to spend the evening, these experiences are perfect for creating shared memories beyond the traditional dinner date.

#3 For the couple who loves food (almost) as much as each other:

From elegant bistros, to popular chains, fish camps and everything in between, Jacksonville is a destination for food lovers with great taste!

Stay Downtown for an urban romantic getaway and be close to the thriving food scene in the surrounding historic neighborhoods. Downtown you can find Cowford Chophouse, then head to Sweet Pete’s Candy Factory, it’s the perfect place to find a sweet treat for your sweetheart.

Photo by: @deahowald

Tip: Check out Michelin Guide-recommended The Bearded Pig, Rue Saint-Marc and Eggboy, and don’t miss Chancho King, a James Beard Foundation Award finalist. Add these celebrated local spots to your itinerary for a taste of some of Jacksonville’s standout dining.

#4 For the adventurous couple:

Those who love to explore the outdoors are sure to be impressed by Jacksonville’s park system – the largest urban park system in the nation!

Hike, paddle, kayak, surf or simply visit historical monuments in the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Spend the afternoon snapping photos at Big Talbot Island’s Boneyard Beach, where white-washed oaks line the pristine beaches.

Or head to Hanna Park where you can rent kayaks or bikes onsite from Adventure Kayak for an unforgettable experience.

#5 For the hopelessly romantic:

No list of romance in Jacksonville would be complete without a mention of the iconic beachside stroll. With 22 miles of wide, relaxing, white-sandy beaches, Jacksonville offers visitors majestic sunrises and star-filled nights. Couples can walk hand-in-hand along the shore, or get active and play a round of beach volleyball, rent a paddleboard or learn to surf together.

Live like a local for a few days and rent a bike to get from one unique beach neighborhood to another. Bikes are the preferred method of transportation at the shore. Stop in a number of favorite beach bars or restaurants for a seaside-inspired treat.

Photo by: Ken McCray

The Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is such a hidden gem! Located just minutes away from Downtown in Arlington and tucked into a location you might miss if you didn't use GPS is this wonderland of trails - each of which is unique. I love to take my dogs there for trail walks. The Arboretum is great for all, there are even paved trails for those with accessibility issues.

Katie, Chief Marketing Officer | VJ Staff Pick