Jacksonville, Florida, is a great place to visit on a tight budget. It has great beaches, plenty of public culture events, and a wide range of attractions while offering cheaper accommodation and dining out experiences compared to cities of similar size.
On top of that, there are plenty of free things to do in Jacksonville that will make your visit worthwhile while allowing you to stay within your budget.
Enjoy a Day at the Beach
All of the beaches in Jacksonville are public and free to visit. They offer a great opportunity for a day of sunbathing and swimming, and all you will need is a towel and some snacks. However, you can also enjoy a wide range of other activities, including surging and kayaking.
Relax at Memorial Park
If you would like to take some time to relax, then head to Memorial Park. This riverfront park is known for its lush greenery, well-maintained grounds, and plenty of spots where you can have a picnic or simply take a breather. Also, you can marvel at Charles Adrian Pillars’ famous sculpture “Life,” which serves as the park’s centerpiece.
Explore Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers everyday free admission to visitors. The museum originated from the art collection of Jacksonville resident Ninah Cummer and was built on the site of her former home while maintaining her three majestic gardens. Beginning with 60 artworks in its collection in 1961, the museum now houses 5,000 works of art, ranging from ancient times to contemporary art.
Visit Riverside Arts Market
Riverside Arts Market is Jacksonville’s most famous market. It is held every Saturday under Fuller Warren Bridge. Despite featuring vendors selling anything from local produce to handcrafted items, you don’t need to spend any money to have a great time. Instead, you can enjoy some complimentary samples and watch various live performances from local musicians.