21 Things to Do in Jacksonville, NC When You Want to Escape the Crowds
Jacksonville, North Carolina, may not shout for attention the way bigger cities do—but that’s exactly where its charm lies. Here, you’ll find a community rooted in resilience, shaped by the Marines stationed at Camp Lejeune, and softened by the slow-moving rivers, scenic parks, and friendly faces around every corner.
Sure, Jacksonville’s heart beats with military pride, but it’s also a place where outdoor adventures, local eats, and quiet moments along the waterfront steal the show. One minute you’re kayaking down the New River, the next you’re exploring trails shaded by towering pines, or finding a hidden gem café where everyone knows your name—and probably your favorite pie.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Jacksonville, NC—from outdoor escapes to meaningful local landmarks—so you can see why sometimes, the quieter destinations leave the loudest impressions.
Jacksonville was named after Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States — even though he had no direct ties to the area.
1. Explore the Art of MarySusan Farmer
📍 Location: Jacksonville Public Library, 201 W College Ave, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
MarySusan Farmer has been creating art for over eight decades, with pieces ranging from delicate watercolors to vibrant mixed-media works.
If you want a glimpse into a lifetime of creativity, head to the Jacksonville Public Library to experience "Old Favorites and New Works," a special exhibit by MarySusan Farmer. Celebrating her 85th year, this collection offers over 100 miniature watercolor paintings and mixed-media pieces, each packed with color, emotion, and a sense of personal storytelling.
Farmer’s work isn’t just technically beautiful—it feels intimate, like flipping through a visual diary filled with memories, dreams, and playful experiments. The smaller format draws you in close, making every brushstroke and layered texture feel even more deliberate.
2. Kayak at Lake Mauvaisterre
📍 Location: Lake Mauvaisterre, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
Lake Mauvaisterre’s name roughly translates to "bad land" in French—but today, it’s one of Jacksonville’s most peaceful outdoor spots.
For a tranquil escape, grab a paddle and hit Lake Mauvaisterre. Thanks to new kayak-friendly facilities and rentals available from March through October, it's easier than ever to launch onto these calm, scenic waters.
The lake is ringed by leafy trees and gentle wildlife, making it perfect for beginners or anyone just looking to unplug for a while. Glide past sunbathing turtles, herons hunting along the shore, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a deer sipping from the shallows. Early mornings are especially magical, when the mist hangs low and the only sounds are your paddle dipping into the water and birds greeting the day.
Rentals are affordable, and the easy access makes it a low-stress way to dip into Jacksonville’s quieter, more natural side.
3. Attend the Blues & Brews Festival
📍 Location: Downtown Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
In honor of Jacksonville’s bicentennial, the 2025 Blues & Brews Festival will feature a limited-edition local brew made specially for the celebration.
Downtown Jacksonville turns up the volume at the annual Blues & Brews Festival, and if you love live music, local beer, and good vibes, it’s a must. This free outdoor event brings the city’s streets alive with the sound of guitars, harmonicas, and soulful vocals pouring from the main stage.
Local and regional artists take turns delivering everything from smooth Delta blues to foot-stomping roadhouse anthems. Meanwhile, craft breweries set up shop, offering ice-cold pours—including a special bicentennial brew this year that’s as much a part of the celebration as the music.
Food trucks, art vendors, and a laid-back crowd round out the scene, making it feel less like a typical festival and more like a giant backyard party. Bring a lawn chair, bring your dancing shoes, and get ready for a night where the rhythm doesn't stop until well after sunset.
4. Visit Lejeune Memorial Gardens
📍 Location: Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28541
Fun Fact
The Beirut Memorial at Lejeune Memorial Gardens is the largest military memorial commemorating the 1983 Beirut barracks bombing outside of Arlington National Cemetery.
Few places capture Jacksonville’s heart like Lejeune Memorial Gardens. This solemn, beautifully designed space honors the sacrifices of military heroes across generations, from Vietnam veterans to the Montford Point Marines, to those lost on 9/11.
Each memorial tells its own powerful story. The Beirut Memorial's granite walls bear the names of the 273 service members killed in the 1983 bombing. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial features a moving reflection area. The Montford Point Marine Memorial honors the first African Americans to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps. And the 9/11 Memorial includes a twisted steel beam salvaged from the World Trade Center.
It’s not flashy—and that’s what makes it so powerful. Walking through the gardens, you feel the weight of history and the pride of a community that never forgets. Take your time here. It’s a place for quiet reflection, gratitude, and deep respect.
5. Tour the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue Center
📍 Location: 302 Tortuga Ln, Surf City, NC 28445 (near Topsail Island
Fun Fact
The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue Center rehabilitates hundreds of injured and sick sea turtles every year, helping release many back into the wild.
Just a short drive from Jacksonville, the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue Center offers a heartwarming (and educational) glimpse into marine conservation in action.
Tours take you behind the scenes, where you’ll meet turtles recovering from injuries, illnesses, or habitat threats. Staff and volunteers share powerful stories about each turtle's rescue journey, making the experience personal and unforgettable.
The facility is deeply hands-on—visitors can watch feedings, learn about rescue operations, and even witness scheduled releases when healthy turtles return to the sea. Kids and adults alike leave inspired by the center’s message: that small actions really can make a big difference.
If you’re planning a coastal day trip from Jacksonville, this is the kind of stop that will stay with you long after you leave the beach.
The New River, which cuts across Jacksonville, is one of the few rivers in the world that flows northward — and today offers kayaking, fishing, and peaceful riverfront parks.
6. Explore Lynwood Park Zoo
📍 Location: 1071 Wells Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
Lynwood Park Zoo is the only privately owned zoo in eastern North Carolina, home to over 80 species of animals.
Lynwood Park Zoo might not be the biggest zoo you've ever visited—but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in heart. This family-run spot is home to everything from playful lemurs to rescued reptiles, colorful parrots, alligators, and even exotic cats.
The setting feels personal, almost like a sprawling backyard filled with animal ambassadors. Pathways wind through shady trees, and many of the enclosures are close enough for you to really see the animals’ personalities shine.
Kids will love the petting area where goats and sheep come right up for a snack. Adults will appreciate the conservation efforts behind the scenes, with many of the animals here being rescues.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, up-close wildlife experience that feels more local than corporate, Lynwood Park Zoo is a sweet, unexpected stop.
7. Play at Zing Zumm Children's Museum
📍 Location: 625 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
"Zing Zumm" comes from an old children's rhyme—and the museum's founders chose it to capture the spirit of curiosity and fun.
If you’re visiting Jacksonville with little ones, Zing Zumm Children's Museum is a must. This bright, colorful space is packed with interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity, learning, and endless giggles.
Kids can climb aboard a fire truck, run a pretend grocery store, build with blocks, explore art stations, and even role-play in a mini hospital or construction zone. Every exhibit is hands-on, encouraging kids to touch, imagine, and create rather than just watch.
It’s the kind of place where an hour can easily turn into an afternoon, and where kids leave happier, sleepier, and maybe even a little smarter. Bonus: it’s right downtown, making it easy to pair your museum visit with lunch or a stroll through the shops nearby
8. Dine at The Kettle Diner
📍 Location: 300 Marine Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
The Kettle Diner has been serving locals and visitors alike for over 20 years—and they’re famous for their 24-hour breakfast service
Sometimes you just want comfort food done right, and The Kettle Diner delivers every time. This local staple has that classic American diner vibe—big booths, friendly servers who call you "hon," and a menu where everything sounds tempting.
You’ll find all the hits: country fried steak, stacked burgers, fluffy pancakes, homemade meatloaf, and mile-high pies that look like they belong in a magazine. Breakfast is served all day, but the Southern specials (like fried okra and grits) are just as popular.
9. Bowl at Bowlarena Lanes
📍 Location: 433 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546
Fun Fact
Bowlarena Lanes has been a go-to for family fun in Jacksonville for over 50 years, mixing classic bowling charm with modern arcade games and laser lights.
Bowlarena Lanes is where Jacksonville comes to kick back and have a blast. The lanes are well-kept, the vibe is friendly, and the snack bar serves up crowd-pleasers like nachos, soft pretzels, and pizza. There’s also a retro arcade packed with games for kids (and nostalgic adults) to get their fix.
Theme nights, glow bowling, and affordable rates keep Bowlarena buzzing, especially on weekends. It’s the perfect spot for a casual date night, a rainy day outing, or a family afternoon where nobody’s glued to their phones.
10. Relax at Hammocks Beach State Park
📍 Location: 1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, NC 28584
Fun Fact
Bear Island, part of Hammocks Beach State Park, is accessible only by ferry, kayak, or private boat—giving it a peaceful, untouched feel that’s rare on the North Carolina coast.
For a slice of coastal paradise, head to Hammocks Beach State Park. After a short ferry ride to Bear Island, you’ll find wide, sandy beaches with hardly a building in sight—just rolling dunes, gentle waves, and miles of open shoreline.
It’s a beach lover’s dream: quiet, clean, and utterly relaxing. Bring your own gear if you want to kayak, paddleboard, or fish. Or just pack a cooler, pitch an umbrella, and let the hours slip away with the tide.
There are hiking trails weaving through maritime forests and salt marshes if you feel like stretching your legs, and plenty of chances to spot wildlife like herons, osprey, and even the occasional dolphin offshore.
11. Fish at New River
📍 Location: New River, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
The New River is one of the few blackwater rivers in the U.S. that flows north instead of south—a rare geographic twist.
For a peaceful day on the water, cast a line into the New River. Winding gently through Jacksonville, this historic river is a favorite among local anglers for its steady supply of bass, catfish, and flounder.
You can fish from the banks at one of the city’s riverside parks or launch a kayak or small boat for better access to hidden fishing holes. Early morning and sunset hours are prime time, when the river settles into a glassy calm and the bite picks up.
Even if you’re not a hardcore fisherman, spending a few hours on the New River is a great way to slow down and soak up the beauty of coastal Carolina. Plus, with boat rentals and bait shops nearby, it’s easy to gear up and get out on the water, even as a visitor.
You Can Still Find "Bottle Trees" in Historic Yards
An old Southern tradition believed to ward off evil spirits, bottle trees (glass bottles placed on tree branches) can still occasionally be spotted around older neighborhoods in Jacksonville.
12. Shop at Jacksonville Mall
📍 Location: 375 Jacksonville Mall, Jacksonville, NC 28546
Fun Fact
Jacksonville Mall first opened its doors in 1981 and remains the city's largest enclosed shopping center.
When you need some retail therapy, Jacksonville Mall is the spot. With a good mix of national brands, specialty shops, and casual dining options, it’s a convenient stop whether you're looking for a quick wardrobe upgrade or just a way to spend a rainy afternoon.
Stores range from department staples like Belk to popular chains and smaller boutiques. You’ll also find electronics shops, home goods, jewelry counters, and a few local surprises tucked between the bigger names. And when you’re ready for a break, the food court offers a solid lineup of familiar favorites and sweet treats.
It's not just about shopping either—seasonal events, pop-up markets, and visits from Santa or the Easter Bunny make Jacksonville Mall a lively community hub all year round.
13. Attend Art Events at Council for the Arts
📍 Location: 826 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
The Council for the Arts has been promoting creativity in Jacksonville for over 40 years, offering everything from gallery shows to hands-on kids' programs.
If you're looking to tap into Jacksonville’s creative side, check out the Council for the Arts. This community-driven organization hosts regular exhibitions featuring local and regional artists, plus classes and workshops that invite you to roll up your sleeves and make something of your own.
You might find yourself at a gallery opening one night and an art journaling workshop the next. Seasonal events like art walks and holiday craft fairs add even more reasons to swing by.
14. Bike the Jacksonville Greenway Trails
📍 Location: Various access points throughout Jacksonville, NC
Fun Fact
Jacksonville’s Greenway Trails network spans over 15 miles, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and scenic spots around the city.
One of the best ways to experience Jacksonville is on two wheels. The Jacksonville Greenway Trails wind through the city’s parks, neighborhoods, and along the New River, offering a scenic, safe way to explore.
The paths are paved, relatively flat, and perfect for casual riders, runners, or even families pushing strollers. Along the way, you’ll pass picnic spots, playgrounds, river views, and wooded stretches where the noise of the city fades away.
Highlights include the trailheads at Riverwalk Park and the trail connections to Wilson Bay Park, where you can stop for a breather by the water.
15. Visit Walton’s Distillery
📍 Location: 261 Ben Williams Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
Walton’s Distillery is a true family-run operation that uses old-school Appalachian recipes passed down through generations.
If you're curious about how a small batch of Carolina whiskey or moonshine comes to life, make time for a tour at Walton’s Distillery. This family-owned operation offers free tastings and behind-the-scenes looks at how they craft their traditional spirits.
You’ll hear stories about the old moonshining days, learn how ingredients are sourced and distilled, and, of course, sample the goods—from smooth whiskeys to flavored moonshines like peach, apple pie, and blackberry.
The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with the staff treating guests like family. No pretension here—just a genuine slice of coastal Carolina tradition poured into every bottle.
16. Discover Onslow County Museum
📍 Location: 301 S Wilmington St, Richlands, NC 28574
Fun Fact
Opened in 1980, the Onslow County Museum offers one of the most comprehensive looks into the cultural, military, and agricultural history of coastal North Carolina.
If you want to understand the heart of Onslow County, a stop at the Onslow County Museum is a must. Tucked into nearby Richlands, this museum does an incredible job weaving together the area's Native American roots, military legacy, and rural traditions.
Permanent exhibits cover everything from early settler life to the booming growth sparked by the establishment of Camp Lejeune. Temporary rotating exhibits keep things fresh, often highlighting local artists, community stories, and surprising pieces of local history.
17. Enjoy Performances at Jacksonville Performing Arts Center
📍 Location: 100 Innovation Way, Jacksonville, NC 28546
Fun Fact
The Jacksonville Performing Arts Center (JPAC) opened in 2021 and hosts everything from Broadway-style productions to local concerts and cultural festivals.
Jacksonville’s creative side shines at the Jacksonville Performing Arts Center. This state-of-the-art venue brings a mix of high-energy shows, family-friendly musicals, orchestral performances, and community theater productions to town.
With comfortable seating, great acoustics, and a location that's easy to access from downtown, the Performing Arts Center makes it easy to plan a memorable night out. Check the schedule—you might find everything from jazz concerts to Shakespeare plays happening while you’re in town.
18. Watch the Sunset at Wilson Bay Park
📍 Location: 5 Courthouse Bay, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
Wilson Bay Park is a favorite local fishing and picnic spot thanks to its peaceful location on the New River—and its stunning sunset views.
Sometimes the best moments on a trip are the simple ones—and watching the sunset at Wilson Bay Park proves it. Tucked away along the New River, this peaceful park offers shady picnic tables, open lawns, and a waterfront boardwalk perfect for a slow stroll.
As the sun dips low, the sky often lights up in brilliant shades of pink, orange, and gold, reflecting off the water and casting the whole park in a soft glow. It’s a favorite spot for couples, families, or anyone just looking to press pause for a while.
19. Explore Local Boutiques Downtown
📍 Location: Downtown Jacksonville, NC 28540
Fun Fact
Downtown Jacksonville has been undergoing a quiet revival, with new boutiques, galleries, and cafés popping up alongside historic landmarks.
If you want to experience Jacksonville’s local flavor beyond the big chains, head downtown and start exploring. The walkable streets here are dotted with charming boutiques offering everything from handmade jewelry and home décor to one-of-a-kind art pieces and vintage finds.
Pop into cozy cafés for fresh-brewed coffee, browse small galleries showcasing coastal artists, and discover shops where the owners are often behind the counter ready to chat. Events like farmers' markets and seasonal art walks bring even more energy to the area.
It’s not flashy—but that’s the charm. Downtown Jacksonville feels authentic, relaxed, and welcoming, offering a perfect few hours of casual exploring.
20. Sample Brews at Local Breweries
📍 Location: Various locations across Jacksonville, NC
Fun Fact
Jacksonville’s craft beer scene has been steadily growing, with local breweries offering everything from crisp IPAs to rich stouts—and many of them are veteran-owned.
Jacksonville may be known for its military roots, but its craft beer game is quickly earning its own spotlight. Spend an afternoon brewery-hopping and you’ll find friendly taprooms serving up inventive pours that celebrate the local vibe.
Places like The Mash House or Salty Turtle Beer Company (a short drive over in Surf City) often feature rotating taps with everything from fruity summer ales to barrel-aged specialties. Many breweries also offer food trucks, live music, and outdoor patios perfect for chilling out with friends.
It’s Home to One of the Oldest Naval Hospitals in the Country
The Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune has served active-duty members, veterans, and families since 1943, playing a critical role during every major U.S. conflict since WWII.
21. Climb at The Climbing Place
📍 Location: 436 W Russell St, Fayetteville, NC 28301 (about 1 hour from Jacksonville)
Fun Fact
The Climbing Place has over 20,000 square feet of climbing surface, making it one of the largest indoor climbing gyms in the region.
Ready for a hands-on challenge? Plan a visit to The Climbing Place, just about an hour from Jacksonville in Fayetteville.
You’ll find towering rope climbs, bouldering walls, and beginner areas where you can get a feel for the techniques without feeling intimidated. The staff here are friendly and eager to help first-timers learn the ropes (literally), making it a great outing for families, friend groups, or adventurous solo travelers.
It's an awesome way to mix up your beach-and-barbecue trip with something active and memorable. Plus, nothing beats the feeling of hitting the top of a wall you thought you couldn’t climb.
Conclusion
Jacksonville, NC, isn’t the kind of place that tries to impress you with flash. It wins you over with heart. It’s a city shaped by service, strengthened by community, and softened by nature.
You’ll find plenty to do here—outdoor adventures, rich history, family-friendly fun—but more importantly, you’ll find a city that still knows how to honor its past while building a bright, welcoming future.
So pack your curiosity. Bring your appetite. Keep your plans loose enough to leave room for the surprises that make travel memorable. Jacksonville might seem quiet at first glance, but if you give it a chance, it’ll leave a lasting mark.
Planning to visit Jacksonville? Karta has some amazing deals on Jacksonville Vacation Rentals for you.
FAQ
1. What is Jacksonville, NC, known for?
Jacksonville is best known as the home of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and for its deep military heritage, but it's also a growing hub for outdoor recreation and local culture.
2. Is Jacksonville, NC, worth visiting?
Definitely. Beyond its military roots, Jacksonville offers riverfront parks, kayaking, local breweries, art galleries, historic memorials, and a friendly, welcoming community vibe.
3. What is the best time to visit Jacksonville, NC?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the best weather—warm days, cooler evenings, and fewer crowds. Summer is great for beach and water activities but expect higher humidity.
4. What’s the weather like in Jacksonville, NC?
Jacksonville has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid, perfect for beach days. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing.
b5. How far is Jacksonville, NC, from the beach?
Jacksonville is about a 30–40 minute drive from several beautiful beaches, including Topsail Island and Hammocks Beach State Park.
6. Is Jacksonville, NC, family-friendly?
Absolutely. With parks, museums, a children's museum, zoos, river activities, and family-friendly events year-round, Jacksonville is a fantastic destination for travelers with kids.
