21 Things To Do In Jacksonville When You Want To Escape The Crowds

Jacksonville is a city woven from centuries of history and boundless potential. Founded in 1822 and named for Andrew Jackson, it grew from a river crossing used by British settlers into a vital port shaping regional trade. After surviving the Great Fire of 1901, Jacksonville rebuilt itself into a hub of Prairie-style architecture and economic opportunity. The city’s growth was bolstered by its deep-water port and proximity to military installations, while tourism flourished along its 22 miles of Atlantic coastline.

Now home to nearly a million residents, Jacksonville offers a striking blend of urban energy, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. Downtown displays a modern skyline mirrored by the St. Johns River, while nearby historic neighborhoods like Riverside and Avondale reveal tree-shaded streets and architectural charm. The city’s identity pulses through its cultural venues—including art museums, vibrant festivals—and outdoor escapes like Big Talbot Island and the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens.

Here are the things to do in Jacksonville, North Carolina that help you feel the place for what it really is.

1. Montford Point Marine Museum

📍 Location: Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, 207 Montford Landing Road, Jacksonville, NC 28540

The Montford Point Marine Museum honors the legacy of the first African Americans to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps. From 1942 to 1949, over 20,000 Black Marines trained at Montford Point, a segregated facility near Camp Lejeune. This training ground was a product of the era’s Jim Crow policies, yet the men who passed through it went on to serve with distinction in World War II, Korea, and beyond.

The museum, established in 2001, preserves artifacts, photographs, uniforms, and oral histories that tell their story. Visitors can see period barracks, historical documents, and medals awarded to Montford Point Marines, many of whom received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2012. Educational programs and exhibits connect past struggles for equality with the present-day Marine Corps ethos. Entry is free, making it a powerful, budget-friendly stop that combines local history with national significance.

2. Riverwalk Park

📍 Location: 421 Court Street, Jacksonville, NC 28540

Riverwalk Park offers a peaceful connection to the New River while serving as a recreational centerpiece for Jacksonville. Developed as part of the city’s revitalization efforts in the late 20th century, the park has since expanded to include fishing piers, picnic shelters, walking trails, and an open-air amphitheater. It frequently hosts concerts, farmers’ markets, and holiday events, drawing both locals and visitors. Its strategic location near downtown means you can pair a riverfront stroll with shopping or dining nearby.

The park also honors Jacksonville’s military ties, featuring memorial markers and views toward Camp Lejeune. For families, it’s a safe and scenic place to let kids play, while fitness enthusiasts use the paths for running and biking. Seasonal events, like summer movie nights and craft fairs, give it a community festival atmosphere. Access is free, making it a cost-effective way to enjoy the outdoors.

3. Antique 2 Chic Vendor Market

📍 Location: 721 New Bridge Street, Jacksonville, NC 28540

Antique 2 Chic Vendor Market blends small-town charm with the treasure-hunting thrill of an antique fair. Housed in a large indoor space, it features dozens of vendor booths offering everything from vintage furniture and collectibles to locally crafted décor and art. The market reflects a broader American tradition of flea markets and antique malls that surged in popularity during the late 20th century as nostalgia-driven shopping grew.

In Jacksonville’s case, it also serves as a platform for artisans and small business owners to reach a dedicated audience. Inventory changes weekly, encouraging repeat visits, and prices range from affordable knickknacks to high-end statement pieces. For military families stationed nearby, it’s a favorite spot to furnish homes on a budget while adding personality. Whether you’re a serious collector or a casual browser, the market delivers a mix of history, craftsmanship, and local enterprise under one roof.

4. Visit Lejeune Memorial Gardens

📍 Location: Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28541

Lejeune Memorial Gardens is one of the most significant memorial sites in eastern North Carolina, honoring the sacrifices of U.S. service members and their families. The gardens feature several moving monuments, including the Beirut Memorial, which pays tribute to the 241 American service members killed in the 1983 Beirut barracks bombing, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, inscribed with more than 58,000 names. The Montford Point Marine Memorial stands here as well, commemorating the first African Americans to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Walking paths weave through manicured landscaping, reflecting pools, and areas designed for quiet reflection. Open year-round and free to the public, the site is an important stop for military history enthusiasts and those wishing to pay their respects. Guided tours are sometimes available, especially for school and veterans’ groups. Its location near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune makes it a natural extension of a visit to the Jacksonville area, providing both solemn remembrance and educational insight into pivotal moments in American military history.

5. J-Vegas Retro Arcade

📍 Location: 246 Wilmington Hwy, Jacksonville, NC 28540

J-Vegas Retro Arcade is a nostalgic haven for gamers of all ages, celebrating the golden eras of arcade entertainment. Inside, you’ll find a collection of classic cabinets, from 1980s pixelated legends like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong to 1990s hits such as Street Fighter II and Mortal Kombat. Many of these machines have been lovingly restored, preserving the authentic feel of joystick controls and CRT screens. This throwback experience is paired with modern amenities—unlimited play pricing, snack bars, and themed nights that cater to families, competitive gamers, and retro enthusiasts alike.

The arcade reflects a larger cultural revival of vintage gaming, which began gaining momentum in the early 2000s as millennials sought to reconnect with the games of their youth. In Jacksonville, it’s become more than just entertainment—it’s a social hub where military personnel, locals, and visitors mingle over shared memories of button-mashing glory. Affordable entry and a relaxed, all-ages atmosphere make it a standout spot for budget-friendly fun.

6. Explore Lynwood Park Zoo

📍 Location: 1071 Wells Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540

Lynwood Park Zoo offers a close-up look at more than 80 species of animals, from familiar farmyard residents to exotic reptiles and mammals. Established in 1990, this privately owned zoo has grown from a small animal sanctuary into a well-maintained facility focused on education, conservation, and family engagement. Visitors can see capuchin monkeys, lemurs, cougars, and tropical birds, along with reptile exhibits featuring snakes, turtles, and lizards.

Many of the animals are rescues, giving the zoo a dual role as both an attraction and a rehabilitation site. The park’s natural setting, with shaded pathways and picnic areas, adds to its charm. Educational programs, guided tours, and seasonal events—such as Halloween “Boo at the Zoo”—help foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife. For Jacksonville’s military families, the zoo has long been a weekend staple, offering a low-cost alternative to larger regional zoos while keeping the experience personal and community-oriented.

7. Play at Zing Zumm Children's Museum

📍 Location: 625 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540

Zing Zumm is a vibrant, hands-on children’s museum designed to spark curiosity and creativity through play. Aimed at children up to age 10, the museum offers interactive exhibits such as a kid-sized grocery store, a mock veterinary clinic, a construction zone, and a science lab. Each section is designed to encourage role-playing, problem-solving, and cooperative learning. Seasonal exhibits rotate to keep visits fresh, and educational programming includes story times, art workshops, and STEM activities.

Admission typically costs around $8–$10 per child, with memberships available for frequent visitors. The museum also hosts birthday parties and field trips, offering private rooms and customizable activities. Parents appreciate the safe, contained environment where kids can explore freely, while staff members ensure exhibits are well-maintained and engaging. Located just minutes from downtown Jacksonville, Zing Zumm is a popular stop for families, especially on rainy days or during the hot summer months when outdoor play is less comfortable. It’s more than a play space—it’s a place where learning and laughter happen side by side.

8. Jeff’s Burgers, Dogs & Shakes

📍 Location: 2555 Onslow Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28540

Jeff’s Burgers, Dogs & Shakes has been a local favorite for years, delivering exactly what its name promises—classic American comfort food done right. Known for juicy, hand-formed burgers, freshly grilled hot dogs, and thick milkshakes, it’s the kind of spot where portions are generous, service is quick, and flavors stay true to tradition. The restaurant keeps prices reasonable, making it a go-to for military families from nearby Camp Lejeune and hungry travelers passing through.

The menu also features fries, onion rings, and specialty dogs topped with chili or slaw, adding a Carolina twist. Its popularity isn’t just about the food—Jeff’s has built a reputation for friendly, no-frills hospitality that’s becoming rare in fast-casual dining. Many locals recall growing up with the place as a weekend treat, cementing it as part of Jacksonville’s casual dining culture. For visitors exploring the city’s attractions, Jeff’s offers an easy, satisfying meal without breaking the budget.

9. Bowl at Bowlarena Lanes

📍 Location: 433 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546

Bowlarena Lanes has been part of Jacksonville’s recreational life since the mid-20th century, offering a mix of nostalgia and modern bowling fun. With multiple well-maintained lanes, the facility accommodates casual bowlers, league play, and special events. The venue has embraced updates like automatic scoring systems and lighter bowling balls for kids, while keeping its retro charm intact. It’s a gathering place for families, military personnel from Camp Lejeune, and local league teams, with tournaments that often run year-round.

Beyond bowling, Bowlarena features arcade games and a snack bar serving pizza, burgers, and other quick eats. Affordable pricing, shoe rentals, and themed nights—such as glow-in-the-dark bowling—make it a budget-friendly outing. Over decades, it’s become woven into Jacksonville’s social fabric, with many long-time residents recalling first dates or birthday parties here. For visitors, Bowlarena offers a slice of local tradition in an easygoing, family-friendly setting.

10. AMC Kalli 12

📍 Location: 350 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546

AMC Kalli 12 is Jacksonville’s premier movie theater, bringing the latest blockbusters, family favorites, and special event screenings to the community. The theater features multiple screens equipped with digital projection and surround sound, delivering an immersive viewing experience. With stadium-style seating and reclining chairs in select auditoriums, comfort is a priority. Moviegoers can pair their films with concessions ranging from traditional popcorn and candy to upgraded offerings like pretzel bites and nachos.

AMC Kalli 12 also participates in national cinema programs like AMC Stubs, which offer discounts and rewards for frequent visitors. Over the years, the theater has become a reliable entertainment hub for both civilians and Marines stationed at Camp Lejeune, hosting everything from date nights to group outings. Special screenings for big sports events and film festivals occasionally make their way into the schedule, keeping it relevant beyond just the Hollywood release calendar. Its central location makes it an easy stop before or after dinner in Jacksonville.

11. Glo-Mania Lazer Tag LLC

📍 Location: 48 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546

Glo-Mania Lazer Tag LLC brings high-energy, glow-in-the-dark adventure to Jacksonville’s entertainment scene. The multi-level arena is designed for strategic play, with barriers, ramps, and themed lighting that immerses players in an action-packed environment. The facility welcomes walk-ins, birthday parties, and corporate team-building events, providing all the gear and safety instructions needed for newcomers and seasoned players alike. In addition to laser tag, Glo-Mania often offers arcade games and snack options, making it easy to spend an afternoon or evening here.

While laser tag itself gained popularity in the 1980s, Glo-Mania has kept the concept fresh with updated tech, including accurate laser sensors and modern vests. For Jacksonville residents and Marines looking for an adrenaline rush off-base, this spot offers a break from routine. Affordable group rates and special event nights make it accessible for families, friend groups, and youth organizations. It’s a popular choice for visitors wanting active, indoor fun in a city known for its outdoor attractions.

12. Shop at Jacksonville Mall

📍 Location: 375 Jacksonville Mall, Jacksonville, NC 28546

Jacksonville Mall has been a retail cornerstone for the community since opening in the early 1980s, offering locals and visitors a central place to shop, gather, and enjoy events. Developed during a period when enclosed malls were at their peak popularity in America, it quickly became more than a shopping destination—it became a community hub. Anchored by major department stores and featuring a wide variety of national and local retailers, the mall has evolved over the decades to include dining options, seasonal pop-up shops, and community events such as craft fairs and holiday parades.

The indoor climate control was a welcome addition for shoppers during humid Carolina summers and rainy winters, cementing its role as a year-round destination. Today, Jacksonville Mall continues to adapt with the times, incorporating newer stores, kid-friendly play areas, and entertainment options. Located just a short drive from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, it also serves military families with convenient shopping and services. For visitors, it offers an easy way to combine leisure shopping with a glimpse into the area’s daily life.

13. Phillips Park

📍 Location: 1000 Parkwood Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28540

Phillips Park offers a peaceful, well-kept green space that has been a favorite of Jacksonville residents for decades. While smaller than some of the city’s larger parks, it provides a charming escape with picnic tables, playground equipment, and open grassy areas perfect for family outings or quiet afternoons. The park’s shaded walking paths invite leisurely strolls, while its modest size ensures a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere compared to busier recreational spots.

Phillips Park is also a popular choice for community events and small gatherings, giving it an important role in local social life. Its facilities are well-maintained, with restrooms, benches, and ample parking nearby. Though its origins date back to mid-20th-century city development, ongoing improvements have kept it relevant, with updated play structures and landscaping that blends mature trees with seasonal plantings. For visitors, it’s a tranquil stop to recharge between sightseeing, and for locals, it remains a dependable neighborhood retreat.

14. Bike the Jacksonville Greenway Trails

📍 Location: Various access points throughout Jacksonville, NC

If you’ve got a bike and a little free time, the Jacksonville Greenway Trails are a solid way to see the city without dealing with traffic or noise. These trails stretch through neighborhoods, wooded areas, and open spaces, giving you a smooth ride and a different look at the town beyond the usual roads and parking lots.

The paths are paved, wide enough for both walkers and cyclists, and easy to follow. You’ll pass creeks, small bridges, and quiet corners of Jacksonville that feel almost hidden. Some sections are shaded and peaceful, others more open and sunny—it’s a good mix that keeps the ride interesting.

It’s a great option for all ages and skill levels. You don’t have to be a serious cyclist to enjoy it. People ride with kids, walk dogs, or just take it easy on a weekend afternoon. It’s a chance to get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and maybe discover a corner of town you didn’t know was there.

15. Visit Walton’s Distillery

📍 Location: 261 Ben Williams Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540

Walton’s Distillery brings a taste of North Carolina’s heritage to Jacksonville with a working distillery that blends craftsmanship and tradition. Specializing in moonshine and whiskey, it offers visitors an inside look at the distilling process, from fermentation to bottling. Guided tours not only explain the technical steps but also touch on the rich history of distilling in the region, including the era of Prohibition and the state’s unique relationship with craft spirits.

Guests can sample small-batch products in the tasting room, often discovering seasonal flavors alongside traditional recipes. The distillery is housed in a facility that reflects rural Carolina charm, complete with a rustic décor that enhances the experience. Many visitors leave with a bottle or two, making it both a memorable tour and a chance to take home a local specialty. With free tours, warm hospitality, and a genuine connection to North Carolina’s distilling heritage, Walton’s stands out as a must-visit for spirit enthusiasts.

16. Discover Onslow County Museum

📍 Location: 301 S Wilmington St, Richlands, NC 28574

The Onslow County Museum gives you a real sense of where Jacksonville came from—and why it matters. It’s not a huge place, but it’s packed with stories that explain the roots of the region, from its agricultural beginnings to its deep connection with the military. You’ll find artifacts, photos, and exhibits that are simple but thoughtfully put together, telling the story of how this coastal community grew and changed over time.

The main exhibits rotate, so there’s usually something new to check out—local art, historic tools, old uniforms, or pieces from families who’ve lived here for generations. There’s also a hands-on children’s area that keeps younger visitors engaged while the grown-ups take a slower walk through history.

The museum is welcoming, easy to explore, and staffed by people who genuinely care about the stories they’re sharing. It’s the kind of place you can visit in under an hour, but still walk away feeling like you learned something meaningful.

17. Enjoy Performances at Jacksonville Performing Arts Center

📍 Location: 1021 Henderson Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28540

The Jacksonville Performing Arts Center brings a creative pulse to the city that’s hard to miss. It’s where you go when you want to see something live, something real—music, theater, dance, maybe even a student showcase or touring act. The space is modern, comfortable, and built to put the spotlight where it belongs: on the stage.

The lineup here is a mix. One weekend might feature a local high school musical, the next a jazz quartet or guest speaker. And because the center works closely with schools and community groups, there’s a real sense that what’s happening on stage reflects the people who live here.

Seats are good no matter where you are, and the acoustics make even a solo piano feel full. It's not a big, impersonal venue—you’re close enough to see expressions, hear every note, and feel like part of the performance, not just a spectator.

18. Watch the Sunset at Wilson Bay Park

📍 Location: 6 Dewitt St, Jacksonville, NC 28540

Wilson Bay Park is one of Jacksonville’s most scenic public spaces, offering a waterfront view of the New River that locals have cherished for generations. The park’s boardwalk and fishing pier invite visitors to spend quiet mornings casting a line or enjoying the sunrise, while picnic shelters make it a popular weekend gathering spot. Historically, the area around Wilson Bay was important to Jacksonville’s maritime activity, serving as a local fishing hub before recreational use took over.

The park has been carefully maintained to balance leisure with nature conservation, and its open lawns host seasonal events like community picnics and holiday celebrations. Families appreciate the well-kept playground, while nature lovers are drawn to the birdwatching opportunities along the shoreline. With ample parking and easy access, Wilson Bay Park remains a reliable retreat for anyone looking to relax by the water, blending local history with everyday recreation.

19. Cracked It Escape Games

📍 Location: 206 Brynn Marr Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28546

Cracked It Escape Games offers an immersive entertainment experience that challenges groups to solve puzzles and uncover clues within a set time limit. The venue features multiple themed rooms—ranging from historical mysteries to crime capers—each designed to test logic, teamwork, and creativity. While escape rooms are a relatively new form of entertainment, Cracked It has become a modern fixture in Jacksonville’s activity lineup, drawing families, friends, and corporate teams alike.

Each scenario is crafted with attention to storytelling, often incorporating nods to local culture and history, making it more than just a generic puzzle experience. Prices are competitive, typically ranging between $20–$30 per person, making it an affordable option for group outings. Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day activity, a unique date night, or a bonding experience with colleagues, Cracked It Escape Games delivers a blend of fun and mental challenge that keeps participants coming back to try new rooms.

20. Rack’m Pub & Billiards

📍 Location: 4150 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546

Rack’m Pub & Billiards combines the laid-back atmosphere of a local pub with the energy of a bustling pool hall. Featuring multiple billiard tables, dart boards, and plenty of TVs for sports viewing, it’s been a go-to nightlife spot in Jacksonville for years. The pub serves a range of beers on tap alongside a menu of casual bar fare—think burgers, wings, and nachos.

Over time, Rack’m has built a reputation not just for its pool tournaments but also for its welcoming, unpretentious vibe. It’s the kind of place where locals gather to watch a game, celebrate a win, or simply unwind after work. Affordable drink specials and friendly staff keep regulars coming back, while newcomers find it easy to strike up a conversation over a game of eight-ball. For visitors looking to experience Jacksonville’s social side, Rack’m offers a relaxed, authentic slice of local nightlife.

21. Altitude Trampoline Park

📍 Location: 2830 Gateway Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28546

While trampoline parks are a modern recreational trend, Altitude Trampoline Park taps into a long tradition of American indoor leisure spaces designed to bring communities together, much like roller rinks and bowling alleys did in the mid-20th century. Opened as part of the Altitude franchise network—which began in 2012 in Texas—Jacksonville’s location provides over 20,000 square feet of connected trampolines, foam pits, dodgeball courts, and climbing walls. It’s become a go-to venue for birthday parties, youth group outings, and active family fun, especially during the region’s hot summers or rainy days.

The park offers structured fitness classes, toddler jump times, and teen nights, making it appealing to a broad age range. Safety is emphasized through trained floor staff and specialized trampoline design to reduce impact injuries. Prices typically range from $15–$20 for a one-hour jump session, with discounted rates for longer visits and group bookings. For locals and visitors alike, Altitude is both a place to burn off energy and to create memories—continuing a tradition of indoor recreation spaces that have been part of American community life for generations.

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 the city? Karta has some amazing deals on Jacksonville vacation rentals for you.

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Where to Eat in Jacksonville

How to Get to Jacksonville

Jacksonville, North Carolina, is well-connected by road and can be reached from several major cities in the Southeast. The city is located along U.S. Highway 17 and N.C. Highway 24, making it a convenient drive from coastal and inland destinations.

If you’re coming from Raleigh, take I-40 East toward Wilmington, then follow NC-24 East directly into Jacksonville. The drive typically takes around 2 hours.

From Wilmington, head north on U.S. Highway 17, a scenic coastal route, for about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Travelers from Greenville, NC, can use U.S. 258 South, connecting to NC-24 East, for a 1 hour 30 minutes trip.

From Charlotte, the most efficient route is I-85 North to I-40 East, then NC-24 East, totaling approximately 4.5 hours of driving.

If you’re flying, the closest major airport is Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ), just 15 minutes from downtown Jacksonville. The airport offers connections via American Airlines and Delta to hubs like Charlotte and Atlanta. Alternatively, Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is about 1 hour 20 minutes away, offering more flight options.

Bus service is available via Greyhound, which operates routes connecting Jacksonville to Raleigh, Wilmington, and beyond.

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.

5. 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.