Fall is one of our favorite times of year. The weather is starting to cool off and there are tons of great events going on around town. That’s why we’ve put together a fall bucket list for kids that’s loaded up with 20 of our favorite things you want to make sure you don’t miss during the season.
Visit a Free Museum
Did you know there are lots of museums in Jacksonville that you can visit at no charge. Fall is a great time of year to explore some of our favorites.
Find the Perfect Pumpkin
Jacksonville has tons of great pumpkin patches you can visit. Take the kids to your favorite local spot and pick out the perfect pumpkin to display or carve.
Plan a Trip to a Local Farm
One of the great things about North Florida is that there are tons of farms that specialize in everything from berry picking to sunflower fields. Better yet, most are just a short drive from Jacksonville. Pick a farm and plan a day of fun!
Take a Family Bike Ride
Little kids and big kids will love to get out and explore some of the great parks with bike trails. If you’re feeling adventurous then head to the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail for a bike trip everyone will love.
Earn a Junior Ranger Badge
Whether you’re looking to visit a Florida State Park, or one of our National Park sites, kids can earn a Junior Ranger Badge at no cost. This fun and free activity is the perfect way to get little ones outside and enjoying the cooler weather.
Plan a Family Camping Trip
From treehouses to tee pees, there are some great camping sites within a 2 hour drive of Jacksonville. Stay close and book a spot at Hanna Park, or venture a little further to somewhere unique like Cumberland Island National Seashore.
Explore a Historic Fort
North Florida is jam packed with forts your family can explore. From St. Augustine to Fernandina there are several great spots where you can not just learn a little history, but also have a wonderful day out with the family.
Take a Hike on a Family Friendly Trail
There are lots of great family friendly trails around Jacksonville where you can get outside and take a short (or long) hike. Be sure to check out the UNF trails, along with some of our favorites at the Arboretum.
Navigate a Corn Maze
Nothing says Fall fun like a visit to a corn maze. Lots of the farms near Jacksonville offer corn mazes where you can take the kids to explore.
Go Geocaching
If you’ve never been geocaching, then now is the time to try it. A real life treasure hunt, just download the app and start searching for geocaches all over Jacksonville.
Buy Something at a Thrift Store
Jacksonville is home to a plethora of great thrift stores. Fall is the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe with some preloved items. If you’re shopping for kids, take advantage of those discount days and grab some items for just a few dollars.
Check Out a New Jacksonville Playground
Yes, we all have our favorite Jacksonville playground, but there are so many wonderful ones you probably haven’t explored. Pick a different park and go see all it has to offer.
Hunt for Shark Teeth
When it’s too cool to get into the water, it’s the perfect time of year to hunt for shark teeth on the shore. Early Fall storms can kick up hidden treasures, so make a point to go out and look around after those afternoon rains.
Have a Family Picnic
With so many great parks and spots for a picnic, Fall is the perfect time of year to plan an outdoor dining experience. If you’re looking for a real splurge, pick up a charcuterie box from one of our favorite local vendors or book a luxury picnic for your family.
Find Your Closest Free Little Library
Jacksonville is home to lots of free little libraries, and they’re a great way to find new books as well as donate your used books. Do some research on ones in your area and plan a visit to see what treasures they hold.
Check Out 3 Locally Owned Shops
Get ready for that holiday shopping by doing some research on locally owned shops in Jacksonville. There are so many great ones, and money spent goes back into our community.
Attend a Beach Clean Up Event
Not sure where to start or how to find a beach clean up event? Be sure to follow the City of Jacksonville Beach on social media because they usually share events when they’re scheduled.
Enjoy an Outdoor Movie
Lots of our great parks how outdoor movies throughout the Fall. These free events are fun for kids of all ages! Just bring your chair or blanket and some snacks and you’re all set for an evening under the stars.
Go Shopping at a Farmers Market
If you haven’t explored some of the great markets like RAM then make sure to add it to your Fall bucket list.
Drop Off a Donation at a Local Charity
Don’t wait for Christmas or the end of the year to make a charitable contribution. Do your research on local charities to support and drop off something they can use! If you want to ease of shopping from home, check out the wish lists for local teachers and send them something that didn’t get purchased for back-to-school.
