Not sure what to give the person who has everything? Sick of gifting friends and family more stuff they don’t need? We’ve got you covered with our favorite uniquely Jacksonville experience gift ideas. Whether you’re looking for something for that special someone, or even a present for the kids, check out our top things to do around Jacksonville that make for a great (and unique) gift.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
Catty Shack is a local wildlife refuge that takes care of large endangered cats like lions and tigers while functioning as an exotic animal rescue. Feel free to visit during their day time tours, the famous nighttime feedings, or enrichment activity days when the big cats play. Tickets can be purchased online in advance and make sure to bring the camera!
Video Game Rescue
Miss the sounds of an active arcade? Visit Video Game Rescue to immerse yourself in a retro gaming universe. In the rooms next to their HUGE selection of vintage and modern video games/accessories are where the pinball machines and classic games await. Play pinball favorites like Ghostbusters and Mario Brothers but don’t forget the old cabinet favorites likeGallaga and Pac Man. VGR is also available for birthday parties that offer gaming on their in- house systems.
Jax Brew Bus
Jax Brew Bus is a local brewery tour that showcases the best craft brews Jacksonville has to offer. During your experience you and a your crew will stop at 3 local breweries, sample 10-15 different kinds of beer, and have a blast with a fun tour-guide during your 4.5-5 hour excursion. Book online, spots fill up quick!
Alhambra Theatre & Dining
This local dinner theater, located off Beach Blvd, has hosted some of the greatest Broadway shows including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Little Shop of Horrors, and Mama Mia for the last 50 years. Included in your ticket price is a lovely dinner but Alhambra also offers “celebration packages” that are customized to suit your romantic date night needs with flowers and champagne.
Jacksonville Walking Tours
You’ve probably heard that there are bank vaults and tunnels hidden under the city but neverknew exactly where. Jacksonville Walking Tours knows and wants to take you on a tour deep underground to explore the forgotten tunnels and vaults that were once used to safely transport money from businesses to the bank. Jacksonville Walking Tours also offers a haunted tour that takes you deep into alleys and tells old tales of misery and mischief long ago in the city.
Jax Cooking Studio
Cooking classes are back and they have never been this much fun! Enjoy the atmosphere while learning how to make a delicious holiday brunch, roll sushi or decorate a gorgeous cake WITH the family. Jax Cooking Studio also offers home and after school classes for kids and teens who are inspired to eat fresh and enjoy flavor.
Be Still Float Studio
Just about every woman in your life carries a little bit of tension, thankfully, Be Still Float is the perfect solution for that. Be Still Float offers float sessions that can be combined with either a massage or a sound healing appointment to quickly heal any lady of her stress and tension. Gift Cards available or call for larger packages.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Sometimes, the last thing a kid needs is another toy, so why not get them something they can actually enjoy all year, like a Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens annual membership! Family memberships start at $120 making it an incredible buy for winter, spring, and summer breaks. Did we say most memberships allow you to invite non-family members to join in on the fun?
Class Axe Throwing
Let your inner lumberjack come out and put on your plaids with a session at Class Axe. For 90 minutes you will learn how to aim at the target, throw correctly, and have fun with all your friends during some competitive axe throwing.
Bonus Jacksonville Experience Gift Ideas:
Glass Blowing at Burnt Glassworks
Candle Making at Wick: A Candle Bar
Alexandria Preston is the mother of 2 girls, Leah and Rose, and is a local maker specializing in lavender aromatherapy yoga/pain relief packs. She is also the founder of Jaxmarketplace, a free advertising Instagram blog that focuses and features all of North Florida’s artisan makers including many of your favorites from the Riverside Arts Market. When she’s not busy being mom, girlfriend, and local maker, she is also blogging for IKnowJax.com.
