12 Fun Activities For Toddlers In Jacksonville, Fl.

Are you looking for fun and exciting things to do with your little one in the city of Jacksonville, FL? Look no further! We have compiled a list of 12 activities that will not only keep your toddler entertained but also help them learn and grow. From outdoor adventures to indoor play spaces, there's something for everyone on this list. So grab your sneakers and your sense of adventure and let's explore all that Jacksonville has to offer for toddlers!

Visit the Zoo (Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens)

Jacksonville, Florida is a great destination for families with toddlers looking for a fun-filled adventure. With so many things to do, it could be tough to decide where to go and what to do. However, one of the definite must-dos is visiting the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens. Here's why the zoo should definitely be at the top of your list of things to do with toddlers in Jacksonville, FL.

The Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is a perfect destination for families with toddlers. The zoo has a wide variety of animals that will thrill and entertain youngsters while also providing an educational experience. Visiting the zoo provides an opportunity for children to learn about animals from around the world, including tigers, rhinos, giraffes, and monkeys, amongst others. With over 2000 animals and 100 different species, the zoo is a great destination to teach toddlers about biology and animal science.

The zoo is ideally designed for toddlers and young children. With stroller-friendly paths and plenty of shaded picnic areas, the zoo makes it easy for families with young children to enjoy their visit. A visit to the zoo is an ideal way to get some exercise and fresh air while exploring the beauty of nature. Toddlers will love exploring the zoo's different exhibits, including the African Savanna, Wild Florida, and Range of the Jaguar.

There are also plenty of interactive experiences for young children. The Wild Adventures Playground, Story Safari, and Keeper Talks are all designed to educate and entertain children of various ages. Toddlers will also enjoy the train safari ride around the zoo, where they can observe the animals in their habitats. A narrated tour will make this experience even more fun and exciting.

Furthermore, the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens provides lots of opportunities for families to connect with nature. Strolling through the gardens, waterfalls, and streams provide an excellent opportunity for parents and toddlers alike to experience nature's beauty. Visitors also have an opportunity to explore the various eco-systems of Florida, which include the Wetlands, the Marshlands, and the Rainforests.

In conclusion, visiting the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is one of the best things to do with toddlers in Jacksonville, FL. With so many animals to see, interactive experiences to be had, and nature to explore, the zoo is an excellent attraction for families with young children. The zoo also offers numerous food options and snack stations spread throughout the zoo, making it easy for visitors to refuel and continue their adventure.

Splash around at a local beach (Ponte Vedra Beach or Atlantic Beach)

Jacksonville, Florida is a fun-filled city with opportunities for entertainment and recreational activities. If you're looking for a way to spend quality time with your toddlers in Jacksonville, nothing beats the joy of spending a day at the beach. Jacksonville is home to many beautiful beaches, but Ponte Vedra Beach and Atlantic Beach are two of the best beaches to visit with your little ones. Let's take a closer look at these beaches.

Ponte Vedra Beach

Ponte Vedra Beach is a great place to take kids because of its calm, shallow waters. The beach has soft white sand and clear blue water, perfect for a day of building sandcastles and enjoying the waves. The beach also has picnic tables and a playground area where your toddlers can play while you relax on the beach. Not to mention, Ponte Vedra Beach is home to the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, which offers many family-friendly amenities, such as a beach club, a swimming pool, miniature golf, and a playground.

Atlantic Beach

If you're looking for a beach with lots of amenities, Atlantic Beach is the perfect destination. The beach has restrooms, showers, and concessions available, ensuring that you and your toddlers have a comfortable day at the beach. Visitors can rent umbrellas, chairs, and bicycles for a more enjoyable experience. The nearby Atlantic Beach Park has a large playground with slides, swings, and climbing structures, providing endless entertainment for your little ones.

Tips for taking toddlers to the beach

Before you pack up the car and head to the beach, it's important to remember a few essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for you and your toddlers. Here are some tips:

• Bring essential items such as sunscreen, hats, plenty of water, and snacks.
• Pack extra clothes and towels for your toddlers in case of accidents or spills.
• Keep a close eye on your toddlers at all times, especially in the water.
• Bring lots of toys and games to keep your toddlers entertained and engaged.
• Take breaks in the shade to prevent sunburn and overheating.

A day at the beach is a great way to spend quality time with your toddlers in Jacksonville, Florida. Ponte Vedra Beach and Atlantic Beach are two of the top destinations that offer plenty of amenities and a safe environment for your little ones. Just remember to follow the essential tips, stay safe, and have fun!

Play at an indoor play gym (We Rock The Spectrum or Jumpstreet)

Characteristic	Description
Name	We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym - Jacksonville
Type	Indoor playground in Jacksonville, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 196
Address	9357 Philips Hwy STE 3, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Phone	(904) 330-0362
Hours	Tuesday - 9 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–6 PM Thursday - 9 AM–6 PM Friday - 9 AM–6 PM Saturday - Closed Sunday - 9 AM–1 PM, 3–6 PM Monday - 9 AM–6 PM
Profiles

As a parent of a young child, you may be looking for fun and engaging activities to do with your toddler in Jacksonville, FL. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available to you, including indoor play gyms like We Rock The Spectrum and Jumpstreet.

These play gyms are specifically designed for young children to explore and play in a safe and stimulating environment. Here are some reasons why visiting an indoor play gym is a great idea for your toddler:

• Provides exercise and physical activity: Toddlers need to release their energy, and indoor play gyms offer plenty of opportunities for them to run, jump, climb, and explore. This can help them develop their gross motor skills and strength.
• Offers socialization and interaction: As your toddler plays with other children, they learn how to interact, communicate, and share. This can help them develop valuable social skills that will serve them well as they grow older.
• Creates a sense of adventure and excitement: Toddlers are always exploring and trying new things. Indoor play gyms offer a variety of toys, structures, and obstacles to keep them engaged and excited.

We Rock The Spectrum is an indoor gym that’s designed for children with autism and special needs, but it’s open to all children. The gym features a range of equipment that helps children develop their sensory and motor skills, including swings, zip lines, and trampolines. It also has a quiet room and a calming area for children who need a break.

Jumpstreet is another popular indoor play gym in Jacksonville that’s perfect for toddlers. It features a trampoline park, foam pit, dodgeball court, and climbing structures. There’s also a designated toddler area where young children can play safely.

When visiting an indoor play gym with your toddler, it’s important to keep a watchful eye and follow the gym’s rules and guidelines. Make sure your child is properly dressed and wears shoes with good traction. Bring water and snacks, and don’t forget to take breaks when needed.

Overall, visiting an indoor play gym with your toddler can be a fun and engaging activity that provides numerous benefits. Whether you choose We Rock The Spectrum or Jumpstreet, your child is sure to have a great time while developing valuable skills.

Explore MOSH (Museum of Science and History)

Characteristic	Description
Name	MOSH (Museum Of Science & History)
Type	Museum in Jacksonville, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.2 / 1,030
Address	1025 Museum Cir, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Phone	(904) 396-6674
Hours	Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–6 PM Sunday - 12–5 PM Monday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Jacksonville, FL is a great place to visit with toddlers. The city has numerous fun activities that you can engage in with your toddlers. One such activity is exploring the Museum of Science and History (MOSH).

MOSH is located in Downtown Jacksonville, near the south bank of the St. Johns River. The museum is a perfect destination for families with kids as it offers a variety of educational and interactive exhibits. There are several toddler-friendly activities that your little one can enjoy at the museum.

One of the main exhibits at MOSH is the Little Learner’s area. This exhibit is designed for children aged 5 and younger and features interactive games and activities. Toddlers can explore the sensory wall, play with building blocks, and enjoy other hands-on activities that promote learning and exploration.

Another toddler-friendly exhibit is the JEA Powerplay exhibit. This exhibit teaches children about various forms of energy and how they are produced. Your toddler can engage in activities such as pedaling a bike to generate electricity and lighting up a city using solar power.

One of the most exciting exhibits in the museum is the Health in Motion exhibit. This exhibit is designed to teach children about the human body and how it works. Toddlers can participate in various interactive activities, such as climbing inside a giant nose, crawling through a human heart, and learning about the digestive system.

In addition to exhibits, the museum also offers toddler-friendly events and programs, such as Little Learners Story Time. These events are designed to engage and educate young children, making it a worthwhile destination for families with toddlers.

In conclusion, MOSH is a great destination for families with toddlers in Jacksonville, FL. The museum offers interactive and educational exhibits that cater to the development of toddlers. From learning about energy to exploring the human body, toddlers will love the hands-on experiences that the museum offers. Don't miss out on this fun-filled destination if you're visiting Jacksonville with your little ones.

Stroll through the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens

If you're looking for something to do with your toddlers in Jacksonville, Florida, why not take a stroll through the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens? This hidden gem is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon with your little ones, getting some fresh air and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

The arboretum boasts over 120 acres of natural land, with hiking trails that wind through forests, past streams and ponds, and around scenic lookouts. The gardens are home to a variety of plants and flowers, along with several examples of Florida's unique flora and fauna.

As you explore the arboretum and gardens, your toddlers can run and play, exploring the natural world around them. They can scramble over rocks, watch for birds and butterflies, and discover hidden pond creatures. The trails are easy to navigate, with clear paths and signs pointing the way, making it a perfect spot for families with kids of all ages.

One of the best parts of the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens is that it's completely free to visit, making it an affordable activity for families on a budget. There are also plenty of shaded areas where you can stop and rest, have a picnic, or just enjoy the scenery.

If you're looking for a unique and educational experience to share with your toddlers in Jacksonville, look no further than the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens. It's a great way to get out of the house, enjoy some fresh air and sunshine, and explore the natural world, all while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Go for a train ride at Adventure Landing Jacksonville Beach

Taking care of toddlers can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to finding activities that are both engaging and safe for them. Luckily, if you live in Jacksonville, Florida, there are plenty of opportunities for you and your little ones to make lasting memories. One activity that your child is sure to love is going for a train ride at Adventure Landing in Jacksonville Beach.

Adventure Landing Jacksonville Beach is a massive entertainment complex that features a variety of rides, games, and attractions for people of all ages. Among these is a miniature train that runs through the park's lush landscaping, giving kids an opportunity to experience a unique and exciting journey in a safe environment.

Once you and your little ones climb aboard the train, you'll be taken on a scenic tour of the park, with an informative and entertaining narration along the way. You'll wind your way through beautiful gardens, past shimmering lakes, and over bridges, all while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.

This experience is not only a fun activity for toddlers, but it's also an educational one. As you journey through the park, your child will have the opportunity to spot wildlife, learn basic safety rules, and gain an understanding of the principles of physics and motion associated with riding on a train.

The train ride at Adventure Landing Jacksonville Beach is also a great way to bond with your child. As you both explore the park together, you can point out interesting sights and chat about whatever you see along the way. You can also use the ride as a chance to snap some cute photos of your toddler as they enjoy the experience.

In addition to the train ride, Adventure Landing Jacksonville Beach offers many other attractions that are perfect for toddlers. These include a water park, a laser tag arena, a miniature golf course, and various arcade games. There's plenty to see and do, so your child will never get bored.

In conclusion, when looking for things to do with your toddler in Jacksonville, Florida, consider taking them for a train ride at Adventure Landing Jacksonville Beach. This fun and educational activity is a great way to spend quality time with your child while exploring the beauty of the park. Adventure Landing Jacksonville Beach has something for every member of the family, so be sure to plan a full day of fun and excitement for everyone.

Take a picnic to Friendship Fountain in Downtown Jacksonville

If you're looking for a fun and affordable way to spend the day with your little ones in Jacksonville, Florida, taking a picnic to Friendship Fountain in downtown Jacksonville is a great idea! The fountain is a popular attraction in the city and provides a beautiful backdrop for a family picnic.

Located on the Southbank Riverwalk, Friendship Fountain is a stunning and historical landmark that was first unveiled in 1965. The fountain was designed to represent the friendship between the city of Jacksonville and the people of Japan, and it has since become a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

Aside from the breathtaking fountain, the Southbank Riverwalk also features a beautiful view of the downtown skyline, gorgeous walking trails, and plenty of open spaces for your little ones to run and play. Whether you plan to pack a blanket and a few sandwiches or make a day of it with a full picnic basket, Friendship Fountain is a great spot to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather.

Here are a few tips to help make your picnic at Friendship Fountain a success:

• Scout out the best spot. There are plenty of benches and seating areas around the fountain, but if you want a more secluded spot, consider bringing a blanket and finding a quiet spot by the river.
• Bring plenty of snacks and drinks. Toddlers can get fussy quickly, so make sure you have plenty of snacks and drinks on hand to keep them happy and hydrated.
• Plan for some extra activities. While the fountain is a great attraction on its own, there are also plenty of other activities to enjoy in the area. Consider bringing along some toys or a few games to play with your toddler, or plan on taking a stroll along the riverwalk after your picnic.

Overall, taking a picnic to Friendship Fountain in downtown Jacksonville is a great way to spend the day with your little ones. With stunning scenery, plenty of open space to run around, and the soothing sounds of the fountain, it's sure to be a hit with the whole family. So pack up your picnic basket and head to the fountain for a day of fun in the sun!

Visit the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
Type	Wildlife refuge in Jacksonville, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 2,435
Address	1860 Starratt Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226
Phone	(904) 757-3603
Hours	Tuesday - 1–3 PM Wednesday - 1–3 PM Thursday - 1–3 PM Friday - 1–3 PM, 6–7:30 PM Saturday - 1–3 PM, 6–7:30 PM Sunday - 1–3 PM Monday - 1–3 PM
Profiles

Are you looking for a fun and educational activity to enjoy with your toddler in Jacksonville, FL? Look no further than the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary!

Located just 20 minutes north of downtown Jacksonville, the Catty Shack Ranch is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue and care of big cats such as tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars. In addition to big cats, the sanctuary also houses other exotic animals such as coatimundi, bobcats, and foxes.

Visiting the Catty Shack Ranch with your toddler is a unique opportunity to not only see these majestic creatures up close, but also to learn about their conservation and the importance of protecting them in the wild. The sanctuary offers guided tours that are both educational and engaging for little ones.

During the tour, you and your toddler will have the opportunity to watch the big cats devour their meals, play with their enrichment toys, and lounge in their spacious habitats. You will also learn about the individual stories of each animal and how they came to be residents of the sanctuary.

Aside from guided tours, the Catty Shack Ranch also hosts special events throughout the year such as “Wildlife Education Nights,” where visitors can enjoy presentations and activities focused on different species.

Overall, a trip to the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful way to spend a day with your toddler in Jacksonville. Your little ones will not only enjoy the excitement of seeing large cats and other animals up close, but also gain an appreciation for conservation efforts and the importance of preserving our planet's wildlife.

Take a nature walk at Mandarin Park

Jacksonville, Florida is a wonderful place to raise a family and spend time with your little ones. With warm weather year-round and plenty of natural beauty, there are plenty of things to do with toddlers in Jacksonville. One great activity that you won't want to miss is taking a nature walk at Mandarin Park.

Located in the heart of Mandarin, Mandarin Park offers 13 acres of outdoor fun for kids of all ages. The park is set along the tranquil waters of the St. Johns River, with views of the downtown skyline in the distance. It is a great place to explore nature and enjoy some fresh air with your little ones.

One of the best things about Mandarin Park is the nature trail that winds through the oak trees and around the water's edge. The trail is paved and stroller-friendly, so even the youngest adventurers can enjoy the scenery. Along the way, you'll see all kinds of wildlife, such as turtles, fish, and birds. Your toddler will love spotting the colorful feathers of a blue heron or the playful antics of a group of squirrels.

The park also features a playground, where toddlers can climb, slide, and swing to their hearts' content. With plenty of shade and benches for parents, it's a great place to take a break and watch your little ones play.

In addition to the nature trail and playground, Mandarin Park also offers picnic areas, a fishing pier, and a boat launch. It's a great place to bring a picnic lunch and spend a relaxing afternoon by the water. You could even rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the river with your little one.

Overall, taking a nature walk at Mandarin Park is a great way to spend quality time with your toddler and enjoy the outdoors. With beautiful views, wildlife sightings, and plenty of play areas, it's an adventure that you and your little one won't soon forget. So pack a picnic, lace up your walking shoes, and head to Mandarin Park for some family fun!

Enjoy the playground at Colonial Oaks Park

A visit to Jacksonville, Florida with your toddler can be fun and exciting, but when it comes to finding activities that are both entertaining and age-appropriate, it can be a challenge. Luckily, Colonial Oaks Park, located at 9751 Crosby Road, offers a wide range of activities and recreational opportunities for children of all ages, making it the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon with your little ones.

One of the most popular features of Colonial Oaks Park is its well-maintained playground, which is specifically designed for young children. With a variety of swings, slides, and climbing equipment, your toddler will have a blast exploring and playing with new friends. The playground has soft surfaces, which makes it safe for your little ones to run around and play without worrying about falling and getting hurt. Parents can also relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery while keeping an eye on their children as they play.

Another great feature of Colonial Oaks Park is its open green spaces and picnic areas. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy some quality time with your family surrounded by nature. You can also take a stroll on the trails to explore the park's wildlife or pack some kites for some fun in the sun.

The park offers restrooms, ensuring parents can take care of their young ones' toileting needs. Additionally, Colonial Oaks Park has benches and shaded areas for parents and caregivers to watch their children play and take a break from the sun.

In addition to the playground, Colonial Oaks Park also offers a variety of activities for older children and adults. There's a full-size basketball court, soccer fields, and a baseball diamond, making it a perfect place to engage in some friendly competition.

Overall, Colonial Oaks Park is a fantastic destination for a day out with your little ones. The park offers a wide range of activities, including a safe and exciting playground for your toddlers to have fun and let their energy out while parents relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Make a splash at Shipwreck Island Waterpark

Jacksonville, Florida is a fantastic destination for families with toddlers. With the beautiful beaches, parks, and attractions, every day there is something new and exciting to do. One of the most popular places to visit with toddlers in Jacksonville is the Shipwreck Island Waterpark. This review will go over the reasons why you and your little ones are going to make a splash together.

The Shipwreck Island Waterpark is located on the beach within Adventure Landing amusement park, so it’s an easy addition to your family fun activities. It is the perfect destination for families with toddlers as the waterpark offers multiple areas for young children to play and splash. The toddler area is zero-entry with several slides and water activities perfect for young children. While adults watch their children, they may chill in a tube and relax along the lazy river.

One of the highlights of the Shipwreck Island Waterpark is the pirate-themed Sprayground play area. This area offers water cannons, aqua domes, and a treasure chest bucket dump, providing endless entertainment as toddlers and young children explore and interact in the splash pad.

The waterpark even has a wave pool that is gentle enough for toddlers to enjoy. Alongside parents' watchful eyes and arms within reach for support, toddlers can bounce and float on the waves or splash in the shallower water.

Parents can get snack and drinks at the Conch Cafe, making a picnic lunch much easier. The park offers cabanas, which parents can rent, providing a private spot to relax and soak up the sun while keeping an eye on their toddlers splashing in the water.

The Shipwreck Island Waterpark is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, providing plenty of time for your little ones to experience the water park. It typically opens early, and the sun starts to get hot, so the morning hours are best for toddlers because they are not crowded. With low occupancy, toddlers can safely navigate the park and enjoy the water activities without much distraction.

Overall, the Shipwreck Island Waterpark is the perfect destination for families with toddlers who want to make a splash and spend an exciting day together. It has a wide range of activities, including toddler-friendly areas, and it is situated within the Adventure Landing amusement park. If you are looking for an unforgettable activity to do with your toddlers in Jacksonville, be sure to check out the Shipwreck Island Waterpark.

Attend storytime at the Jacksonville Public Library

Looking for fun things to do with your little one in Jacksonville, Florida? One great option is to check out the storytime sessions at the Jacksonville Public Library.

The library hosts regular storytime sessions for toddlers and young children, typically in the morning or early afternoon. During storytime, a librarian or other staff member reads aloud from a selection of children's books, often accompanied by songs and other interactive activities.

Storytime sessions are a great way for young children to develop a love of reading and begin building important literacy skills. In addition to the reading itself, children can explore the library's children's section, interact with other kids their own age, and engage in other learning activities like coloring and craft projects.

If you're planning to attend storytime at the Jacksonville Public Library, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Check the schedule: The library's website or calendar should provide information about upcoming storytime sessions. Make sure to note the time, location, and any age restrictions or special requirements (such as registration).
• Dress appropriately: Since storytime often involves sitting on the floor or participating in physical activities, you may want to dress your child in comfortable clothes that won't restrict movement. Depending on the time of year, the library may also be chilly, so bringing a sweater or jacket is a good idea.
• Be on time: Storytime sessions typically begin promptly, so aim to arrive a few minutes early to ensure you have time to find a seat and get settled. If you're running late, try to slip in quietly so as not to disrupt the reading.
• Participate in activities: Storytime often includes songs, rhymes, and other interactive elements. Encourage your child to participate and join in the fun!
• Respect others: Since storytime is often a communal activity, it's important to be respectful of other attendees. Try to keep noise levels to a minimum, and refrain from bringing food or toys that may be distracting to others.

Checking out storytime at the Jacksonville Public Library is a great way to spend a fun and educational morning or afternoon with your toddler. Whether your child is already an avid reader or just starting to explore books, attending storytime sessions can help foster a love of reading that will last a lifetime.

Frequently asked questions