Our 1st time here to enjoy the Jacksonville Light Boat Parade & Fireworks Spectacular Down Town Jacksonville at the Saint John's River Walk across from the Hyatt on the Mortons Steakhouse side in front of the Condo's for Jacksonville's 250th Celebration. "Information About This Fireworks Spectacular" Celebrating America's 250th birthday (the Semiquincentennial). Cities and states across the country are organizing massive America 250 campaigns to mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Because of this historic milestone, the City of Jacksonville expanded its usual Fourth of July footprint into a two-day downtown festival featuring the largest fireworks show in the city's history. Prime check-in locations and viewing spots along the St. Johns River include:Friendship Fountain (1015 Museum Cir.)RiversEdge (1915 RiversEdge Blvd.)Both the Northbank & Southbank Riverwalks. Our thoughts... The fireworks display did not speak to 250 years of celebration to us. Savannah's River Street off Bay Street is by far way better. Honestly. We were like... where's the rest. We really don't enjoy saying that. However it's true. Over n Out FranknKimm Downtown Jacksonville Florida July 4th 2026 Saturday FranknKimm read more

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Spent a great day at the Jacksonville Riverwalk and it honestly ended up being one of the easiest, most relaxing parts of our trip. The whole walkway along the water has that perfect "just keep strolling" feel. You get nonstop views of the river, boats passing by, and the skyline stretching out in the distance. It is one of those places where you start walking without a plan and suddenly realize you have gone way farther than you meant to because it just keeps pulling you along. My family and I took our time, stopping every few minutes just to look out at the water or take pictures. The breeze off the river made everything feel cooler and calmer, even with people out and about enjoying the day. There were joggers, families, couples, and everyone just kind of sharing the same peaceful stretch of space. What I liked most is how simple it is. No big attractions needed, just a clean, open riverfront path that lets you slow down and enjoy Jacksonville at your own pace. Five stars. Perfect place to walk, talk, and take in the river views without any stress at all. read more

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Southbank is a wonderful way to walk, take in the beauty of the St John's River and it's just the beginning of what Jacksonville can be. The trail goes right along the St John's River. It's surrounded on one side by the city and the other by woods and a brand new boardwalk. It extends from that boardwalk to Friendship fountain. Each end has an excellent playground and activities for kids. The entire trail is dog friendly as well. I am truly hoping for more events to be held here, and vendors to set up along the way. We love it here and bring the dogs almost weekly. Just a fantastic part of downtown and a great way to get exercise and just reset. read more

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Jacksonville is on the move - and it's about time! Both the Southbank & Northbank sections are under construction/repair - but the Southbank recently opened an additional 1.5 miles of trail through the River's Edge community. This section takes this trail up a star (maybe 2 - willing to change when the trail fully opens). The Southbank passes through Friendship Fountain, under the Main Street bridge (with a gorgeous mosaic mural), and now ends in Rivers Edge with a boardwalk through a marsh area. On your way there, pass through the meditation garden, the play area or the Misters! The misters will be a welcome addition on hot Jax summer days! read more

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Love the Riverwalk located downtown Jacksonville. Great for walking or sitting. Family oriented and kid friendly. You can walk along St John's River to Friendship park. Love the view of Jacksonville. Catch a ride on the Royal Princess. read more

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Probably my favorite part of the Jacksonville Riverwalk system. We usually park near the end by the Public School building and walk along to Friendship Fountain and back. It's a favorite for our pups too, since they can get close up to the water on the many floating docks along the way. Plenty of seating with benches as you walk, some with shade canopies. Dog poop bag stations all along the way too. The views are beautiful and the Friendship Fountain area also has an amazing playground area for kids. To make it perfect, the only thing I would change is for a coffee shop and other restaurants to open up along Riverwalk in this area. read more

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I really enjoy walking along Southbank Riverwalk. I usually walk from Friendship Fountain down and back, and it's always a nice, peaceful route with great views. My only complaint is that more shade would make it even better, especially on hotter days. read more

Beautiful views of the St. John River, great place to walk. My only complaint is that it's not really developed, there are no bathrooms or shops around. They should consider making more like a boardwalk, but still a great place to walk your pups. Oh, and I've seen dolphins multiple times, really cool! read more

Southbank Riverwalk - Riverfront - Parks Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Big fan of riverwalks, and this one is no different! Really nice to be able to walk along the water. If I had more time here, I would have liked to go for a run around here. It felt safe. I heard there are a lot of events in the area, and it was great that parking was FREE! read more

This is my favorite spot to walk and jog in Jacksonville. The riverwalk is well maintained and has beautiful city views. We love attending the Sip and Stroll events here each month too. The riverwalk has water fountains and plenty of benches (some with awnings). I love sitting and looking out at the city while looking for dolphins in the river. I have seem them twice since moving here! It is always serene and I feel safe with all the other people always out walking their dogs. This is one of my favorite spots in all of Jacksonville! read more

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Beautiful walkway along the St John river. No stores or restrooms. Much of the walkway is the back of condos and apartments. Odor of marijuana noticeable along the entire walkway. A few statues along the way. read more

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Currently in town visiting Jacksonville during the pandemic for essential reasons and staying in an Airbnb only a few blocks away from Southbank Riverwalk so decided to check it out and I was happily surprised how beautiful it is! It is approximately 2 miles from end to end, and right now (at least during the pandemic and winter months, it was fairly empty and plenty of room to walk and relax. Plenty of benches for sitting, eating, chilling, people-watching and river watching. At the very end of the Riverwalk you do run into the large and very pretty Friendship Fountain, a must! I did not see any dolphins (was hoping), but nonetheless, the spot is gorgeous especially to watch the sunrise or sunset! I loved this spot so much, that it became my daily walking spot for the 4 days I was in Jacksonville! Don't miss this gem on your visit! * See pictures below for the amazing views! read more

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Hubby and I are downtown quite often thanks to my numerous doctors appointments at Baptist. Quite often, when I get out of my appointment, it's on a week day and rush hour traffic is starting. Rather than sit in traffic stuck on the Fuller Warren Bridge, we like to head to the Southbank Riverwalk to take a stroll, get some fresh air, and have a look at the beautiful views of our city. We usually park at the end of Prudential Drive in the Duval County School Board parking lot. Since it's the end of the day, most of the employees have left or are leaving the school board, so there are plenty of places to park. Walk behind the school board and this is where the Southbank Riverwalk starts, or ends, depending on which way you look at it. While walking along the Riverwalk, you'll find plenty of benches along the way if you'd like to stop and sit for a while. You'll also eventually come across The Lone Sailor. http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-lone-sailor-jacksonville?hrid=CBSqlXUnvTTUW0Ymn-7pAw We always like to stop and say hello to him for a few minutes. =) Lovely views of downtown. You can see the Jaguars Stadium (Everbank Field) and the various bridges. This is also a very great spot to catch a sunrise or sunset. You'll never find too many people along here, so you don't have to worry about crowds. It really is a nice, relaxing experience. I also remember the very first time I was here with my husband. It was when we had the Superbowl here in Jacksonville In 2005. He and I came to the Southbank Riverwalk to watch the fireworks the night before the Superbowl. Best fireworks show I've ever seen in my entire life! But, it was a very special time for me and hubby. We had just been married a few weeks before and were brand spankin' new newlyweds. =) Now, whenever we reach the point on the Riverwalk where we stood watching those fireworks, one of us will always point and say to the other, "Look, that's where we stood and watched the Superbowl fireworks." =) read more

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If for no other reason, both riverwalks are perfect places to stop and watch the sunrise or sunset. Southbank riverwalk is my favorite since Jacksonville skyline in sunset lights up so gorgeously it takes your breath away. I believe this is beautiful addition to town and lots of people seem to enjoy it, specially kids. At the time of our visit, the friendship foundation was unfortunately under construction. read more

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It is very nice and how they keep the Riverwalk cleaned. It's a beautiful view of the river watching the sunrise. It's just hot and muggy much for this time a year of sad. There is a lot of energetic people at 6:30 in the morning jogging and running read more

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Great place to get out with the kids and let them run around. Awesome views of downtown. The upgrades to near by Friendship Fountain and surrounding area are going to be great: park, kids play area, splash pad, etc. as it will bring more people to the area and start to bring this city back to life. MOSH and water taxi near by as well. read more

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Some take it for granted, but the riverviews and the water that surround our downtown Jacksonville is just absolutely gorgeous. We came to the Southbank for the Jacksonville Light Boat Parade in 2015 (among many other events held here) and parked in front of Doubletree Hotel for just $10. There's plenty of spots to park your car such as the M.O.S.H., parking garages, nearby hotels or street making it very convenient to visit this area. I would say the Southbank Riverwalk is a terrific place to enjoy the views of our city and it conveniently located to major highways. Highly recommend. read more

Southbank Riverwalk - Jacksonville Light Boat Parade - Parks Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

I love the fact that Jacksonville Florida cares enough about the residents to build these wonderful river walks! I love to walk on my work breaks when I can. I also like to walk the river walk on my off times as well. Thank you Jax. For caring! #onlyinduval #yelpjax read more

Somehow the new river walk reminds me of Charleston's SC Battery. Just a nice location on the river I imagine what it must have been like back in the day as in the battery. Stroll and enjoy the walk and the fountain. You find me with my 4lb Chihuahua who likes to get pictures with everyone. #pacogreene on Instagram. I've seen some big fish caught also though no fishing or shrimp allowed on most of the river walk there are designated places to fish near the main st bridge. It would be nice to even see cart vendors such as snow cones etc that I think would do well! read more

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nice way to know the more urban part of Jacksonville. crossing the bridge is a thrilling experience for those that fear height like I do. read more

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The Southbank Riverwalk is an absolutely beautiful place to just relax, blow off some steam and check out the pretty view. It's located close enough to businesses downtown for businessmen and women to come and enjoy the scenery with having to lose their parking space. The Riverwalk is located within walking distance of some key places, such as, the Jacksonville Landing and Friendship Fountain. I would absolutely love to take a picture from the top of one of the many condominium buildings located here, but let's face my pockets aren't that deep. If you're ever in the area and want a quiet place to take a stroll or are just looking to take in the view then the Southbank Riverwalk is for you. Although for those of you who don't live in Jacksonville and have never been it's best to avoid this area during the holiday season (any holiday involving fireworks), because it will be packed with people. Unless of course you don't mind the crowds or are lucky enough to have reservations in one of the hotels down by the river! read more

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Great place for evening walks! Beautiful views, amazing sunsets, water taxi access and the dolphins are a bonus! read more

Southbank Riverwalk - Parks Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

There's something about the St. John's River that is very relaxing and beautiful. Very glad the city acknowledges that fact by building a river walk on both banks. There is still a lot that the city needs to atone for. There's still a lot of planning and vision needed to develop the riverwalk into a lively green space for the public that doesn't obscure the river by office buildings and cement parking lots. The south bank is best traversed either in the cool of the morning or the evening as there isn't a lot of shade to be had. Riding on it was sorta bumpy. I'd walk before I'd bike that area again. Still though, I like having a riverwalk even if a bit more development is needed to create a vibrant River Walk experience. read more

Southbank Riverwalk - My bike, leaning on art. - Parks Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Photographers -- get your shot of JAX skyline here. Pretty much can't get a bad shot of the city anywhere along the riverwalk. Near Friendship Fountain has some great views, but I like the angle of the bridge from the other side. Either way, just walking along the river is such a relaxing way to take in views of Jacksonville. Also ideal for a run, especially at night time, when both the pathway and the cityscape is well lit. read more

Southbank Riverwalk - Jacksonville skyline from the riverwalk - Parks Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

This is a great site seeing destination. As you walk the river, there are beautiful art pieces and buildings to see. We didn't get to see it at night, but would like to go back to check out how it would be lit up at night. Great place to take a family walk or run for a work out. read more

Southbank Riverwalk - Parks Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

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One of my favorite places to run in JAX. In less than 5 miles you can leave 5 points run along the water into downtown then take the main street bridge to san Marco to the fountain and then return back to 5 points. It is a gorgeous place to run, walk, or ride a bike with plenty of benches along the path to sit and take in the gorgeous views of the water, downtown or the bridges in JAX! If you are lucky you may even see dolphins or manatees in the river! read more

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Much nicer since replacing wood boardwalk with concrete, nice accent lighting, best times to walk early am & pm read more

Southbank Riverwalk - View from north or south bank riverwalk (morning) - Parks Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Waiting for the boat parade that is an annual event Thanksgiving weekend. Lots of people here to see it. 9:00 pm is fireworks. Let the fireworks begin!!!!!! read more

I walked the remodeled south bank river walk over the weekend and was really impressed with the improvements. They replaced the old wooden path with concrete and brick pavers. They added benches and lots of lights throughout. They are also installing a mosaic underneath the main st bridge which was being worked on while we were there. I will say that the railing should have been powder coated as it will most likely start rusting. read more

Southbank Riverwalk - Parks Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

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It's worth roughing through the Florida heat during the summer months to take a walk along. I usually see dolphins which is always exciting!

I was nervous about coming in but the staff and Dr Patel were very nice and informative about the process. I felt calm and am happy with my results. River stock Dental South Park Meadows is where I will be returning for all my future dental care. read more

This is just beautiful place to take a walk or just relax. It's great for romantic walks or just to enjoy a good book. Has a great view of the downtown. read more

This will be a short and sweet review. The Jacksonville Riverwalk is a great place to stroll along the river. With a view of downtown Jax and The Landing there is a lot to look at here. On a breezy day the air feels so good along this walk and you will see joggers, walkers, and just people sitting and enjoying the scenery. There is also a water taxi that can take you across the water to the other side. If I lived in Jax, I would make the Riverwalk part of my exercise routine! read more

Loved this place!!! There are boat tours that take you back and forth across the river, all day ticket is only $6. At night it was awesome! When I went they had a live band in the middle of the Jacksonville Landing area, and during the intermission they played dance songs like "Cha cha slide" and "the wobble." It was awesome to see because there were people of every color and age dancing together, the unity there was awesome! There was a mini water fountain that the kids played in, and they were having a ball. They had places to buy drinks, so if you are a laid back kind of family, you could buy a few drinks, enjoy the music, and relax while your kids wear themselves out in the fountain. read more

Best kept secret in Jacksonville. Quiet and the scenery outstanding. Walked by myself and felt safe. Talked with a tourist staying on the north bank. She loved it. read more