
When it comes to date ideas, Jacksonville has way more to offer than just dinner and a movie. Trust me, I’ve been there—trying to come up with something fun that’s not too much but still says, “Hey, I put some thought into this.”
If you’re into exploring nature, getting creative, or just enjoying good food together, this list has got you covered.
From kayaking through mangroves to glass-blowing (yes, that’s a thing here), there’s something for every vibe. And let’s be honest, a few of these ideas might even make you look like you planned way ahead (even if you didn’t).
Ready to find the perfect date ideas in Jacksonville? Let’s dive in and make some plans that are actually worth remembering!

Waterfront Date Ideas in Jacksonville
1. Take a Sunset Stroll Along the Jacksonville Riverwalk
You’ve got to check out the Jacksonville Riverwalk at sunset—it’s such a vibe. Take a nice walk along the water, soak in those views, and then treat yourselves to dinner at River & Post’s rooftop. The food’s great, and the city looks amazing from up there. It’s chill but still feels special.
2. Pack a Picnic at Memorial Park
Want something low-key but still fun? Pack some snacks, head to Memorial Park, and just hang out by the water. You can watch the boats go by and maybe even snap some cute pics. It’s such a relaxing spot, and the perfect excuse to kick back and enjoy the day together.
3. Take a Dinner Cruise on the St. Johns River
A dinner cruise on the Jacksonville Princess is a great way to spend an evening on the St. Johns River. You’ll get to enjoy a meal while taking in views of the river and the city skyline. The cruise also includes music and a relaxing atmosphere, making it a nice option for a laid-back date night
4. Visit the Jacksonville Beach Pier at Sunrise
If you’re both morning people (or even if you’re not but love a good sunrise), head to Jacksonville Beach Pier. Watching the sun come up over the water is just… wow. Afterward, grab breakfast at Beach Diner to keep the good vibes going. Simple, sweet, and totally worth the early wake-up.

Outdoor Date ideas in Jacksonville
5. Explore the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
For a peaceful and scenic date, explore the trails at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens. The area has well-maintained paths that take you through greenery, beautiful gardens, and even around a lake. It’s a fantastic spot for nature lovers and one of the most serene date ideas in Jacksonville. Don’t forget to bring water and comfortable shoes—you might want to wander for a while.
6. Go Kayaking at Big Talbot Island State Park
For something more adventurous, grab some kayaks and paddle through the mangroves at Big Talbot Island. It’s so quiet and beautiful out there—you’ll feel like you’re in your own little world.
Bonus: spotting wildlife like birds or even dolphins makes it even more memorable.
7. Take an Eco-Tour at Tree Hill Nature Center
Tree Hill Nature Center is perfect if you’re into learning something new together. Take a guided eco-tour and keep an eye out for local wildlife. You’ll get to explore the trails, learn about the area’s ecosystem, and maybe even meet a few friendly critters along the way.
8. Beach Picnic at Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island is perfect for a quiet and romantic beach picnic. Pack your favorite snacks, a blanket, and enjoy the sandy shore and ocean breeze. After eating, you can take a walk along the beach, collect seashells, or just relax and soak in the view. It’s simple, peaceful, and perfect for some quality time together.

Museum Date ideas in Jacksonville
9. Visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is perfect for an artsy and laid-back date. Head there on Free Tuesday to check out amazing art collections, then wander through the historic gardens along the St. Johns River.
10. Catch a Show at the Florida Theatre
If you love a bit of nostalgia, the historic Florida Theatre is a must. Catch a live show or a classic film in this beautifully restored venue, then cap the night with dessert at Sweet Pete’s Candy. Nothing says date night like a bag of handmade treats to share!
11. Take a Pottery Class Together
For creative date ideas in Jacksonville, a pottery class at the Jacksonville Pottery Studio is a great choice. You’ll learn how to shape clay and make something unique, even if it’s your first time. The class provides all the tools and materials needed, and instructors guide you step-by-step. It’s an interactive way to try something new, and you’ll leave with a finished piece to take home. This is one of the most unique and creative date ideas in Jacksonville for couples looking to learn a new skill.
12. Browse the Riverside Arts Market
Start your Saturday morning with a stroll through the Riverside Arts Market. Browse local art, crafts, and fresh produce, and maybe pick up something cool for each other. Afterward, grab lunch from one of the food trucks and enjoy it by the river—it’s casual, fun, and a great way to support local vendors.

Active Date Ideas in Jacksonville
13. Go Rock Climbing at The Edge Rock Gym
If you’re looking for a date that’s active and a little out of the box, try rock climbing at The Edge Rock Gym. They’ve got walls for every skill level, so you don’t have to be a pro to have fun. You can cheer each other on as you climb, figure out the ropes together (literally), and maybe even race to the top if you’re feeling competitive.
14. Take a Surf Lesson at Thompson Surf School
Hit the waves together with a surf lesson at Thompson Surf School. It’s exciting, a little bit challenging, and definitely a fun way to spend time by the ocean. You’ll start with the basics—paddling, standing up, and balancing—and before you know it, you’ll be catching your first wave. Plus, you’ll both have a great story to tell afterward.
15. Play Mini-Golf at Adventure Landing
Mini-golf is always one of the good date ideas in Jacksonville, and Adventure Landing makes it even better. Their course has all the fun stuff—waterfalls, caves, and quirky obstacles that make every hole a little different. It’s laid-back but still gives you that fun competitive vibe. After the game, you can check out the arcade, grab a snack, or even go go-kart racing if you’re up for more.
16. Rent Bikes and Explore the Baldwin Trail
The Baldwin Trail is such a hidden gem for a fun outdoor date. You can rent bikes nearby and cruise along this flat, scenic trail surrounded by trees and wetlands. It’s super peaceful, and you might even spot some wildlife like deer or birds.
There are picnic areas along the way, so pack some snacks and take a little break to soak it all in. It’s the kind of date where you can chat, enjoy nature, and just feel totally relaxed.

Food & Drink Date Ideas in Jacksonville
17. Do a Coffee Shop Crawl Through Five Points
If you love coffee, you have to try a coffee shop crawl in Five Points. Start at Bold Bean Coffee Roasters for their amazing lattes, then check out other cozy spots like BREW Five Points. Each place has its own vibe and unique drinks, so it’s fun to compare. Plus, Five Points is full of cool shops and street art, so there’s plenty to explore while you sip. It’s a chill and caffeine-fueled way to spend the day together.
18. Take a Cooking Class at JAX Cooking Studio
Cooking together is such a fun (and delicious) date idea! Head to the JAX Cooking Studio for a hands-on class where you’ll learn how to whip up something amazing. They offer all kinds of classes, from pasta-making to international cuisines, so you can pick what sounds fun. It’s a great way to team up, get creative, and enjoy the meal you made together at the end. Plus, you’ll leave with skills you can show off later!
19. Go Brewery Hopping in the RailYard District
If craft beer is your thing, you’ve got to go brewery hopping in the RailYard District. Each brewery here has its own vibe, from chill outdoor patios to fun taproom games. It’s laid-back, you’ll try some unique local brews, and it’s a perfect excuse to spend the afternoon together.
20. Have a Dessert Date at Mayday Ice Cream
For something sweet, head to Mayday Ice Cream and make it a dessert date. They have so many unique flavors—like Coffee & Donuts or Blueberry Cheesecake—that it’s impossible to pick just one. Share a couple of scoops and taste each other’s favorites. The vibe is super fun, and it’s a cute way to treat yourselves while enjoying some seriously good ice cream.

Entertainment Date Ideas in Jacksonville
21. Catch an Improv Show at Mad Cowford Improv Theatre
If you want a date that’s fun and different, check out a live improv show at Mad Cowford. The comedy is made up on the spot, so it’s unpredictable and always good for a laugh. It’s a chill way to spend an evening without too much planning.
22. Play Arcade Games at Mayport Arcade
Head to Mayport Arcade for some old-school fun. Play games like pinball and air hockey, and see who gets the high score. It’s a simple, lighthearted way to spend time together and keep things fun.
23. Watch a Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Baseball Game
A baseball game is always one of the solid date ideas in Jacksonville. The atmosphere at a Jumbo Shrimp game is laid-back, and there’s plenty to snack on while you watch. It’s perfect for an easy night out where you can just enjoy the game and each other’s company.
24. Try Bowling for a Relaxed Night Out
Bowling is a classic for a reason—it’s fun, easy, and there’s no pressure. Rent some shoes, pick a lane, and see who can bowl the best game (or who can avoid the gutters). It’s a great way to hang out, share some laughs, and keep the vibe light and fun.

Unique Date Ideas in Jacksonville
25. Try a Glass-Blowing Class at Burnt Glassworks
Glass-blowing is a unique experience that lets you create something truly one-of-a-kind. At the Burnt Glassworks, you’ll learn the basics of working with molten glass, shaping it into objects like vases, ornaments, or small sculptures. The instructors here guide you step-by-step, so you don’t need prior experience. Make sure to wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing—things can get warm in the studio!
26. Book a Couple’s Painting Session at Painting with a Twist
Painting with a Twist offers a creative way to spend time together, even if you’re not the artistic type. The session includes all the supplies you’ll need, and the instructor walks you through every step of the painting. You can create individual works or collaborate on a paired piece. The studio allows you to bring your own wine or snacks, which adds to the laid-back and fun vibe.
27. Learn to Make Chocolates at Sweet Pete’s Candy
Sweet Pete’s Candy offers a hands-on chocolate-making experience perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. In their class, you’ll learn how to temper chocolate, mold it into fun shapes, and decorate it with toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or caramel. The classes are beginner-friendly, so no prior experience is needed. Along the way, you’ll get to sample your creations, and at the end, you’ll leave with a box of handmade chocolates.
28. Take Dance Lessons at S Style Dance Team
Dance lessons at S Style Dance Team are a great way to try something new and active. They offer beginner-friendly sessions in styles like salsa, swing, or traditional ballroom. The instructors break down the steps in a way that’s easy to follow, so you’ll feel confident even if it’s your first time dancing. Just wear comfortable shoes, and don’t worry if you’re not perfect—it’s all about having fun together!

Relaxing Date Ideas in Jacksonville
29. Get Couples Massages at One Ocean Resort & Spa
For a relaxing date, book a couple’s massage at One Ocean Resort & Spa. You’ll both enjoy a calm, peaceful environment and feel completely rejuvenated afterward. Their spa offers a variety of treatments, so you can pick one that suits you best. It’s a perfect way to unwind together and escape from the usual hustle for a bit.
30. Have Brunch at Maple Street Biscuit Company and Browse San Marco Square
Start your morning with a leisurely brunch at Maple Street Biscuit Company. Their menu is full of delicious options like flaky biscuits and flavorful coffee. After brunch, take a stroll through San Marco Square. It’s a charming area with unique shops, art galleries, and even a small park where you can relax or explore at your own pace.
31. Catch an Outdoor Movie at Riverside Arts Market’s Movie Night
Pack some lawn chairs or a blanket and head to Riverside Arts Market for their outdoor movie night. The setting is cozy, with plenty of space to sit back and enjoy the show under the stars. You can grab snacks from nearby food vendors or bring your own picnic to make it extra special.
Jacksonville has so many fun and unique ways to spend time together. You can explore scenic trails, try a creative class, or enjoy great food and entertainment. There’s always something to do that will make your date special.
Now it’s your turn to pick an idea and make it a date to remember. Jacksonville is full of possibilities, so get out there and try something new!