Jacksonville’s hidden charm might just be Florida’s best-kept romantic secret. Where else can you start your morning watching dolphins play in the sunrise, spend your afternoon exploring historic gardens, and end your evening sipping craft cocktails on a rooftop overlooking a glittering river? While Miami gets the glamour and Orlando gets the crowds, Jacksonville’s diverse blend of waterfront magic, culinary innovation, and cultural hotspots creates an unexpected paradise for couples.
In this guide, I’m sharing my handpicked selection of 27 romantic things to do in Jacksonville that showcase the best of Jacksonville’s charm. Let’s explore how the largest city by landmass in the continental United States transforms into an intimate playground for couples looking for a good date night.
Unique Date Ideas & Romantic Things to do in Jacksonville
Waterfront Date ideas in jacksonville
Sunset Cruise on the St. Johns River
Transform an ordinary evening into a magical experience aboard one of Jacksonville’s river cruises. As the sun paints the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks, you’ll glide past the city skyline while enjoying champagne and light appetizers. Pro tip: Book a dinner cruise for an extra special occasion, or try the monthly wine tasting cruises.
Jacksonville Beach Stroll
Time your visit for low tide when the beach is widest and the sand is perfectly packed for walking. Start at the Jacksonville Beach Pier and walk north, collecting shells together and watching the pelicans dive for fish. End your walk at one of the oceanfront restaurants for fresh seafood and cocktails.
Memorial Park Picnic
Pack a gourmet picnic basket and head to this historic riverfront park in Riverside. The iconic “Life” statue provides a stunning backdrop for photos, while the sprawling lawn offers perfect picnic spots. Bring a bottle of wine, some artisanal cheese from Grassroots Natural Market, and watch the boats go by.
Neptune Beach Sunrise
Wake up early and share a magical moment as the sun rises over the Atlantic. Bring thermoses of hot coffee and freshly baked pastries from Southern Ground Bakers. After sunrise, walk to First Street for breakfast at one of the charming cafes.
Intracoastal Kayaking
Rent a tandem kayak and explore the peaceful waterways together. Launch from Cedar Point and paddle through pristine marshlands while spotting herons, osprey, and maybe even dolphins. Pack water-resistant bags with snacks and dock at one of the small islands for a private picnic.
Nature & Gardens
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
Wander through 13 distinct ecosystems on nearly 3 miles of trails. The Jones Creek Overlook offers a perfect spot for a quick kiss, while the Lake Ray overlook provides benches for quiet conversation. Visit in spring when the native azaleas are blooming.
Tree Hill Nature Center
This hidden gem offers intimate nature trails and a charming butterfly garden. Time your visit for butterfly release events, or simply enjoy identifying different species together. The observation platform provides a perfect spot for birdwatching.
Cummer Museum Gardens
These meticulously maintained historical gardens transport you to another era. Visit the Italian Garden at sunset when the fountains create magical light displays. Schedule your visit during one of their “Art in the Garden” events for live music and wine.
Alpine Groves Park
This historic park along the St. Johns River offers a perfect blend of history and nature. The restored pier extends over the river, creating an ideal spot for sunset photos. Pack a picnic and use one of the covered pavilions, or bring camping chairs to sit by the river.
Jacksonville Zoo Gardens
Skip the crowds by visiting on a weekday afternoon. The Asian Bamboo Gardens and African Forest provide intimate walking paths away from the main exhibits. Book a behind-the-scenes tour to make it extra special.
Romantic Restaurants in Jacksonville
Matthew’s Restaurant
This San Marco fine dining establishment offers the perfect setting for a special occasion. Request Table 62 in the corner for extra privacy. Let the sommelier guide your wine pairing, and don’t skip the famous chocolate soufflé (order it at the beginning of your meal).
River & Post
Start with sunset cocktails on the rooftop lounge, watching the city lights come alive. Then head downstairs for dinner, requesting a window table for river views. The seafood tower makes for an impressive shared appetizer.
Beach House Kitchen & Cocktails
Time your visit for sunset and request outdoor seating. The craft cocktails are Instagram-worthy, and the coastal cuisine perfectly matches the beach setting. Save room for their famous key lime pie.
Restaurant Orsay
This French bistro creates the perfect atmosphere for romance. Start with oysters and champagne at the bar, then move to a cozy booth for dinner. The duck confit and steak frites are local favorites.
Biscottis
End any evening at this Avondale institution. The cake slices are massive and meant to be shared. Grab a cozy corner table and pair your dessert with their excellent coffee or dessert wines.
Art & Creative Date ideas
Florida Theatre
This historic venue’s ornate Spanish Renaissance architecture sets the mood for romance. Arrive early to admire the architecture and grab a drink at the bar. Check their calendar for intimate concerts and comedy shows.
Cummer Museum of Art
Take your time exploring the permanent collection, playing “favorite painting” together. The Tuesday evening hours offer a quieter, more romantic atmosphere. Don’t miss the Impressionist collection.
MOCA Jacksonville Art Class
Their couple’s art classes offer a unique way to create memories together. Whether it’s painting, sculpture, or photography, you’ll both leave with personal creations. Evening classes often include wine and light appetizers.
Alhambra Theatre & Dining
America’s longest-running dinner theater offers a full evening of entertainment. Arrive early for pre-show cocktails, enjoy a three-course meal during the performance, and meet the cast afterward.
Downtown Art Walk
Held the first Wednesday of each month, this event transforms downtown into an artistic playground. Start at Hemming Park for live music, then explore galleries while enjoying street performances and food trucks.
Unique Romantic things to do in Jacksonville, FL
St. Augustine Carriage Ride
Make the short drive to historic St. Augustine for a horse-drawn carriage tour through narrow colonial streets. Book a private tour at dusk when the historic district lights up with white lights. End the evening with Spanish wine at Casa de Vino 57.
Couples Massage
Book a couples suite at one of Jacksonville’s luxury spas. Arrive early to enjoy the facilities, then relax together during side-by-side massages. Many spas offer champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries as add-ons.
Cooper’s Hawk Wine Tasting
Join their wine club for access to monthly tasting events, or simply enjoy their regular tastings. The knowledgeable staff can create custom flights based on your preferences. Their retail shop offers perfect wines to take home for your next date night.
Jacksonville Cooking Studio
Learn to make a new cuisine together in these hands-on classes. From Italian pasta making to sushi rolling, you’ll enjoy creating and eating your efforts. Classes include wine and recipe cards to recreate the experience at home.
Baldwin Trail Biking
Rent bikes and explore this converted rail trail together. The paved path offers easy riding through natural Florida landscapes. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the trail’s many rest stops.
Evening Entertainment
Adventure Landing Drive-In
This nostalgic experience brings back classic date night vibes. Bring your own snacks or visit their concession stand. Tune your radio to their station and enjoy current releases from the privacy of your car.
The Volstead
This sophisticated speakeasy requires a door code (available on their social media). Order classic cocktails and share small plates while enjoying live jazz. The intimate setting and low lighting create the perfect atmosphere for quiet conversation.
Pro Tips:
- Many of these locations offer date night packages, so call ahead to see what’s available.
- Plan ahead with reservations, especially for popular spots on weekends.
- Follow venues on social media for updates on events, promotions, and special offerings.
