Walter Jones Park
Pack a picnic and a blanket, put on your walking shoes and grab your camera, and carve out some time to visit Walter Jones Park.
James Weldon Johnson Park
Downtown Jacksonville’s central park is cultivating growth—of the arts, culture, and downtown.
Our oldest city park - James Weldon Johnson Park (formerly Hemming Park), located in the heart of Downtown and just across the street from City Hall, is more than 160 years old. It was first established as a public square by Jacksonville's founder Isaiah D. Hart around 1857. Learn about the park history here. James Weldon Johnson Park has had many transformations, ultimately becoming a cultural and entertainment family hub with daily programming, food trucks, and special events every weekend.
With so much to experience, getting to James Weldon Johnson Park is a must-do. There is public parallel parking and nearby garages around this Downtown landmark. You can also take the JTA Skyway with a stop right at James Weldon Johnson Park. Even if you aren’t coming to the park for an event, you can still sit and enjoy its beauty and activities. With an outdoor play area, the kids can be kept entertained while you sip on a coffee or drink from nearby shops and food trucks. With plenty of outdoor seating available, you can bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. With so much around the park, take some time to explore Sweet Pete’s, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), the Main Library and much more.
Interested in a visit to James Weldon Johnson Park? Check out the latest James Weldon Johnson Park news.
The Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park are the nonprofit overseeing the area’s improvement and programming.
The Park includes two performance stages; Charlie’s Cafe, an outdoor dining area; a Kids’ Zone with whimsical sculptural seating and turf play area; beautiful new landscaping; and several public art projects. Regular programming includes live music and food trucks each Monday through Friday; children’s activities; and weekend festivals and markets.
James Weldon Johnson Park Park is full of events through the year, between ArtWalk, festivals, weekly musicians, Food Trucks and yoga in the park--you're bound to find something fun to do. Check out their calendar of events for when you're traveling to Jacksonville.
More Parks
Hanna Park
This oceanfront city park located between Atlantic Beach and the historic Mayport Village is a haven for outdoor lovers.
Talbot Islands
The Talbot Islands State Parks are an intriguing mixture of beach setting and coastal woodland. An area filled with endless natural beauty and some of the most unique eco-systems in the world!
7 Creeks Recreation Area
Not far off I-295, on Jacksonville’s Northside, exists a natural utopia perfect for the outdoors lover.
Dutton Island Preserve
Located just west of Mayport Road, visitors can capture views of unique wildlife at this park along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Ed Austin Regional Park
Found in the midst of East Arlington, this park offers a variety of things to do. Spend the day at this family friendly and dog friendly park. The kiddos and pups have…
Exchange Club Island
This is a perfect getaway for an afternoon adventure, you won’t believe you are still in the city. Bring your furry friends along for the day!
