Friendship Fountain Jacksonville
Iconic Jacksonville fountain with dazzling nightly light & water shows, a revitalized park, and a fun pirate playground.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Darkest for most vibrant show
Friendship Fountain Jacksonville
Best Time
Darkest for most vibrant show
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Jacksonville fountain with dazzling nightly light & water shows, a revitalized park, and a fun pirate playground.
"Friendship Fountain is an iconic and enchanting spot on Jacksonville’s Southbank—one of the largest fountains in the U.S."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging, especially during shows. Arrive before 7 PM or consider alternative transport. :car:
✨ Best Views After Dark
The light and water shows are most spectacular once it's fully dark. The 9 PM show is highly recommended. :sparkles:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nightly Light and Water Shows
Main Fountain Area
Mesmerizing synchronized displays of water jets, lights, and music. The darker it is, the more vibrant the show!
St. Johns Riverfront Park
Surrounding the Fountain
Scenic walking paths, stunning bridge views, and a perfect spot for dolphin watching.
Pirate Ship Playground
Adjacent to the Fountain
A fantastic, family-friendly play area with slides, swings, and shade sails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Embrace the Riverfront Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging, especially during shows. Arrive before 7 PM or consider alternative transport. :car:
✨ Best Views After Dark
The light and water shows are most spectacular once it's fully dark. The 9 PM show is highly recommended. :sparkles:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Don't miss the awesome pirate ship playground right next to the fountain! :child:
🎶 Special Event Nights
Check for 'First Fridays' or 'Jazz Nights' for a lively atmosphere with food and music. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging, especially during shows. Arrive before 7 PM or consider alternative transport. :car:
✨ Best Views After Dark
The light and water shows are most spectacular once it's fully dark. The 9 PM show is highly recommended. :sparkles:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Don't miss the awesome pirate ship playground right next to the fountain! :child:
🎶 Special Event Nights
Check for 'First Fridays' or 'Jazz Nights' for a lively atmosphere with food and music. :musical_note:
🚶♀️ Riverwalk Stroll
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the St. Johns River for beautiful views and potential dolphin sightings. :dolphin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Friendship Fountain for its breathtaking nightly light and water shows, calling it a 'must-see' and 'iconic.' The recent renovations have significantly enhanced the experience, with many highlighting the impressive new technology and the addition of a fantastic pirate-themed playground. The riverfront location offers beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere, making it a popular spot for families and couples alike.
"We had a good time watching the water show. The lights of the fountain are more intense at the 9 pm show. It is a nice area to walk around Saint Johns River, we enjoyed seeing dolphins. There is a nice playground area for little ones to consume their energy. The parking lot could be a little bit bigger, but it's under construction and part of it closed. Be prepared to wait to get a parking spot near the fountain or go before the show starts at 7, 8, or 9 pm."
Anca Dulca
"So extremely breath taking. A must see. A very awesome kid park with tons of swings and slides. The fountain is on till 10pm. But, they do shows with lights and music at 7 8 and 9. The darker it is the prettier it is. Also the darker it gets the busier it gets. 🦋😇"
Angel
"I love the new renovations and the added playground! The first Friday light and water show was fantastic with the fireworks.
Picturesque and family friendly, parking is affordable and digital, it's nice to see areas made for families ☺️"
Kaguria Kitsune
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Friendship Fountain is located at 1015 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207, on the Southbank. You can drive and park nearby, or consider using the St. Johns River Taxi for a scenic arrival.
Yes, there is parking available, though it can get busy, especially during shows and events. Some areas may be under construction, so be prepared for potential waits or to park a short walk away.
While specific bus routes may vary, the St. Johns River Taxi offers a unique and scenic way to reach the fountain from other parts of the city.
The park and surrounding areas are generally accessible, with paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The playground also offers inclusive play elements.
If you're downtown, a walk across the Main Street Bridge or utilizing the River Taxi are great options to reach Friendship Fountain. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Friendship Fountain and its surrounding park are free to enter and enjoy. The nightly light and water shows are also complimentary. +1
The park is generally open from dawn until dusk, but the fountain's light and water shows typically run nightly. The fountain itself is on until 10 PM, with shows at 7, 8, and 9 PM.
Showtimes for the light and water displays are usually at 7:00 PM, 8:00 PM, and 9:00 PM nightly. It's best to check local listings or social media for any last-minute changes.
No tickets are required for the Friendship Fountain shows. They are free and open to the public.
While the fountain shows are free, special events like 'First Fridays' or 'Jazz Nights' may have associated costs for vendors or entertainment, but entry to the park remains free.
📸 📸 Photography
For stunning photos, aim for sunset to capture the golden hour light on the river and bridges, followed by the magical light and water shows after dark. +1
Absolutely! The fountain itself, the riverfront views, the illuminated bridges at night, and the adjacent playground all offer fantastic photo opportunities. +1
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Department or local authorities before flying a drone in the park area.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is sufficient for most visitors. For more advanced photography, a camera with a tripod for night shots and a wide-angle lens would be beneficial.
The riverwalk offers excellent vantage points. For a unique perspective, consider a River Taxi tour at night to capture the fountain and city skyline from the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't permanent restaurants directly at the fountain, 'First Fridays' events often feature food trucks, and there are dining options available in the surrounding downtown Jacksonville area.
Yes, picnicking is a great option! Many visitors bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy while watching the shows or relaxing in the park.
During 'First Fridays' and other special events, you can typically find a variety of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, from local favorites to international flavors.
Yes, the downtown Jacksonville area and the Southbank offer numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars within walking distance or a short drive from Friendship Fountain.
Definitely! The beautiful fountain, river views, and evening shows make it a charming spot for a romantic picnic.
🎫 🏃♀️ Fitness & Activities
Yes! The Jacksonville Run Club meets here on Saturdays, and 'Bridgewalk Mondays' offers group workouts. Community Yoga also takes place on select Thursdays and Fridays.
You can enjoy the playground, walk or jog along the riverfront, participate in organized fitness events, or simply relax and take in the views.
Absolutely! With the fountain shows, a fantastic playground, and open spaces, it's a perfect destination for families.
The St. Johns River Taxi offers city tours and sunset cruises that provide views of the fountain from the water.
This is a monthly event on the first Friday of each month featuring food trucks, craft vendors, and live music, creating a lively atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day to fully enjoy the playground, or come in the evening to witness the magical light and water shows. The proximity to the MOSH Museum also makes it a convenient stop for a day of family exploration in downtown Jacksonville.
💑 Couples & Date Nights
Special events like 'Jazz Nights' or 'First Fridays' can add an extra layer of excitement to your date. Alternatively, a quiet stroll along the riverwalk, hand-in-hand, with the city lights as your backdrop, offers a more serene romantic experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to capture the surrounding elements: the illuminated bridges, the river taxis, and the vibrant atmosphere during special events. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light photography to ensure sharp images of the fountain's dazzling displays.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Renovation and Rebirth
The renovation has been widely praised, transforming the fountain into a 'vast improvement' and a 'special spot in the city.' Visitors consistently rave about the 'mesmerizing' and 'breathtaking' water and light shows, particularly noting how the darker it gets, the prettier the displays become.
This revitalization has not only brought back the fountain's former glory but also enhanced the surrounding park area, making it a more attractive destination for locals and tourists alike. The investment in this iconic landmark underscores its importance to Jacksonville's identity and its appeal as a vibrant public space.
Experiencing the Nightly Spectacle
Visitors often describe the experience as 'mesmerizing' and 'breathtaking,' with many recommending arriving before sunset to enjoy the park and then witnessing the fountain come alive as night falls. The darker the sky, the more intense and beautiful the light show becomes, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Beyond the visual spectacle, the fountain's location on the St. Johns Riverfront adds to the ambiance. The gentle sounds of the water, the city lights reflecting on the river, and the cool evening breeze create a perfect setting for a relaxing evening, a romantic date, or a fun family outing.
A Hub for Community and Fitness
+2Fitness-focused events are a regular feature, with community yoga sessions often held on select Thursdays and Fridays, led by local instructors. These events are typically free and open to all fitness levels, encouraging participation and a healthy lifestyle within the community.
+1These activities highlight the park's versatility, offering residents and visitors opportunities to engage in healthy pursuits while enjoying the beautiful riverfront setting. The presence of these groups fosters a sense of community and adds another layer of appeal to Friendship Fountain as a dynamic public space.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit