Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
A 120-acre urban woodland sanctuary with diverse trails, native plants, and wildlife, offering a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 120-acre urban woodland sanctuary with diverse trails, native plants, and wildlife, offering a peaceful escape.
"A well-kept hidden gem in Jacksonville, perfect for peaceful walks and connecting with nature."
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Unpaved trails have roots and uneven ground. Strollers aren't ideal for rugged paths.
💧 Bring Water & Stay Hydrated
Florida can be hot and humid; essential for longer walks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Award-Winning Nature Trails
Various trails throughout the arboretum
Explore diverse ecosystems on well-maintained paths, from paved walkways to rugged, natural terrain.
Dazzling Nights Holiday Event
Throughout the arboretum
Experience a magical winter wonderland with thousands of shimmering lights and interactive displays during the holiday season.
Native Florida Wildlife
Throughout the arboretum
Spot local fauna like gopher tortoises and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Informative Plant Signage
Along trails
Learn about the diverse flora with neatly marked signs identifying plant and tree names and descriptions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Prepare for Your Nature Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Unpaved trails have roots and uneven ground. Strollers aren't ideal for rugged paths.
💧 Bring Water & Stay Hydrated
Florida can be hot and humid; essential for longer walks.
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
Helps you navigate the diverse ecosystems and avoid getting lost.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on many trails, making it great for pet owners.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Unpaved trails have roots and uneven ground. Strollers aren't ideal for rugged paths.
💧 Bring Water & Stay Hydrated
Florida can be hot and humid; essential for longer walks.
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
Helps you navigate the diverse ecosystems and avoid getting lost.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on many trails, making it great for pet owners.
🎟️ Purchase Tickets Ahead
Especially for popular events like Dazzling Nights, booking in advance is recommended.
📸 Perfect for Photography
Capture beautiful nature shots, especially during the holiday light displays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for its peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained trails, and natural beauty. It's considered a hidden gem offering a serene escape with diverse ecosystems and informative plant labeling. While generally well-received, some note that unpaved trails require appropriate footwear and may not be suitable for strollers.
"If you are looking for a peaceful place to walk, hike, explore or check out beautiful plants, lakes, creeks and wildlife then you should have already been here. They staff was very welcoming and friendly. Paved walk ways, boardwalk and trails. Something for everyone."
David Jones
"We totally enjoyed our morning at the gardens. Lots of great paths to walk and lots of info provided about all the native plants along the way. Lots of people enjoying walking the grounds with their dogs. Beautiful location."
Cheryl Powell
"If this is on your bucket list, you need to head over and get it checked off. This is a well kept hidden gem in Jacksonville. We purchased tickets ahead of time and checked in quickly with the front staff at the entrance to the trails. There is a good mix of paved and rugged trails. None of the trails are overly difficult, although the unpaved trails do have uneven ground and root cover that you need to be mindful of and wear appropriate footwear. The unpaved trails are not suited for strollers, but there is plenty of paved paths that are. Lots of shade covering to help with keeping the Florida sun from blasting on you. We did all the paths and spent a few hours there doing so. The grounds are nearly kept and very clean. There are benches for seating throughout to take a break if needed. There is a picnic area and covered overhangs to rest and take in the beauty around. The signs markers of the plant and tree names and descriptions are informative and neatly marked. We love the wooden bridges and paths that go through, and over, the running streams. Parking was simple and there is plenty of it. This was our first time here and we will definitely be back. I recommend it for any age and fitness level. Wear appropriate footwear and a walking stick is helpful for the uneven ground as well. The paved paths are also a great way to get some steps in and maybe get the littles in the stroller to nap. Highly recommend!"
laura micalizzi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is located at 1445 Millcoe Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225.
The arboretum is easily accessible by car. There is ample parking available on-site.
Information on public transportation options is not widely available, but driving is the most common method.
The entrance is clearly marked, and the address 1445 Millcoe Road will guide you directly to the location.
It's highly recommended to grab a trail map upon arrival to explore the various paths and ecosystems effectively.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is $3 per person for non-members. 
For regular visits, purchasing tickets ahead of time can expedite your check-in process.
Yes, events like 'Dazzling Nights' require separate tickets and often sell out, so booking in advance is crucial. +1
The arboretum is typically open daily from 8 AM to 7 PM, but hours can vary, especially for special events.
Yes, a year membership is available and offers incredible value for frequent visitors seeking relaxation.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The arboretum features a mix of paved walkways, boardwalks, and unpaved, natural trails with varying difficulty levels.
Yes, the arboretum is dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs on most of the trails.
Absolutely! There are picnic areas, some with covered overhangs, perfect for enjoying a meal amidst nature.
You might encounter native Florida wildlife such as gopher tortoises, various birds, and other small creatures.
Paved paths are stroller-friendly, but the unpaved, rugged trails are not recommended for strollers.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful natural light. The 'Dazzling Nights' event provides unique opportunities for night photography. +1
The wooden bridges over streams, the diverse plant life, and the light displays during events are highly photogenic.
Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
Long exposures for light trails, capturing the vibrant colors of the displays, and candid shots of people enjoying the magic are popular. +1
Drone usage policies can vary; it's best to check with the arboretum directly before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas, adding to the fun of a family outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Nature Lovers
Solo visitors can take their time, pause at benches to enjoy the scenery, and truly immerse themselves in the natural beauty. The $3 admission is a small price for hours of serene exploration.
🐶 Dog Owners
It's a great opportunity for both of you to get some exercise and fresh air in a beautiful setting. Remember to always clean up after your pet and ensure they are comfortable with the varied terrain of the trails. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Jacksonville Arboretum
Each trail is designed to showcase the unique flora and fauna of Northeast Florida. For instance, the Sand Ridge trail features a xeric hammock, rosemary/oak scrub, and a depression marsh, offering a glimpse into varied habitats.
Popular trails include the Jones Creek Trail, noted for its scenic beauty, and others that lead over charming wooden bridges and streams.
+1The Enchanting Dazzling Nights Event
+6Visitors can wander through twinkling pathways, explore themed areas like a candy cane corridor, and enjoy festive elements such as a giant snow globe or a wishing tree.
+1Due to its popularity, tickets for 'Dazzling Nights' are limited and often sell out quickly. It's highly recommended to purchase tickets well in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Wildlife and Botanical Discoveries
Beyond the botanical wonders, the arboretum is also a sanctuary for local wildlife. Keep an eye out for gopher tortoises, a protected species often seen basking in sunny areas.
+1
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