Metropolitan Park
A versatile urban park on the St. Johns River, known for scenic views and hosting lively music festivals and community events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Metropolitan Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A versatile urban park on the St. Johns River, known for scenic views and hosting lively music festivals and community events.
"The location couldn't be better - great views of the river and Hart Bridge. "
Check Event Schedules
Always check the park's event calendar before visiting to know what's happening.
Weather Preparedness
Bring rain gear for outdoor events, as some have lacked adequate shelter.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. Johns Riverfront Views
Along the St. Johns River
Enjoy scenic vistas of the river and Hart Bridge, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a relaxing moment.
Concrete Alligator
Near the St. Johns River
A quirky 22-foot tall concrete alligator statue, a unique landmark with a history from Gatorland.
Event Hub
Various stages and areas
Home to music festivals like Funk Fest and R&B Picnic, offering live entertainment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Event Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
Always check the park's event calendar before visiting to know what's happening. +2
Weather Preparedness
Bring rain gear for outdoor events, as some have lacked adequate shelter.
Parking Strategy
Parking can be limited during events; consider alternative lots or public transport.
Kayaking Option
Kayak from Hogan Creek to the park's dock for free concerts.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
Always check the park's event calendar before visiting to know what's happening. +2
Weather Preparedness
Bring rain gear for outdoor events, as some have lacked adequate shelter.
Parking Strategy
Parking can be limited during events; consider alternative lots or public transport.
Kayaking Option
Kayak from Hogan Creek to the park's dock for free concerts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Metropolitan Park is praised for its unbeatable riverfront location and scenic views, making it a desirable spot for relaxation and events. However, many reviews highlight the park's need for significant upgrades, particularly concerning parking and restroom facilities, especially during busy event times. Visitors appreciate the potential of the space but acknowledge its current shortcomings.
"This place is overdue for some much deserved upgrades. The location couldn't be better - across from the sportsplex and next to the (soon to be) 4 Seasons. Great views of the river and Hart Bridge. Love the peaceful and scenic covered seating areas. Take advantage of how empty this place is now. Probly won't stay this way for long."
Nappy Jenkins
"It was my first time attending this music event, and I was excited about attending after hearing about it. My sister's and I figured it would be awesome to see Charlie Wilson and friends in person, we purchased vip seats and made arrangements to enjoy the event, however that's isn't the way the night turned out. You would have thought that the organizers of the event would have been prepared for bad weather and had some kind of overhead shelter to keep from getting wet, very disappointed in the quick performance and the inconvenience of the whole process in general. Will never attend this music event again.."
Glory Smith
"I mean it's an open field. The location & view is awesome. There is was absolutely no parking you had to use Ever Bank parking lot. The restrooms could use an upgrade."
Yoka Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Metropolitan Park is located downtown Jacksonville, near the St. Johns River. While specific public transport details can vary, it's accessible by car. Parking can be an issue during events, with visitors sometimes needing to use the EverBank parking lot.
Parking availability can be challenging, especially during events. Visitors have noted that the main parking can be full, requiring the use of nearby lots like the EverBank parking lot.
Yes, you can kayak to Metropolitan Park! A tip suggests putting in at Hogan Creek and kayaking to the park's dock, especially to enjoy free concerts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is generally free, but specific events like music festivals (Funk Fest, R&B Picnic) will require tickets. +1
Operating hours can vary depending on events. For general park access outside of scheduled events, it's best to check local listings or the park's official information if available. +1
For popular events like music festivals, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance to secure your spot and potentially get better pricing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Metropolitan Park offers scenic riverfront views, a unique concrete alligator statue, and serves as a venue for various events like music festivals and community gatherings. +2
Restrooms are available, but some reviews suggest they could use an upgrade, particularly during busy event times.
While the park offers open spaces and river views, its primary draw seems to be events. For family-specific activities, checking the event schedule for kid-friendly options is advisable.
The park boasts great views of the St. Johns River and the Hart Bridge, making it a scenic spot for relaxation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options are often available during events, with vendors sometimes present. Some TikToks mention BBQ events and festivals where food is a highlight. +1
For certain events like the R&B Picnic & Coolerfest, bringing your own cooler is encouraged, suggesting a BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) policy might apply to some gatherings.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverfront views, the Hart Bridge, and the unique concrete alligator statue are popular subjects for photos. The open spaces also offer good opportunities.
During events like music festivals, capturing the energy of the crowd and performers can make for dynamic photos. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Similarly, Metropolitan Park in Sanchong, New Taipei City, features a large, free playground with spiral slides, rope bridges, climbing areas, and a bike path, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic. For families visiting the Jacksonville location, checking the event schedule for family-friendly festivals or gatherings is recommended. The park's open spaces and the unique concrete alligator can also provide some entertainment.
🎶 Music & Event Enthusiasts
Attendees should be prepared for large gatherings and potential parking challenges during these events.
🚶♀️ Nature & Relaxation Seekers
The park's location along the river makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or simply to sit and enjoy the waterfront ambiance. While the park is noted for needing upgrades, its current state also means it can be surprisingly empty at times, offering a chance for quiet contemplation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Metropolitan Park as an Event Venue
Beyond music, the park has also hosted unique community events like Diner en Blanc, an all-white picnic where attendees bring their own tables and chairs to an undisclosed location.
For those interested in a more active experience, the park's proximity to the St. Johns River allows for activities like kayaking. A specific tip mentions kayaking from Hogan Creek to the park's dock, suggesting it's a viable and enjoyable way to access the park, especially if concerts are scheduled.
The Iconic Concrete Alligator
Originally, this concrete gator was a prominent fixture in front of Gatorland in St. Augustine, where it stood for decades. Its relocation to Metropolitan Park marks a new chapter for this roadside attraction. Interestingly, the alligator still supports itself with a walking stick in one hand, and it's noted that it once held a cigar in the other.
This unique landmark offers a fun photo opportunity and a conversation starter, embodying a piece of Florida's roadside Americana. Its presence adds a memorable element to the park, distinguishing it from other urban green spaces.
Park Upgrades and Future Plans
However, there are promising future plans for the park. Models have been showcased for Metropolitan Park's transformation, which aims to create a new 25-acre public park. This redevelopment is intended to bring together fans, neighbors, and visitors, featuring world-class entertainment, unique dining experiences, and improved parking and transit infrastructure.
These planned enhancements suggest a vision to revitalize the park into a more comprehensive destination, balancing its current scenic appeal with modern amenities and attractions. Visitors can anticipate a more developed and engaging experience in the future.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit