Southbank Riverwalk
A scenic 1.25-mile promenade along the St. Johns River, offering stunning skyline views, art, and the magical Friendship Fountain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, fountain show
Southbank Riverwalk
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, fountain show
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 1.25-mile promenade along the St. Johns River, offering stunning skyline views, art, and the magical Friendship Fountain.
"The Southbank Riverwalk is an absolute amazing place to visit, with constant dolphin sightings and a beautiful fountain show."
🎯 Evening Fountain Show
Don't miss the Friendship Fountain's music and light show after dark! It's a magical experience.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Visit in the early evening for the best chance to see dolphins in the St. Johns River.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Friendship Fountain
Southbank Riverwalk
A spectacular fountain with synchronized music and light shows, especially enchanting at night.
Dolphin Sightings
St. Johns River
Keep an eye out for pods of dolphins gracefully surfacing in the river, a delightful surprise for visitors.
Pirate Ship Playground
St. Johns River Park
A unique, pirate-themed playground inspired by Jacksonville's French history, perfect for kids.
Skyline Views
Southbank Riverwalk
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Jacksonville skyline, especially captivating at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Evening Fountain Show
Don't miss the Friendship Fountain's music and light show after dark! It's a magical experience.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Visit in the early evening for the best chance to see dolphins in the St. Johns River.
🅿️ Parking Hacks
Try the School Board Parking Lot or Baptist Hospital decks for free parking.
🚶♀️ Accessible Strolls
The paved 1.25-mile Riverwalk is perfect for everyone, including strollers and wheelchairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Evening Fountain Show
Don't miss the Friendship Fountain's music and light show after dark! It's a magical experience.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Visit in the early evening for the best chance to see dolphins in the St. Johns River.
🅿️ Parking Hacks
Try the School Board Parking Lot or Baptist Hospital decks for free parking.
🚶♀️ Accessible Strolls
The paved 1.25-mile Riverwalk is perfect for everyone, including strollers and wheelchairs.
🎶 Sip & Stroll Events
Check for 'Sip & Stroll' on third Thursdays for live music, food trucks, and great vibes.
🛴 Scooter Fun
Rent an e-scooter for a fun way to explore the Riverwalk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Southbank Riverwalk's stunning skyline views, especially at sunset, and the enchanting Friendship Fountain light and music show. Many highlight the unexpected joy of spotting dolphins in the St. Johns River and appreciate the accessible, clean environment. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is highly recommended for its beauty and family-friendly amenities.
"The very friendly staff went out of their way to help my 92 yo dad. I saw two pods of three dolphins!! The sunset tour was fantastic, loved the lights on the buildings and bridges!! Well worth the money."
Michele DeGeneffe
"A quiet Wednesday evening for this area of Jacksonville. I enjoyed the warm breeze on the Riverwalk without it I'm not sure I could have done it. The view was nice with the Jaguars Stadium in the background. You can see many cranes remaking the Jacksonville skyline. Street Parking wasn't easy nearby but the garage is available for a fee. I live in the Tampa Bay area and our Riverwalk is amazing and popular with locals, this place was way different."
Trish Acampora
"This was an absolute amazing place to visit. We went during the early evening. We were able to see dolphins constantly skimming the water the few hours we there. The fountain was something else. It was so beautiful and well maintained. At night fall the fountain sprays along to music. I would highly recommend anyone who is visiting jacksonville to make this one of your must sight seeing places."
Home Paradise Improvements
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Southbank Riverwalk is located along the St. Johns River in downtown Jacksonville. You can drive and park in nearby garages or lots, or consider public transportation. Many visitors find the School Board Parking Lot or Baptist Hospital decks to be convenient and free parking options.
Yes, parking is available. While street parking can be challenging, the Mosh parking garage, School Board Parking Lot, and Baptist Hospital decks are recommended.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk across the Acosta Bridge or the Main Street Bridge from downtown Jacksonville to reach the Southbank Riverwalk.
Absolutely! The Southbank Riverwalk is a paved, accessible promenade, making it easy for wheelchairs and strollers to navigate.
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll, rent an e-scooter for a faster pace, or even go for a bike ride along the riverfront.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Southbank Riverwalk is a public promenade and is free to enter and enjoy.
The Riverwalk is generally accessible during daylight hours, though specific attractions like Friendship Fountain may have their own schedules for light and music shows.
No tickets are required for the Southbank Riverwalk itself. However, if you plan to attend special events like 'Sip & Stroll,' you might need to purchase tickets or pay for food and drinks.
Yes, the Southbank Riverwalk hosts events like 'Sip & Stroll' on the third Thursday of each month, featuring live music, food vendors, and bars. 
Friendship Fountain has a spectacular light and music show that typically runs nightly. Check local listings for specific showtimes.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning photos of the Jacksonville skyline, especially during sunset. The Friendship Fountain and any dolphin sightings also make for memorable shots.
Absolutely! The Friendship Fountain's light and music show is a popular subject for photography and videography.
Yes, the new pirate ship playground and the scenic river views provide excellent backdrops for family photos.
Early evening offers the best light for capturing the skyline and the sunset. Nighttime is ideal for the illuminated Friendship Fountain.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or Jacksonville Parks and Recreation for any restrictions before flying a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the Riverwalk itself doesn't have many permanent restaurants, you can find food trucks and vendors during special events like 'Sip & Stroll.' There are also many dining options nearby in the San Marco and downtown areas.
Sip & Stroll events often feature a variety of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, from Latin American to American comfort food.
Yes, picnicking is encouraged, especially during events. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery with your own snacks and beverages.
During 'Sip & Stroll' events, bars are set up along the Riverwalk. Otherwise, you'll find bars and restaurants in the adjacent San Marco and downtown areas.
Definitely! The sunset views, the fountain show, and the vibrant atmosphere during events make it a perfect spot for a romantic evening.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The paved, accessible path is perfect for strollers, and the chance to spot dolphins in the river is always a hit with younger visitors. Consider visiting during the day to enjoy the playground, or in the early evening to catch the Friendship Fountain's light and music show. Bringing a picnic is a great way to save money and enjoy a meal with a view.
🏃♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
💖 Couples & Date Nights
The Friendship Fountain's mesmerizing light and music show after dark provides a magical backdrop for a date night. Consider timing your visit for a 'Sip & Stroll' event on the third Thursday of the month for live music, food, and a lively, yet relaxed, atmosphere.
It's an affordable and charming way to spend an evening together.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Revitalized Riverfront Experience
Adjacent to the fountain, a new pirate ship playground offers a unique play area for children, inspired by Jacksonville's historical French connections. This playground, along with the overall enhancements, aims to make the Southbank Riverwalk a more beautiful and engaging destination for families and visitors alike.
+1These improvements are part of a broader effort to revitalize the riverfront, making it a prime spot for both active pursuits and relaxed enjoyment of the city's skyline and river views.
+1Events and Community Gatherings
+2'Sip & Stroll' often coincides with cultural celebrations, such as Hispanic Heritage Month, showcasing local talent and offering a taste of different cuisines. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the local culture and enjoy a relaxed evening by the river.
+1Beyond 'Sip & Stroll,' the Riverwalk is also a favored spot for runners and cyclists, with dedicated paths and a pleasant environment for outdoor exercise.
Wildlife and Natural Encounters
While dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, visiting during the early evening hours seems to increase the chances. It's a reminder of the natural life that thrives even within a bustling city.
The Riverwalk also offers opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the natural scenery along the riverbanks, making it a refreshing escape.
Social
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