Things To Do Near Fort Caroline National Memorial
Fort Caroline National Memorial sits on a spectacular stretch of well-preserved Florida wilderness. The recreated historic sites are the main attractions, but you'll also find plenty of outdoor fun. Hike the trails through the memorial and the adjacent Timucuan Preserve and Theodore Roosevelt Area. The backwaters near the memorial are calm and easy to paddle, so you may want to rent a canoe or kayak and launch from the various boat ramps in the park.
Hiking Trails
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Spanish Pond Trail
Hike through the lush Florida foliage on the Spanish Pond Trail. This popular trail starts out as a boardwalk that travels through the forest, eventually transitioning into a dirt trail. The heavy vegetation creates plenty of shade, and the terrain is flat and easy to navigate. As you hike, imagine what it was like for the Spanish soldiers to fight through the undergrowth in the 1500s. When you get to Spanish Pond, climb the overlook tower for an exceptional view.
Location
Fort Caroline Road and Fort Caroline Memorial Entrance Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225
Length
2 miles round-trip
Intensity
Easy
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Hammock Trail
If you want to stretch your legs after a visit to the Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center, take the Hammock Trail through the forest. This family-friendly loop runs through the trees, passing right next to the historic recreation of Fort Caroline. The path is well-shaded and breezy, but make sure to take insect repellent. Bring your camera too because the tropical foliage and hanging moss make for a beautiful backdrop.
Location
Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center
Length
1.4 miles round-trip
Intensity
Easy
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Willie Browne Trail
The Willie Browne Trail is located in the Theodore Roosevelt Area; the trailhead is just down the road from the Timucuan Preserve. This dirt path takes you into the wetlands and marshes from the south. It's popular with local runners and residents walking their dogs. If you're looking for a longer hike, the trail connects to the other routes in the Theodore Roosevelt Area. Hop on the Spanish Pond Trail to get to the Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center and Fort Caroline.
Location
13303 Mt Pleasant Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
Length
1.9 miles round-trip
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center
The Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center is the main visitor center for Fort Caroline National Memorial; it's located near the fort itself. This must-stop destination features a fantastic exhibit that explains the unique ecological and historical significance of the region as it's been a key point for trade, transportation and defense throughout the centuries.
Location
12713 Fort Caroline Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32225
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Timucuan Village Exhibit
After you see the visitor center, head outside to check out the Timucuan Village Exhibit. This unique display shows you how the Timucua Native Americans lived in the 1500s and earlier. The entire culture disappeared by the year 1800; today, you can explore a thatched shelter, an ethnobotanical garden and a shell heap. Check out the canoe-making station, which shows how the Timucuan traveled throughout the local waterways.
Location
12713 Fort Caroline Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32225
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Fort Caroline
Fort Caroline, or "Fort de la Caroline" as French colonists would say, is a bit of a mystery. Archaeologists don't know exactly where the original stood. Their best guess is the location of the Fort Caroline Memorial's top attraction, a recreation of a 1500s-era French fort. Leave your car at the visitor center and walk over to the recreated fort, which is perched on the banks of the St. Johns River.
Location
12713 Fort Caroline Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32225
Museums
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Alexander Brest Museum
Located in Jacksonville University, the Alexander Brest Museum is popular with local art lovers. The rotating collections include works from students and local artists.
Location
2800 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32211
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Jacksonville's "Hands On" Children's Museum
Jacksonville's "Hands On" Children's Museum lives up to its name, offering a slew of interactive exhibits for little ones. Let your kids free to slide down a mini fire pole, play in the mock radio station, climb a pirate ship and more.
Location
8580 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32216
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Aly Cat
Find everything from jewelry to salt lamps at Aly Cat. The owners also stock a selection of wine, local art, clothing and home decor.
Location
9501 Arlington Expy Suite 435, Jacksonville, FL 32225
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Sea Shells & Coral
If you're heading to the beach during your visit to Florida, check out Sea Shells & Coral. With its array of sea-themed gifts, art and souvenirs, it's the perfect place to do all of your vacation shopping.
Location
239 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
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White Shell Bait & Tackle
If you're thinking about fishing in the waterways near the Fort Caroline Memorial, White Shell Bait & Tackle has all of the supplies you need. Make sure to chat with the knowledgeable staff to learn about the best bait and local fishing holes.
Location
7736 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226
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Sashimi Fusion
If you love sushi, enjoy a filling meal at Sashimi Fusion. With its colorful LED lighting, it's a wild place to enjoy sushi rolls, sashimi and tempura. Make sure to check out the lunch specials.
Location
2771 Monument Rd #5, Jacksonville, FL 32225
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Friends Diner
When you're craving a big breakfast or a classic sandwich-and-fries basket, Friends Diner is the perfect spot. Start the day with a plate of chicken and waffles, or fill up on one of the specialty hot dog options at lunch.
Location
2771-32 Monument Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
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Chowder Ted's
Dig into a bowl of seafood chowder or an oyster po' boy at Chowder Ted's. Located north of the Fort Caroline Memorial on the St. Johns River, this restaurant offers a beautiful view and fantastic, fresh seafood.
Location
5215 Heckscher Dr #3051, Jacksonville, FL 32226