The Riverwalk is Jacksonville's front porch and the easiest introduction to the city for any first-time visitor. It comes in two halves that face each other across the St. Johns River. The Northbank Riverwalk runs along the downtown side below the skyline, linking the stadium district, the site of the former Jacksonville Landing, the Main Street Bridge and the courthouse area. The Southbank Riverwalk, on the opposite shore, is the longer and more scenic of the two, a wide boardwalk that passes the Museum of Science and History and Friendship Fountain and offers the classic view back across the water at the downtown towers. Both are free, open every day, and designed for walking, jogging, pushing a stroller or pausing on a bench to watch the boat traffic. The Main Street Bridge, painted a bright blue and still a working lift bridge, ties the two banks together for pedestrians, and together the walkways make a loop that can be done in an easy hour or stretched into an afternoon.
Start on the Southbank if you want the postcard. The boardwalk here has the best angle on the skyline, particularly in the late afternoon when the sun lights the towers and the water goes gold. Friendship Fountain, opened in the 1960s and long billed as one of the tallest fountains in the world, shoots a jet of water high above the riverside park and is a favorite with children on hot days.
The Museum of Science and History sits right on the boardwalk, so the walk doubles as a museum approach, and several riverfront hotels and restaurants line the edge, making this the natural spot for a sunset drink. Benches, shade structures and public restrooms are spaced along the route, and the surface is flat and accessible.
The Northbank has a different feel, more urban and civic. Walking east to west you pass public art, event lawns, the stadium and entertainment district to the west, and the redeveloped riverfront plaza where the old Landing once stood. Weekends bring events, from concerts to festivals, and the walkway is a popular route for runners training for the city's big races.
Cross the Main Street Bridge on foot for the full loop; the walkway is protected from traffic, and the views from the span in both directions are excellent. When the bridge lifts for a tall vessel, you get a close look at a piece of working river infrastructure.
Practical tips make the walk more comfortable. Go early or late in summer, when midday heat and humidity can be punishing, and carry water. Afternoon thunderstorms arrive quickly in warm months, so check the sky and know where the nearest covered spot is. Parking is easiest at garages on either bank, and many hotels are an easy walk from the water.
The Riverwalk combines well with a river cruise, a visit to the science museum, a meal on the Southbank and a game day at the stadium, and it costs nothing to enjoy, making it the best-value hour you can spend in the city.
One more tip
The two banks feel very different at night. The Southbank is quiet and romantic after dark, with the downtown towers lit across the water, while the Northbank becomes lively on event evenings. If you are staying nearby, make time for both a morning jog and an evening stroll, because the changing light and the shifting river traffic make the same stretch of boardwalk look new each time.
What to expect
The experience
Two free, flat riverside walkways on opposite banks of the St. Johns, joined by the Main Street Bridge, with skyline views, public art, fountains and benches throughout.
Best time
Late afternoon into sunset for light and cooler temperatures; early morning in summer. Weekends can add events and crowds.
How long
One easy hour for a single bank, two to three for the full loop with stops.
Tips
Start on the Southbank for the best skyline view. Carry water in summer. Cross the Main Street Bridge for the loop. Watch for afternoon thunderstorms.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want the skyline, the river and a free walk in one go.
- Families
- Excellent with kids thanks to Friendship Fountain and the science museum on the Southbank.
- Couples
- A golden-hour stroll on the Southbank followed by dinner with a river view.
- Pair with
- The Museum of Science and History, a river cruise and a Northbank dinner.
- Time needed
- One to three hours depending on how far you go.
Good questions
Is the Riverwalk free?+
Yes, both the Northbank and Southbank Riverwalks are free public walkways, open every day. Some nearby attractions, such as the science museum, charge admission.
Which side has the better view?+
The Southbank looks back across the water at the downtown skyline, which makes it the better photo side. The Northbank is more urban and better for events and the stadium district.
Can I walk between the two banks?+
Yes, the Main Street Bridge has pedestrian walkways, so you can loop between the two banks on foot. The bridge occasionally lifts for river traffic, so allow a few extra minutes.
Is it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?+
The walkways are broadly flat and paved, which suits strollers and wheelchairs. Check for temporary closures around construction or events before you go.
When is the best time to go?+
Late afternoon and sunset give the best light and cooler temperatures. In summer, avoid the midday heat and keep an eye on afternoon storms.