Riverwalk, Jacksonville: Address, Phone Number, Riverwalk Reviews: 3.5/5
Riverwalk
3.5
About
1.2 Miles Of Restaurants, Bars, Shops, Museums, And A Marina.
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The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
329 within 3 miles

Ruth's Chris Steak House
957
0.2 mi$$$$ • American • Steakhouse • Vegetarian Friendly

BB's Restaurant + Bar
770
0.4 mi$$ - $$$ • American • International • Vegetarian Friendly

Southern Grill
191
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Vegetarian Friendly

The Bearded Pig BBQ
425
0.5 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Bar

Sake House
63
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Sushi • Asian

Village Bread Café
42
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Vegetarian Friendly

St. Johns Provision Co.
12
0.2 miAmerican • Cafe • Seafood • Grill

Chart House
458
0.4 mi$$$$ • American • Seafood • Vegetarian Friendly
Locals' at Southbank
10
0.2 mi$

Clara's Tidbits Restaurant & Catering
102
0.4 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Cajun & Creole
Attractions
87 within 6 miles

Museum of Science and History
479
141 ftHistory Museums

Friendship Fountain
306
0.1 miParks • Fountains

Alexander Brest Planetarium
13
425 ftSpeciality Museums

Treaty Oak Park
1
0.1 miParks

Jesse Ball Dupont Park
12
0.2 miParks

The Florida Theatre
376
0.6 miTheaters

Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts
153
0.5 miTheaters

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
1,171
1 miGardens • Art Museums

Jacksonville Historical Center
5
0.3 miHistory Museums

Riverside Arts Market
330
0.9 miFlea & Street Markets
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
3.5
223 reviews
Excellent
62
Very good
80
Average
52
Poor
18
Terrible
11
sabrina w
Jacksonville, FL33 contributions
I was born and raised in Jacksonville. The North Bank riverwalk is beautiful during milder weather months. It has nice artwork on the walk and the kids love to run and play as you wander the path. It is very safe during the day. On Saturdays, there is nice Riverside Arts Market under the I-95 bridge creating shade on warmer days. They have good food and often live entertainment too.
The South Bank riverwalk is also nice but not as pretty and more isolated. It is nice to walk across the Main Street bridge and see the water and boats below.
Jacksonville is really a suburban city, is not walkable and very little to do downtown.
I would not walk on the riverwalk at night on either side. Overall it is a very nice feature to our city.
The South Bank riverwalk is also nice but not as pretty and more isolated. It is nice to walk across the Main Street bridge and see the water and boats below.
Jacksonville is really a suburban city, is not walkable and very little to do downtown.
I would not walk on the riverwalk at night on either side. Overall it is a very nice feature to our city.
Written January 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Rick D
Jupiter, FL423 contributions
Riverwalk is a great idea yet to fully come to fruition. The walk itself is very nice- 1.4 mile stretch along the south (?) side of the river looking across at downtown Jax. But much is still under construction, including the huge fountain on one end, and many shops or buildings on the other. Would have liked to see more and easier access to some eateries and shops but maybe that's in the plans? Also noted a fair amount of "transients" idling around which, depending on the hour, may or may not cause alarm for some. Water taxi was somewhere but I did not see it during our up and down stroll. Great views though, especially at night when the city is lit up. While roaming, we watched dolphins frolic in the water, which was cool because the way the walkway is, you were pretty much eye level with them.
Written September 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Barbie S
Indianapolis, IN24 contributions
It was Sunday late morning, so downtown was pretty quiet. I thought this area was beautiful! We walked under that drawbridge from one side of the river to the other and all along the water. It was very neat, clean, well kept and just a cool walk. I thoroughly enjoyed the river walk and seeing all the downtown sites from there.
Written June 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Marnette S
Webster, FL1,887 contributions
Couples
We were in Jacksonville for a few days sightseeing. Our first stop was the Riverwalk, a 1.2 mile walkway around the Jax waterfront. We parked at the Stein Mart parking garage on Flagler Blvd.; from there, it was a short walk to the Riverfront on the Southbank section of the city. We loved being on the water and the views of the Northbank. It was not particularly busy but walkers, cyclists and office employees were clearly enjoying their time on this paved walk. The marina isn't particularly impressive. We were disappointed to learn that the water taxi is only running for special cruises and not regular runs along the riverfront because of Covid.
The path passes the Friendship Fountain, the River City Brewing Company, the Lone Sailor statue and views of the TIAA Bank Field, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. It is also near the MOSH (Museum of Science and History).
The path passes the Friendship Fountain, the River City Brewing Company, the Lone Sailor statue and views of the TIAA Bank Field, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. It is also near the MOSH (Museum of Science and History).
Written September 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bob
Pompano Beach, FL2 contributions
Couples
Blah. There really wasn’t much shopping or anything. Downtown Jacksonville is just offices that people work from by day then immediately leave town for their homes in the suburbs.
Nothing worthwhile but some crappy museums and theaters
Nothing worthwhile but some crappy museums and theaters
Written May 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
TrailTrekker15
Tallahassee, FL3,808 contributions
Couples
My wife and I visited the Riverwalk on the south side of the St. John’s River. We started at the Friendship Fountain. There were some people smoking which was unpleasant, but it was brief. Our favorite part was the Main St. Bridge raised while we were there. It was awesome getting to see the old bridge in action! Our visit did get cut short with rain moving in, but it was so much fun.
Written February 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Claude B
Atlanta, GA315 contributions
Nice walk along the river, we started at the Friendship Fountain and walked to the end round trip, nice view but not really something fantastic. The marina at the start is very small, good for walking. Very clean and safe area.
Written February 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
wenrae205
Winchester, VA121 contributions
We were able to find parking very close to the River Walk in the evening, and stayed until it was dark enough to enjoy the lights along the skyline and the bridge. It was very clean and peaceful despite being busy with families, runners, walkers, and bikers. Recommend!!
Written July 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
sprung51
springfield vt192 contributions
Friends
It has little charm, other than it is a great improvement from how trashy it used to be. It is not a safe place. It crawls with those looking for your $, who would commit a crime to get it. I do not recommend this for anything but large groups that can protect themselves. Please don't bring your children here as it makes you a target.
Written November 6, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
EBIATDA
Atlanta, GA110 contributions
Family
This place was a lot of fun. Even though it was a grey rainy day, it was still very scenic and fun to walk through. If you truly love scenery, then rain should never spoil it and it didn't this time either. The river water is clean (not foamy with debris and garbage like some other riverwalks.) It's also very spacious. Seagulls & pelicans flying around. A mix of boats - commercial and private. Nice views of the bridges as the walk is pretty much straight. No annoying bikers, skaters, etc whizzing by. Family/stroller friendly.
We happened to go on a bowl weekend and there was a pep ralley with the entire Penn State marching band, cheer squad, and baton twirlers - it was amazing....and I didn't even go to Penn St. The venue was perfect with a large semi-circle ampitheater/performance area surround by various restaurants and mall-food-court-type eateries.
Here are some tips i suggest you heed:
1. Parking stinks! The city seems to try to block off all the regularly accessible public parking and metered parking to get you to pay $10 event parking. Feels like a total scam. So...park in the government building slots as long as you go on the weekends, since of course the govt doesn't work on weekends so you can ignore the "No parking" signs.
2. Bathrooms in the main building in the Landing. There is only one for each gender - I felt sorry for the women waiting in a ridiculous line snaking all the way outside. Even the men's room had a line, so you know it' gotta be bad. So...just one flight of stairs upstairs around the corner at the end of the foodcourt which looks like a path to nowhere, and there are two huge facilities with no wait!
3. Food court choices. The exact same beers are $1 cheaper upstairs rather than buying from the ice bucket-tents on the mainfloor of the Landing. Also, amongst the three stir-fry places, buy your chicken terriyaki stir fry from the Chinese one in the middle for the largest tastiest freshest portion. Beware the Cajun place on the left...I asked about their gumbo and the guy (and I'm not kidding about this) pointed to the veggie fried rice (not even the shrimp fried rice) and said you get a scoop of "gumbo rice" and they pour "gumbo broth" over it. OMG! I was laughing as I walked away but I tried not to.
4. Vantage point: If you go for an event (we were there for the bowl game pep rally) but the venue is clearly one for concerts, etc., you absolutely should go to the second floor along the rail. Beware though...do NOT get a spot in the center rail because the facility crew comes in late and makes all the people who got their prime viewing spots against the rail in the center move so they can place their camera/tech equipment there, which totally cheats those people who came early just to stake out a spot front and center along the top rail. So...just come early and lean up against the front railing just to the left or the right of the center rail. And when the tech crew comes and makes all the front and center rail people move, just lean forward against the rail so no one gets in front of you - voila! You have the best seat in the house!
We happened to go on a bowl weekend and there was a pep ralley with the entire Penn State marching band, cheer squad, and baton twirlers - it was amazing....and I didn't even go to Penn St. The venue was perfect with a large semi-circle ampitheater/performance area surround by various restaurants and mall-food-court-type eateries.
Here are some tips i suggest you heed:
1. Parking stinks! The city seems to try to block off all the regularly accessible public parking and metered parking to get you to pay $10 event parking. Feels like a total scam. So...park in the government building slots as long as you go on the weekends, since of course the govt doesn't work on weekends so you can ignore the "No parking" signs.
2. Bathrooms in the main building in the Landing. There is only one for each gender - I felt sorry for the women waiting in a ridiculous line snaking all the way outside. Even the men's room had a line, so you know it' gotta be bad. So...just one flight of stairs upstairs around the corner at the end of the foodcourt which looks like a path to nowhere, and there are two huge facilities with no wait!
3. Food court choices. The exact same beers are $1 cheaper upstairs rather than buying from the ice bucket-tents on the mainfloor of the Landing. Also, amongst the three stir-fry places, buy your chicken terriyaki stir fry from the Chinese one in the middle for the largest tastiest freshest portion. Beware the Cajun place on the left...I asked about their gumbo and the guy (and I'm not kidding about this) pointed to the veggie fried rice (not even the shrimp fried rice) and said you get a scoop of "gumbo rice" and they pour "gumbo broth" over it. OMG! I was laughing as I walked away but I tried not to.
4. Vantage point: If you go for an event (we were there for the bowl game pep rally) but the venue is clearly one for concerts, etc., you absolutely should go to the second floor along the rail. Beware though...do NOT get a spot in the center rail because the facility crew comes in late and makes all the people who got their prime viewing spots against the rail in the center move so they can place their camera/tech equipment there, which totally cheats those people who came early just to stake out a spot front and center along the top rail. So...just come early and lean up against the front railing just to the left or the right of the center rail. And when the tech crew comes and makes all the front and center rail people move, just lean forward against the rail so no one gets in front of you - voila! You have the best seat in the house!
Written January 5, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Wh what is the construction around the Riverwalk and the landing. And what is going to be replaced it looks like it's being closed down. It looks like the construction is of the Hyatt and the bldg 2 the right of it
Lyn W
Columbia, SC28 contributions
Is parking free?
tishkunath
New Port Richey, FL
We are thinking of coming for a long romantic weekend to the river walk in Jacksonville and would like recommendations for where to stay, things to do & best places to eat...
Honestly, there are a lot of places I would choose before Riverwalk. It's pretty empty with many closed up businesses. About an hour north is St Simon's Island, a lot nicer place to visit and much more romantic.
How much does it cost for the Riverwalk-- walking, or using the playground area for the kids?
kbockl
Neptune Beach, FL447 contributions
It's free.
Are there restaurants on the riverwalk?
Stephen D
Jacksonville, FL72 contributions
Yes there are several. There's a Ruth's Criss Steakhouse, (great early bird specials in the bar) The Chart House (always good) and The River City Brewing Company is a crowd favorite and has a great Sunday Brunch. There are others a few steps away, all good. Sushi, Thie, Pizza aand the water taxi can take you over to "The Landing" where there's Hooters, an Irish Pub, The American Restaurant......you'll have many options
buzzyboy34986
Port Saint Lucie, Florida23 contributions
staying at crowne plaza what restaurants are close by
buzzyboy34986
Port Saint Lucie, Florida23 contributions
Staying at crowne plaza what restaurants are close?
Frequently Asked Questions about Riverwalk
- We recommend booking Riverwalk tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 1 Riverwalk tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Riverwalk:
- (0.17 mi) DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Riverfront
- (0.23 mi) Hampton Inn Jacksonville-Downtown-I-95
- (0.42 mi) Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk
- (0.57 mi) Homewood Suites by Hilton Jacksonville Downtown-Southbank
- (0.56 mi) Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville Downtown Southbank
- Restaurants near Riverwalk:
- (0.03 mi) Bonnaros
- (0.19 mi) Ruth's Chris Steak House
- (0.17 mi) Southern Grill
- (0.16 mi) St. Johns Provision Co.
- (0.37 mi) BB's Restaurant + Bar
- Attractions near Riverwalk:
- (0.03 mi) Museum of Science and History
- (0.07 mi) Adventures Up The Creek Jacksonville
- (0.10 mi) Friendship Fountain
- (0.08 mi) Alexander Brest Planetarium
- (0.12 mi) Island Aqua Sports