Southbank Riverwalk

A worthwhile downtown landmark to visit on a Jacksonville getaway is the Southbank Riverwalk. The 1.25-mile walkway was completed in 1985 and linked the riverfront hotel, dining, and retail complex to Friendship Fountain and a restaurant west of the Main Street Bridge. The paved promenade offers unparalleled cityscape views of the city set against the St. Johns River, making it one of the top things to do in Jacksonville.

However, the grand opening was lackluster because the city could not provide the promised amenities. Sadly, the Southbank Riverwalk fell into disrepair and didn’t attract visitors like city officials had hoped.

Thankfully, the area was revitalized in 2015, transforming the ill-fated walkway into one of the city’s most visited urban landmarks. Currently, the city is improving the walkway, extending it into Bridgeview Park, and connecting it to West Bank Street. The new promenade will consist of pavers to match the existing trail, along with benches to relax.

With its urban setting, the Southbank Riverwalk is close to other top attractions like MOSH (Museum of Science and History) and the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. Such convenience enables visiting multiple attractions in a day.

Adding the Southbank Riverwalk to your vacation itinerary will introduce you to the city’s beauty and diverse landmarks.

Southbank Riverwalk: Fun Facts & Cool Features 

The best feature of the Southbank Riverwalk is the views of the St. Johns River. The pathway hugs the shoreline and juts out over the water in key locations. Hiking along this stretch of walkway offers peaceful river views, and benches are conveniently located to sit and relax.

The designers incorporated art and creative architectural elements into the Southbank Riverwalk to enhance a visit. One standout is the round fountain featuring a sculpture of a sailor, which reminds visitors of Jacksonville’s role as a port. Another feature is a decorative tile mural, while unique canvas awnings offer shade for the benches. 

The central location downtown allows planning a sunset stroll on the walkway followed by a delicious meal at nearby dining spots like Restaurant Orsay. Or take a short morning jog followed by a trip to the North Beaches Art Walk to explore the crafts, artwork, and home goods created by local artists.

The Southbank Riverwalk can accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and those with mobility needs. The path is peppered with green spaces and palm trees that bring the urban area to life. At night, the glow of the city lights reflecting off the St. Johns River adds another dimension to a visit.

The Southbank Riverwalk blends leisure and the arts with picturesque views of the skyline and river, making it a popular destination when vacationing in Jacksonville.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to Southbank Riverwalk from Jacksonville:

• Head northwest on FL-228 W/ Forest St toward Park St.
• Use the right two lanes to turn slightly right onto Riverside Ave.
• Continue onto Broad St/I-95 S ramp to Miami.
• Take exit 350B for San Marco Blvd.
• Use the right lane to turn right onto San Marco Blvd.
• Continue onto Palm Ave.
• Turn right onto Prudential Dr.
• Continue straight onto Riverplace Blvd.
• Southbank Riverwalk will be on your right.
• Address: 1001 Museum Cir, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Cost 

Visiting Southbank Riverwalk is free! However, you may need to pay to park.