Photo Credit: @springfieldloftsandfriends
Karpeles Manuscript Museum:
This museum is one of the nine Karpeles Manuscript libraries nationwide. Their mission is to preserve the writings of the greatest minds in history.
20+ Things to do in Downtown Jacksonville, Springfield
- September 13, 2021
Photo Credit: @markpariani
Downtown Jacksonville, Springfield was established in 1869. It is the oldest neighborhood in our city and has a lot of history. Jacksonville used to be the winter film capital of the world. There are still many things to do there now. Check out restored mansions, restaurants, local shops, murals, and historical parks. Springfield also hosts festivals such as Porchfest and Springfield Tour of Homes. Read below to see 20 things to do in Springfield!
We would like to thank SPAR for contributing to this guide. Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) is the non-profit community organization that facilitates positive change in the Springfield Historic District through the preservation of the history and revitalization of the eclectic neighborhood.
Photo Credit: @hartleythelabradoodle
Springfield Dog Park:
Locals love this fence, off-leash park. They have benches,pavillions,waste disposal stations,doggie drinking fountains and an area just for small dogs.
Photo Credit: @springfield_jax
Art and Mural Tour
If you like art and exploring then this tour is for you. Whether you would like to bike, walk, or drive you can see 10 stops of beautiful artwork. The art includes sculptures, murals, and mosaics.
Love local art and murals? Check out our Mural Guide
Photo Credit: @springfield_jax
Klutho Park:
This park is between downtown Jacksonville and the historic neighborhood of Springfield. It spans over 18 acres and it served as the original home to the Jacksonville Zoo! Klutho Park hosts Jacksonville Porchfest. Porchfest is a music festival that uses various porches as stages. There are also interesting sculptures to check out while you walk around.
Photo Credit: @icecapadefrozentreats
Shoppes of Pearl Street:
If you are looking for a sweet treat on a hot day, check out Icecapade Frozen Treats. Also checkout The Cookbook Restaurant for some tasty food including burgers, wings, and they also serve breakfast till 11:30.
Photo Credit:@phoenixartsdistrict
Phoenix Arts District:
Come visit the Phoenix Arts District and see a warehouse transformed to showcase art from the community. This place is beautiful from the outdoors and you can see amazing murals that will catch your eye.
Photo Credit:@springfield_annie
Springfield Scoops:
If you like ice cream, check out Springfield Scoops. They offer more than 100 flavors and have mix ins. You can be creative coming up with combinations to try.
Photo Credit:@shopbobbyk
BOBBYK boutique:
If you are in need of new clothes and decorations, check out BOBBYK boutique. They have trendy facemasks, eye catching shirts, and stickers. That is only a few of the items offered. They have plenty of things that would go great as a gift. While you are out buying gifts, head next door to Bark on Main for gifts for your dog friends.8103 Clothing is another great shop in the area with awesome graphic t-shirts!
Photo Credit:@simplykesayboutique
Local Women's Boutiques:
Springfield features several ladies clothing shops, all of these are locally owned by black women. Check out Simply Ke'say Boutique, Ysyntricity, and The Classic Maven.
Photo Credit:@_stephanieacar
Uptown Kitchen:
Uptown Kitchen features breakfast all day along with a tasty lunch menu. They have southern style comfort food that will not disappoint. They have a mimosa bucket and bloody marys-perfect for brunch.
Photo Credit:@mainandsixbrewing
Local Breweries:
If you love beer, Springfield has a selection of breweries. There are 3 of them located within 3 blocks. Check out Main & Six, Hyperion,and Strings Sports Brewery!
Love craft beer? Check out our Brewery Guide that has over 20 local breweries in JAX
Photo Credit:@thedistrictspr
The District Wine Bar:
The District Wine Bar is new to Jacksonville in the historic Springfield area. The bar replaced the Walnut Inn, bringing a new life to the building. They also have small bites to enjoy with your drinks!
Photo Credit:@springfield_jax
Walk Silver Street:
If you like going for walks and seeing tree canopies, check out Silver Street. It is a perfect place to get your steps in while exploring the city.
Photo Credit:@igersjax
Springfield Disc Golf Course in Klutho Park:
Looking for a new,fun, and inexpensive sport? Grab a few friends and visit Springfield Disc Golf Course. All experience levels are welcome to try it out.
Photo Credit:@wafaamikescafe
Wafaa N Mike Cafe:
Looking for a tasty Mediterranean restaurant? Wafaa N Mike cafe offers gluten free and vegan options for those with diet restrictions. Their food is authentic and will fill you up.
Photo Credit:@1748bakehouse
1748 Bake House:
1748 Bake House makes their pies and baked goods with love. They source their ingredients from northeast Florida farms,growers,breweries,producers, and roasteries. They also have a pie of the month club, allowing you to find your favorite!
Photo Credit:@socialgroundscoffee
Social Grounds Coffee:
Looking for a new coffee shop to try out? Try out Social Grounds Coffee and see all the delicious drinks and food they have to offer. They also sell bags of coffee so you can enjoy it whenever you want.
Photo Credit:@crispysspringfield
Crispy’s:
Crispy’s is a restaurant with history going back to 1914. They pride themselves in their motto that “Everything is Better at Crispy’s.” They have appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pizza and more!
Photo Credit:@springfield_jax
Fred Cotten's Landmark BBQ:
You've got to try Fred Cotten's Landmark BBQ for some delicious ribs, chicken, pork, beef, and sausage. They also have seafood plates. They also have sides you’ll be sure to enjoy.
Photo Credit:@natepwatson
Block Skate Supply:
If you like skateboarding and community then you would love Block Skate Supply. They offer quality skate hardgoods,footwear, and apparel. You can even skate on property.
