Lewis HiceI’m always all about the rush, and that’s why I’m obsessed with my car. When I’m not cruising, though, you’d find me at theme parks in Jacksonville with my friends and family after leaving my office space for the week.
I take my nieces and nephews to these centers to keep them entertained, and I know you’re looking for excitement for your weekends, too. Here are my top picks that would keep your heart pumping for more.
1. Adventure Landing & Shipwreck Island Water Park
Media credit: Adventure Landing
Website: https://jacksonville-beach.adventurelanding.com/
Address: 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach
Contact Details: +19042464386
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Thurs: 3:00pm – 8:00pm
- Fri: 12:00pm – 10:00pm
- Sat: 11:00am – 10:00pm
- Sun: 11:00am – 8:00pm
Admission Costs:
- Adult waterpark admission (Sat, Sun, Holidays): $47.99
- Everyone Pays Kids Price promo: $37.99
- Three-hour unlimited pass (Sat–Sun only): $39.99
I’m not gonna lie: I was super stoked to get into Adventure Landing because I love waterparks. Good thing they have thrilling slides like The Rage, Hydro Half-Pipe, Eye of the Storm, and Undertow.
If you’re bringing your kids, they also have kid-friendly attractions like the Splash Cove, and the Cannon Ball Slide, so don’t worry about them not being able to maximize your visit. Just make sure to bring a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vest for your little ones.
It’s convenient that you can also rent lockers for a minimum rate of $10 depending on the locker size. I used this for my extra clothes for going home, as well as other personal items.
Their admission rates can get a bit pricey, though, if you’re bringing a big family. Adult admissions start at $47.99, so you’d shell out almost $200 if there are four of you in a group. That’s excluding food and drinks, and lockers, if you’d need any.
Pro tips:
- Check out their height restrictions on rides, so you could plan your itinerary ahead of time. This could save you from lining up for restricted slides.
- Plan your budget for food and drinks early, so you and your family wouldn’t be put on-the-spot with refreshment expenses.
2. Flight Adventure Park
Media credit: ladytk71
Website: https://flightadventurepark.com/jacksonville/
Address: 7022 A C Skinner Pkwy #200, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19045514035
Operating Hours:
- Sun–Thurs: 11:00am – 8:00pm
- Fri: 11:00am – 9:00pm
- Sat: 10:00am – 9:00pm
Admission Costs:
- Open Jump: Starts at $23 (may vary daily)
- Kids Flight: $15
- Flight Night (Fri–Sat: 7:00pm – 9:00pm): Starts at $22
I didn’t think I’d enjoy jumping around for hours as much as I did at Flight Adventure Park. They have this huge wall-to-wall trampoline zone that’s around 17,000 square feet.
My nieces and nephews liked the specialized area for smaller kids called the Junior Pilots Zone, while the older kids had fun at the arcade and foam pit areas. It was an interesting mix of activities that the whole family could enjoy.
With lockers available on-site, you can even enjoy the space worry-free.
Pro tips:
- Try to book in advance, especially if you’re planning on going during peak hours, so you won’t be disappointed by the line.
- If you’ve grown fond of the place, make sure to inquire about their party packages for your family’s next gathering!
- Outside food isn’t allowed, and they only serve drinks inside, so plan accordingly.
3. Surge Adventure Park
Media credit: Surge Fun
Website: https://surgefun.com/locations/jacksonville/
Address: 9292 Arlington Expy, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19043127156
Operating Hours:
- Mon: closed
- Tues–Thurs: 11:00am – 8:00pm
- Fri: 11:00am – 10:00pm
- Sat: 9:00am – 10:00pm
- Sun: 12:00pm – 8:00pm
Admission Costs:
- General admission: Starts at $16.99
- Toddler Time: $7.99 for toddler and $5.99 for accompanying adult
What caught my attention at Surge Adventure Park was the wide variety of fun features that could entertain and challenge the whole family. They have facilities like trampolines, dodgeball, a ninja course, and even some climbing features.
Climbing was most interesting, especially if kids get into it. Before you know it, you’d be witnessing the making of the next Olympian like Janja Garnbret!
I think it’s very thoughtful of them to also make the space wheelchair accessible. It’s always a welcome surprise encountering facilities that are inclusive.
While there’s no food served inside, you can bring your own — but only if you’re booked for a birthday party. Make sure to eat just enough prior to the activities to avoid an upset stomach.
If you’re wondering if you could drop off your kid for the day, it’s best to note that they don’t allow drop-offs of minors because they require adult supervision at all times.
Pro tips:
- Sign their waiver online before going to the park to avoid waiting time.
- Bring a change of clothes, especially if the weather’s not cooperative.
4. Bravos Entertainment Center
Media credit: bravoz_jax
Website: https://bravoz.com/
Address: 14985 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville
Contact details: +19043000070
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Tues: closed
- Wed–Thurs: 3:00pm – 8:00pm
- Fri: 3:00pm – 9:00pm
- Sat: 10:00am – 9:00pm
- Sun: 11:00am – 8:00pm
Admission Costs:
- Starts at $19.99 for adults
- Starts at $12.99 for kids
I tried this with friends after a tiring week, and we particularly enjoyed the laser tag and ninja course. My friend Jeff brought his daughter Meg, and she enjoyed the Little TykeZ package for younger kids.
With the Little TykeZ package, kids could enjoy Jump and Ninja attractions, and the Toddler Mini Ninja Course — all with your full support, since one parent or guardian can enter for free. It includes jump socks, too, so you wouldn’t have to worry about that.
But of course, one doesn’t just visit Bravos Entertainment Center without trying the trampolines and the ninja course. We competed against each other as if we were major athletes, so it was a fun time!
We were enjoying ourselves so much that we were considering booking them for Meg’s birthday party. Their package includes food and drink options and invitations, and they allow putting up decorations with only some restrictions, so I think it’s a great deal.
After the rush, we grabbed a bite to eat at their Eats Cafe where you can have refreshments after the fun and games.
Pro tip:
Some activities aren’t accessible to younger or smaller children like the ninja warrior and the climbing wall, so be sure to plan your activities ahead to avoid them feeling left out.
5. K1 Speed
Media Credit: annadichev
Website: https://www.k1speed.com/jacksonville-location.html
Address: 6601 Executive Park Ct N, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19044255005
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Thurs: 12:00pm – 10:00pm
- Fri: 12:00pm – 12:00am
- Sat: 10:00am – 12:00am
- Sun: 10:00am – 10:00pm
Admission Costs: Starts at $28.95
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As someone who’s always behind the wheel, I like recommending K1 Speed to anyone who needs a weekend rush. K1’s electric indoor karts are great for adults and older kids alike because it’s the right balance of speed and safety.
If you’re coming in as a walk-in customer, you can opt for the Arrive & Drive package where you don’t need reservations. While this is great for spontaneous fun, it’s on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared for a wait.
I’m sure you’d enjoy racing, so if your family and friends had a good time, you’d want to consider booking the place for a party or even a corporate event. Their packages include food, reserved seating, and even podium ceremonies for added pizzazz.
Check out their recurring promos, too, so you’d get maximum value for money. You wouldn’t want to miss out on those, especially once you’ve become obsessed with this place.
Remember that they always make you sign a waiver. However, I know some parents may worry, but I feel at ease because of the required safety briefing before each session.
Pro tips:
- Closed-toe shoes are best for this activity to ensure safety. Avoid wearing loose clothes to prevent accidents and make sure to wear comfortable clothing to allow for enough movement.
- Bring a balaclava or something to cover your head under the helmet if you’re sensitive to rentals.
