Southbank Riverwalk - St. Johns River in downtown

The Jacksonville Riverwalk (also known as the Jacksonville Riverwalks) is a scenic, multi-use waterfront trail system along the St. Johns River in downtown Jacksonville, Florida. The St. Johns River—the longest river in Florida at 310 miles—flows northward through the heart of the city before reaching the Atlantic Ocean, making the Riverwalk a centerpiece for recreation, views of the skyline, boats, dolphins, manatees, and sunsets. It consists of two connected linear parks: the North bank Riverwalk (roughly 2 miles) and the Southbank Riverwalk (about 1.2–1.25 miles), for a combined total of nearly 3 miles of paved pathways. These blend urban vitality with nature, public art, benches, landscaping, and open spaces. The paths are popular for walking, jogging, biking, picnicking, and events, and are open 24/7 at no cost. The North bank and Southbank are linked by pedestrian-friendly routes on the Main Street Bridge and Acosta Bridge. Southbank Riverwalk - This 1.25-mile concrete boardwalk (often the most visited section) runs along the southern shore from Friendship Fountain (an iconic 1965 landmark that can shoot water up to 100 feet high) eastward past hotels, restaurants, and the marina toward Prudential Drive and the Chart House area. It features colorful pavers, LED lighting for nighttime appeal, murals (including the striking “Mirrored River” artwork under the Main Street Bridge), a water taxi dock (with kayak launch access), and spots for watching river traffic and the downtown skyline. Public art, historical lighting, fountains, and benches throughout. The Riverwalk is also a hub for events like Sip & Stroll (live music, food vendors, and picnics every third Thursday on the Southbank), the Riverside Arts Market (Saturdays under the Fuller Warren Bridge), and St. Johns River Taxi cruises. A unique open-container program (with branded to-go cups from participating restaurants) adds to the relaxed vibe on designated walkway sections during set hours. In short, the Jacksonville Riverwalk offers a picturesque, accessible escape right in the city center—perfect for a leisurely stroll, photography, wildlife spotting, or simply soaking in the riverfront energy of downtown Jacksonville. It’s easily reachable via bridges, water taxi, or nearby parking (including free spots under some bridges). For the latest updates on events or expansions, check official city or downtown Jacksonville resources.