Best Things to Do with Kids in Jacksonville, NC

Jacksonville, North Carolina offers an incredible variety of family-friendly activities that will keep kids of all ages entertained and engaged. From outdoor adventures to educational experiences, our coastal community has something special for every family.

🏞️ Outdoor Adventures

Lejeune Memorial Gardens

Perfect for: All ages | Cost: Free | Location: 109 Montford Landing Road, Jacksonville, NC

A solemn and reflective space honoring military service and sacrifice through several significant monuments. The Beirut Memorial commemorates the 1983 bombing, while the Montford Point Marine Memorial features a wall with approximately 20,000 stars representing African-American Marines. The gardens' quiet walkways allow visitors to pay respects while learning about Onslow County's deep military heritage.

Educational Value: Great for teaching kids about military service, sacrifice, and local history.

Lynnwood Park Zoo

Perfect for: Ages 2-12 | Cost: $ | Location: 1071 Wells Road, Jacksonville, NC

This veteran-owned and operated sanctuary spans 10 beautifully landscaped acres, offering visitors a chance to observe and interact with over 80 animal exhibits featuring reptiles, birds, mammals, and more. Children especially enjoy the hands-on opportunities with friendly species like goats and llamas.

Hours: Friday - Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last ticket sells at 4:00 PM)

Hammocks Beach State Park

Perfect for: All ages | Cost: $ (parking fee) | Location: 1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, NC (20 minutes from Jacksonville)

Encompasses a mainland area and three barrier islands, including the pristine four-mile-long Bear Island accessible by seasonal passenger ferry. The park features crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and shelling, primitive camping sites, and well-marked paddle trails ranging from 200 yards to over six miles.

Special Features: Ferry rides to Bear Island, kayak rentals, 204 bird species, and maritime forests.

🎯 Active Fun

Altitude Trampoline Park

Perfect for: Ages 3+ | Cost: $$ | Location: 1030 Henderson Drive, Jacksonville, NC

Indoor adventure for visitors of all ages featuring interconnected trampoline surfaces, trampoline dodgeball, ninja warrior course with varying difficulty levels, and soft foam pit landing zones. The park offers dedicated jump sessions for different age groups, including toddler times for the youngest visitors.

Hours: Mon-Thu: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Fri: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Sat: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Sun: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Bowlarena Lanes

Perfect for: Ages 4+ | Cost: $$ | Location: 433 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC

Features a snack bar, youth league, birthday parties, and a game room. Available lanes may be impacted by league play, so it's good to call ahead during peak times.

Hours: Sun: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Mon-Thu: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Fri-Sat: 11:00 AM - Midnight

🎓 Educational Experiences

Zing Zumm Children's Museum

Perfect for: Ages 10 and under | Cost: $8 plus tax | Location: 625 New Bridge Street, Jacksonville, NC

This non-profit children's museum features different sponsored exhibits aimed at children 10 and under. Admission is valid all day, and the museum has different events, camps, and activities throughout the year. Can be rented for parties.

Hours: Mon: Closed, Tue: 12pm – 5pm, Wed-Sat: 9am – 5pm, Sun: 12pm – 5pm

Onslow County Public Library - Main Branch

Perfect for: All ages | Cost: Free | Location: 58 Doris Avenue East, Jacksonville, NC

The children's section features colorful, age-appropriate furnishings with an extensive collection of picture books, early readers, and juvenile fiction. Regularly scheduled story times, craft sessions, and educational programs designed specifically for young patrons.

Hours: Mon-Thu: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Fri-Sat: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sun: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

🍽️ Family Dining Favorites

Mike's Farm Restaurant

Perfect for: All ages | Atmosphere: Family-style Southern | Location: 1600 Haw Branch Road, Beulaville, NC

Complete family entertainment destination centered around beloved family-style restaurant where southern dishes like crispy fried chicken, country ham biscuits, and famous macaroni and cheese are served in abundant portions. Features a petting zoo, seasonal attractions like pumpkin patches, and holiday events.

Hours: Thu-Sat: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Sun: Special hours during holiday season

Blend Cafe

Perfect for: All ages | Atmosphere: Casual waterfront | Location: 109 Marine Boulevard, Jacksonville, NC

Locally owned waterfront destination with indoor seating and outdoor patio overlooking the water. Kids love the play area and kid-friendly menu options. Serves locally sourced coffee, acai bowls, artisan toasts, smoothies, and Belgian waffles.

Hours: Mon-Fri: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sat-Sun: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

🌟 Special Events & Seasonal Activities

Jacksonville Commons

Throughout the year, Jacksonville Commons hosts family-friendly events including:

• Summer concert series
• Holiday festivals
• Farmers markets
• Outdoor movie nights

Seasonal Highlights

Spring:

• Multiple city and county events
• Easter egg hunts at local parks
• Baseball season begins

Summer:

• Beach activities and water sports
• Outdoor concerts and festivals
• Swimming at local pools

Fall:

• Pumpkin patches nearby
• Fall festivals
• Perfect weather for outdoor adventures

Winter:

• Holiday light displays
• Indoor activities and museums
• Cozy family dining

💡 Planning Your Visit

Weather Considerations

• Best months: April-June and September-November
• Summer: Hot and humid, perfect for beach and water activities
• Winter: Mild temperatures, great for outdoor exploration
• Rainy days: Check out our indoor activities guide

Budget-Friendly Tips

1. Many outdoor attractions are completely free
2. Pack your own snacks and drinks
3. Look for weekday discounts at paid attractions
4. Take advantage of free library programs
5. Enjoy free beach access year-round

🔗 More Family Fun

Looking for more specific ideas? Check out our other guides:

• Free & Budget-Friendly Activities
• Best Parks & Playgrounds
• Rainy Day Activities
• Family-Friendly Dining

Ready to explore more of Eastern North Carolina? Visit PlayventureGuide.com for activities across the entire region!