Looking for things to do with the kids in Jacksonville, Texas? Look no further! The city offers a variety of kid-friendly activities ranging from museums to outdoor parks. The Museum of East Texas is a great place to start, where kids can learn about the area’s history and culture. For a fun outdoor activity, head to Cherokee Trace Drive-In Wildlife Preserve for a safari-style tour of the park where you’re sure to see plenty of animals. Don’t forget to stop by one of the city’s many playgrounds or the Splash Pad at Pelican Bay Aquatic Park for a cooling break on a hot day. Whatever you’re looking for, Jacksonville has something to offer the whole family.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Jacksonville, Texas
1. Visit the Alley Theatre for a performance of “The Lion King”
The Alley Theatre is a professional theatre company in downtown Jacksonville, Texas that produces Broadway-quality shows. The company offers a variety of family-friendly shows throughout the year, including adaptations of popular children’s stories like “The Lion King”. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.
2. Have a picnic lunch at Memory Lake Park
Memory Lake Park is a beautiful park in Jacksonville, Texas that offers picnic tables, grills, a playground, and a walking trail around the lake. This is a perfect activity for a sunny day. Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenery.
3. Visit the Cherokee County Historical Museum
The Cherokee County Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Jacksonville, Texas and the surrounding area. The museum has exhibits on the Caddo Indians, the Civil War, and local history. Admission is free.
4. Go fishing at Lake Jacksonville
Lake Jacksonville is a large lake in Jacksonville, Texas that offers fishing, swimming, and boating. There is a public boat ramp and several fishing docks. Fishing licenses are required for anyone over the age of 16.
5. Attend a sporting event at Jacksonville High School
Jacksonville High School offers a variety of sporting events throughout the year, including football, basketball, and track. Tickets can be purchased at the school or at the door. This is a great way to support the local community and see some talented young athletes in action.
6. Play laser tag at Atomic City
Atomic City is an indoor laser tag arena in Jacksonville, Texas. This is a great activity for kids of all ages. Participants wear special vests that track their shots and score. The game is played in a dark arena with fog and lights.
7. Go bowling at Classic Lanes
Classic Lanes is a popular bowling alley in Jacksonville, Texas. This is a great activity for kids and adults. The alley has several lanes, a snack bar, and a game room. Bowling shoes are available for rent.
8. Visit the animals at the Cherokee County SPCA
The Cherokee County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a nonprofit organization that relies on donations to care for the animals in their shelter. The SPCA offers tours of the facility and occasionally has adopt-a-thons. This is a great way to learn about animal care and maybe even take home a new furry friend.
9. Play miniature golf at Sunshine Golf
Sunshine Golf is an indoor miniature golf course in Jacksonville, Texas. This is a great activity for a rainy day. The course has 18 holes, a water feature, and a cave. Golf clubs and balls are available for rent.
10. See a movie at the Rusk Avenue Movie Theatre
The Rusk Avenue Movie Theatre is a historic movie theater in Jacksonville, Texas. The theater has one screen and offers a variety of movies, from new releases to classics. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.