In this article, let’s explore a few ideas on how and where to meet people in Jacksonville, Florida. It’s a great city for connecting with new people and making friends, thanks to the diversity it has in terms of activities. Located in northeast Florida, Jacksonville‘s location along the shores of the Atlantic makes it a haven for those looking to meet new friends.
With amazing sunrises and a plethora of cultural attractions and events, it is a great place to move to in the US. Jacksonville or JAX fondly referred to by locals has earned the description ‘River City by the Sea’. It got its title because of its miles of stunning beaches, and its famous Intracoastal Waterway Canal stretching for more than 40 miles. Its welcoming and friendly locals and thriving cultural and social scene, make it one of the best places to strike up new friendships and join a meetup group of like-minded people.
Let’s Explore A Few Ideas and Places to Meet People In Jacksonville FL, and possibly make some new friends
1. Check out some of the most popular meetup groups in town
Meetup groups are great for meeting new people in Jacksonville. Some of them are generalist, like “20-30-somethings.” Others tend to be more specialized in a field of interest or hobby. It all depends on what you find in your own city. If you find too many, then go with the ones that are more suited to your preferences, otherwise, just go with whatever is closest to your interests.
The common mistake people make is that they get “too picky” with the local events and groups, and end up just stuck. Don’t make that mistake.
Here are a few meetup groups to get you started meeting new folks in Jacksonville:
- https://www.meetup.com/Sidetrackers/
- https://www.meetup.com/Network-After-Work-Jacksonville-Networking-Events/
- https://www.meetup.com/jacksonville-social/
You can find more meetup groups in Jacksonville, here: https://www.meetup.com/cities/us/fl/Jacksonville/
2. Attend Events At The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
Enjoy a cultural tour at one of the top museums in Jacksonville, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. The place is popular with locals and visitors and a great place to make new friends. There are more than 5,000 top-class art exhibits by famous artists and exquisite Early Meissen porcelain pieces. There are four spectacular gardens each striking in its own way, which offer a tranquil and serene getaway from the bustle of the city. The museum holds discussions, events, and a host of public-related events. Drop in to see the cultural treasures, compare notes, and meet some great new people in Jacksonville.
3. Join a sports centre
The great thing about Jacksonville is that it has an eclectic sports scene. These include baseball, football, basketball, swimming, paddle or skimboarding, surfing, etc. Join one of these sports centres and not all only will you get a great physical workout, but also bump into many new people. Sports activities are a great way to bond and strike up a kinship.
4. Meet people in Jacksonville while caring for orphaned and injured birds
Another great way to meet people in Jacksonville, Florida is the Bird Emergency Aid & Kare Sanctuary (BEAKS). It’s a place bird lovers would enjoy visiting. Located on Big Talbot Island the sanctuary rehabilitates and takes care of orphaned and injured birds of various species. If you have a passion for birds it is the perfect place to head to and meet fellow bird lovers, as part of their educational programs. A charitable organisation it educates the public about conservation of wildlife specifically endangered bird species.
5. Get involved in community programs
A great way to do your bit for society and humanity as a whole is to take the time out to volunteer for any of the numerous community programs. Those programs present a great opportunity if you want to meet people in Jacksonville. Having a compassionate heart is a very attractive quality and there are plenty of opportunities to create friendships with other members of the group. There always are communities looking for volunteers, so step up to the plate and do your bit for society.
6. Drop in at Dog Wood Park with your pet
If you are a pet owner and wondering where to visit on the weekend, Dog Wood Park is just the place. Few pet owners are aware that the city houses one of the largest dog parks in the country. Spread over an impressive 42 acres it offers a range of activities including swimming for pooches. Your pet will love the freedom of the park, where dogs roam unleashed and get to socialize with fellow furry companions.
Some of the facilities include playground equipment, a sandbox, a lake appropriately named ‘Lake Bow Wow’, and hiking trails. There is even a special segregated area for smaller pets in case they feel uncomfortable with the larger more rambunctious breeds. It will make your pet’s day and provide an opportunity to meet and befriend other pet owners visiting the park.
7. Head to the Landing
Visit one of the best destinations in Jacksonville famous for its entertainment, dining, and shopping, The Jacksonville Landing. There are always bushels of people visiting the place. And it’s because of the many activities and events on almost all through the year. Located in Downtown Jacksonville near the picturesque St John’s River, it offers visitors a fabulous shopping mall, plenty of waterfront dining venues, and loads of entertainment. As a result, with so much activity in the area, you will get to meet loads of new people!
8. Visit The Amelia Island
Amelia Island, right by Jacksonville, is a fantastic getaway destination with white sand shores, beautiful waters, and golf courses. This is a paradise for many and whether you want to unwind or socialize, this place is a must-visit. You can only take my word for it, or you can check out the place yourself. There’s no better place to socialize than in paradise. You’ll surely make a friend or two here while being in a beautiful place.
9. Take A Swim At The Atlantic Beach
If you simply want to relax and go to an accessible and simple place, then take a swim at the Atlantic Beach. This area is just what it is — a beach. No hotels, no major joints, just a shoreline of a beautiful ocean. There are a few stores and restaurants along the way but the main essence of this place is to just enjoy the tranquility of the ocean. There are people who visit this place too and as mentioned earlier, it’s always better to socialize in a wonderful-looking place.
Bonus Tip: Boost Your Social Skills
If it’s been a while since you have gone out of your way to meet new people, then you may feel that your socializing skills have degraded. Not to worry! You never really “lose” social skills, you just need a bit of freshening up. The good news is that social skills are learnable.
I’ve spent the last few years learning, refining, and teaching the most effective social skills. The lessons I’ve found can help you meet new people, hold great conversations, get a friendship started, and build a great social life. You can learn more here.
– Paul Sanders