Friendship Park, next to the St. Johns River, is one of Jacksonville’s most recognizable sites due to the enormous water feature at its center. The Friendship Fountain attracts many visitors to the park, as it is one of the largest and tallest fountains in the world. Stroll around Friendship Park and the Southbank Riverwalk to discover restaurants and the Museum of Science and History.
Admire the majestic fountain in the center of the park. It is capable of spraying an impressive 17,000 gallons (78,000 liters) of water per minute. Gaze up at the water patterns, which can reach a height of 120 feet (37 meters).
See the fountain’s intricate water displays at night when the feature is bathed in multi-colored lights, including dark red, amber and turquoise. The fountain is a popular meeting spot for travelers and locals. Relax near the fountain on seating provided for spectators. Undercover seating is available for protection against the sun and rain. Capture photos of the water feature with the Main Street Bridge in the background.
Visit the Museum of Science and History, which is located in the park. Learn about the human body, see skeletons of fearsome prehistoric beasts and find out about Jacksonville’s local history.
The park is part of the St. Johns River Park, but takes its more popular name from its central water feature. A local architect designed the park and the fountain in the 1960s. At the time, the fountain was the largest and tallest in the world. After several periods of closure during the 2000s, it was completely renovated in 2011.
Find Friendship Park on the south bank of the St. Johns River in the center of Jacksonville. Nearby attractions include EverBank Field Stadium and the downtown campus of Florida State College. Take a water taxi across the river to see the attractions on the north side or come by the Skyway monorail to Kings Avenue Station, a 12-minute walk from the park. There is no fee to enter Friendship Park and the area is open daily year-round.