Fun, Sun, and History: 2 Days in Jacksonville NC with Kids
My first solo trip to Jacksonville, NC was so amazing that I knew that I needed my family to experience all that the city had to offer. Just a week later, we did!
The Visit Jacksonville NC Tourism Board and I partnered together to show you everything a weekend in Jacksonville, NC with kids had to offer and here is what we did.
Through this trip, I have crafted an itinerary for 2 days in Jacksonville, NC with kids that has the best of everything we did, what my kids loved, where we slowed down, and all the details in between.
Use My Interactive Google Map for the Complete Itinerary of Your Weekend in Jacksonville, NC with Kids!
Want to follow this itinerary without bouncing between tabs trying to figure out where everything is? I put every stop from our trip into one interactive Google Map, organized by day so you can easily see what’s nearby and plan your route.
Day 1: Beach Time and Indoor Adventures
Start Your Morning With Breakfast at Chicano’s Street Kitchen
My husband and youngest absolutely love all things Mexican, so when we spotted Chicano’s Street Kitchen on the International Food Trail in Jacksonville, we had to stop.
The bright and lively interior lit up our daughter’s heart with her posing for a picture by every decoration imaginable.
But once she saw the menu, she stopped in her tracks.
Traditional Mexican flavors and some unique twists had her opting for the kid-friendly traditional pancake breakfast while my husband and I ventured for the traditional flavors of huevos rancheros and huevos con nopales.
Breakfast isn’t complete without Chicano’s Café de Olla — a traditional Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo sugar that’s perfectly spiced and sweet.
We started our morning here because I wanted us to have a real breakfast before heading to the beach. With kids, I would rather spend a little extra time eating first than hear “I’m hungry!” five minutes after arriving at the beach.
Chicano’s Street Kitchen Information + Accessibility
Address: 720 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Parking: Free public parking at the public lot at Tallman St & Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Hours: Open daily 8:00am-4:00pm
Cost: $-$$
Accessibility:
- Step free entrance
- Plenty of room to move about the restaurant in mobility devices
- Gluten free options available
- Can get loud depending on how busy the restaurant is, arrive early to avoid crowds
Pacing: Low energy
Spend the Late Morning at Bear Island
After our filling breakfast, we drove the short 45 minute ride to Hammocks Beach State Park to catch the ferry to Bear Island for a beach day.
We’d barely walked into the visitor center before our daughter found the nature play area and teepee, and I had to pry her away because our ferry was leaving in 10 minutes. She did get time there after the beach though.
I bought our ferry tickets and booked it down the accessible ramp to catch the ferry. The 20-minute ride was breezy and calm. We were so glad we snatched a few of the limited shady seats because the weather was especially hot that day.
We arrived at the dock to Bear Island which has a ramp for anyone who needs it. I was using my prosthetic that day, not my wheelchair, but seeing that ramp still made me feel seen.
From the dock, it’s a half-mile trek to the beach, and in that heat it would have completely wiped me out. Thankfully, volunteers drive a golf cart back and forth for elderly visitors, pregnant folks, and anyone with access needs.
I gave my family the queen’s wave as I breezed by, right up until I realized I’d be sitting at the other end waiting on them to push me in the free beach wheelchair Bear Island provided.
The beach access point has a ramp down the dune into the beach itself. It’s perfect for those with access needs whether you’re using a beach wheelchair or not.
Just know the beach wheelchair does NOT like sharp turns, and getting it down that ramp is a whole task.
If accessibility matters for your family, pick your beach spot before the kids start asking to get in the water.
Trust me, it’s a lot harder to figure out your setup once everyone’s excited and ready to play.
Once we picked our spot, my youngest got right to work on a sandcastle while her brother dug a monumental hole right next to it. Watching them settle in, I realized we didn’t need to rush this part of the weekend. If your kids love the beach, plan on more time here than you think.
My eldest soaked up the sun while my son body surfed. When it was my turn, my daughter pushed me down to the water’s edge so I could dip my toes in and look for seashells.
This was by far the easiest beach day we have ever had thanks to Bear Island and Hammocks Beach State Park having accessibility ready so it can cater to all of its visitors. Don’t forget to check out the accessible kayak launch to spend even more time on the water!
Hammocks Beach State Park and Bear Island Information + Accessibility
Address: 1572 State Rd 1511, Swansboro, NC 28584
Parking: Free with handicap placard or plate in designated handicap spots
Cost:
- Parking is Free at Hammock’s Beach State Park in the lot, but there is a fee for the ferry to get to Bear Island.
- Ferry Fees
- $10 for adult passengers (13 years old to 61 years old)
- $5 for child passengers (3 years old to 12 years old)
- $5 for all seniors 62 years old and older
- Free for children 2 years old and younger
Accessibility:
- Moderate wave + wind noise
- Bright light — sunglasses are needed
- Mornings are less crowded
- No natural shade
- Bring hydration
Prosthetic Tips:
- Cover pin/lock systems with water-resistant tape or cloth cover
- Rinse after used in saltwater and turn upside down to dry
- Bring a dedicated towel
Pacing: Moderate energy
Refuel with Lunch at Preston’s Corner Bar and Grill
After a morning in the sun, the last thing I wanted to do was negotiate with hungry children while trying to figure out where everyone would eat. Preston’s Corner Bar and Grill gave us an easy transition from beach time to lunch.
The restaurant offers indoor seating with a ramp up to the entrance. The food options were endless with seafood being the star. Our favorites? Shrimp gumbo and coconut fried shrimp!
Preston’s Bar and Grill Information + Accessibility
Address: 106 Front St, Swansboro, NC 28584
Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 10:00AM – 10:00PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 8:00AM – 10:00PM
Cost: $$
Parking:
- Standard and cccessible parking spaces are available onsite.
Accessibility:
- There is a ramp to get to the entrance from the ground level
- Lots of room and open seating available
- Inside: enclosed space with music and other ambient noises
Pacing: Low energy
Let Your Kids Burn Off Energy at Zing Zumm Children’s Museum
By the time we got to Zing Zumm Children’s Museum, I was ready for an indoor activity and rest while my daughter was ready to keep playing.
Our daughter loved pretending to heal sick animals at the veterinary office after injury for most of our time there.
A good portion also involved planting and harvesting produce at the play farm while the sneaky fox (me) would go behind her and play tricks.
Last, but not least, was the STEM area which we should have allotted way more time for.
Between pretending to be a pirate aboard a ship, building complex architecture, and predicting the weather, we were never in one spot for more than five minutes.
For kids (or adults) who get overstimulated, there is even a sensory room with low light, bean bags, and fidget toys to help regulate before playing again.
We literally had to bribe our child with ice cream to leave if that’s any indication of how amazing it is.
Zing Zumm Children’s Museum Information + Accessibility
Address: 625 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Hours:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 9:00AM – 5:00PM
- Sunday: 12:00PM – 5:00PM
Cost:
- $8+tax for adults and children 1 year and over
- Visitors with a SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card may show it at the admissions window for $4.00+tax admission rate for up to 4 people.
Parking: Free on-site accessible parking
Accessibility:
- One-level building
- Sensory/calming room
- Baby gate entrance can be difficult with mobility devices. Please ask staff for assistance.
- Noise varies by time of day
- Sensory room = low light + fidgets
- High visual variety
- Strong AC
- Resting areas available
- Restrooms on-site
Pacing: Moderate energy
Pizza at Lazzara’s Pizza and Subs
My family and I are pizza snobs. After living near Tampa, Florida all our lives, the diverse food scene set us up for failure anywhere else. Cue Eddie and Sam’s Pizza in downtown Tampa who imports their water from New York in order to get the most authentic New York style pizza you can get outside of the state.
But Lazzara’s won our hearts and had us eating our words with the previous claim that no North Carolina pizza joints could ever compare to our favorite spot. We bought a white pizza, a slice of cheese for the little one, and a calzone. To say that our pizza lasted the night would be lying because it was that good!
Lazzara’s Pizza and Subs Information + Accessibility
Address: 600 N Marine Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Parking: Parking available for free in restaurant parking lot
Cost: $-$$
Accessibility:
- Step-free entrance
- Accessible restrooms
- Good table spacing
- Fast service
- Moderate noise
- Mild food smells typical of a restaurant
Pacing: Low energy
Stay at Home2Suites
Our family had never experienced staying in a Home2Suites and was pleasantly surprised at its intuitive design and comfort. We had booked the accessible hotel room with two queen beds which was spacious, modern, and inviting! The staff there had surprised our little one with snacks, candies, stickers, and even a plush from her favorite movie!
The room had plenty of room to move around in a wheelchair and a giant roll-in bathroom. Make sure to ask for a shower chair to be placed in your room prior to check in in order to ensure that the room is ready for when you arrive, especially if you just want to hop in the shower at the end of the day.
Equipped with a gym, indoor pool, and complimentary breakfasts, Home2Suites was a hit for our family checking all the boxes for each of us!
Book your room at Home2Suites today!
Home2Suites Information + Accessibility
Address: 139 Circuit Ln, Jacksonville, NC 28546
Parking: Free for guests. Handicap accessible parking onsite.
Cost: Call for pricing
Accessibility:
- Spacious rooms perfect for mobility aids or families who need extra room.
- Beds at a good height, grab bars placed correctly.
- Layout is genuinely accessible, not just “labeled accessible.”
- Pool lift available (ask ahead of pool time for battery to be placed in the lift as well as removing the cover)
- Outside noise from the busy street and neighboring businesses
- Blockout curtains in each guest room
Pacing: Low energy
Day 2: History + Accessible Adventures
Breakfast at Milk Road
After a pretty active first day, I didn’t want to start our morning by immediately rushing everyone out the door. Milk Road gave us somewhere to actually wake up, eat, and let our youngest play while we figured out the rest of the day.
Milk Road is one of those small, locally-run coffee shops where you feel like part of the family the moment you step in the doors.
The Liège Waffle which is like a Belgian waffle, only that it has the texture of a croissant and a belgian waffle. The waffle was so good that I made multiple trips for it, which is saying something because I’m not driving an hour for just any waffle.
When my family and I walked in, we immediately felt the cozy and inviting atmosphere with a section in the back where you can support local artisans by buying their creations, a kids’ corner complete with a mini kitchen, and several comfy couches, chairs, and tables.
I could easily spend a long morning working on my computer here with my coffee and liege waffle in hand.
Our youngest loved the play area where she whipped up a smorgasbord of delights in the fake kitchen with us leaving with full hearts and bellies.
Milk Road Information + Accessibility
Address: 742 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Hours: 7:00AM – 4:00PM Daily
Cost: $–$$
Parking: Free public parking at the public lot at Tallman St & Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Accessibility:
- Step-free entrance
- Wide layout for mobility aids + strollers
- Tables spaced comfortably
Sensory Notes:
- Mild noise
- Gentle smells
- Predictable morning crowd
- A/C throughout
- Easy bathroom access
- Plenty of seating
Pacing: Low energy
Learn Jacksonville’s History at the Carolina Museum of the Marine
Since Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville is the largest Marine base on the East Coast of the United States, a trip wouldn’t be complete without learning more about the history of the marines at the Carolina Museum of the Marine and Lejeune Memorial Gardens.
I wasn’t sure how much my kids would care about a museum focused on Marine history. I was very wrong.
The life-size tank immediately caught their attention, and the interactive exhibits gave them something to actually do instead of just looking at displays. My Army veteran husband had no problem trying on the Marine gear, while our youngest and I were struggling to figure it out.
The Carolina Museum of the Marine isn’t just “go learn some history.” The exhibits gave my kids something tangible to interact with, which made the history feel much more accessible to them.
Afterward, we walked through Lejeune Memorial Gardens and stopped at the Tribute Flame. This was naturally a quieter part of the day, which I appreciated after the stimulation inside the museum.
Carolina Museum of the Marine + Lejeune Memorial Gardens
Information + Accessibility
Address: 109 Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Parking: Free parking, handicap parking available
Hours: Open 24 hours, year round
Accessibility:
- Paved parking lot with handicap accessible parking spots.
- Wide pathways with ramps.
- 3 wheelchairs available for rent
Have a Big, Messy Lunch at Overruled Smash Kitchen
After a morning of history, we needed lunch and these burgers hit the spot.
I’ve only had Overruled as takeout, so I’m not going to pretend I’ve personally tested the full dine-in experience. But the food itself absolutely ruined burgers for us in the best way.
The Brooklyn Rodeo, complete with BBQ sauce, bacon, and fried onions, was the kind of burger where you know you’re going to need extra napkins before you even start. Even then, I ended up with it all over me. Worth it.
This is an easy place to make lunch the “big meal” of the day because you’ll have a chance to burn some of it off afterward.
Overruled Smash Kitchen Information + Accessibility
Address: 622 Court St #100, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Hours:
- Monday (Closed)
- Tuesday to Thursday 11:00am-9:00pm
- Friday to Saturday 11:00am-10:00pm
- Sunday 11:00am-8:000pm
Cost: $-$$
Parking: Free parking available
Let the Kids Run at Northeast Creek Park
After spending the morning learning about some pretty serious moments in history, my kids had an entirely different problem: they needed to get all of their energy out before we drove home.
Northeast Creek Park was exactly what we needed. Our daughter immediately gravitated toward the trees, leaves, and bugs, because apparently the playground was optional when there was nature to investigate.
I personally appreciated that the playground itself had ramps and rubber flooring, which meant I could maneuver around the play area in my wheelchair and still have the option of playing with her had she decided to use it.
Don’t underestimate the value of letting kids physically decompress after a museum. For our family, this wasn’t “just a playground stop”. It was what made the transition from a serious morning to dinner work.
Northeast Creek Park also has a splash pad for summer days!
Northeast Creek Park Information + Accessibility
Address: 910 Corbin St, Jacksonville, NC 28546
Hours: Daily from 7:00am-9:00pm
Cost: Free
Parking: Free parking with handicap accessible spaces available
Accessibility:
- Paved, smooth walkways
- Gentle water + nature sounds
- Minimal visual overwhelm
- Limited shade
- Benches available
- Ramps onto playground equipment
Pacing: Moderate energy
Finish the Day With Dinner at Marrakesh
I wasn’t entirely sure how our family was going to handle Marrakesh. My kids tend to prefer pretty predictable food, while my husband is very much a meat-and-potatoes guy. But I wanted to try something different.
Naturally, our youngest ordered cheese pizza.
The rest of us went for the grape leaves, baba ghanoush, lamb chops, chicken shawarma, and moussaka and somehow we still had leftovers for midnight snacking (which somehow got better with time).
Don’t assume “adventurous restaurant” means every member of your family needs to eat adventurously. Sometimes giving the picky kid a safe option means everyone else gets to enjoy trying something new.
Marrakesh Information + Accessibility
Address: 463 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546
Parking: Free parking in restaurant lot with handicap accessible parking spots available
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday 11:00am-9:00pm
- Friday and Saturday 10:30am-10:00pm
- Sunday 11:00am-3:30pm
Accessibility:
- Step free entrance
- Sensory friendly lighting
- Accessible restrooms
Family Friendly Events in Jacksonville, NC
Jacksonville hosts a variety of events for all ages that occur throughout the year. I have been both to the Rock the Block and Onslow Veterans Pow Wow which were fun, memorable, and family-friendly.
You can see what events are happening when you visit the Jacksonville Signature Events Page or the community calendar that includes both bigger and smaller events as well.
Onslow Veterans Pow Wow (Seasonal)
The family-friendly Onslow Veterans Pow Wow is a culturally rich experience dedicated to celebrating local Native American tribes and veterans. It has everything from authentic Native American homemade art for sale, legends and story time with kids, and the cultural dances and dedications important to the ceremony.
Our family sat in a teepee with other families learning about the ancient legends of the Cree and playing the traditional instruments. Outside, we walked from tent to tent, finding artisanal treasure and supporting local communities.
When it came time for the ceremony, we planted ourselves with folding chairs and shade in the circle while dining on fry bread filled with taco adornments. The opening was surreal with members of the local tribes dancing the traditional dances and wearing bright regalia.
Celebrating veterans as well as native members in the community is central to the Onslow Veterans Pow Wow. At one point, they called all veterans, their families, and children to partake in the circle dance to celebrate. I pulled my daughter and her friend into the circle laughing and dancing, making memories while cherishing the culture that created it.
Onslow Veterans Pow Wow Information + Accessibility
When: First weekend in November
Address: 146 Broadhurst Road, Jacksonville, North Carolina 28540
Accessibility:
- Grass + dirt terrain
- Accessible portable restrooms
- Can be loud due to crowds and happenings
- Bring earplugs or noise-canceling headphones if it is too much
- Little shade
Things to Bring:
- Refillable water bottle
- Cash for vendors
- Pop up tent or shade
- Portable battery-powered fan
- Weather appropriate clothing
Pacing: Moderate to high energy
Rock the Block
Jacksonville, NC hosts Rock the Block each September which is part block party and concert combined. They bring out local artists doing original and cover songs you know and love, delicious food trucks, local vendors, and a car show.
Since Rock the Block fell on an unseasonably hot September Friday this year, my family and I opted to arrive later in the evening (about 2 hours after it started) to avoid the heat. I would 100% recommend bringing your mobility device and a fan so that you can enjoy all that it has to offer.
My husband’s favorite part, of course, was the car show that had everything ranging from suped up modern cars to the classics. My son drifted toward the food and snacks like any teenage boy would, which left my daughter and I to dance our hearts out in the accessible silent disco.
Rock the Block Information + Accessibility
When: September (check the city calendar for specifics)
Address: Parking available in public lots around downtown Jacksonville, handicap parking available at city hall
Cost: Free to attend, bring cash for vendors
Accessibility:
- Lots of walking
- Bring water, portable fan, and hydration
- Very loud (consider bringing ear defenders if noise sensitive)
What I’d Do Differently
If I did this Jacksonville weekend again, I’d give ourselves a little more time at the beach and be more intentional about when we scheduled our indoor activities.
My daughter had plenty of energy for Zing Zumm, but I underestimated how hard it would be to pull her away once she was immersed in pretend play.
So if I were planning this trip again, I’d build in a little more flexibility instead of making every part of the day run on a strict schedule.
Quiet Places in Jacksonville for Sensory Breaks
If you’re neurodivergent like me, finding a quiet place to ground yourself and soothe overstimulation is a must, especially in big cities.
There are plenty of outdoor spots like Lejeune Memorial Gardens, Sturgeon City Park, and Northeast Creek Park are perfect for time in nature and sensory resets. If the weather isn’t comfortable, there is the Museum of the Marine and the Jacksonville Main Library too.
Before You Go: Helpful Local Resources
Since Jacksonville is widespread with beaches and hidden gems only a short drive away, renting a car is the best option to get around.
During one of my visits there, I was having a flare with my FND and I needed a wheelchair to rent. Carolina Medical Supply was perfect since they rent out wheelchairs, shower chairs, and more.
Planning is essential whenever planning any kind of trip, so make sure to bring the essentials like a sensory kit, refillable water bottle, mobility equipment, and medication. Below you can also find some resources to help you on your journey too!
- Confirm seasonal hours for splash pad and accessible kayak launch.
- Hydration + shade planning is essential in warmer months.
- Urgent Care: JCMC Jacksonville Urgent Care
- Pharmacies: CVS, Walgreens, Johnson Drug Co, Realo Drugs
- Medical supplies: Carolina Medical Supply, Walmart, CVS
- Mobility rentals: Carolina Medical Supply
- Groceries/snacks: Publix, Food Lion, Walmart
Plan Your Trip to Jacksonville NC
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Spending 2 days in Jacksonville, NC with family on a weekend trip is the perfect way to dip your toes in how much the city has to offer. Whether you are attending a local event, browsing the artisanal downtown shops, or soaking up the sun at a nearby beach, there is something for everyone.
Make time for the Mediterranean flavors of Marrakesh, the endless ocean views, and let yourself get lost in history at Lejeune Memorial Gardens.
Get started planning your family friendly Jacksonville, NC itinerary today by booking your trip! Planning on a solo trip to Jacksonville? Check out my 2 day itinerary for Jacksonville for Solo Travelers!
