Jacksonville is thriving, and there’s a reason. Yes, Camp Lejeune belongs to it, but it does not account for all the development. The truth is, more families are moving to the location– and, more notably, deciding to remain. Why? For a growing variety of location long-termers, it’s one thing: lifestyle. The location has outdoor adventures; it has amazing shopping options; and it has a food and arts scene that gains from a military audience with broad cultural expectations. In other words, no matter what your family enjoys, Jacksonville’s a fantastic place for it. Here are a few of our preferred things for households to do in this amazing, growing town.
1. Escape from Cracked it! Escape Games

The escape game phenomenon is sweeping the nation, and Jacksonville is no different. Broken It! locks small groups of individuals into themed rooms, and provides a series of puzzles and riddles to fix in order to break themselves out. Perfect for group getaways and families (especially with older kids) who are planning to put a little enjoyment into household night.
2. Borrow a Book from the Free Library Box at Richard Ray All-American Park

The park itself is worth visiting, with winding, dog-friendly nature trails, a magnificent play ground, and the type of surroundings that might simply remind you why you relocated to North Carolina in the very first place. But to actually seem like a regional, swing by the free library box, where you can leave or get a free book to read. Simply make certain to pay it forward! That’s the Jacksonville way.
3. Spend the Day at Lynwood Park Zoo

Compared to big city zoo rates, admission to the 10-acre Lynwood Park Zoo is a take at $10 for adults and $8 for your kids (always examine the zoo’s website for existing opening hours and rates). The 80 animal exhibits make it not just the only animal display in the Camp Lejeune location, but makes it the very best one too! Simply a direct: The park closes at 5 p.m., so don’t put off your visit too late in the day.
Explore the Lynnwood Park Zoo With over 80 animal displays that showcase a selection of mammals, reptiles, birds, and more, the Lynnwood Park Zoo is a prime tourist attraction in Jacksonville for locals and travelers. Visitors can connect with the animals, including goats and alligators. Helpful staff can assist guests through the grounds also.
4. Opt for a Little Shopping at the Jacksonville Shopping center

The location has more than its share of shopping stores, and lots of them are worth checking out. But the Jacksonville Shopping center is still the location’s retail mecca. Every self-respecting shopaholic this side of Raleigh knows its store lineup by heart.
Store at the Jacksonville Shopping mall Lots of folks make the journey to Jacksonville Shopping mall to improve their closet and find some hidden gems. Products that can found in the shopping center include cowboy boots, home furnishings and designer purses. With such a variety, every type of buyer will discover something worth bringing home.
5. Break Things at the Smash Shack

This regional gem is among the most special experiences your household might ever have. For a remarkably low expense (as little as $10 for a preselected box of 15 smashable goodies) you can take part in some regulated damage, breaking plates, glasses and bottles. It’s not just for enjoyable, either (although it definitely is that). Lots of discover that the experience is a fantastic way to relieve stress. Talk about healing.
6. Do Anything Outdoors

This is North Carolina at its finest, after all. Take the kids somewhere the sun’s shining and let them get some Tar Heel dirt in between their toes. There may not be a more fitting method to honor North Carolina’s status as one of the finest states in the South. Our suggestions? A hike in the Croatan National Forest, or a stroll down any of the location’s beaches.
Whether you have actually been together for many years or are simply in the beginning phases of your relationship, discovering fun activities you both take pleasure in can bring you and your honey better together. Challenge each other to a round of swimming pool, or strike the beach and find out the best ways to browse. Jacksonville’s place near the coast of North Carolina affords lots of choices for fun couple things to do.
7. Friendly Competitors

Fewer things bring 2 individuals together more than a little friendly competition. Difficulty your sweetie to a round of swimming pool at one of the regional pool halls. Or, head out to the field at either Sportsman’s Lodge or Southwest Paintball and shower each other with paintballs. If you’re trying to find a more easygoing activity, Jacksonville has a lot of golf courses to choose from.
Hit the links at Swingin’ Things. The center uses more than just a 9-hole golf course, with a mini golf course and batting cages also. Bear Path Golf Club will provide you a country club feel at public-course prices with an 18-hole, par 72 professionally-designed champion golf course.
8. Be a Traveler

Take a look at the area for the Museum of the Marine, Groundbreaking is set up for late 2012. The museum will be dedicated to the contributions made by the U.S. Marine Corps. Camp Lejeune, among the biggest Marine bases worldwide, lies in Jacksonville. If you are checking out Jacksonville as part of a group tour, you can organize a trip of Camp Lejeune.
On-site is the Beirut Memorial devoted to the 241 Militaries, sailors and soldiers eliminated in the 1983 attack in Lebanon. Along the African-American Heritage Trail, you can discover USOs, go to a number of African-American churches and discover the role African-American Marines played in The second world war.
9. Dance to the Music

Learn the main state dance, the Shag, by taking part in a totally free dance lesson. The location shag club teaches the dance on Wednesday nights at Margarita’s (no site, 211 N. New River Drive, Surf City, 910-328-3066). You’ll be crossing the flooring in no time. Learn the tango, rumba, cha and more at the USO through Ballroom Dancing NC. Different dances are taught on different nights.
10. The Beach

Own about 15 miles east of Jacksonville to reach Topsail Island and its three beaches. Play volley ball at the park in North Topsail Beach, or register for a browsing or stand paddle board lesson. WB Surf Camp uses private lessons for 2 in Browse City, which is the beach in the middle of the island. If you currently understand how to hang ten, you can just lease a board at one of the local surf stores and hit the waves by yourself. Head to Topsail Beach on the southern end of the island and attempt your hand at snagging a fish or 2. The Jolly Roger Pier lets locals in addition to visitors throw away a line. The pier also keeps an updated location fishing report.
11. View a Race at Coastal Plains Raceway Park

Enjoy a Race at Coastal Plains Raceway Park Resident and local star motorists compete at this NASCAR-sanctioned tri-oval race course throughout most of the year. Automobile racing enthusiasts and those looking for a thrilling program will also love seeing vehicles zip along the NHRA-sanctioned (National Racer Association) asphalt dragway.
12. Consume at Duck’s Grille and Bar

Eat at Duck’s Grille and Bar Found on Gum Branch Road, Duck’s Grille and Bar is a popular regional joint that boasts classic pub food, a good wine and beer menu, and live music. Throughout any day of the week, this facility is a fantastic option for lunch, supper, or late night beverages. It’s likewise the area to capture a sports game in the area.
13. Go to Topsail Island

Go to Topsail Island The beaches at Topsail Island are highly concerned by travelers. Those making the journey to Jacksonville are encouraged to take a day and invest it at the beach. The island is only a half hour drive from the city of Jacksonville. The white sandy beaches are great for sunbathing and the abundance of fish in the water makes fishing a blast. The blue ocean waters are likewise excellent for a swim. Be sure to bring suntan lotion, fishing equipment, swim trunks, beach towels, and other needed supplies; these products are also easily offered on eBay.
14. See the Pelletier Home

A National Historic Landmark, the Pelletier House includes stunning Greek Revival architecture. Its modesty and pleasant place make visiting it a terrific afternoon retreat. The estate is found by the New River atop Wantland Spring. On special days, visitors can see the within.
15. Have a good time at the Sea Gull Leisure Center

Have a good time at the Sea Gull Recreation Center A whole day can be invested at the Sea Gull Leisure Center. Play miniature golf. See how far the motorist can take the ball at the golf variety. And aim to strike a 90-miler per hour fastball at the batting cages. The premises also have a picnic area. Equipment can be rented, or visitors can bring their own; note that suppliers on eBay sell the devices had to have a good time at this entertainment complex, consisting of baseball bats, hats, and protective gear.
16. Discover Gems at 30 Acres and a Mule

Find Gems at 30 Acres and a Mule Panning for gems is exactly what draws people to 30 Acres and a Mule. The farm is an interesting and useful destination that suits any treasure candidate. The residential or commercial property likewise has a corn labyrinth, a picnic location, and farm animals. Hayrides are also provided when the weather permits.
17. Play a Round at Rock Creek Golf and Nation Club

Play a Round at Rock Creek Golf and Nation Club Rock Creek Golf and Country Club is an 18-hole championship golf course with undulating greens, tree-lined fairways, various water hazards, sand traps, and more. Reserve a tee time in advance and make certain to bring additional golf balls.
18. Go to the United Service Company (USO) of North Carolina

That this USO is the country’s oldest continuously operating one is reason enough to go. There’s also a nice collection of historic military materials. In addition, Camp Lejeune, a Marine base camp where the Beirut Memorial lies, is worth a check out.