Activities with Culinary Benefits
- Brentley Stead
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 17 minutes ago
Planning an outing is often focused on the main event or activity, but as any intrepid explorer knows, sustenance is an important aspect of a successful adventure. From outdoor outings and sports games to art and arcades, North Florida offers a wide range of venues and activities with elevated food and beverage programs.
Experience St. Augustine on the water with a Brunch and Bottlenose tour by Florida Water Tours. After nine years of running boat charters, owner Jessica Jadick now offers eco-adventures that combine a scenic boat tour with tasty brunch bites and refreshing beverages. “We source a variety of local treats for brunch, including donuts from Peace, Love and Little Donuts, and beautiful flowers and microgreens from GYO Greens,” says Jadick. The company shops at local markets to keep produce fresh and seasonal. Boating is thirsty work, and Jadick says, “Everyone loves our mimosas!” Choose from classic, cranberry or a rotating juice like peach, mango, strawberry or pineapple as you keep your eyes on the water to observe playful dolphins and learn about local wildlife.
The seventh inning stretch says it best when describing the connection between baseball and food: “buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack, I don’t care if I ever get back!” While those snacks are beloved baseball fare, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp have upped the culinary ante of a true Jacksonville institution. The menu features local Mayport shrimp and what Scott Kornberg, the director of broadcasting and media relations, calls “a food odyssey.” In the 2025 season, fans can anticipate delicious menu offerings at the Right Field Hall and PNC Home Plate Club, with old favorites like Azar Sausage and a brand-new Pit Smokehouse. “How many teams have shrimp items at the concession stands or a smoker in
their ballpark?” says Kornberg.
While the Cummer Museum is known for its stunning art exhibits and landscaped gardens, nestled inside is a delightful culinary option, The Cummer Café, owned and operated by The Chef's Garden Catering & Events. “There's never a shortage of inspiration at The Cummer,” says Jennifer Earnest, co-owner of The Chef ’s Garden. Enjoy menu favorites and unique weekly specials inspired by exhibits like Knowing the West, running until August 31. Both indoor and outdoor dining are available, but Earnest invites guests to enjoy a meal in the serene gardens by the St. Johns River. She fondly recalls her own family tradition of ordering takeout from The Café and relishing their meal surrounded by blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, hoping to catch sight of a pod of dolphins.
A Jacksonville staple since 1959, Beach Bowl recently received a makeover. No need to split your attention here; experience 24 lanes of fun while sampling a new spin on bowling alley food. The choices include a good mix of bar bites, sandwiches, pizzas and salads. Even the bar received an upgrade, with local beer options and craft cocktails like The Dudeness, a riff on The Dude’s iconic white Russian in The Big Lebowski.
Duck Pinz in Fernandina Beach offers compact bowling with a retro vibe and a full bar. “We take inspiration from classic arcade flavors, creative twists on traditional bar bites and the lively, retro vibe of duckpin bowling,” says general manager Kaitlyn Greenly. Popular drinks like the Pin Killer and Pinz Punch pair perfectly with their delicious snackable options. “Our food and drinks fuel the fun,” says Greenly. “The pairing of menu and bowling is designed specifically for enhancing the bowling experience. Every bite and every sip is crafted to keep the energy high and the good times rolling.” Bonus round to keep the good vibes going: book time with DuckPinz and then head to sister spot Gregor MacGregor’s Mini Golf right down the street for fun in the sun and a variety of frozen beverages.