The best things to do in Jacksonville

12 things to do we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Entertainment · 12 places · showing the latest additions first

Bear Town Cinema

Entertainment

Bear Town Cinema is the no-fuss move when you want the big screen without leaving New Bern. Check showtimes for whatever’s new, treat the…

2806 Trent Rd (New Bern)

“Bear Town Cinema is the no-fuss move when you want the big screen without leaving New Bern. Check showtimes for whatever’s new, treat the kids to Summer Kid Shows, or book a theatre rental with friends... and snag a gift card for your favorite movie buddy.”

From the New Bern newsletter, August 3, 2026

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Bear Trail Golf Club

Entertainment

If your irons are ghosting you, Bear Trail Golf Club delivers a legit par-72 championship track with a driving range, practice putting…

237 SW Plantation Dr (Maple Hill)

“If your irons are ghosting you, Bear Trail Golf Club delivers a legit par-72 championship track with a driving range, practice putting green, and a pro shop to dial you in. Book a tee time, then hop into their leagues and events for friendly hometown bragging rights.”

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Rock Creek Golf & Country Club

Entertainment

When you want real-deal coastal Carolina golf without the hurry, Rock Creek Golf & Country Club delivers a walkable 18 with Sunday Ultra…

308 Country Club Blvd

“When you want real-deal coastal Carolina golf without the hurry, Rock Creek Golf & Country Club delivers a walkable 18 with Sunday Ultra Dwarf greens, 419 Bermuda fairways, and five sets of tees. Family-owned since 1974, it’s quietly demanding, refreshingly friendly, and perfect for clearing the week from your head.”

From the Jacksonville newsletter, August 3, 2026

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J-Vegas Retro Arcade

Entertainment

J-Vegas Retro Arcade is a free play hangout where you pay for time, then go unlimited on classics like Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Tetris and…

415 Western Blvd

“J-Vegas Retro Arcade is a free play hangout where you pay for time, then go unlimited on classics like Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Tetris and Space Invaders plus racers like Mario Kart and Cruis'n World, with snacks and sodas for the victory laps. Grab friends this week and turn back the clock, no quarters required.”

From the Jacksonville newsletter, August 6, 2026

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Emerald Golf Club

Entertainment

Golf course designed in 1995 by Golf World's Architect of the Year with challenging holes.

5000 Clubhouse Dr (New Bern)

“Golf course designed in 1995 by Golf World's Architect of the Year with challenging holes.”

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Mac Daddy's

Entertainment

Amusement center with bowling & arcade games, plus a sports bar serving beer, wine & pub food.

130 Golfin Dolphin Dr (Cape Carteret)

“Amusement center with bowling & arcade games, plus a sports bar serving beer, wine & pub food.”

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Glo-Mania Lazer Tag LLC

Entertainment

Indoor family entertainment center at Jacksonville Mall offering laser tag, an arcade, and party packages.

375 Western Blvd

“Indoor family entertainment center at Jacksonville Mall offering laser tag, an arcade, and party packages.”

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Taberna Country Club

Entertainment

Country club offering a golf course, plus free admission.

401 Taberna Way (New Bern)

“Country club offering a golf course, plus free admission.”

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Cracked It Escape Games

Entertainment

Family-owned escape room center featuring puzzles, team-building activities and friendly staff.

559 Freedom Way Ste a (Midway Park)

“Family-owned escape room center featuring puzzles, team-building activities and friendly staff.”

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Golfin' Dolphin

Entertainment

Family recreation center offering a mini-golf course, a go-kart track, bumper boats & more.

134 Golfin Dolphin Dr (Cape Carteret)

“Family recreation center offering a mini-golf course, a go-kart track, bumper boats & more.”

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MEGAPLAY

Entertainment

Kid-friendly venue featuring an indoor playground, bounce houses and bumper cars.

1233 Hargett St

“Kid-friendly venue featuring an indoor playground, bounce houses and bumper cars.”

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Carolina Colours Golf Club

Entertainment

Golf club featuring a course with a clubhouse offering lunch.

3300 Waterscape Wy (New Bern)

“Golf club featuring a course with a clubhouse offering lunch.”

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