James Weldon Johnson Park

James Weldon Johnson Park is an urban green space in downtown Jacksonville spanning about 1.5 acres with seating areas, shade structures, and open grounds. Located directly across from City Hall, the park provides restrooms, picnic facilities, bike parking, and a designated dog play area.

The site was originally established in 1857 as City Park and experienced several name changes over the decades. It received its current name in 2020 to honor the legacy of the civil rights figure after whom it is now called.

The park bears the name of a prominent African American writer and civil rights advocate from Jacksonville, reflecting the city's connection to this influential figure. Local music performances and community gatherings regularly take place here, making it a gathering point for creative expression and neighborhood connection.

The central downtown location makes the park easily walkable and well-integrated with surrounding city blocks. Shaded areas provide welcome relief during hot weather, and the compact size means you can explore it thoroughly in a short visit.

The grounds hosted speeches by major political leaders during the civil rights era of the 1960s, making it a place of national significance during a pivotal moment in American history. Few visitors realize how central this location was to the conversation and activism of that transformative period.

Location: Jacksonville

Inception: 1857

Website: http://hemmingpark.org

GPS coordinates: 30.32920,-81.65920

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:29