City of Jacksonville Municipal Marina – 78 Slips – Up to 80 Feet – FREE 72-Hour Dockage – TIAA Bank Field
Northbank St. Johns River – Downtown 1.5 Miles West – First-Come First-Served Public Access – Free Pumpout
Metropolitan Park Marina (also known as Jacksonville Municipal Marina) is the City of Jacksonville’s premier public municipal marina located at 4110 Gator Bowl Boulevard in Jacksonville, FL 32202 (Coordinates: N 30° 19.161′ / W 81° 38.467′), featuring 78 slips accommodating vessels up to 80 feet LOA (a few slips for very large yachts), positioned on the Northbank of the St. Johns River near TIAA Bank Field, just west of channel markers G’81’ and R’82’, phone (904) 630-3690, operating hours 7:00 AM to Dusk daily, FREE floating dock dockage for 72 hours within a 30-day period with first-come, first-served public access (reservations not required except during special events such as Jacksonville Jaguars football games, college games at TIAA Bank Field, or concerts/festivals in Metropolitan Park), FREE pumpout station located outside dock area near St. Johns River main channel, conveniently positioned approximately 1.5 miles west to downtown Jacksonville and the Landing Area, part of 18.25-acre Metropolitan Park (formerly urban landfill, now beautiful waterfront park) featuring Performance Pavilion with 10,000-person capacity for concerts and festivals (Jacksonville Jazz Festival, World of Nations, Freedom Fanfare & Fireworks July 4th), 6 covered picnic shelters, 43 picnic tables, 3 permanent restrooms, children’s playground, grills, benches, bike racks, security lighting, drinking fountains, nonmotorized boat launch for kayaks/canoes/SUPs, spectacular views of Jacksonville’s cityscape over the water, challenging approach due to strong river current requiring focused cautious navigation, walking distance to Jacksonville Riverwalk, proximity to Jacksonville Fire Museum, and consistently praised as convenient free transient dockage for exploring downtown Jacksonville despite current challenges.
This public municipal marina—operated by the City of Jacksonville within the multi-purpose Metropolitan Park venue—combines free transient dockage with downtown waterfront access, making it ideal for boaters seeking FREE 72-hour floating dock moorage, convenient TIAA Bank Field proximity for Jaguars games and events, first-come first-served public access without reservations (except special events), free pumpout station service, 1.5 miles to downtown Jacksonville and Landing Area, 18.25-acre park amenities including Performance Pavilion for major concerts and festivals, picnic facilities and playground for family enjoyment, spectacular cityscape views over St. Johns River, Jacksonville Riverwalk connection, and the unbeatable value of cost-free municipal dockage in the heart of downtown Jacksonville (though navigators must manage strong river current during approach).
Marina Overview & Location
St. Johns River Northbank – Near TIAA Bank Field
Metropolitan Park Marina
(aka Jacksonville Municipal Marina)
4110 Gator Bowl Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32202, United States
Coordinates: N 30° 19.161′ / W 81° 38.467′
Contact:
- Phone: (904) 630-3690
- Hours: 7:00 AM to Dusk (daily)
- Website: makeascenedowntown.com / jacksonville.gov
Management:
- Operator: City of Jacksonville
- Department: Parks and Recreation
- Type: Public municipal marina
Location:
- Body of Water: St. Johns River, Northbank
- Position: Just west of channel markers G’81’ and R’82’
- Near: TIAA Bank Field (adjacent)
- Distance to downtown: 1.5 miles west to downtown Jacksonville and Landing Area
- Part of: Metropolitan Park (18.25-acre waterfront park)
Metropolitan Park Marina – Downtown Jacksonville
Table of Contents
78 Slips – Up to 80 Feet – FREE 72-Hour Dockage
First-Come, First-Served Public Access
Slip Capacity:
“The 78 slips in Metropolitan Park Marina can accommodate boats up to 80 feet LOA and a few very large yachts.”
- Total slips: 78 boat docks
- Maximum LOA: 80 feet (a few slips for very large yachts)
- Dock type: Floating docks
- Plus: 1 pedestrian dock
FREE Dockage Policy:
“Metropolitan Park Marina (free floating docks for 72 hours in a 30 [day period])”
- FREE dockage – No charge for first 72 hours
- Time limit: 72 hours within a 30-day period
- Public access – Open to all boaters
- First-come, first-served – No reservations required (except special events)
Reservations Exception:
“The slips are available to the public, first-come, first-served. Reservations are not required except during special events such as Jaguar and college football games at TIAA Bank’s Field or concerts and festivals in Metropolitan Park.”
Special Event Reservations:
- Jacksonville Jaguars games at TIAA Bank Field
- College football games at TIAA Bank Field
- Concerts at Metropolitan Park Performance Pavilion
- Festivals and major events
FREE Pumpout Station
Located Near Main Channel
Pumpout Service:
“The next day, we got a free pump out, located outside the dock area, near the St. Johns River main channel.”
- FREE pumpout – No charge for sanitation service
- Location: Outside dock area, near main channel
- Convenient access – Easy to use
Strong River Current – Challenging Approach
Requires Focused Cautious Navigation
Navigation Considerations:
“There is a lot of current, which made approaching the docks challenging. We simply had to be focused and cautious of the current.”
Important:
- Strong current – St. Johns River flow significant
- Challenging approach – Requires careful boat handling
- Be prepared – Focus and caution essential
- Plan ahead – Account for current when docking
Metropolitan Park – 18.25-Acre Waterfront Venue
Performance Pavilion – Concerts & Festivals
Park Features:
“Metropolitan Park is a 32-acre urban waterfront park and concert venue located on the north bank of the St. Johns River in Downtown Jacksonville, Florida.”
Note: Sources vary between 18.25 acres and 32 acres.
Park History:
- Formerly: Urban landfill site
- Transformed: Multi-purpose family-oriented waterfront park
- Supported by: Concrete bulkhead
- Groundbreaking: December 8, 1982 by Mayor Jake Godbold
- Phase 1 completed: 1984 at cost of $1 million
- Award: 1986 winner (park excellence)
Performance Pavilion – 10,000 Capacity
Major Concerts & Annual Festivals
Performance Venue:
“The multi-purpose facility contains an exhibition mall for art, crafts and boat shows, a family picnic and playground area, and an earthen ‘bowl’ with a performance pavilion which has a capacity of 10,000 persons”
Stage Specifications:
- Stage size: 2,400 square feet
- Reversible stage – Flexible configuration
- Covered seating: 3,000 under large canopy
- Total capacity: 10,000 persons in earthen bowl
- Backstage: Green room, production office, dressing rooms
Annual Events:
- Jacksonville Jazz Festival – Major annual music event
- World of Nations Celebration – Cultural festival
- Spring Music Festival – Seasonal concert series
- Freedom, Fanfare & Fireworks – July 4th celebration
- Planetfest – Astronomy and science event
- Welcome To Rockville – Rock music festival
- The Big Ticket – Concert series
- Southeast US Boat Show – Annual marine exhibition
- Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra – Occasional performances
- Many nationally known entertainers – Concert venue
Park Amenities
Family Picnic Area – Playground – River Views
Recreation Facilities:
- 6 covered picnic shelters – Shaded gathering areas
- 43 picnic tables – Family dining space
- 15 grills – BBQ cooking facilities
- 1 playground equipment – Children’s play area
- 3 permanent restrooms – Public facilities
- Water fountains/drinking fountains – Hydration stations
- 136 benches – Seating throughout park
- 12 bike racks – Bicycle parking
- 45 trash barrels – Waste management
- Security lighting – Night use safety
- Perimeter site fencing – Controlled access
Water Access:
- 78 boat docks – Marina slips
- 1 pedestrian dock – Walking access
- Nonmotorized launch – Kayak/canoe/SUP launch area
- St. Johns River access – Direct waterway connection
Spectacular Cityscape Views
Downtown Jacksonville Skyline Over Water
Scenic Beauty:
“The view of Jacksonville’s cityscape over the water here can’t be beat!”
“Spectacular views of Jacksonville’s cityscape over the water”
- Downtown skyline – Beautiful city views
- Riverfront setting – Waterfront panorama
- Urban waterfront – Modern cityscape
- Photo opportunities – Stunning scenery
Downtown Jacksonville Access
1.5 Miles to Downtown & Landing Area
Proximity to Attractions:
“Downtown Jacksonville and the Landing Area are approximately 1 ½ mile to the west.”
Walking Distance:
- Jacksonville Riverwalk – Pedestrian waterfront path
- Jacksonville Fire Museum – Adjacent to park
- TIAA Bank Field – Stadium directly adjacent
Downtown Area (1.5 miles):
- Downtown Jacksonville business district
- The Landing Area
- Restaurants and shopping
- Cultural attractions
- Entertainment venues
Guest Experience Reviews
“We Enjoyed Our Stay at the Free Dock”
Boater Testimonials:
“We stayed at the Metropolitan Park Marina (free dock) in May 2022 and enjoyed our stay at the free dock. There is a lot of current, which made approaching the docks challenging. We simply had to be focused and cautious of the current. The next day, we got a free pump out, located outside the dock area, near the St. Johns River main channel.”
Positive Aspects:
- FREE 72-hour dockage – Unbeatable value
- Free pumpout service – Convenient sanitation
- Metropolitan Park amenities – Beautiful setting
- Downtown access – Explore Jacksonville
- Spectacular views – Cityscape over water
- Public boat launch – Kayak/SUP access
- Popular event venue – Concerts and festivals
Considerations:
- Strong river current – Challenging approach and docking
- Requires focus and caution – Not for inexperienced boaters
- Special event reservations – Required during Jaguars games, concerts
- Limited services – Municipal facility (no ship’s store, fuel, etc.)
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Common Services Available
- Marina coordination – City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation
- Boat maintenance – Professional service providers nearby
- Engine specialists – All makes and models in Jacksonville area
- Detailing – Professional cleaning and polishing services
- Electronics – Navigation and communication systems
- Mechanical systems – Diagnosis and repair
- Provisioning – Downtown Jacksonville 1.5 miles (restaurants, shopping)
- Fuel services – Available at other Jacksonville marinas
- St. Johns River navigation – Local expertise for current challenges
- Event coordination – TIAA Bank Field games and Metropolitan Park concerts
Marina Specifications Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | City of Jacksonville public municipal marina; First-come first-served; Part of Metropolitan Park |
| Slips | 78 boat docks; Up to 80 ft LOA; A few slips for very large yachts; Floating docks; 1 pedestrian dock |
| FREE Dockage | 72 hours within 30-day period; No charge; First-come first-served; Public access |
| Reservations | Not required (except special events: Jaguars games, college football, concerts, festivals at park) |
| FREE Pumpout | Located outside dock area near main channel; No charge; Convenient access |
| Location | 4110 Gator Bowl Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202; N 30° 19.161′ / W 81° 38.467′; St. Johns River Northbank |
| Position | Just west of markers G’81’ and R’82’; Near TIAA Bank Field; 1.5 mi west to downtown Jacksonville |
| Current | Strong St. Johns River current; Challenging approach; Requires focus and caution |
| Hours | 7:00 AM to Dusk daily; Security lighting for night use |
| Metropolitan Park | 18.25-32 acre waterfront park; Formerly urban landfill; Beautiful transformation |
| Performance Pavilion | 10,000 capacity; 2,400 sq ft reversible stage; 3,000 covered seats; Green room/dressing rooms |
| Annual Events | Jacksonville Jazz Festival; World of Nations; Freedom Fanfare July 4th; Welcome To Rockville; Boat Show |
| Park Amenities | 6 picnic shelters; 43 tables; 15 grills; Playground; 3 restrooms; Drinking fountains; 136 benches |
| Water Access | Nonmotorized launch (kayak/canoe/SUP); Direct St. Johns River access; Pedestrian dock |
| Views | “View of Jacksonville’s cityscape over water can’t be beat”; Spectacular downtown skyline |
| Walking Distance | Jacksonville Riverwalk; Jacksonville Fire Museum; TIAA Bank Field; 1.5 mi to downtown/Landing Area |
| Contact | (904) 630-3690; Hours: 7 AM-Dusk; City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation |
| Reviews | “Enjoyed our stay at free dock”; “Spectacular views”; Strong current challenging but manageable |
Why Choose Metropolitan Park Marina?
FREE Municipal Dockage in Downtown Jacksonville
- FREE 72-Hour Dockage: No charge within 30-day period; Public first-come first-served access; Floating docks
- 78 Slips Up to 80 Feet: Accommodates very large yachts; Municipal public marina; City of Jacksonville operated
- FREE Pumpout Station: Located near main channel; No charge; Convenient sanitation service
- Near TIAA Bank Field: Adjacent to stadium; Perfect for Jacksonville Jaguars games; College football events
- 1.5 Miles to Downtown: Walking distance to Landing Area; Jacksonville Riverwalk access; Downtown attractions
- Metropolitan Park Venue: 18.25-acre waterfront park; Performance Pavilion 10,000 capacity; Major concerts/festivals
- Annual Events: Jacksonville Jazz Festival; World of Nations; Freedom Fanfare July 4th; Welcome To Rockville
- “View Can’t Be Beat”: Spectacular Jacksonville cityscape over water; Downtown skyline panorama; Beautiful setting
- Family Park Amenities: 6 picnic shelters; 43 tables; 15 grills; Playground; 3 restrooms; 136 benches; Drinking fountains
- Nonmotorized Launch: Kayak/canoe/SUP access; Direct St. Johns River; Pedestrian dock; Water recreation
- Jacksonville Riverwalk: Walking distance to waterfront path; Jacksonville Fire Museum adjacent; Urban exploration
- Security Lighting: Night use safety; 7 AM-Dusk hours; 24-hour park access for events
- Unbeatable Value: Free municipal dockage; Free pumpout; Public access; Explore downtown Jacksonville cost-free
Important Navigation Note: Strong St. Johns River current makes approach challenging. Requires focused cautious boat handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the dockage really free?
Yes, FREE floating dock dockage for 72 hours within a 30-day period on a first-come, first-served basis (reservations not required except during special events).
How many slips are available?
78 boat slips accommodating vessels up to 80 feet LOA with a few slips for very large yachts, plus 1 pedestrian dock.
Do I need reservations?
No reservations required for normal dockage on first-come, first-served basis. Reservations ARE required during special events such as Jacksonville Jaguars games at TIAA Bank Field, college football games, or concerts/festivals in Metropolitan Park.
Is there a pumpout station?
Yes, FREE pumpout station located outside the dock area near the St. Johns River main channel.
What should I know about the approach?
Important: “There is a lot of current, which made approaching the docks challenging. We simply had to be focused and cautious of the current.” Strong St. Johns River flow requires careful boat handling.
How far is downtown Jacksonville?
Downtown Jacksonville and the Landing Area are approximately 1.5 miles to the west of the marina. Jacksonville Riverwalk is within walking distance.
What is Metropolitan Park?
18.25 to 32-acre urban waterfront park (formerly urban landfill) featuring a Performance Pavilion with 10,000-person capacity hosting major annual events including Jacksonville Jazz Festival, World of Nations, Freedom Fanfare July 4th, and nationally known entertainers.
What park amenities are available?
6 covered picnic shelters, 43 picnic tables, 15 grills, playground, 3 permanent restrooms, drinking fountains, 136 benches, 12 bike racks, security lighting, and nonmotorized boat launch for kayaks/canoes/SUPs.
Can I launch a kayak or canoe?
Yes, nonmotorized boat launch available for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards with direct St. Johns River access.
Contact Information
Metropolitan Park Marina
(aka Jacksonville Municipal Marina)
4110 Gator Bowl Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32202, United States
Coordinates: N 30° 19.161′ / W 81° 38.467′
Phone: (904) 630-3690
Hours: 7:00 AM to Dusk (daily)
Website: makeascenedowntown.com / jacksonville.gov
Management: City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation
Type: Public municipal marina
Location: St. Johns River Northbank; Just west of markers G’81’ and R’82’; Near TIAA Bank Field
Downtown: 1.5 miles west to downtown Jacksonville and Landing Area
Slips: 78 boat docks; Up to 80 ft LOA; A few very large yacht slips; Floating docks; 1 pedestrian dock
FREE Dockage: 72 hours within 30-day period; First-come first-served; No reservations (except special events)
Special Events: Reservations required for Jaguars games, college football, concerts, festivals in park
FREE Pumpout: Located outside dock area near main channel; No charge
Current: Strong St. Johns River current; Challenging approach; Requires focus and caution
Metropolitan Park: 18.25-32 acre waterfront park; Performance Pavilion 10,000 capacity; Major event venue
Annual Events: Jacksonville Jazz Festival; World of Nations; Freedom Fanfare July 4th; Welcome To Rockville; Boat Show
Park Amenities: 6 picnic shelters; 43 tables; 15 grills; Playground; 3 restrooms; Drinking fountains; 136 benches
Water Access: Nonmotorized launch for kayak/canoe/SUP; Direct St. Johns River access; Pedestrian dock
Views: “View of Jacksonville’s cityscape over water can’t be beat”; Spectacular downtown skyline panorama
Walking: Jacksonville Riverwalk; Jacksonville Fire Museum adjacent; TIAA Bank Field; 1.5 mi to downtown
Reviews: “Enjoyed our stay at free dock”; Strong current challenging but manageable; Spectacular views
Emergency: 911 or Coast Guard Channel 16
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Metropolitan Park Marina – City of Jacksonville Public Municipal Marina – 78 Slips Up to 80 Feet – FREE 72-Hour Floating Dock Dockage – FREE Pumpout Station – Near TIAA Bank Field – 1.5 Miles to Downtown Jacksonville – Performance Pavilion 10,000 Capacity – Jacksonville Jazz Festival – “View of Jacksonville’s Cityscape Over Water Can’t Be Beat”
