Complete Guide to UF Health Jacksonville Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in Jacksonville
Date: 03/07/2025
Introduction: UF Health Jacksonville — A Premier Medical and Community Landmark
UF Health Jacksonville is a distinguished academic medical center and a cornerstone of healthcare, history, and education in Northeast Florida. Founded in 1870 as the Duval Hospital and Asylum, this institution has evolved over more than 150 years into a leading Level I trauma center, integral to the University of Florida Health system. Conveniently located just minutes from downtown at 655 West 8th Street, the hospital is accessible by car and public transportation, with ample parking and amenities for visitors.
Beyond its clinical role, UF Health Jacksonville serves as an educational and cultural hub. Guided group tours, community programs, and wellness seminars are regularly offered, opening the doors for the public to engage with cutting-edge healthcare innovation and history. The campus is fully accessible, with resources such as dining options, gift shops, and family learning centers designed to enhance every visit.
Jacksonville’s vibrant downtown, museums, gardens, and riverwalk are nearby, making the hospital an ideal starting point for exploring the city. This guide provides comprehensive information for planning a visit—whether for patient care, historical interest, academic pursuits, or community events. For the latest visitor policies and information, consult the official UF Health Jacksonville visitor page and the interactive historical timeline.
Table of Contents
- Welcome to UF Health Jacksonville: A Historic Healthcare Landmark
- Historical Overview: From 1870 to Today
- Visiting UF Health Jacksonville
- Community Engagement and Special Events
- Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
- Visitor Amenities
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Clinical Services and Specialties
- Academic and Research Excellence
- Recent Expansions and Recognition
- Admissions, Check-In, and Discharge
- Welcome Centers and Visitor Resources
- Accommodations and Lodging
- Support for International Visitors
- Safety and Infection Control
- Educational and Cultural Opportunities
- Visual Highlights
- Planning Your Visit
- Further Resources and Call to Action
Welcome to UF Health Jacksonville: A Historic Healthcare Landmark
UF Health Jacksonville is more than a hospital—it’s a historical site and academic powerhouse with deep roots in the region’s healthcare and community development. This guide offers essential information for healthcare professionals, history enthusiasts, and anyone planning a visit, including details on visiting hours, tours, amenities, travel tips, and more.
Historical Overview: From 1870 to Today
Established in 1870, UF Health Jacksonville (originally Duval Hospital and Asylum) began as a modest care facility for the city’s most vulnerable. Over the decades, it expanded, modernized, and merged with other institutions, ultimately becoming a major academic health center affiliated with the University of Florida. Key milestones include the establishment of Florida’s first Level I trauma center in 1983 and the launch of advanced programs in thoracic oncology and regenerative cardiac therapies.
To learn more about the hospital’s rich history, visit the UF Health Jacksonville Interactive History Timeline.
Visiting UF Health Jacksonville
Location and Access
- Main Campus: 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
- UF Health North Campus: 11730 North Florida Avenue
- Public Transport: Served by Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) buses; ride-share and taxi services are also available.
- Parking: Free self-parking with a voucher available at checkout points; valet services offered for key areas.
For detailed parking and transportation info, visit UF Health Parking.
Visiting Hours and Policies
- General Visiting Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (main campus); confirm with specific units for exact hours.
- Special Units: ICU, NICU, and psychiatric units have restricted hours—contact units directly.
- Visitor Guidelines: All visitors must check in, wear a badge, and comply with infection control protocols.
- Children: Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Accessibility: Full ADA compliance, with wheelchair assistance and accessible facilities.
For the most up-to-date policies, visit the UF Health Jacksonville Visitation Policy.
Tours and Educational Visits
- Public Tours: Not routinely available due to patient care operations.
- Educational Tours: Arranged for academic groups or prospective medical students—see Campus Tour Registration.
- Simulation and Training Facilities: Tours often include the Center for Simulation Education and Safety Research (CSESaR).
Points of Interest and Photography
- Historic Architecture: Admire the original buildings and modern facilities.
- Photography: Permitted in public spaces; restricted in patient care areas (ask staff for guidance).
Community Engagement and Special Events
UF Health Jacksonville hosts community health fairs, wellness seminars, and educational events. These offer opportunities to connect with healthcare professionals and learn about health topics.
For upcoming events, visit UF Health Jacksonville Events.
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
- Downtown Jacksonville: Museums, parks, and the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens.
- Jacksonville Riverwalk: Scenic walking paths along the St. Johns River.
- Springfield and Riverside Avondale: Historic neighborhoods with dining and shopping.
Travel Tips:
- Use on-site parking for safety, especially at night.
- Public transportation is available via JTA.
- Accommodations nearby include hotels with patient family rates; see Staying in Jacksonville.
Visitor Amenities
- Dining: 24/7 grab-and-go options, full cafeteria at UF Health North.
- Gift Shops: On-site, offering essentials and gifts.
- Family Learning Center: Computers and resources at UF Health North Medical Office Building.
- Wi-Fi: Free throughout the hospital.
- Accessibility Services: Wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need tickets to visit UF Health Jacksonville?
A: No tickets are required; compliance with visitor policies and hours is mandatory.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Educational tours can be arranged for academic groups; general public tours are limited.
Q: Is the campus accessible?
A: Yes, with full ADA compliance and support services.
Q: Are masks required?
A: Masks may be required under special circumstances—check current guidance.
Q: How do I find specific departments?
A: Maps are available at entrances and via the UF Health app.
For more, see the Visitor Information page.
Clinical Services and Specialties
UF Health Jacksonville offers over 100 specialty and subspecialty services, including cardiology, neurology, oncology, orthopaedics, transplant services, and women’s health. The main hospital is licensed for 715 beds, accommodating nearly 25,000 admissions and over 125,000 emergency visits annually.
Academic and Research Excellence
The hospital is affiliated with the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville, providing advanced training for residents and fellows, and spearheading research initiatives in artificial intelligence, population health, and clinical care innovation.
Recent Expansions and Recognition
- New Facilities: Recent additions include a combined emergency and urgent care center, a six-story bed tower at UF Health North, and the expansion of UF Health East.
- Awards: Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade “A”, U.S. News & World Report high performance in multiple specialties, NAPBC accreditation, and Beacon Award for ICU excellence.
Admissions, Check-In, and Discharge
- Admissions: Open weekdays 5 a.m.–5 p.m.; bring photo ID and insurance. Admissions & Discharge.
- Check-In: All visitors must check in at entrances.
- Discharge Planning: Starts on admission; case managers assist with home care and resources (contact: 904-244-4133).
Welcome Centers and Visitor Resources
Welcome Centers provide:
- Maps and directions
- Parking and permits
- Local hotel and restaurant recommendations
- Shuttle and public transit info
See Welcome Centers.
Accommodations and Lodging
Jacksonville offers hotels, furnished apartments, and RV resorts with special rates for UF Health patients. The Proton Therapy Institute provides a comprehensive lodging list.
Support for International Visitors
International guests should bring passports and insurance, and consider travel health coverage. Language assistance is available. For more on hospital experiences for tourists, see Tourist Hospital Experience.
Safety and Infection Control
- Stay home if you are ill.
- Practice hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
- Use designated parking and avoid walking alone after dark.
Educational and Cultural Opportunities
Academic Health Center Experience
UF Health Jacksonville integrates the College of Medicine, Nursing, and Pharmacy, offering advanced training, interactive exhibits, and seminars.
Simulation and Training
The Center for Simulation Education and Safety Research (CSESaR) provides hands-on training and public demonstration opportunities.
Community Programs
Programs like HealthStreet connect the public with health screenings and education.
Visual Highlights
The campus offers striking architecture and landscaped grounds. Virtual tours and galleries are available online for previewing the environment.
Planning Your Visit
- Download the UF Health app for navigation and updates.
- Check current visitor policies before arrival.
- Explore local attractions for a fuller Jacksonville experience.
Further Resources and Call to Action
Stay updated on events, visitor policies, and healthcare resources via the official UF Health Jacksonville website and follow their social media channels. Download relevant apps for real-time information and navigation support.
Summary and Next Steps
UF Health Jacksonville unites historical legacy, top-tier clinical care, and community engagement, offering a welcoming environment for all visitors. As an educational and cultural landmark, it invites exploration—whether your interest is in patient care, historical discovery, or healthcare innovation. Always consult official resources for the latest updates and plan your visit to maximize comfort, safety, and enrichment.
Begin your journey at UF Health Jacksonville today. For more information, visit the official visitor guide and explore additional resources below.
Sources and Further Reading
- UF Health Jacksonville Visitor Guide: History, Visiting Hours, Tours & Tips for Visitors (UF Health Jacksonville Interactive History Timeline)
- UF Health Jacksonville Visitor Guide: Visiting Hours, Patient Information, and Services Overview (UF Health Jacksonville Visitors)
- Visitor Information for UF Health Jacksonville: Your Comprehensive Guide to Visiting the Hospital (UF Health Jacksonville)
- Cultural and Educational Insights at UF Health Jacksonville: Visitor Guide and Learning Opportunities (UF Health Jacksonville Education)
