Best Museums & Art Galleries in Jacksonville, United States

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Best Museums & Art Galleries in Jacksonville, United States

1. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

Offers a diverse collection of artworks from Asian, European, and American cultures. The beautiful outdoor gardens add to the experience.
  • Unique Collection: Features one of the finest collections of Asian Art in the U.S.
  • Outdoor Experience: Beautifully designed gardens spanning four acres, offering a peaceful outdoor art exhibition.
  • Educational Programs: Provides a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages.

2. Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA)

Showcases contemporary art and rotating exhibitions. The museum also offers educational programs for the community.
  • Contemporary Focus: Dedicated to showcasing art from the late 20th century to the present.
  • Education and Outreach: Offers a variety of educational programs for visitors, including workshops and lectures.
  • Community Engagement: Regularly collaborates with local artists and organizations to engage the community.

3. The Florida Museum of Natural History

Explores natural history and biodiversity through exhibitions and research. The museum also offers educational programs.
  • Biodiversity Focus: Dedicated to the study and preservation of Florida's unique biodiversity.
  • Educational Programs: Provides a variety of educational programs for visitors, including workshops and guided tours.
  • Research Center: Serves as a research center for scientists studying Florida's natural history.

4. Jacksonville Museum of Science & History (MOSH)

Offers interactive exhibits on science and local history. The museum also has a planetarium and an observatory.
  • Interactive Experience: Provides hands-on, interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages.
  • Planetarium and Observatory: Features a planetarium for stargazing shows and an observatory for telescope viewing.
  • Local History Focus: Highlights the history of Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.

5. Ritz Theatre & Museum

Celebrates African American art, history, and culture through exhibitions, performances, and educational programs.
  • African American Focus: Dedicated to the preservation of African American history and culture in Jacksonville.
  • Performing Arts: Hosts live performances, including theatre productions and music concerts.
  • Education and Outreach: Offers educational programs for visitors, including workshops and lectures.

6. The Kirby Smith Institute

A contemporary art gallery focused on showcasing emerging artists. The gallery also offers artist talks and workshops.
  • Emerging Artists: Focuses on exhibiting work by emerging artists.
  • Artist Talks: Regularly hosts artist talks, providing insights into the creative process.
  • Workshops and Classes: Offers workshops and classes for visitors interested in learning about contemporary art.

7. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) Skyway

A unique public transportation system featuring moving walkways and automated guideways. Stops at various museums and attractions.
  • Uniqueness of Transportation: An innovative, high-tech form of public transportation.
  • Convenient Museum Access: Stops at various museums and attractions, making it easy to visit multiple sites.
  • Eco-friendly: A more eco-friendly transportation option compared to cars.

8. The Jacksonville Children's Chorus Museum of Arts & Science (JCC at MOAS)

A museum featuring a collection of art and science exhibits designed for children. The JCC performs regularly.
  • Child-friendly: Designed with interactive exhibits suitable for children.
  • Live Performances: Regular performances by the Jacksonville Children's Chorus.
  • Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for children, including workshops and guided tours.

9. The Art Center Manatee Island

An art center offering art classes, exhibitions, and workshops. The center also features a unique art library.
  • Art Education: Offers a variety of art classes and workshops for visitors.
  • Unique Art Library: Features an extensive art library, offering research materials for artists and art enthusiasts.
  • Community Engagement: Regularly engages with the local community through exhibitions and events.

10. The Clay County Art Walk

A self-guided tour featuring art galleries, studios, and exhibitions throughout Clay County.
  • Self-Guided Experience: A flexible way to explore various art venues at your own pace.
  • Local Art Scene: Highlights the local art scene in Clay County.
  • Variety of Venues: Visit a variety of galleries, studios, and exhibition spaces throughout the tour.

11. The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville

A non-profit organization supporting local artists, arts organizations, and cultural events.
  • Artist Support: Provides financial support and resources for local artists.
  • Cultural Events: Supports a variety of cultural events throughout Jacksonville.
  • Community Engagement: Engages with the community to promote and support local arts and culture.

12. The Jacksonville Public Library's Special Collections

A library featuring rare books, manuscripts, and art collections.
  • Rare Collections: Houses a collection of rare books, manuscripts, and art.
  • Research Opportunities: Provides resources for research and study.
  • Art Exhibitions: Regularly hosts art exhibitions featuring items from the special collections.

13. The Riverside Arts Market (RAM)

A weekly market showcasing local artists and artisans. Features live music, food, and family activities.
  • Local Artisans: Showcases work from local artists and artisans.
  • Family-friendly: Includes family-friendly activities, live music, and food.
  • Community Engagement: Engages with the community to support local artists and artisans.

14. The Jacksonville Pottery School & Gallery

A pottery school offering classes, workshops, and a gallery featuring pottery art.
  • Pottery Education: Offers a variety of pottery classes and workshops for visitors.
  • Gallery: Features a gallery showcasing pottery art created by students and local artists.
  • Community Engagement: Engages with the community through classes, workshops, and events.

15. The Jacksonville Historical Society

A museum featuring exhibitions on local history and cultural heritage. Offers educational programs and research resources.
  • Local History Focus: Dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Jacksonville.
  • Educational Programs: Offers a variety of educational programs for visitors, including workshops and guided tours.
  • Research Resources: Provides resources for research and study into Jacksonville's history.