
Cultural & Historical Destinations in Jacksonville, United States
1. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
A coastal museum with an extensive collection of art and gardens dating from 2100 B.C. to the present day.
- Diverse Collection: Boasts a wide range of artwork, including European, Asian, and American pieces.
- Outdoor Beauty: Enjoy four beautiful outdoor gardens complementing the art exhibition indoors.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers various educational programs, workshops, and lectures throughout the year.
2. The Museum of Science & History (MOSH)
An interactive museum showcasing Jacksonville's natural wonders, scientific discoveries, and cultural heritage.
- Interactive Exhibits: Features hands-on exhibits that allow visitors to explore various scientific topics.
- IMAX Theatre: Offers immersive film experiences on a giant dome screen, perfect for documentaries and educational films.
- Planetarium: Allows visitors to explore the night sky and learn about celestial bodies through star shows.
3. Kingsley Plantation
Historic plantation dating back to 1814 showcasing the lives of enslaved African Americans and the Gullah culture.
- Slave Cabins: Features twenty slave cabins, which are among the oldest in Florida.
- Gullah Culture: Provides insight into the unique cultural practices and language of enslaved African Americans.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff to enhance your understanding of the site's history.
4. The Florida Theatre
A beautifully restored historic theatre offering a variety of live performances, including music and comedy.
- Architectural Wonders: Features ornate decorations and art deco designs that are stunning to behold.
- Live Performances: Hosts a diverse range of live performances, making it an essential part of Jacksonville's entertainment scene.
- Historic Tours: Offers behind-the-scenes tours that delve into the theatre's rich history and restoration process.
5. Fort Caroline National Memorial
A replica of a French colonial fort established in the 16th century, commemorating early European exploration and settlement in Florida.
- European History: Gives visitors a glimpse into the early European exploration and colonization of North America.
- Replica Fort: Features a replica fort, cannons, and other artifacts that help bring the past to life.
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours of the fort and surrounding area for an immersive historical experience.
6. Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
A stunning basilica built in the late 1800s showcasing beautiful stained glass, marble, and intricate architecture.
- Religious History: Serves as a testament to Catholicism's long history in the United States.
- Stained Glass Art: Features stunning stained glass windows depicting religious scenes and figures.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to learn about the history, architecture, and art of the basilica.
7. Ribeiro House Museum
A beautifully preserved 19th-century Spanish colonial home showcasing traditional furniture, artifacts, and art.
- Historic Preservation: Demonstrates the importance of preserving historic homes for future generations.
- Spanish Colonial Design: Features traditional Spanish colonial architecture, furniture, and decorations.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to provide insight into the lives of the Ribeiro family and their contemporaries.
8. San Marco Avenue Historic District
A historic district featuring beautiful Victorian houses and a variety of architectural styles.
- Architectural Diversity: Showcases various architectural styles, including Victorian, Italianate, and Queen Anne.
- Historic Homes: Features beautifully preserved historic homes showcasing the elegance of the past.
- Walking Tours: Offers guided walking tours to explore the district and learn about its rich history.
9. Jax Beer Museum
A unique museum dedicated to the history of beer brewing in Jacksonville.
- Beer History: Showcases the rich history and evolution of beer brewing in Jacksonville.
- Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about various beer-brewing techniques.
- Tasting Room: Offers a tasting room where you can sample local and regional beers.
10. The Jacksonville Fire Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of firefighting in Jacksonville, featuring antique fire engines and artifacts.
- Firefighting History: Showcases the evolution of firefighting equipment and techniques.
- Antique Fire Engines: Features antique fire engines, including steam engines and horse-drawn carriages.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for both children and adults to learn about fire safety.
11. Jacksonville's Veterans Memorial Wall
A memorial dedicated to the men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces.
- Military History: Honors the sacrifices made by members of the U.S. military throughout history.
- Names Inscribed: Features the names of over 1,500 veterans engraved on a black granite wall.
- Tribute Ceremonies: Hosts tribute ceremonies throughout the year to honor and remember our military heroes.
12. JaxUSA Partnership: Riverfront Segway Tour
A guided tour of Jacksonville's riverfront area using Segways for easy and fun exploration.
- Historic Sites: Tours popular historical sites, including museums, monuments, and parks.
- Convenient Transportation: Provides a convenient and fun way to explore the riverfront area without walking long distances.
- Local Insights: Offers insights into Jacksonville's history, culture, and current developments.
13. The Jacksonville Landing
An entertainment complex featuring restaurants, shops, and a variety of events.
- Entertainment Options: Offers a wide range of entertainment options, including concerts, festivals, and comedy shows.
- Dining Experiences: Features a variety of dining experiences, including casual eateries, fine-dining restaurants, and food trucks.
- Shopping Opportunities: Provides shopping opportunities for unique souvenirs, gifts, and local products.
14. Jacksonville's Riverwalk
A scenic riverfront walkway offering beautiful views of the St. Johns River and various attractions.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the St. Johns River, bridges, and downtown Jacksonville.
- Accessibility: Features accessible paths for walking, biking, or rollerblading.
- Attractions Along the Way: Passes by various attractions, including museums, parks, and historic sites.
15. Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
A preserve featuring a variety of ecosystems and historical sites related to the Timucuan Indians.
- Natural Beauty: Showcases diverse ecosystems, including marshes, forests, and coastal dunes.
- Historical Significance: Offers insight into the lives of the Timucuan Indians and their interaction with the environment.
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours to help visitors explore the preserve and learn about its history and ecology.