The 3 Best Museums to Visit in and Around Jacksonville, FL

Considered the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, Jacksonville, FL, is an important cultural and economic hub located in the northeastern corner of the state. Welcoming millions of visitors each year, Jacksonville offers plenty of cultural sites, historical monuments, and landmarks where you can learn more about the area and its history. If you are looking for the best museums to visit while in town, these are some places you should not miss.

The 3 Best Museums to Visit in and Around Jacksonville, FL

1. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

Located in the Five Points neighborhood of Jacksonville and along the banks of the St. Johns River, Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is one of the most important cultural centers in town. Founded in 1961 and featuring over 6,000 artifacts in its permanent collection, this place is mostly focused on American and European paintings, along with other valuable pieces of art. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2010, the place welcomes over 130,000 visitors each year.

Along with the museum’s permanent collection and temporary exhibits, another element that makes this place a top-rated spot for visitors is the series of flower gardens spread across its grounds. Covering about one and a half acres, these gardens date back to the early 1900s and feature elaborate ornaments and sculptures, native Florida plants, fountains, and live oak trees. Getting to the complex from downtown Jacksonville takes about five minutes by car, driving west along Riverside Avenue.

2. Museum of Science & History (MOSH)

Established in 1941 and located on the Southbank Riverwalk of the city, the Museum of Science & History of Jacksonville is the most visited museum in town. With a large permanent collection and seasonal exhibits, this place features interactive installations and is an excellent spot for visitors of all ages. Jacksonville’s Museum of Science & History is also home to the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium, which welcomes over 60,000 people each year.

Located less than a mile south of downtown Jacksonville, this museum can be easily included in a walking tour around the city’s landmarks. Open Monday to Saturday between 10 am and 5 pm, and on Sundays between 12 pm and 5 pm, the museum charges an entry fee of $15.95 for adults and $12.95 for students, seniors, military, and children aged 3-12. Before you visit, make sure to check out the museum’s official website for information about upcoming events and programs.

3. Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA)

Founded in 1924 as the Jacksonville Fine Arts Society, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville is one of the largest and most important contemporary art institutions in the region. Located in the heart of Jacksonville’s downtown area, this museum hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions by artists from all around the world, as well as cultural events organized by local volunteers.

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