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During your Jacksonville vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum
From 1921 to 1971, the Ritz Theatre was the center of cultural life in LaVilla, an African-American neighborhood so vibrant that it was known as the Harlem of the South. Many entertainers played the Ritz before moving on to the Apollo Theater in the real Harlem. Most of LaVilla's small, clapboard "shotgun" houses (so called because you could fire a shotgun through the central hallway to the back room and not hit anything) have been torn down in anticipation of urban renewal, but the Ritz has been rebuilt and is once again a center of the city's cultural life. Only the northwest corner of the building, including the Ritz sign, is original, but the new 426-seat theater captures the spirit of vaudevillian times. Off the lobby, LaVilla Museum recounts local African-American history and exhibits the works of black artists.
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
Built on the grounds of a private Tudor mansion, this modestly sized but impressive museum is worth a visit for anyone who appreciates the visual arts. The permanent collection encompasses works from 2000 B.C. to the present. It's especially rich in American Impressionist paintings, 18th-century porcelain, and 18th-century Japanese woodblock prints. Personally, I find the art here a bit boring and too focused on landscapes, but that's my taste. Frankly -- and art snobs may gasp at this statement -- the actual landscaping of the museum is infinitely more spectacular. Don't miss the stunning Italian and English gardens set on the scenic St. Johns River. The museum hosts temporary and traveling exhibits and sponsors a multitude of activities during the year, so call ahead to see what's happening.
Jacksonville Landing
Resembling New York City's South Street Seaport, Boston's Faneuil Hall, Miami's Bayside, and Baltimore's Inner Harbor, this glass-and-steel complex on the north bank of the river serves as the focus of downtown activity. Yeah, you may see a mime or two occasionally, and there's a Hooters, a Ruby Tuesday, and a Starbucks, but there's also amazing local live music, good non-chain sushi, and Thai and Mexican restaurants. Unlike those in other cities, this complex is not just for tourists -- it's command central for many locals looking for a lively day or night out. There are more than 65 stores here, but shopping is secondary to the dining and entertainment. You can choose from a half-dozen full-service restaurants, plus an inexpensive food court with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the river. The Landing is the scene of numerous special events, ranging from arts festivals to baseball-card shows, plus outdoor rock, blues, country, and jazz concerts on weekends. Call or check the website to find out what's going on during your stay.
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville
Set along the newly developed north riverbank boardwalk, the hotel is located in the heart of the downtown business district and within walking distance of the Jacksonville Landing, Center for Performing Arts, Florida Theatre, and a mile from ALLTEL Stadium (home of Jaguars NFL ...
Holiday Inn JACKSONVILLE-I-295 (I-10 N)
WELCOME The Holiday Inn Hotel Jacksonville-Commonwealth invites you to experience the charm of Southern Hospitality. WIRELESS HIGH SPEED ACCESS IS AVAILABLE IN LIMITED LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE HOTEL. Experience our signature Holidome area. An indoor pool, whirlpool, and table games await you for fun and relaxation with the whole family. You will also find a fitness area equipped with treadmills, stairstepper, stationary bike and a relaxing sauna. Dine in our Hartfield Restaurant where ...
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