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During your Jacksonville vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
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 Zoo and Gardens
Another city, another zoo. But this isn't just any zoo. Located between downtown and the airport, this environmentally sensitive zoo is well on its way to becoming one of the Southeast's best. While the zoo's Wild Florida area presents local fauna -- including black bears, red wolves, Florida panthers, and alligators -- the main exhibits feature an extensive and growing collection of lions, rhinos, elephants, antelopes, cheetahs, western lowland gorillas, and other African wildlife. You'll enter the 73-acre park through an authentic thatched roof built in 1995 by 24 Zulu craftsmen. Whether you go on foot or by tram, allow at least 3 hours to tour this vast zoo. Upon your arrival, ask about current animal shows and special events. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent. The newest attraction, Range of the Jaguar, opened in 2004 to the tune of $15.4 million. The exhibit focuses on a neotropical rainforest setting that can be found in Central or South America. Although this attraction spotlights the jaguar, you will also see other animals such as golden lion tamarins, tapirs, capybaras, giant river otters, anteaters, and a variety of bird, amphibian, fish, and reptile species including the anaconda.
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.
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 ...
Marriott Jacksonville
The Jacksonville Marriott is located seven miles south of downtown Jacksonville off Interstate 95 and Butler Boulevard at Southpoint. This full-service hotel offers superior accommodations and facilities including a concierge level, health club and indoor swimming pool, lounge and restaurant. * Experience Revive! Marriott's luxurious new bedding package is available at the Jacksonville Marriott. This comfortable, plush and stylish package addresses clean and fresh bedding concerns, is ...
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites JACKSONVILLE
The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Jacksonville is a newly built Smoke-Free/Pet-Free hotel, located at intersection of I-95 and I-295. Spacious rooms and suites include two phone lines, complimentary high-speed internet access, in-room games, coffemakers, iron/ironing board, and hair dryer. Onsite meeting and fitness room facilities, pool, and complimentary daily breakfast bar. The Holiday Inn Express Hotel is conveniently located near Avenues Mall, Alltell Stadium, Orange Park Mall and ...
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