Stepping into a museum is like turning the pages of history, each exhibit a chapter waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a curious traveler or a lifelong learner; museums offer a glimpse into our past, a canvas for creativity, and a sanctuary for inspiration. National Museum Day, observed annually on May 18th, celebrates these cultural havens that bring joy and knowledge to generations. Whether you are taking your family, or just yourself; take a moment to enjoy what these museums offer.
Museum of Science and History (MOSH): Great for all ages, full of exciting exhibits demonstrating the fundamentals of science and the rich history of Jacksonville. Kids will enjoy the new exhibit Ice Dinosaurs where animatronics come to life. Go down a long history of how Jacksonville came to be and see a music laser light show. Also, stop by and say hi to Tonca the alligator snapping turtle.
When you take a tour of the Cummer Museum, first head inside to look at the art pieces on display. Until May 2024, the main exhibition is Sporting Fashion: Outdoor Girls 1800 to 1960. Explore the evolution of women’s sporting attire then head outside to frolic in the garden. The mesmerizing botanical beauty is a place to get lost in.
USA Today voted Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center fifth place in the 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award contest for Best Small Town Museum. Why wouldn’t you want to go now? Explore the 500 years of Black History through interpretive displays, educational programs, the arts and cultural programs dating back to pre-colonialism to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond.
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is celebrating 100 years of establishment in Jacksonville and seeing all their collections will inspire you in ways you could not imagine. There are two current exhibits; Project Atrium: Frank Stella and A Walk On The Wild Side. Get creatively educated on the modern contemporary arts.
Take a further drive down south to the Daytona Museum of Arts & Sciences. The museum is great for an educational adventure including the kiddos going to the Children’s Museum which is the only hands-on science center between Jacksonville and Orlando. A current exciting exhibit is the prehistoric giant megalodon.
