3 Best Places To See in Jacksonville, FL

“Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens sits at the mouth of the Trout River, near where it flows into the St. Johns River. The zoo supports over 45 plant and animal conservation programs, regionally and globally. The zoo occupies approximately 122 acres. The zoo has over 2,000 native and unusual species and 1,000 plant varieties. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is the perfect place to explore the world's biodiversity through immersive and educational experiences. The zoo gives members 12 months of free access to the zoo, member activities only, and discounts on purchases from the gift shops. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens instills passion in the next generation as responsible stewards of the future. The zoo offers fun and enriching programs. The zoo affords complimentary admission for a child under three and free admission for children under three.”

“The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens aims to engage and inspire through the arts, gardens, and education. The museum was founded in 1961 after the death of Ninah Cummer, who bequeathed her gardens and personal art collection to the new museum. The museum's mission is to engage and inspire through the arts, gardens, and education. The permanent collection of the Cummer has expanded to more than six thousand works of art that cover eight thousand years of art history. The museum's nationally recognized immersive educational hub facilitates the annual cultural learning of over 165,000 visitors. The museum continuously provides comfort, wisdom, and the means for self-expression and connection through its virtual presence. Membership includes access to various services, free admission to all ticketed exhibits, and exclusive discounts on activities. Each visitor can explore the rich history and vibrant future through the advancement of resources. The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers free entry for military families on Memorial Day.”

“The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary aims to provide a safe, loving, forever home for endangered big cats and to educate the public about their plight in the wild and captivity. The site was developed to protect, rescue, and care for big cats. The Sanctuary's primary focus is to rescue exotic animals from serious situations. It is home to tigers, lions, pumas, leopards, lynx, servals, foxes, and coatimundis. In addition, Catty Shack Ranch educates visitors about the animals' plight in the wild and captivity. They are open every afternoon, with admittance between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. After entering, visitors explore the Sanctuary on a self-guided tour, and most people take 45 minutes to an hour or more to explore the grounds. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions of the volunteers. Their mission is to provide a safe, loving, forever home for endangered big cats and to educate the public about their plight in the wild and in captivity. In addition, they have a concession stand where various drinks and select food items are available. Night feedings happen on Fridays and Saturdays only. Self-guided tours start at 6 p.m.”