3 Best Places To See in Jacksonville, FL

“Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens offers fun and enriching programs. The zoo is a non-profit organization, and a part of every ticket sold goes to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, which sponsors over 45 conservation projects around the globe. The zoo occupies around 122 acres and has over 2,000 native and unusual species and 1,000 plant varieties. The garden is the perfect place to explore the world's biodiversity through immersive and educational experiences. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens gives members 12 months of free access to the zoo, member-only activities, and discounts on purchases from gift shops. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens instills passion in the next generation as responsible stewards of the future. The zoo affords complimentary admission for children under three and parking only.”

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“The Cummer Museum was founded in 1961 after the death of Ninah Cummer. The museum aims 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 Cummer Museum has expanded to more than 5,000 works of art. Membership provides access to various services, free admission to all ticketed exhibits, and exclusive activity discounts. Each visitor can explore the rich history and vibrant future through the advancement of resources. The Cummer Museum offers free entry for military families on Memorial Day.”

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“The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary 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 in captivity. They are open in the afternoon every day with admittance between 1 pm and 3 pm. After entering, visitors explore the Sanctuary in a self-guided tour, and most people take 45 minutes to an hour or more to tour 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 captivity. In addition, they have a concession stand where various drinks and select food items are available. Night feedings happen on Friday and Saturday only. Self-guided tours start at 6 pm.”

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