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No-Cost Fun in Jacksonville, Florida
Most families look to beach resorts, Disney World, Miami's bustling city, or Key West's historic charm for a traditional Florida getaway. But for family-fun without the expensive price tag, Jacksonville provides endless free events and attractions to choose from. Looking for beaches, culture, food, art, special kid activities, music and more? There's something for everyone in this coastal city.
Shouldn't a priceless family vacation truly be price-less? We certainly think so.
Art, Culture & More
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
829 Riverside Avenue
Jacksonville, Florida 32204
904/356.6857
The museum's special program, "Art Connections," offers both low-tech and high-tech learning stations ranging from collage tables to a state-of-the art virtual canvas. These learning areas combine art, music, literature, history, dance and poetry for hands-on learning. There's even an under five gallery exhibit for children 18-months to 5-years old. Kids get involved in art on a smaller scale where it's easier for them to see and enjoy. Tuesdays from 4:00pm to 9:00pm.
Art Walk
100 N. Laura on the corner of Forsyth
Jacksonville, FL 32202
904/634-0303
Even if your little ones aren't all that enthusiastic about art, they'll still love playing outside, running in the fresh air, listening to live music, and exploring the Art Walk in downtown Jacksonville. The self-guided tour takes visitors through dozens of art galleries, restaurants and local hotspots all featuring work from local artists. Past kid-friendly stops included Firehouse Subs with tasty sandwiches and historical fire-fighting artwork, and Shugar Shack Chocolatier with free samples. First Wednesday of each month, rain or shine, from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
Museum of Contemporary Art
333 North Laura Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
904/366-6911
The museum's Sunday "ArtFusion" program is designed especially with families in mind. A helpful museum educator assists groups with hands-on activities including painting, playing musical instruments, tree drawing, mask making, ramen noodle sculptures, printmaking, and more. The rotating activities reflect the museum's current exhibits and themes, where families can explore the galleries together and learn. Sundays 12:00pm to 4:00pm.
Peterbrooke Chocolatier Production Center
1470 San Marco Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32205
800/771-0019
It won't be hard to talk your entire family into a free tour of this chocolatier center. Learn about the process of creating fine chocolates and taste an array of heavenly samples. Founded in 1983, the center prides itself on blending European chocolate traditions with an American flair, all in a welcoming setting. Use the money you saved from our list of free attractions and spend it on treats from the gift shop. Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 5:00pm, closed major holidays.
Budweiser Brewery
111 Busch Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32218
904/696-8373
Parents looking for their own brand of free fun, or families with grown 'kids', can check out the Budweiser Brewery tour. Take a step-by-step look at Budweiser's all-natural brewing process, bottling and canning operations. Although kids under 21 can attend the tour with their parents, guests of age are treated to popular beer samples in the Hospitality Room. Monday through Saturday 10:00am to 4:00pm, tours based on availability.
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