Art And Culture Destination: Jacksonville, Florida

Lindsey Shelby

Shamel

Composition I

October 20, 2015

Art and Culture Destination Jacksonville, Florida is one of the most culturally immense cities in the nation. It's home to blues and southern rock, Jacksonville was Hollywood before there was a Hollywood. It was once known in the 1910s as “The Winter Film Capital of the World” ("52 Things You Probably Didnt Know"). Because Jacksonville is so culturally diverse, the city offers plenty of attractions for all ages. Three of the best attractions in Jacksonville would have to include Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Riverside Arts Market, and the Florida Theatre. There are plenty of zoos spread across the United States, but the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens features over two thousand animals on

Since the market's opening five years ago, they've welcomed nearly half a million visitors and tourists ("Riverside Avondale Preservation"). Every year from early March to mid-December, the market showcases over 160 artists, proving how creative the city really is. Visitors to the market can expect a gorgeous riverfront setting with a family friendly atmosphere. In the market, there is everything from handmade pottery, paintings and jewelry, to silk screened shirts and unique accessories ("Riverside Avondale Presentation"). The Riverside Arts Market also included plenty of activities for kids. You might find booths set up for face painting, airbrush tattoos, and tables where kids could sit and make watercolor paintings ("Riverside Arts

The theatre is fully equipped with a motion picture and performing arts theatre, along with an orchestra space and a large organ. The theatre owners of the 1920s believed that movies alone wouldn't draw enough of a crowd and that a theatre should include live stage shows and lavish interior ("A Thing of Beauty"). Stars such as Elvis Presley, Bob Hope, Eddie Cantor, George Jessel, and Sally Rand have made appearances at the theatre ("Florida Architecture"). Today, the theatre portion of the building is still in use and hosts about two hundred concerts and events each year. It's pretty obvious the Jacksonville, Florida has more than enough culture and plenty of attractions for the entire family. With it's rich history and creative residents there's bound to be something for everyone and no shortage of events or things to see. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, the Riverside Arts Market, and the Florida Theatre are just three of the must-sees in this amazing