udontknowjax Blog

Return of Fashion-First Thursdays

Jacqueline Simard — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 09:44:00 -0700

jacqsays here, giving you the deets [details] on a todes [totally] legit [legitimate, read: amazing and super-awesome] event that I've been looking forward to for quite some time called "Fashion-First Thursdays".

Starting back up this Thursday, March 4, One Ocean's Azurea Lounge and Rosie True [oh-em-gee cutest things ever!??] will be debuting the upcoming spring trends - parkas need not apply, fingers crossed. Mix, mingle and you know me, grab a drink off Azurea's new cocktail menu.

And oh, how could I forget? With the purchase of the signature "True Love" martini, you will have the chance to win a pair of Sergio Zelcer black wedges, retailing at $184. If they look as cute as these, I'm so in!

Best thing about it? It's totally free to attend and open to the public. And don't worry about pesky parking! Just pull up to resort's valet at One Ocean and let them know you are there for the Fashion-First Thursday.

Thursday, March 4 from 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. at One Ocean Resort's Azurea Lounge

99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall...

Lyndsay Rossman — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:57:00 -0700

When you think of Jacksonville, Florida, you usually think of great weather, beautiful beaches and super-tasty seafood. But Jacksonville is full of surprises. Turns out, Jacksonville is home to some amazing breweries that produce world-class beer... and they're happy to give you a taste of what Jacksonville brew houses have to offer!

One of the most famous breweries in Jacksonville is the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Located right around the corner from the Jacksonville Zoo, you can visit wild animals in the morning and tour this world-class brewery in the afternoon. I recently had the chance to take the new Beermaster Tour, and it is not to be missed! If you're 21 or older, you're in luck: the friendly staff will give you tasty samples of the beer they're brewing as they walk you step-by-step through the brewing process. You can take a look at the methods Budweiser uses to craft its world-famous brews, and you can check out all the great memorabilia at the gift shop.

While not a brewery, die-hard Bud fans should not miss Pete's Bar right on the beach. You can sip Budweiser in a laid-back atmosphere while checking out all the cool antique Budweiser memorabilia. Pete's has lined its walls with models of the Budweiser Clydesdales, Budweiser lamps, and plenty of other cool Budweiser memorabilia, and is a must-see for Bud aficionados.

Budweiser may be the most famous Jacksonville brewery, but it's definitely just the tip of the iceberg. The River City Brewing Company serves up delicious microbrews on the banks of the St. Johns River. The atmosphere at River City is second to none. You can enjoy great food and the full bar while overlooking the picturesque Downtown Jacksonville skyline. Not only is River City a great lunch, dinner or happy hour location, but the brewery serves up a full-service marina as well as its signature microbrews, like Jag Light (named for the Jacksonville Jaguars)! That means if you visit Jacksonville by way of boat, you can dock right on River City's front doorstep, and never be far from a frosty mug full of tasty beer.

If you venture a little further inland, be sure to check out Seven Bridges Brewery. With outstanding service and a laid-back atmosphere, this place aims to please. Dark beer lovers like myself will be in heaven here. Their Brown Ale is excellent, but ask if you can get a glass of the "hand-pulled" Brown Ale. This tasty brew isn't always on the menu, but it's definitely worth asking.

One of the newest breweries in Jacksonville is Bold City Brewery in the Riverside neighborhood. Open Thursday through Saturday, this locally-owned brewery offers several different beers with names like Killer Whale Cream Ale, Bold English Ale and Mad Manatee IPA to quench your thirst on a hot (or cold) day. Step into the tap room and taste a few or take home a one-gallon Growler filled with your favorite suds.

Whether you're a fan of dark microbrews or lighter domestics, there's a brewery in Jacksonville that has the perfect brew on tap waiting for you. From savoring an ice-cold brew on the water to sipping your way through a seafood dinner, discover why Jacksonville, Florida, is the perfect getaway for fans of really great beer!

Come Fly with Me

Jacqueline Simard — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 09:43:00 -0700

I am never one to jump for joy when it comes time to travel, as most of my traveling throughout my days of youth was through JFK, LaGuardia or another overly-crowded, automatic two-hour delayed airport. But alas, traveling comes easy when you have a great airport right in your backyard. In fact, ever since my boyfriend left me sad and depressed for a job across the country [cue: pouting face] I've actually enjoyed hopping on a plane at Jacksonville International Airport and heading his way. And for an anti-alone traveler, that's a lot to say.

Oh JIA, my home away from home. Why do I love it, you ask? It's all about the simplicity.

JIA is truly a one-stop shop. Apart from the Holy Trinity of airport drinking: Budweiser Brewhouse, Sam Sneads and Chillis Too, JIA offers so much! Need a last minute sitter for your pooch? Board them at Pet Paradise Resort, located just along your drive into the airport. Stressed out? Don't be! JIA has their own lap of luxury space via the Comfort Zone Spa. JIA even has The Haskell Art Gallery featuring the staple in Jacksonville travel, Gordon Huether's "Gotta Go" featured at the end of Concourses A and C.

And with JIA's new renovations currently taking place and on the way, including a new flashy walkway between ticketing/baggage claim and the VIP/club section between Concourse A and C [that I better get the hook-up for!], there's no better reason to fly in JIA!

February Concerts in Jacksonville

Jacqueline Simard — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 15:26:00 -0700

All right headbangers. There are plenty of nights ahead of us here in good ol' Jacksonville to either shake your groove thang or rock steady. Whichever you favor, the entertainment scene is looking pretty bright for Jax in February.

I'll let you in on a little secret. I pulled some strings for y-o-u, my favorite city, and convinced my boyfriend John to come in a play a show for you all this weekend. Generous, right? So congratulations Jacksonville, I was gracious enough to share Mister Mayer with you. It's hard sometimes, him being on the road and everything, but we make due. "Your Body is a Wonderland"? - right here people, right here. So if you're ready for the guitar god of our time, make your way over to the Veteran's Memorial Arena this Saturday, February 6 at 8:00 p.m for the one, the only, John Mayer. swoon.

There's my favorite. What's yours? Check the list below and add more!

2/9 - Black Eyed Peas

8:00 p.m., Jacksonville Veteran's Memorial Arena

2/10 - A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor

7:30 p.m., Times Union Center of Performing Arts

2/11 - Willie Nelson

8:00 p.m., Florida Theatre

2/14 - Harry Connick Jr.

8:00 p.m., Florida Theatre

2/20 - Jimmy Buffett

8:00 p.m., Jacksonville Veterans Memorial

2/24 - Three Days Grace

8:00 p.m., Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena

Things To Do Over 26.2 with Donna Weekend

Jennifer Bryant — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:09:00 -0700

You've prepared for months to run in the 26.2 with Donna: The Race to Finish Breast Cancer or you think it's a great cause and you're walking the half marathon or you're here just to cheer on participants. Either way, there is plenty for you to do in the days leading up to the fitness challenge and cause.

Enjoy a performance at the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts. The center overlooks the St. Johns River and the mellowing sounds of the symphony or Broadway performance will melt tension or nervous jitters. The acclaimed Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra presents the John Williams Spectacular Feb. 19 and 20. The JSO celebrates the owner of the record for the most Oscar nominations for a living person. Re-live the excitement and enjoy favorite melodies from films such as E.T., Jurassic Park, Star Wars, Jaws, Harry Potter and Raiders of the Lost Ark. Also, on Feb. 19, THE ARTIST Series presents Sleeping Beauty - The Tchaikovsky Ballet Theatre.

For a more upbeat tempo, check out the Jacksonville Blues Festival on Feb. 20, also at the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts. Jacksonville has a fascination with blues and jazz and well-known musicians perform in celebration of this musical genre. Also on this Saturday, Jimmy Buffet performs at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. Tickets are sold out, but perhaps you'll be lucky to find one.

Load up on carbs or fresh produce at the FRAM at RAM - this is the Farmer's Market held under the Fuller Warren Bridge in historic Riverside every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Some of the delicious things you'll find here are Florida citrus from the Indian River area, broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, onions, peppers, potatoes, zucchini and strawberries. Fresh baked breads and other goodies are also sold.

For an incredible view of Jacksonville's shoreline take a stroll on the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier. Entrance to the pier is just $1 for visitors not fishing and the views are breathtaking. Relax as you take in the ocean breezes and the fragrance of the sea.

INSIDER TIPS: Visitors staying for the weekend can still book hotel deals and packages at www.VisitJacksonville.com. There are also welcome centers around the city where visitors can pick up a Visitor Magazine, coupons and brochures. Center locations include one welcoming air passengers at Jacksonville International Airport and a center at the Beaches Museum and History Center.

And there are plenty of events surrounding the 26.2 with Donna: The Race to Finish Breast Cancer, including an expo at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. Details available at www.breastcancermarathon.com.

Celebrate Valentine's Day in Jacksonville

Jennifer Bryant — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:02:00 -0700

We each celebrate Valentine's Day in our own way and Jacksonville has some unique, super cool things happening on Valentine's Day or over the weekend of the holiday. So, whether you're getting together with friends, starting a new love or romancing a steady Valentine, there is something for you.

Here's a good one if you're celebrating with your children in Jacksonville: "Art for Two" at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. A morning of fun for children ages 3 to 5 and their favorite adult. Participants of Art for Two: Painting Improvisation will spend an hour together exploring the galleries, art making and time in Art Connections. This is for children ages 3 to 5 and is $15 per pair. The activity planned for Feb. 13 takes place from 10:30 a.m. to noon. www.cummer.org

Take the pressure off with a fun first date. Dave & Buster's presents "Valentine's Day Mystery Dinner Theater" on Feb. 13. Here's the set-up: Bubba Loafman and Velma Beautane are starting their new life together on Valentine's Day...but will they even survive their own wedding? From the moment you enter the room, you are thrown into one of the craziest weddings you will ever attend. Experience a complete wedding ceremony and reception full of silly antics. A three course, buffet style meal is included. Meal and entertainment are $36.95; doors open at 7 p.m. and show begins at 8 p.m. www.daveandbusters.com

Wine and dine the intellectual in your life. The Museum of Science & History is hosting Dessert Under the Stars on Feb. 13 from 7 to10 p.m. The rooftop of the MOSH offers incredible views of the Jacksonville skyline and what could be more romantic? The evening includes decadent desserts, wine, live planetarium show, creature encounter, "Sweetheart's Scavenger Hunt" and planetary observations through MOSH's swanky telescope. Wow! www.themosh.org

Make your Valentine swoon. Who doesn't want to be wined and dined? Jacksonville restaurants including Bistro Aix Restaurant & Lounge (www.bistrox.com) and The Capital Grille (www.thecaptitalgrille.com) are celebrating sweethearts all weekend with special menus for the occasion.

Get engaged this Valentine's Day. And then win a free wedding from the Residence Inn by Marriott Amelia Island. During the month of February, the hotel is celebrating the "Ultimate Month of Love" with one lucky winner chosen for a free wedding and reception event for 100 people. There are many other prizes to win too. www.residenceinnamliaisland.com/love

Spend the weekend in Northeast Florida. Check out Jacksonville Romance Packages at www.visitjacksonville.com/to-do/romantic-getaway.

International Guide to Keeping Warm in Jacksonville

Jacqueline Simard — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:45:00 -0700

I don't know much, but I know the following:

- Aunt Jemima will never, ever reach true maple glory.

- Mounties are in fact, very studly.

- Nothing will ever match the greatness of a Hab.

I am jacqsays and I hail from the great country of Canada!

... well, sort of.

Granted, I was born in "America's hat", but I have lived the large majority of my life in Florida. Consequently, I am not used to the weather Jacksonville is currently dishing us. In fact, I scraped a layer of ice from my windshield Saturday night. Really? ... Is this real life?

Now it may just be my roots, but when I get really cold, I put on my thickest jacket and atrocious UGG boots and head out to a watering hole. Come on, jacqsays will never steer you wrong in your effervescent efforts to hit the town, especially here in Jacksonville!

O'Brothers Irish Pub. Yes, this is a complete sentence because, in short, it makes my life complete. You know how we Canadians love to sit down to a bowl of mac and cheese and a Molson before the puck drops? Well O'Brothers Irish Pub in 5-Points tops it [but don't tell my dad's side of the family or they'll flip over such a preposterous statement]. Try out my last meal on earth: Murphy's Mac and Cheese and a [few] Snakesbite[s]. Picture this glory: Bubbling hot cheddar and swiss macaroni made with Murphy's Stout, chunky bacon and topped with oven roasted tomatoes. Add the sweet concoction of Woodchuck Cider and Guinness and you have a very happy and slightly portlier me. When it warms up, play a game of corn hole on the front patio. Heaven.

Not feeling hearty Irish food? Have no fear and head over next door to Mossfire Grill. Why do I love Mossfire, you ask? Oh, let me count the ways. 1) Tequila bar. After a close run in during my sophomore year at Florida/Georgia [long story], I vowed never to drink the "devil's porridge" ever again, but, every once in a while I break said vow. Mossfire's worth it. Home to Jacksonville's only tequila bar, Mossfire Grill is a definite way to warm you up on the coldest of nights. If you're hungry, my suggestion is the Tortilla Crusted Goat Cheese appetizer. Delicioso! In a booth or at the bar, there is always a place for some Southwest sizzle. [+2 points for alliteration]

For a searing sensation [+2] of warmth and comfort despite obvious conditions, check out a Jax Beach staple, Cruiser's Grill. I personally love looking at all of the crazy locals who always sport typical beach go-er fashion regardless of the weather. Wet suits? Are you kidding me? Plus, it's only at Cruiser's will you get the Spicy Fried Catfish Sandwich with chipotle mayonnaise, guaranteed to keep you toasty. And how can I forget their mean selection of cheeseburgers and fries!? Try and find another burger joint to top this one, whilst making you feel like you're in a summer cook-out oasis; I dare you! I mean, it's a 2-time consecutive "Best Burger" winner by Folio Weekly! Top it off with a cold brew and I say you a good ole' American classic!

So, Jax - no matter your international tastes, celebrate all the ways the city of Jacksonville can warm you up and make your belly happy!

Get Up Close with Sharks in Jacksonville

Jennifer Bryant — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:58:00 -0700

Four upcoming Jacksonville events all have one thing in common: SHARKS! Normally these creature would having me running scared, but these events sound like too much fun to pass up!

The World Golf Hall of Fame 2D IMAX Theater premiers its newest film, "SHARKS," Jan. 15, 2010. Director of photography, Gavin McKinney, spent more than 20,000 hours filming underwater so the audience gets the full story behind these glorious creatures of the sea. Opening weekend includes many festivities, including a VIP "Dinner and a Movie" package on opening day. The package will include a buffet dinner at Fairways Café, a special presentation by McKinney, entry to the premiere of the film, autographed "SHARKS" posters, an exclusive "SHARKS" viewfinder, authentic sharks' teeth, complimentary admission to Marineland and more. McKinney himself will be on hand to share his first-hand accounts with the audience. Package tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children ages four through 12. What a great deal!

The Museum of Science & History's (MOSH) new spring exhibit, A-mazing Sea opens Jan. 30, 2010. Sea turtles, sharks, whales and octopuses are among the animals visitors will learn about in the fully immersive maze-based exhibit taking guests on a virtual trip into the ocean with surprises around every corner - from role play games and puzzles to problem-solving and deep-sea sleuthing. A-Mazing Sea compels visitors to climb into sea turtle shells, crawl through a whale's mouth and reach into an octopus cave while discovering simple solutions for challenges that face inhabitants of the deep blue and beyond. I can't wait!

To wet my shark appetite a little down the road, The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has a little surprise for visitors this spring. The zoo is bringing back its popular, interactive exhibit, Stingray Bay, where guests get up close and personal with the friendly creatures. In 2010, Stingray Bay will now include sharks. That's right. More details are sure to come, but what a great opportunity to learn more about these ocean-swimmers.

And finally, Jacksonville is getting an arena football team after an eight-year lapse, aptly named, The Sharks (what else?!). The team is an Area Football 1 (AF1) team, hosting teams from across the country for nine home games at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Area during the 2010 season. The home-opener is April 16 versus the Orlando Predators.

Beware of SHARKS, Jacksonville!

Twinkling Lights and Holiday Cheer

Lyndsay Rossman — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 14:15:00 -0700

Downtown Jacksonville is a veritible hot bed for well-known and local artists. From First Wednesday Art Walk each month and weekly arts markets to "pop-up galleries," museums and perfomances at places like Florida Theatre and the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, there's plenty of culture to cling to.

For the holidays, the city has brought even more artsy-ness to the urban core. Venture to Downtown Jacksonville after hours and there's no doubt you've seen the many holiday window displays glistening back. There may not be snow in Jacksonville's forecast, but you'll definitely feel the spirit of the season.

Through Jan. 2, check out the 17 holiday window displays dotted throughout Downtown using the official 2009 map.

Magical Tree Trimming Party

Glimpse of Holiday: Awaiting Santa

Installation Art

The Perfect Gift

Jacqsays: Tailgate Tested, Tailgate Approved!

Jacqueline Simard — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:52:00 -0700

Glory be to the Jaguars! Jacksonville's black-out has been lifted for the last home football game of the season versus the Indianapolis Colts tomorrow, December 17. In typical fashion, my mind's already on the celebration - pre and post, of course.

For anyone who's been living under a rock these past couple of weeks, crawl on out and join the party! Revive the Pride, a grassroots effort of civic leaders have come together to showcase the significance of the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL franchise in our area by whipping out all of the stops for tomorrow's showdown.

This ain't your mama's tailgate. I'm talking the TEALgate to end all tailgates. The party starts at 4 p.m. and doesn't end until Peyton pulls a Tebow [too soon?]. During the pre-game par-tay there will be three, count ‘em, THREE live bands around the stadium, so best believe I'll be getting down with my bad self accordingly. The practice fields will be lined with entertainment a' plenty like a bungee run, QB toss, Kona half-pipe [featuring skateboard shows], a cheerleading camp, face painting, trivia, karaoke and appearances by some of your favorite old school Jags members. Oh, and some random named Santa.

Jaxson de Ville and The ROAR will also be making appearances throughout the lots so boys, you know the drill - get your cameras ready.

I'll be posted up with a few friends at City Hall Pub until the TEALgate starts, as my last venture (AC/DC concert and FL/GA game) proved to be a wild success. They'll be hosting "Teal in the Streets" with live music on the outdoor patio. Jam session, part two.

So even if you don't have tickets to the game [HELLO SELL-OUT!], come check out the festivities! You know the party won't stop just after the Jags annihilate the Colts because, well, that's just how we to in Duval.

So, how does 13-1 sound, boys?