Visit Jacksonville Blog

Celebrate the 4th of July with Four Fireworks Shows in Jacksonville

Jennifer Bryant — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:46:00 -0700

This military town is strutting their patriotic spirit this week with celebrations around town and four fireworks displays to celebrate Independence Day. Get out the Red, White and Blue! Here is the rundown of events:

July 2 - Kick-off the holiday weekend with a Community Fireworks Display at World Golf Village. Bring your picnic blankets and chairs for a family-friendly celebration featuring fireworks over the Walk of Champions. Restaurants and shops open late.
July 3 - The Jacksonville Suns, Double AA Florida Marlins Affiliate, play the Montgomery Biscuits in a Pre-Independence Day Celebration that includes a giant fireworks show following the game. The Suns play at The Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville in Downtown.
July 3-5 - ZOO-ly Jamboree at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is an old-fashion 4^th of July celebration for the entire family. What could be better than potato sack and egg relay races and other festivities? Celebration included in zoo admission and military families receive a special discount by visiting the zoo's Web site.
July 3-5 - The City of Jacksonville Presents Freedom, Fanfare & Fireworks in Downtown Jacksonville. Cool off with ice skating and other family-fun at Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena throughout the weekend. Then turn up the heat with a free concert at Metro Park with Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo along with Richard Marx. A spectacular fireworks show over the St. Johns River is the shining feature of the weekend on July 4. Fireworks begin at 9: 45 p.m.
July 4 - The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens invites you to lounge in the stately gardens of the museum and take in the fireworks over the St, Johns River. The classic American jazz sounds of the St. Johns River City Band will get everyone in the mood to celebrate into the night. The Summer Garden Concert is scheduled from 7-10 p.m. Entry is $10 and guests are allowed to bring blankets, chairs, food and beverages to enjoy the evening.
July 4 - Another spot to catch the Downtown fireworks - the rooftop at the Museum of Science & History (MOSH). For ten bucks you get entrance into the museum and then a prime spot to watch for fireworks.
July 4 - If there are any spots available, the S.S. Marine Taxi hosts a 4^th of July Family Fireworks Cruise on the St. Johns River during the Downtown fireworks show. This is one of the best seats for the lighted spectacle, so tickets go fast.
July 4 - Jacksonville Beach lights up the ocean with its 4^th of July Liberty Celebration. Family-friendly activities, live entertainment and more lead up to an unbelievable fireworks display from the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier.

Check out www.visitjacksonville.com/fourthofjuly for more information and hotels in Jacksonville.

think u know jax?

The Jaxpert — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:39:00 -0700

do you have some fun Flickr photos from your last trip to jacksonville beach? did you get killer video of the last jaguars game and post it on YouTube? was your last meal in downtown jax so delicious you had to tweet about it? do you find yourself learning something new every time you explore jax? then you are in the right place. welcome to udontknowjax, an online community devoted to all things jacksonville, florida.

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The Smell of the Pigskin, Roar of the Crowd

Lyndsay Rossman — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 06:53:00 -0700

Ever wonder what it feels like to be in the heart of the action of a football game? After last week, I don't have to wonder anymore.

During a conference I attended in Jacksonville, I was given the opportunity that many of my friends only dream of...a behind the scenes tour of the Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, home of the NFL Jaguars (cue the pangs of jealousy). After a brief stop in the weight room, we headed to the locker room and met a few of the players: rookie WR Tiquan Underwood, first year WR Nathan Hughes and DT Atiyyah Ellison, who at 6'3" and 322 pounds towered over me.

We got a glimpse of the players' lives by checking out their lockers...pictures of family, colognes, Jolly Ranchers, etc. One of the cool things we saw in all lockers was the new helmet, part of the uniform change unveiled in April. The helmets are designed with a paint scheme that creates a mirror-like effect of black or teal depending on how the light hits them.

We toured the press booth following the locker room and while the media definitely has one of the best views of the action, there is no way I would have lasted in there during a game. We were told by our tour guide, Scott, that if a member of the press cheers in any way, they could lose their media credentials. WHAT? How are you supposed to watch a game and not cheer (or curse)? As a very, VERY impassioned fan, there is no way I would be able to make that commitment...even for free tickets!

But the pièce de résistance was to come. Through a doorway under a giant sign insisting those who walk under it to "Play Like Champions," was the field. Walking onto the field, I felt so small with 67,000 fans in the stands watching me. I'd like to say that it wasn't a big deal since I have played football before...ok, so it was Powderpuff football in high school and I wasn't very good...but it was a very surreal experience being down in the heart of the stadium and one I won't soon forget.

On the way out, I did a little good luck dance that the Jags would have a winning season and even make it to the Super Bowl. And, when I watch games in the stadium or on TV, I'll have the satisfaction of knowing that for a couple of hours, I knew what it was like to be an NFL player.

Check out the Jags in training camp Aug. 2-13 on the practice fields adjacent to the stadium. The team's first preseason home game is Aug. 22 versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the season home opener on Sept. 22 against Super Bowl team Arizona Cardinals. Get your tickets at www.jaguars.com.

Bring Your Pets!

The Jaxpert — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:05:00 -0700

I've lived in Jacksonville over four years now and a huge part of the environment and lifestyle here is dogs. I've never thought of myself as a dog lover, but things sure have changed. I decided to get my dog Rocky about a year and a half ago and I couldn't believe all the fun I was missing! I take Rocky to a local dog park in Jacksonville Beach at least a couple times a month. Every time I go I meet new people and as a first time pet owner there's a lot to know. I usually get pretty useful advice from these loving dog owners, for instance when Rocky became around six months old it was time to get him neutered. Well I met this lovely lady at the dog park, Cindy, she introduced me to the no more homeless pets program. This program provides funds for spaying or neutering your cat or dog. You go to your regular vet and provide the paperwork and wah-la you can spay or neuter your pet for a minimal payment of only two dollars (to register your pet with the city). I was astonished at how easy it was, instead of paying the just about two-hundred dollars to neuter Rocky I got a major discount thanks to my conversation with Cindy at the dog park. The program is designed to eliminate the killing of dogs and cats in our community through free and low-cost spay and neuter programs on the first coast. So if you just got your first pet I definitely recommend taking a look at First Coast No More Homeless Pets for great deals, and it's for a great cause. Jacksonville is a very pet-welcoming city, we even have hotels that are pet-friendly including the Omni in downtown, Candlewood Suites, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Homewood Suites, and the Hotel Indigo even has a canine cocktail event every week. What if you've got meetings planned all day and you can't play with your fluffy friend? Well you won't believe it but Jacksonville is the original home of Pet Paradise Resorts. This resort is the ultimate pet boarding experience as well as a day care and even a groomer. After your pet gets relaxed and all cleaned up you guys can head down to the Jacksonville Landing in downtown for Yappy Hour, don't forget it's B.Y.O.D (bring your own dog). So next planned business trip or even vacation you can bring your family pet and he or she is welcome in Jacksonville anytime!

-Jessica Arm

Tasty Beer on Tap at Bold City Brewery

Jennifer Bryant — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 06:13:00 -0700

So mom gets a night off with the girls and all the ladies head to a micro-brewery and neighborhood sports bar. Of course! I guess we're not the wine and cheese types. Anyhow, you must check out Bold City Brewery. It's quickly becoming a local favorite in Jacksonville and is served at several bars and restaurants around town.

After trying it at the Jazz Fest we decided to go to the source. The brewery has a small pub in the front of the house of its warehouse brew factory on Rosselle Street. It's easy to miss on a street crowded with warehouses, but once you step inside you're transported to a classy, urban bar with exposed brick walls, hi-top tables and for added ambiance the rumbling sounds of the train. No really, it's a part of the experience. The bartender dings a bell when the train rolls by and everyone lets out a "woot."

And the beer? It's delicious. If you're a first timer the generous staff will bring you a sampler - shot size tastes of each beer served tucked into a tray illustrated with descriptions of each brew. You start from the lightest beer, like our table favorite - Starry Lights - and work you're way up to a bold concoction made with coffee (and I swoon beer and coffee - delightful). I settled for a pint of the Mad Manatee IPA. So long as you order a pint, the sampler is in the house and who wouldn't want to take in a full glass of Bold City's Brew?

Have Fun with Your Toddler in Jacksonville

Jennifer Bryant — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 06:36:00 -0700

I recently visited another Florida destination, which shall remain nameless, and was surprised to hear from front desk staff, store clerks and others that they didn't have recommendations for fun, affordable things to do with our toddler. Unbelievable! I'm in seminars all day and my husband is stuck trying to entertain our son with no help from the locals or hospitality staff.

I wanted to take this opportunity to remind you all of the activities and attractions in Jacksonville that will entertain the entire family, all without breaking the bank. Here are my suggestions for things to do with your toddler in Jacksonville:

Go to the Main Library in Downtown Jacksonville. It's the largest public library in Florida and kids will have a great time exploring the children's library, complete with a larger than life grassy entrance with the sounds of bugs chirping all around. Daily programming is offered including story times and preschool art activities. There's a teen room for the older kids too. It's free!
There are so many public parks in Jacksonville, you're sure to find one near your hotel. One of my favorites (and I've mentioned it before) is the South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground. It's near the beach and there are basketball hoops, tennis courts and trails for other kids to check-out. The tot play station is perfect for the little ones and there is a massive playground for older kids.
Take the family out to the ball game. Yes, this is definitely something the whole family will love and even your toddler can get into the cheers for the Jacksonville Suns "AA" Southern League, affiliated with the Florida Marlins. Just ask the staff at Parenting Magazine how to accommodate the little ones at a ball game. Admission is inexpensive - less than $6 bucks for seats and if you visit on Tuesday night ice cream, hot dogs and peanuts are 50 cents. Fridays are Family Fireworks night. The Suns play through September.
Explore the Jacksonville Zoo. What's a better family attraction than the zoo and this one is amazing with beautiful botanical gardens and tons of fun. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Play Park area with a child-size maze, play ground and splash park. We've been taking my son since he was three weeks old! Kids two and under are free, children 3-12 are just $8 and adults are $13. If you plan to visit often and I think you'll want to return - I suggest purchasing a membership to the zoo.
Looking for something indoors (think AC) - head to one of Jacksonville's malls - The Regency Square Mall, The Avenues Mall and the Orange Park Mall (bothSimon properties-go to www.simon.com) all have entertaining indoor play areas for kids.

I could go on; yes there are even more affordable attractions in Jacksonville to visit with your family. I'll save these for future posts. I would also love to hear your suggestions. Tell us, what's your favorite thing to do with the kids in Jacksonville.

Three micro-breweries in our backyard!

Jacqueline Simard — Wed, 20 May 2009 12:25:00 -0700

Good afternoon Jacksonville! It is a cold, windy and a rainy day in May! It's hard to get around without your umbrella being turned inside out today. Before this weather came to visit us I got a chance to venture out to downtown St. Augustine this weekend. The weather was perfect with a little breeze as I sat on the balcony of the A1A Aleworks restaurant with a group of my friends. I learned a fun and interesting fact as I was snacking on my Mussels appetizer, did you know that Ragtime in Atlantic Beach, Seven Bridges in Tinseltown and A1A Aleworks in St.Augustine were all the same micro-brewery? Me either! Their beers have been awarded the world beer cup and winners of the great American beer festival. So once this crazy weather passes Jacksonville you should make the trip to at least one of the three micro-breweries and enjoy either the pale ale's or lagers, it's all up to you!

-- Jessica Arm

FORE! on the Ninth

Jacqueline Simard — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:37:00 -0700

I never understood why my friends, in all of their purebred American glory, felt the need to celebrate May fifth. But alas, I will indubitably be picking each and every one of them up at La Nopalera tonight because they felt compelled to drink that extra margarita in celebration of "my brothers' independence." Yes, this is a quote from a friend of mine. He was born in Maine.

May 9th, on the other hand, is my kind of holiday and one definitely worth celebrating. Adventure Landing has declared the second Saturday of every May "National Miniature Golf Day" [enter sorority squeal of excitement here]. All three area locations will be participating in this event and are offering a free Miniature Golf Season Pass ($79.99 value - or four manicures) to the first 100 guests that purchase a round of golf. Adventure Landing will also be offering unlimited miniature golf for the day for the price of a 2-game ticket. For all of you math whizzes (and I am one to talk, I received a less than impressive a B- in finite math!?) that's unlimited mini golf for the day for only $7.

So granted, today is Cinco de Mayo but I say pass on that Patron and save your $7 [and show me a bar that has a Patron shot for that cheap] for a whole day's worth of fun this Saturday! If you know me, you know I'll be one of the first in line. Happy holidays!

Fun with the Suns

Jacqueline Simard — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 10:43:00 -0700

"Good afternoon, Jacksonville. Clear, sunny skies greet you today, but don't let Mother Nature fool you. Bundle up before you go outside, as conditions are not of the norm for mid-April in the Sunshine State."

That's my big girl weather report voice. I've been practicing it ever since I was in grade school when I was the head anchor for Manatee TV at Manatee Elementary.

Yeah, I was that kid.

And although I wouldn't mind the limelight of being on television everyday, delivering the news of this week's weather is not a task I would like to fulfill, as depressing the masses in this April chill is not my forte.

So, in hopes of melting away the current nippy mindset of the Jacksonville population, I want to remind you all of America's two greatest pastimes that are back in Jax - baseball and dollar drafts.

"Thursday Night Throwdown" known as "Thirsty Thursday" to us habitual summer visitors of the Jacksonville Baseball Grounds, is always a time of sheer enjoyment and tonight, my faithful blog readers, I will be making my first 2009 appearance at the stadium.

Now I normally don't "do" baseball. In fact, the last baseball game I've been to was game 7 of the 1997 World Series [Go Marlins!] but for some reason I really get into these games. Tonight's game features not only Buds for a buck, but Barcardi specials for two and Three Olives drinks for three!

And with admission only $6.50 per ticket, the Jacksonville Suns baseball games provide a fun, yet affordable way to spend a night. The Suns take on the West Tennesse Diamond Jaxx at 7:05 tonight as they aim for their fifth straight win and possibly the lead in the Southern League South standings.

For the team's entire schedule and other promotions, visit their Web site.

-- Jacqueline Simard