Downtown Jacksonville isn’t just for the weekday rush, the occasional visit for Jaguar football games or concerts at Jacksonville Veteran’s Memorial Arena.  Downtown has a lot to offer on Saturday and Sunday too before the sun sinks into the St. Johns and the Bay Street nightlife lights up.

Depending on what your scene is here are a few suggestions . . .

If you’re looking for a huge, stick to your ribs breakfast with a side of live music, then the Bluegrass Brunch on Saturday at Gas Knob Pub is for you.  Brunch at this new restaurant, located in the Sports Complex downtown, features Irish favorites like the Pig and Chicken - two slabs of toast loaded with sausage fresh from Ireland, scrambled eggs, all smothered in cheese.  There’s also the Yankee breakfast and Black Bean Cakes for our less meat-inclined friends.  Everything we ordered was delicious and the Bluegrass band was outstanding.  Don’t be alarmed if patrons show up with their own instruments - the Pub didn’t over book the stage - they’re just on there way to the Pub’s outdoor patio for Saturday’s "open air jam." 

Jacksonville’s Main Library is four floors of books and other materials, of course, but it also offers incredible programs, usually at no cost.  My family and I enjoy Mother Goose storytime Saturday mornings in the Children’s Library.  It’s a free event with a great storyteller, sing-alongs and a visit from the library’s talking owl.  There is also Family Art Time and for the teens their own Poetry Club in the Teen Study Room.  Adults will enjoy a variety of events.  September events include a discussion with author Rodney Hurst as a part of the African American Collection Author Series, Books Alive, where films inspired by great books are previewed and art collections throughout the library.  Stop by Shelby’s Café for a steamy cup of coffee, pastry or made-to-order breakfast favorite. 

Sunday is for art enthusiasts and their little apprentices.  The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville welcomes families to Bank of America Family Free Day.  Museum admission is free all day for children and accompanying adults.  I can’t wait to take my little one to the ArtExplorium Loft.  I understand the "loft" is hands-on fun for kids.  There are also two large art studios for creative art-making experiences for teens, adults and families.  MOCA exhibits feature artwork from 1960 to present.  Visiting exhibits are always fantastic! 

For more ideas on how to explore Downtown this weekend log on to http://www.visitjacksonville.com/ or call (904) 798-9111.