The St. Johns River basin defines the Jacksonville area, and is teaming with history and culture. Learn more about its beginnings at the Mandarin Museum & Historical Society. The museum and historical park includes a typical Mandarin homestead, including a restored farmhouse, barn and sawmill.
An amazing animal sanctuary awaits you at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. The animal preserve sits on 110 acres at the mouth of the Trout River and is home to exhibits and attractions that display more than 2,000 exotic animals and 1,500 plant species.
The African American experience in film, art, music and more takes center stage at the Ritz Theatre, a premier cultural institution in downtown Jacksonville. Popular events include the Black History Film Series, the Ritz Youth Oratorical Competition, and Amateur Night at the Ritz.