For those seeking adventure and wildlife wonders, a visit to the Jacksonville Zoo is an absolute must! Just a short distance from our enchanted wedding venue, the Jacksonville Zoo offers an immersive experience for animal lovers of all ages. Wander through lush habitats and encounter fascinating creatures from around the globe, from majestic big cats to playful primates and colorful avian wonders. With interactive exhibits, educational programs, and unforgettable animal encounters, the Jacksonville Zoo promises a day filled with excitement and discovery for the whole family.
For a cultural and botanical escape, look no further than the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, a hidden gem nestled along the banks of the St. Johns River. Just a short jaunt from our whimsical wedding wonderland, the Cummer Museum invites you to immerse yourself in a world of artistic masterpieces and lush botanical beauty. Wander through the museum's galleries adorned with captivating works of art spanning centuries and continents, from Renaissance classics to contemporary creations. Step outside and stroll through the enchanting gardens, where fragrant blooms, tranquil water features, and ancient oak trees create a serene oasis for contemplation and relaxation. Whether you're an art aficionado, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens offers a delightful blend of culture and tranquility for all to enjoy. Come, wander through the galleries, meander along the garden paths, and let the beauty of art and nature inspire your soul.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history awaiting you in historic St. Augustine, just a short journey from our enchanted wedding venue. As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, charming cobblestone streets, and fascinating tales from centuries past. Wander through the cobblestone lanes of the historic district, where centuries-old architecture and Spanish colonial charm transport you to another era. With its blend of historic charm, cultural heritage, and coastal beauty, historic St. Augustine offers a wealth of experiences to delight and enchant visitors of all ages. Come, wander through the storied streets, uncover hidden gems around every corner, and let the magic of this historic city capture your heart.
This tiger-focused ranch has a conservation mission, often rescuing tigers and other big cats from inhumane captivity. Volunteers give tours of the ranch, providing the cats’ histories and detailed explanations of their operations. Buy tickets ahead of time for a night feeding. Watching the cats pace around their cages to tear into whole carcasses is an experience like no other.
This beautiful, oceanfront city park in Atlantic Beach, offers more than 20 miles of biking and hiking trails ranging in difficulty, it has an area dedicated to camping, a lake for fishing and paddle boarding, access for kayaking and miles of white sand beaches. Hanna is also home to one of the best surfing spots in Jacksonville.
Wetlands, marshes, bike paths and secret beaches, that’s the magic you’ll find at Big Talbot. Blackrock Beach and Boneyard Beach are the highlights, be sure to enjoy a guided kayak tour or go for a hike.
Imagine exploring deep space and the observable universe without ever stepping foot off our planet. That’s what it feels like at The Bryan-Gooding Planetarium at MOSH, one of the largest single-lens planetariums in the U.S. (translation: expect cutting edge technology for razor-sharp viewing and immerse experiences). The planetarium is one of the museum’s most notable features, but there’s more to love. A handful of family-friendly exhibits entertain and amuse with themes that span nature and science.
Located in the historic Arlington neighborhood, the Arboretum is by far one of the best hidden spots in Jacksonville. Great hiking trails, different ecosystems, wildlife, streams, and a beautiful and peaceful pond covered in lilies. The arboretum is pet friendly and a great outdoor spot for a family hike.
The downtown Riverwalk is a network of multi-use trails and open space developments along both the north and south banks of the St. Johns River in Jacksonville, Florida. The roughly 2-mile Downtown Northbank portion travels from the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville into the Brooklyn district. The 1.25-mile Southbank portion connects local landmarks such as Friendship Fountain, Museum of Science & History and Riverplace Tower. All along the riverwalks on both banks are spectacular views of the St. Johns River.