Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers families a perfect blend of indoor cultural exploration and outdoor garden adventures in Jacksonville. With dedicated interactive galleries designed for young visitors, hands-on art activities, and sprawling riverside gardens to explore, this museum makes art accessible and fun for even the youngest family members.

• ✓Art Connections interactive gallery with hands-on art-making activities for children
• ✓Historic riverside gardens spanning multiple acres with fountains, sculptures, and pathways to explore
• ✓Family art workshops and special programming held throughout the year
• ✓Scavenger hunts and activity guides designed specifically for young museum visitors
• ✓Beautiful outdoor spaces perfect for picnicking and letting kids roam safely

1. 1.Visit on Tuesday evenings when the museum stays open until 8:00 PM for a less crowded experience with cooler temperatures to enjoy the gardens
2. 2.Start with the Art Connections gallery to engage kids immediately with hands-on activities before exploring the main collections
3. 3.Pack a small snack and plan for garden exploration time - the riverfront grounds are perfect for letting kids burn energy between gallery visits
4. 4.Download the museum's family guide or ask for activity sheets at admission to keep kids engaged throughout your visit
5. 5.Free parking is available on-site, and the Saturday morning opening at 10:00 AM is ideal for beating afternoon heat in the gardens

Saturday mornings at 10:00 AM opening or Tuesday evenings offer the best experience. Morning visits allow you to enjoy the gardens before afternoon heat, while Tuesday evenings provide extended hours with fewer crowds and pleasant weather for outdoor exploration.

Admission fees apply with family and child discounts available. The museum offers free parking, stroller-friendly pathways, and a café for light refreshments, making it easy to spend several hours exploring both indoor galleries and outdoor gardens.

Open year-round with indoor climate-controlled galleries. Spring (March-May) offers the most spectacular garden blooms. The museum hosts special family events during school breaks and holidays, including summer art camps and holiday-themed activities.

Five Points district is just minutes away with kid-friendly options like Hawkers Asian Street Food (fun sharing plates) and Sweet Pete's candy shop and café. The Riverside Arts Market (Saturdays) also offers various food vendors and treats when combined with your museum visit.