Top 5 Best Kept Secrets In Jacksonville

Jacksonville is known as one of Florida's First Coast cities. It is a gem that rests at the very top of the state and is sometimes jokingly referred to by locals as "Southern Georgia".
Jacksonville has a dash of southern hospitality mixed with thriving art and cultural scenes which gives it that perfect blend of big-city sophistication and small-town charm. We've compiled a list of the five best-kept secrets in Jacksonville, Florida. You will not want to miss these on your next trip down to the Sunshine State!

Thrasher-Horne Center

Craving a fabulous theater experience? Look no further than the Thrasher-Horne Center located at St. John River's State College. This theater is loved by locals for one very good reason- it produces some of the best musicals and plays south of Broadway! If you want a night of fine theater at a reasonable price, check out the Thrasher-Horne Center.

Catty Shack Ranch

The Catty Shack Ranch is a rescue operation that takes in big cats that have been exploited or sold on the black market. Not only will you get a chance to see these creatures in a humane environment, but your admission fee also contributes to the well-being and rescue of other cats! Learn about the rehabilitation and care of some of the world's most majestic creatures.

Jacksonville Zoo

The Catty Shack is not the only location in Jacksonville where you can see exceptional furry friends. This Florida city is home to one of the best zoos in the country. The Jacksonville Zoo is renowned for its creative and interactive exhibits. With an emphasis on education and conservation, this zoo prides itself on being responsible and entertaining.

The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens

This premier location for arts and culture is one of the jewels of Jacksonville. With regular exhibits and a rotation of new art coming in, there's always something great to see in the halls of The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. The gardens themselves are incredibly lush and green. You could easily spend all day getting lost in the beauty that is this incredible museum!

Treaty Oak

Treaty Oak is not really well known outside of Jacksonville, so you will not find it mobbed with tourists like some of the other attractions on this list. This octopus-shaped tree is awesome to look at. It sprawls for several feet and is located right in downtown Jacksonville. Bring a picnic lunch and plan to spend the afternoon. The lower hanging branches make great photo opportunities and they are extremely easy to climb up onto.

Your next trip to Jacksonville should be as memorable as possible so make sure that you visit some of the attractions and sights on this list. You'll be getting a real taste of the culture while supporting local institutions.