Things to Do at Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens

Complete Guide to Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in Jacksonville

About Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens

The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens stands as Jacksonville's premier cultural institution, combining world-class art collections with breathtaking historic gardens along the St. Johns River. Founded in 1961, the museum houses an impressive collection spanning over 5,000 years of artistic achievement, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works, with particular strengths in American and European paintings, Meissen porcelain, and decorative arts. The museum's historic gardens are equally spectacular, featuring formal English and Italian garden designs that were originally created in the 1930s. These meticulously maintained gardens showcase seasonal blooms, ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and stunning river views, making the Cummer Museum a unique destination where art and nature harmoniously coexist. The combination of indoor galleries and outdoor beauty creates an immersive cultural experience that reflects Jacksonville's rich artistic heritage.

What to See & Do

Historic Gardens

Explore the formal English and Italian gardens with seasonal flowers, century-old oak trees, reflecting pools, and panoramic views of the St. Johns River

American Art Collection

View works by renowned American artists including Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, and Norman Rockwell spanning colonial times to contemporary periods

Meissen Porcelain Collection

Admire one of the world's finest collections of 18th-century Meissen porcelain, featuring elaborate figurines, dinnerware, and decorative objects

European Masters Gallery

Discover paintings and sculptures by European masters including works from the Baroque, Rococo, and Impressionist periods

Contemporary Art Wing

Experience rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art featuring both established and emerging artists from around the world

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Closed Mondays and major holidays. Gardens open until 5:00 PM.

Tickets & Pricing

Adults $15, Seniors (65+) $10, Students $6, Children under 5 free. Members and military personnel receive free admission. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum entrance.

Best Time to Visit

Visit during spring (March-May) for peak garden blooms, or fall (October-December) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Tuesday-Thursday mornings offer the most peaceful experience.

Suggested Duration

Plan 2-4 hours to fully explore both the museum galleries and gardens at a leisurely pace

Getting There

The Cummer Museum is located at 829 Riverside Avenue in Jacksonville's historic Riverside neighborhood, easily accessible by car with free on-site parking available. From downtown Jacksonville, it's a short 5-minute drive west along Riverside Avenue. Public transportation options include JTA bus routes that stop nearby on Park Street. The museum is also accessible via ride-sharing services, and the scenic Riverside area is walkable for those staying in nearby hotels or exploring the neighborhood's shops and restaurants.

Things to Do Nearby

Riverside Arts Market
Saturday morning farmers market and arts festival under the Fuller Warren Bridge featuring local vendors, live music, and river views
Boone Park
Historic neighborhood park with playgrounds, walking paths, and frequent community events in the heart of the Riverside-Avondale district
Five Points
Trendy intersection featuring eclectic shops, restaurants, bars, and the historic Sun-Ray Cinema in a walkable urban village setting
Memorial Park
Waterfront park along the St. Johns River with walking trails, picnic areas, boat ramps, and beautiful views of downtown Jacksonville
Shoppes of Avondale
Charming shopping district with boutique stores, cafes, restaurants, and the historic Avondale Theater along tree-lined St. Johns Avenue

Tips & Advice

Visit the gardens first if arriving in the morning when lighting is best for photography and temperatures are cooler
Check the museum's website for special exhibitions and events, including evening programs like Art After Dark
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring both indoor galleries and outdoor garden paths
Consider purchasing a membership if you plan multiple visits, as it includes free admission and special member events

Tours & Activities at Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens