Immerse yourself in beauty and history at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, a cultural gem in the heart of Jacksonville. Located along the scenic St. Johns River, the museum features an exceptional art collection spanning millennia and some of Northeast Florida’s most stunning historic gardens—creating a unique destination where nature and creativity flourish together.

Recommended For

Art Lovers: Explore over 5,000 works of art, from ancient artifacts to American masters like Norman Rockwell and Winslow Homer.

Garden Enthusiasts: Wander through the Italian, English, and Sculpture Gardens adorned with fountains, marble, and seasonal blooms.

Families & Kids: Create your own masterpiece in Art Connections, explore exhibits designed for young children, and enjoy self-guided tours made just for families.

History & Design Fans: Discover historic landscape architecture by famed designers like Ellen Biddle Shipman and Ossian Cole Simonds.

What to Expect

  • Expansive Art Collection: Works from 2100 B.C. to the 21st century, including Meissen porcelain and contemporary sculpture.
  • Historic Gardens: Three meticulously restored gardens offering stunning views of the river and year-round plant displays.
  • Interactive Learning: Hands-on exhibits and activities in Art Connections designed for visitors of all ages.

Collection Highlights

  • Permanent Collection: Features masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens, Romare Bearden, Thomas Moran, and more.
  • Wark Collection of Early Meissen Porcelain: A distinguished selection of decorative arts with gallery guides for in-depth exploration.
  • Community Sculpture Garden: Outdoor works like *Sea of the Ear Rings* and *Spirit of the Dance*, plus rotating exhibits.

Garden Highlights

  • English Garden: Brick paths, pergolas, and oak canopies in a design dating back to 1910.
  • Italian Garden: Created by Ellen Biddle Shipman, with reflecting pools and riverfront views inspired by Tuscan villas.
  • Weaver Sculpture Garden: Four major contemporary works on the museum lawn, plus space for annual exhibitions.

Family & Educational Experiences

  • Art Connections: Engage with interactive exhibits like Picture Perfect, Creativity Timeline, and Face to Face portrait-making.
  • Gallery Under Five: Special exhibit designed for children ages 18 months to 5 years with child-sized art and activities.
  • Camp Cummer: Weeklong summer art camps for kids and middle schoolers, featuring drawing, painting, clay work, and portfolio development.
  • Adult Classes: Learn acrylic painting, garden history, or Western art history in expert-led courses and workshops.

Self-Guided Tours

Visitors can enhance their experience with free self-guided materials available at the front desk:

  • Cummer Museum Garden Tour: A 12-stop tour through the museum’s restored historic gardens.
  • The Royal Dish Gallery Guide: Learn about Meissen porcelain, its patterns, and history.
  • Family Guide Garden Tour: Interactive garden discovery perfect for parents and children.
  • The Royal Dish Family Guide: Family-focused exploration of the Wark Collection of Meissen porcelain.

Visitor Info

  • Location: 829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204
  • Phone: 904-356-6857
  • Website: cummermuseum.org

Tip: Visit in spring for blooming azaleas in the English Garden, or during special exhibitions for unique art and sculpture experiences. Don’t miss the café and gift shop for a relaxing break and thoughtful souvenirs.

Plan Your Trip