The View from a Drawbridge

I had the day off today and it occurred to me that people rarely take the time to be tourists in their own town. Since my travel budget is basically zero these days, I figured why not treat myself? So after a late breakfast, I hopped into my car and headed for Hemming Plaza, one of the most delightful areas of downtown Jacksonville, Florida. The plaza itself is a gorgeous historical open air square and wonderful spot to enjoy a sunny day, provided you can handle seeing the occasional homeless person.

Hemming Plaza

It is flanked by our city hall, which is housed in the old Cohen Brothers Department Store building, an edifice that is dear to every Jacksonvillian’s heart.

  City Hall

Across from there is the stunning Snyder Memorial Church, which unfortunately has not held a service since the 1970s, so people are only allowed in on special occasions. But even seeing it only from the outside is a visual treat.

Dominating the plaza is the main branch of the Jacksonville Public Library. From the enormous bronze owl sculpture out front to the animatronic owl that tells stories to the children, this place has flair. Its breathtakingly high ceilings, vast expanses of books, sleepy little fountained patio on the second floor, and the stunning map room are just a few of the many marvelous things about this library. Honestly, I could pitch a tent in there and never leave, and be quite content for the rest of my life.

Jax Public Library

From there, I like to wander next door to the Jacksonville Museum of Contemporary Art. Not only is their permanent exhibition delightful, but they also have amazing temporary exhibits. Currently they have one called “Slow: Marking Time in Photography and Film”, and it’s stunning. One artist in particular caught my eye. James Nares did a video called “Street” which is a high definition video of the streets of New York, and I must have sat there for an hour just watching. I know it probably sounds dull, but it was gripping. It’s amazing how everyone is in their own little world, and yet also a part of the bustle that is the big city. And you see that juxtaposition most vividly because it’s in slow motion. If you get a chance to check this out, please do, but you better hurry—the show ends April 7^th.

Jax MOCA

After that, I like to wander down the street to Chamblin Bookmine, which is about 25,000 square feet of dusty used and rare books that  completely run the gamut of every possible type of reading material. If you’re into books like I am, you’ll feel like a kid in a candy store. And speaking of food, their on-site café is a wonderful place to eat, with a great view of the church across the way.

So there you have it: my perfect Jacksonville day. What are you waiting for?