At Koger Gallery & Gardens Museum abundant natural and artificial lighting highlight display cases filled with delicate objects of art featuring Chinese ceramics and Asian culture. The museum's inaugural exhibit, entitled The Chinese Potter: Artists of The Millennia, remains on permanent display. Works by other Chinese painters, as well as some American and English painters, rotate through the museum's collections. Check in with the museum from time to time for special events (such as weekend concerts), when admission may be free.

Named in honor of the Huguenot French settlers who colonized the area for a short while in the 16th century, Huguenot Memorial Park is another one of Jacksonville's many jewels. Aficionados of our fine-feathered friends will enjoy the avian observatory tower, and nature trails, perfect for bird watching. Adventurous types can rent canoes and use the boat launch to access the waterways, while sports-lovers can rent volleyball equipment, horseshoes and bicycles for an afternoon of fun.

Florida's First Coast is renowned for its "dead solid" perfect golf courses. In fact, the region has become a hub for golfers. At The Champions Club at Julington Creek, located just five miles south of I-295 in St. Johns County, golfers can compare scorecards on an 18-hole course that meanders through the woodlands. Modeled after the finest private clubs and resorts, Champions Club offers superb service, pro shop, lounge and grill. Call ahead to reserve tee times. 

Jacksonville Maritime Museum overflows with exhibits dedicated to nautical history, particularly that relating to the St. Johns River and the Port of Jacksonville. Browse through the artifacts from the Civil War and models of the Titanic, Florida's famous tugboat- The Three Friends, sailing ships and steamboats. A small gift shop sells an assortment of nautically themed collectibles and gifts. Volunteer help is always needed.

Black Heritage Trail honors the African-Americans who have made a significant impact on state and regional history, mapping a trail of historic sites in both Duval and St Johns counties. Among the sites are American Beach in Amelia Island, Bethel Baptist Institutional Church, Catherine Street Fire Station No.3, Centennial Hall, Kingsley Plantation State Historic Site, Masonic Temple Building, Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church, Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church and more. Other tour sites are available in St. Augustine. Call for further details and directions.

Jacksonville is home to Mayport Naval Station, the second largest aircraft carrier basin on the East Coast. Maritime buffs and military enthusiasts may tour the base and visit ships at no charge on weekends. The base features some of the nation's most impressive aircraft carriers, frigates and destroyers. It is located just east of downtown off Mayport Road (State Road A1A). Call for directions and to arrange your own tour.

Scenic, bustling University of North Florida, with a campus tucked away on a nature preserve off St Johns Bluff and Butler Boulevards, is home to the much-loved University Gallery. It can be found inside Building 002, Founders Hall, and is known for its variety of exhibitions. Works are on display from both regional and national artists, along with those showcased from the Visual Arts Department faculty and students. Admission is free and the gallery is open to the public.

Pedestrian Gallery focuses on contemporary art and features Southeastern US artists. It sponsors numerous shows and exhibits and helps local artists establish careers. In addition, the gallery promotes education in the visual arts with its Regional Artist Workspace (RAW), a center that holds monthly classes on everything from drawing and painting to bookbinding and portfolio review, along with art programs for kids. It is a great way to appreciate the variety of local and regional artwork.

Less than an hour's drive from Jacksonville Camp Blanding Museum and Memorial Park is dedicated to the memory of American soldiers in World War II, housed in refurbished barracks featuring historical exhibits. There are objects and artifacts related to the history, heritage and traditions of the camp's namesake General Blanding, as well as the individuals and units that trained here. There is also a collection of weapons from both allied and Axis forces. Numerous monuments cover the museum's grounds.

Locals know all about the Morocco Shrine Auditorium as it is home to some of their favorite events and get-togethers. Located across the street from the University of North Florida off St Johns Bluff and Butler Boulevards, it is easily accessible from any part of town. A number of local events occur here including beer festivals, computer expos, craft shows and assorted club meetings open to the public. More than 28,000 square feet of rent space includes a dance floor or stage, if needed. The auditorium is home of the local chapter of the Shriners organization. Call for timings and more information on upcoming events.