By Carrie McLaren
This summer, families visiting Jacksonville have a variety of activities and events to choose from.
Here are six ideas to get you going in this vibrant city:
Soccer Time – Don’t miss the hottest team in town, the Jacksonville Armada FC soccer club, part of the North American Soccer League. The Armada is new in town and the team's matches are quickly becoming the place to be this year. Don’t miss the pre-game Match Experience outside the stadium with activities, food vendors and live entertainment.
See the Animals – Spend time at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens to see more than 2,000 animals and close to 1,000 types of plants. Take a ride, too, on the animal-themed carousel and the zoo train that loops through the park. For the ultimate experience, stop by the Giraffe Lookout to feed these beautiful, stately beasts.
The Dinosaurs Are Coming – Don’t miss the summer arrival of the Dinosaurs Unleased exhibit opening at the Museum of Science & History, Jacksonville on May 22. With life-sized, life-like animatronic dinosaurs, skeletons and plenty of digging for fossils, it’s a great place to unleash your inner paleontologist.
Dr. Seuss is On The Loose – Treat your kids to a fun-filled musical as Seussical: The Musical takes the stage at the Alhambra Theatre June 22-Aug. 2. Enjoy songs, storytelling and a great meal at this historic dinner theater.
Hey Batter, Batter -- Bring your glove and get ready to catch foul balls with the Jacksonville Suns baseball team. Immediately following Sunday afternoon games, kids are invited to run the bases. And on most Friday nights, you should stick around after the game for Friday Family Fireworks night.
Cue the Music -- Jazz music fills the air over Memorial Day weekend with the return of the Jacksonville Jazz Festival. This year’s lineup features Spyro Gyra, Postmodern Jukebox, Michael Franks, Roman Street and more. Don’t miss the legendary Jacksonville jazz piano competition kicking off the festival at the Florida Theatre.