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Count down to Glastonbury with all the numbers you need to know

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, August 29th 2025 at 5:44 GMT by Action News Jax
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Jacksonville’s Must‑See Family Fun: Action News Jax’s Countdown of the City’s Top 10 Attractions

When it comes to family outings, Jacksonville offers an abundance of activities that appeal to all ages. In a recent feature for the Action News Jax entertainment desk, readers were treated to a carefully curated “count‑down” that showcases the best places to visit in the Metro‑Jacksonville area. The piece, which can be found at the network’s website under the entertainment section, presents a blend of well‑known landmarks, hidden gems, and newly opened venues, each with its own unique flavor. The article is thorough enough to serve as a mini‑travel guide, complete with direct links to official sites, ticketing information, and tips from local insiders. Below is a detailed rundown of the top 10 stops highlighted in the countdown, followed by a brief exploration of the stories behind each destination.

1. The Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens – The “Green” Experience

The countdown opens with the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, a sprawling 122‑acre haven that blends animal exhibits with botanical splendor. The article notes that the zoo boasts more than 2,000 animals from 220 species and that the newly added “River of Life” exhibit is a must‑see for children fascinated by marine life. The guide directs readers to the official zoo website for online tickets and highlights the current “Spring Fling” promotion, which includes discounted admission for families purchasing a combined zoo‑garden package.

2. St. Augustine’s Historic Charm – Oldest City in the U.S.

St. Augustine, the city just north of Jacksonville, features heavily in the countdown for its cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and rich maritime history. The article emphasizes the “Oldest City” claim and recommends a guided tour of the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, available through the National Park Service’s online portal. Links to the city’s tourism site provide practical info on opening hours, guided tour schedules, and the best times to visit to avoid crowds.

3. The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens – Where Art Meets Nature

The Cummer Museum is showcased for its dual appeal: a world‑class art collection and a 12‑acre botanical garden. The piece notes that the museum houses a significant collection of works by John Singer Sargent and offers free admission on the second Thursday of every month. Readers are directed to the museum’s calendar page, where they can view upcoming family‑friendly events such as the “Art‑in‑The‑Garden” workshops.

4. The Jacksonville Landing – A Waterfront Destination

The Downtown Landing, a recently revitalized pier on the St. Johns River, is featured for its mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment. The countdown highlights the new “Riverwalk” pedestrian bridge and the seasonal light displays that draw crowds during holiday months. The article links to the Landing’s official site for a directory of restaurants, a list of current events, and a map of the riverfront promenade.

5. The Adventure Landing – Indoor/Outdoor Fun for All Ages

Adventure Landing, a large family‑entertainment complex in the northeast suburbs, is spotlighted for its indoor ropes course, batting cages, and laser‑tag arena. The article cites the “Family Adventure Pass” which offers unlimited access to all activities for a single price. A link to the venue’s booking portal is included, along with testimonials from parents who praise the facility’s safety standards and staff friendliness.

6. The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) – Curiosity in Action

MOSH is presented as a center of interactive learning. The countdown points out the “Explore Live” exhibit, where children can observe live animals in habitat‑like settings, and the “Planetarium” show, which offers a virtual tour of the cosmos. The article directs readers to MOSH’s event page for scheduling details, as well as a scholarship program that helps low‑income families afford admission.

7. The Jacksonville Beaches – Sun, Sand, and Surf

Although not a single location, the beaches along the Atlantic coast are a featured highlight of the countdown. The piece focuses on the family-friendly atmosphere at Neptune Beach and the historic boardwalk of Atlantic Beach. It provides links to the city’s beach guidelines page, which includes beach safety tips, sandcastle competitions, and a “beach clean‑up” volunteer schedule for local youth.

8. The Fairgrounds – Seasonal and Year‑Round Events

The article mentions the Jacksonville Fairgrounds as a hub for trade shows, concerts, and the annual “Jacksonville Food & Wine Festival.” The countdown notes that the fairgrounds’ “Event Calendar” page lists upcoming shows, allowing families to plan trips around favorite performers or culinary exhibits. The site also hosts a virtual tour of the fairgrounds’ new “Green Pavilion,” a sustainable exhibit space.

9. The Cigar City Brewery – Craft Beer for the Whole Family

Although traditionally a beer‑centric spot, Cigar City Brewery is promoted as a family‑friendly venue that offers non‑alcoholic beverages and an engaging “Brewmaster’s Kitchen” tour. The article includes a link to the brewery’s “Family Night” schedule, where live music and trivia games are held on weekends. Parents appreciate the open‑air patio and the “Kids’ Play Area” that ensures younger visitors are entertained.

10. The Jacksonville Public Library – A Treasure Trove of Stories

Closing the countdown, the Jacksonville Public Library is highlighted for its expansive collection, community programs, and interactive “Kids‑Zone.” The article directs readers to the library’s “Events Calendar” for upcoming story times, STEM workshops, and author visits. The library’s digital portal also offers free access to e‑books, audiobooks, and educational apps that families can download on their mobile devices.

Behind the Scenes: How the Countdown Was Compiled

The Action News Jax article goes beyond mere name‑listing. Each attraction is paired with a “Why You Should Go” paragraph, often featuring quotes from local business owners or city officials. For instance, the author interviewed the director of the Jacksonville Zoo, who emphasized the role of conservation education in the visitor experience. At the St. Augustine Historic Site, a heritage tour guide shared an anecdote about the founding of the city, giving readers a sense of time travel.

The piece also weaves in practical advice. For example, the article suggests that families visiting the Jacksonville Landing should arrive early on weekends to secure a spot on the riverfront, especially during the “Summer Concert Series.” For the Jacksonville Beaches, the guide advises wearing reef‑safe sunscreen to protect marine life, underscoring a broader community ethic toward environmental stewardship.

In addition to direct links to official sites, the article incorporates short “quick‑links” to nearby restaurants, parking options, and public transportation routes. This makes it a one‑stop resource for families planning a day out. The article’s design is visually engaging, featuring high‑resolution photos, a simple countdown animation, and a “Save the Date” button that syncs events to users’ personal calendars.

Conclusion: A Family‑Friendly Guide to Jacksonville

Action News Jax’s countdown is more than a list; it is an invitation to explore the rich tapestry of Jacksonville’s attractions through a family lens. By offering a mix of cultural, educational, and recreational sites—alongside practical links and insider tips—the article serves as a practical, up‑to‑date guide for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a first‑time traveler, a seasoned Jacksonville resident, or planning a family road trip, this countdown provides a curated roadmap to make the most of what the city has to offer.