Smack dab in an area once known as the Harlem of the South sits the Ritz Theatre and Museum, its neon red "Ritz" sign and corner striping the only remainders of the original 1929 music house. The venue houses a 400-seat theatre that hosts music, amateur nights, and theatrical events. The museum has walk-in exhibits designed to expose visitors to the history and ambience of the African American neighborhood.
Parking at the Ritz Theatre and Museum
Parking is free and plentiful.
Best and worst times to go to the Ritz Theatre and Museum
There really isn't a bad time to visit the museum, but it may be helpful to know that during late September to mid-October and in mid-January the Ritz installs new exhibits. During that period, often only the permanent side of the museum is open. One of the best ways to appreciate the Ritz Theatre and Museum involves planning ahead. Arrange to attend an event on a night the museum will be open. Get a drink at the theatre bar and stroll through the museum before your event starts. You'll get the full experience.
Admission to the Ritz Theatre and Museum
Museum prices are under $10 and include a free tour if you call ahead and make a reservation.
Must see/do at the Ritz Theatre and Museum
Make it a priority to see the Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing! animatronic exhibit that features James Weldon Johnson and his brother John Rosamond Johnson. With the late actor Ossie Davis voicing James and singer/actor Harry Burney voicing John, they speak about growing up in Jacksonville, their respective careers, and how they came to write "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing."
Other places to visit near the Ritz Theatre and Museum
More African American history memorabilia can be found a few blocks away in the Clara White Mission and Museum. Housed in the century-old Globe Theatre, it is the oldest African American mission in the state of Florida. Also nearby is the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, which is free. It's located in a massive Greek Revival structure with Doric columns that was built in 1921.
Insider tip for visitors to the Ritz Theatre and Museum
Pay close attention to the Ellie Lee Weems photography exhibit. Weems was an African American photographer who spent roughly 50 years documenting life in the Deep South. A number of visitors have been surprised to find relatives, and sometimes themselves, in his photos.
Author's bio: Freelance writer Barbara Merchant roams Jacksonville and St. Augustine with the experienced eye of a native and the open eagerness of a tourist.
Leftover from a century ago when theatres were opulent palaces, the Florida Theatre is one of the few of its kind remaining in Florida and the only survivor of a row of theatres that once flourished on Forsyth Street. Big names have played here—from Sally Rand to Lynyrd Skynyrd. The theatre hosts comedy and music acts and a summer movie series. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Parking at the Florida Theatre
During the day, parking is limited to metered spots (quarters only) on the street or in nearby lots ($5-10). Street parking is free in the evening and on weekends and holidays.
Admission to the Florida Theatre
The theatre can only be toured during Art Walk, which is held the first Wednesday of every month. Get a wristband at the table located inside the main entrance on 128 E. Forsyth St. Tours are at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. with a maximum of 30 people per tour. Outside of Art Walk, the only way to see the theatre is to attend an event.
Best time to visit the Florida Theatre
Definitely go in August when the theatre has their annual Elvis Anniversary Bash. Elvis played here in 1956 to much controversy, and the theatre holds the bash in commemoration.
Must see/do at the Florida Theatre
When on the tour, look for the pink rabbit on the wall upstairs. The theatre used to have a nursery, and the rabbit was discovered during renovation. When attending an event, lean back in your chair and admire the ornate chandelier and architecture that is original to the theatre.
Other places to visit near the Florida Theatre
The Ritz Theatre and Museum is a few blocks northeast in an area once known as the "Harlem of the South." The Jacksonville Landing, a source of restaurants and the Jacksonville Maritime Heritage Center, is across the street.
Insider tip for visitors to the Florida Theatre
Savor the full experience by coming early enough to enjoy dinner downtown, then head to the theatre before the crowds hit. Sign up for the theatre email list on the Florida Theatre web site (floridatheatre.com) to learn about special discounts, advance ticket sales, and notice of upcoming shows.
Author's bio: Freelance writer Barbara Merchant roams Jacksonville and St. Augustine with the experienced eye of a native and the open eagerness of a tourist.
