Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, Jacksonville (must see)

The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is a cultural institution that holds a rich history and a diverse collection of artwork. The museum was established in 1961 following the generous bequest of Ninah Cummer, who left her gardens and personal art collection to create the museum. Over the years, the Cummer Museum expanded to include the property owned by Ninah's brother-in-law, while still preserving her original garden designs and a portion of her home with its historic furnishings. The museum and gardens together attract around 130,000 visitors annually, offering a captivating experience for art and nature enthusiasts alike.

The permanent collection of the Cummer Museum comprises over 5,000 works of art, showcasing a vast range of artistic styles and periods. Spanning from 2100 BCE to the present day, the collection includes notable European and American paintings, making it particularly strong in these areas. Visitors can admire pieces by renowned artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Winslow Homer, Thomas Moran, Norman Rockwell, and Romare Bearden. In addition to paintings, the museum boasts a substantial holding of Meissen porcelain, known as the Wark Collection of Early Meissen Porcelain. This impressive assortment highlights the museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing a diverse array of art forms.

The museum grounds boast three exquisite flower gardens, the oldest of which dates back to 1903. These gardens have remarkably preserved their original layout for over a century, thanks to the contributions of renowned landscape designers such as the Olmsted Brothers, Thomas Meehan & Sons, and Ellen Biddle Shipman. Their historical significance and remarkable beauty have earned the Cummer Gardens a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serenity of these gardens, taking in the carefully planned landscapes and enjoying the natural splendor that has captivated visitors for generations.