MOCA (Museum Of Contemporary Art), Jacksonville - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

James Weldon Johnson Park is a beautiful spot to explore. Full of flowers, trees and various other verdant foliage, this 16 acre park offers respite from the hustle and bustle of life and the perfect place to take a morning jog or enjoy an afternoon picnic. With benches scattered throughout the area, visitors can take time to relax and admire nature before they head out on one of several marked trails through the scenery. Plus, there's even a basketball court and playground for kids.

The beautiful Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is an awe-inspiring sight. Built in 1873,which boasts two magnificent towers at its entrance and a stained glass window depicting Mary’s ascension into Heaven. Inside, visitors find soaring columns and intricately designed walls, featuring the fruits of decades of inspired artistry. The heart of the basilica is a stunning dome, framed with vibrant murals set against detailed mosaics. Here pilgrims can light candles in an offering of prayer.

Florida Theatre is an independently-operated performing arts center that has been welcoming guests to its doors ever since its grand opening in 1927. This beautiful and historic theater offers year-round performances, ranging from concerts and plays to film screenings, comedy shows and more. Visitors of all ages have a wonderful time marveling at the awe inspiring architecture within this Duval County space, including balustrades, chandeliers and proscenium archways.

St. John's Cathedral is an Episcopal cathedral with a unique significance. It has served as not only a place of worship for the region since 1831 but also a gathering spot for historical and social events. The building itself is a strong symbol of architecture from the late 19th century; its exterior features several Grecian-style columns and a brick façade adorned with stained glass windows. Inside, visitors can appreciate intricate wooden structures and artworks spanning several centuries.

This is a one-stop destination for arts enthusiasts of all backgrounds. It offers a wide range of performances and events designed to inspire, entertain and educate guests. The JCPA proudly hosts world-renowned Broadway show tours, local theatre and dance performances, comedy acts and interactive art classes. Its “School of Performance" curriculum provides instruction in music, drama, dance and vocal performance, allowing aspiring artists to hone their skills under the guidance of professionals.

The USS Orleck Naval Museum honors the 65-year service of the USS Orleck, a decommissioned destroyer escort ship operated by the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1983. Visitors can explore the ship and its various sections, including engineering spaces, living compartments, deck structures, armament systems and more. Through interactive displays and programs such as battle simulations and “leadership challenges” visitors will gain an appreciation of what it was like to serve aboard this vessel.