History by the shoreline

By Brooke Rawlins

For the AJC

Hollywood, Calif., is the movie-making capital of the world, but in the early 1900s — back when movies were still silent — Jacksonville was it, thanks to the mild climate and beaches.

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Visit Jacksonville There are 46,000 acres in the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, a destination for nature lovers who tour its coastal dunes and forest uplands.

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Visit Jacksonville Seen here is the entrance to the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens.

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Visit Jacksonville Inside the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens.

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Once World War I began, Jacksonville leaders turned their attention to the war effort and, as a result, the glitz and glamor packed up and moved West.

Today, Jacksonville takes pride in its movie-making history and how it was shaped by the industry. But the mild weather and beaches remain, attracting tourists eager to explore all the city’s charms.

Don’t miss

The Museum of 
Science and History

The Museum of Science and History welcomes visitors interested in Jacksonville’s film history and environment. Hands-on, interactive exhibits and educational programs are ideal for children. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays; 1-6 p.m. Sundays. $10 adults, $8.50 seniors, $8 children. 1025 Museum Circle. 904-396-6674, www.themosh.org

Riverside Arts Market

Held every Saturday from April through December, the Riverside Arts Market is the place to go for local art, handmade crafts and produce. Bands and street performers including jugglers, clowns and magicians provide a variety of entertainment. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays, April-December. Free. 715 Riverside Ave. 904-389-2449, www.riversideartsmarket.com

Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

Biking, sightseeing, exploring and hiking are just a few things tourists can do at the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve in Jacksonville. The 46,000-acre preserve gives nature lovers the opportunity to view the area’s salt marsh, coastal dunes and forested uplands. Events, including tours led by rangers, are offered at various times throughout the year. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Free. 12713 Fort Caroline Road. 904-641-7155, www.nps.gov

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

With more than 1,400 rare and exotic animals and more than 1,000 plant varieties, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens offers tons of family fun including train rides, children’s activities, tours, a carousel ride and various year-round exhibits. The zoo also offers educational programs for children. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. $13 adults, $11 seniors, $8 children. 370 Zoo Parkway. 904-757-4463, www.jacksonvillezoo.org

Jacksonville Beach

For fun in the sun, Jacksonville Beach is the most expansive beach in the area. Visitors can grab a bite at the various eateries on the beach, roller blade along the boardwalk or catch some rays on the white sands. There’s also a fishing pier with a bait shop and concession stand. Free for the beach, $4 to fish on the pier. North 1st Street. 904-241-1515, www.
 jacksonvillebeach.org

Provided by Demand Studios