Touted as the longest continuously running community theater in the United States, Theatre Jacksonville brightens the historic San Marco District with its funky, art-deco facade of cool purples and neon lights. Since 1919, Jacksonville Theatre has been engaging audiences with live plays and musicals. Today's current troupe, consisting primarily of volunteer talent, has recently performed such plays as "Once Upon a Mattress" and "Spinning into Butter."
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Florida Theatre was originally designed for both stage shows and motion pictures, and is now host to concerts, dance, plays, opera and film, as well as community-sponsored events such as lectures, private parties, conferences and corporate meetings. The theater reflects the theme of a Moorish courtyard at night, with stars overhead, balconies, and trickling fountains. The building was restored in 1983 with state of the art technical equipment and seats approximately 1900 people.
The Cinemark Tinseltown in Jacksonville is a 20-screen multiplex complete with stadium seating and high quality digital sound. With 20 screens, there is room for everyone, whether you're going with your friends, your family or by your lonesome. While the movie projector rolls away, you can enjoy the sandwiches, hot dogs and pizzas bought at the counter.
Overlooking the St. Johns River in Downtown Jacksonville, the Performing Arts Center reopened in 1997 following a major facelift. A beautiful structure, it is divided into a symphony hall and two theaters, surrounded by the natural beauty of the river, which can be seen through the sweeping glass walls of the main hall. The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra performs here, as well as other top musicians and performers. Call for details on upcoming events and shows.
Some of the top comedy acts in the nation grace Comedy Zone's stage five nights a week. The likes of Brett Butler, Carrot Top and Gilbert Gottfried have all performed here. Each show features three acts and lasts about 90 minutes. A full service bar offers beer, mixed drinks and finger food. Special rates for group packages are available. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
This impressive building with towering Doric columns, barrel-vaulted ceilings and handsome marble floors was once the nation's largest railway station. Restored and renovated, it now hosts meetings and conventions of varying sizes, including traveling shows, corporate and charity events. The 265,000 square feet (24619.3 square meters) of space boasts fully equipped kitchens and banquet facilities that can serve up to 3,000, with 22 separate rooms able to accommodate groups of up to 1,000.
DB Milne Field is a 5,000-seat multi-purpose stadium on the Jacksonville University campus. The field is home to the Jacksonville Dolphins football team.
When the three sisters, namely Lynda, Michelle, Mary Jane and Áine migrated to United States, they brought the rich Irish cuisine with them and started the Culhane's Irish Pub. With such a great team of Irish owners/chefs, you are sure of the authenticity of the food served here. Dishes prepared at Culhane's are made in the traditional Irish cooking ways and there is no compromise on quality. Such is the popularity of this place, that it has even featured on national television. The fun and lively atmosphere here is simply an added bonus. So for a pleasant dining experience, a dinner at the Culhane's Irish Pub.
First opened in 1927, this landmark theater is famed for being the first theater in Florida to show "talkies," or movies with auditory dialogue. Nowadays, it is known for showing diverse flicks from a wide spectrum of cinema, ranging from Hollywood blockbusters to independent features. Another notable feature of this theater is that it sells beer and wine, as well as real food like pizza and sandwiches. Check the website for showtimes.
Head to Thrasher-Horne Center for The Arts for an evening of music, drama or comedy. You'll find plenty of entertainment options at the multi-purpose venue, with a diverse roster of live acts through the year. There's also an art gallery showcasing the future generation of artists. The Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts is available for hosting private functions and is particularly known for its well-equipped conference facilities.