food tours jacksonville fl

Taste of Jacksonville

Walking food tours in jacksonville, fl.

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Savoring San Marco

Located just minutes away from Downtown’s Southbank, Historic San Marco’s food scene sets the stage for a culinary adventure!

• Hour Glass 3 Hours
• Users All Ages

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Bridal showers, girls’/guys’ day out, Red Hat Ladies, team building, etc. We can create the perfect experience for you!

Enjoy a casual stroll through historic San Marco while stopping along the way to savor some of the delicious food being served at unique local restaurants.

With over 1.4 million visitors coming to Jacksonville annually and its amazing food scene, offering food tours here is a natural fit. Visitors and locals alike are often looking for things to do, and two things are vividly clear: Jacksonville has an abundance of rich history and many notable chefs who tell a story through their food.

Jacksonville's Top-Rated Walking Food Tour

This was the best food tour ever! Such a needed business in Jacksonville! Not only did we eat some amazing foods, we learned some history about the San Marco area, met some really cool owners of non chain restaurants, and had a blast with new people! It was an experience not to be missed!

A Taste of Jacksonville Food Tours is a wonderful way to get a "taste" of San Marco. The food was plentiful and amazing. Lisa was informative, accommodating, and made our tour so much fun. A truly enjoyable experience; we highly recommend this tour to anyone who is vising or lives in the area!

Live in Jacksonville? Visiting Jacksonville? ...Then be sure to book a Taste of Jacksonville Food Tour. Whether you are a resident or tourist, you will truly enjoy tasting a variety of delicious treats from house made hummus and Falafel to Peterbrook's chocolate as your native tour guide Lisa walks you through the neighborhood of San Marco. Spending the afternoon with Lisa at the helm was a fun and delicious adventure.

My first time at a food tour and really enjoyed it. Lisa and Rick were great, super nice and friendly. The restaurants we visited were unique and the food was fantastic. We were so full by our third stop. It was a great way to know the town and we certainly met new people and really enjoyed the conversations along the way. Definitely recommend it.

Taste of Jacksonville Food Tours

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Jacksonville, FL 32034

Serving Jacksonville Area

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About the business.

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Lisa and Rick K.

Business Owner

Jacksonville's first culinary walking tour! Join us for a 2 1/2 - 3 hour walking tour through Historic San Marco while enjoying local culinary creations at five unique restaurants along the way. …

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Lisa, owner/operator and guide is a native of San Marco and happily shares her unique and quirky part of Jacksonville with everyone through food and drinks! Do book a tour with her and learn about the area - the architecture and of course sample some the finest dishes these restaurants, bars, breweries or food trucks have to offer! Aardwolf ... ice house for railroads Then, a tile company. Now a brewery! Chica King - food truck. Taverna ... delicious Italian food. HH ... margarita pizza & Rita' drinks. Grape & Grain Exchange ... redneck cheese plate & bartender's specialty ... hibiscus infused alcohol with honey & more ... secret recipe!! Seafood Island Bar & Grille ... traditional margaritas with fish bites, corn nuggets, coconut shrimp & fried pickles!

See all photos from Kim C. for Taste of Jacksonville Food Tours

Lisa & Rick Kiral took our group (all Jacksonville residents) on a tour of San Marco, and introduced us to restaurants, shops and food we didn't know were there! We also learned a bit about local history. If you're a foodie, we ate tacos, fried chicken, seafood, açaí bowl, middle eastern flatbread and chocolate! It was like eating 3 lunches, dessert & a snack in one afternoon. Can't say which was my favorite - you'll just have to take the tour and decide for yourself! Lisa & Rick make you feel like you're their guests & try to accommodate your every need - best hosts ever!

Great food tour! Lisa and Rick are amazing people and gave us a great time. Short walks, but big flavors! This is probably the most food I've gotten on a good tour before. Would definitely recommend!

This was a great tour! We loved meeting and sharing with Lisa. We were the only two on the tour so we had lots of time with her. The food places were excellent and we had foods we probably would not have tried but liked them all. This a great tour of San Marco. Definitely do this tour!

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Jacksonville Food Tour - Secret Food Tours

• Jacksonville

Secret Food Tours Jacksonville

There are many things that attract families and travelers to Jacksonville. Having the largest urban park system in the United States is certainly one. Another is the fact that it is located on the east coast of Florida. This allows for plenty of recreational water activities. It also makes it a must-see stop on one of our secret food tours.

As you can imagine, seafood tops the menu at many Jacksonville restaurants. On our secret food tours, you'll have the opportunity to taste well-prepared dishes of shrimp, crabs, salmon and a multitude of other culinary delights. The delicacies don't stop at seafood though. Only on our secret food tour will you be able to take in the widest possible array of the amazing food this city has to offer. We'll make sure to hit the best restaurants in town, so book your secret food tour in Jacksonville today!

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The Best Unique Dining Experiences in Jacksonville

The best cooking classes, food tours & team building events in jacksonville.

Discover the best of Florida's flavors and fragrances with cooking classes in Jacksonville. Whether it's seafood, citrus salads, gourmet grilling or European cuisine, a world-class chef will guide you through every step of the menu creation process. Become better acquainted with culinary techniques and kitchen gear, gadgets and appliances, including knife skills, sushi rolling, dough kneading and cake decorating. Gather some friends and get started by checking out cooking classes in Jacksonville today!

Safety During Covid-19: Look for the following indicators of what precautions your host will take for your experience. You can book most in-person experiences as private events for an additional fee. Alternatively, check out the fully interactive Online Experiences on Cozymeal!

• Host Wearing a Mask (Upon Request)
• Social Distancing Friendly
• Host Requires Proof of Vaccine

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Sweet cookie batter - family fun.

Munches For Your Brunches

Soul-Warming Southern Sensations

Chop, Dice and Slice

Private chefs meals, fare from the greek isles, upscale steakhouse selections, from the asian kitchen, team building activities, cooking for comfort, masterful homemade meals, savory steakhouse selections, online experiences.

Gourmet Mexican-Italian Fusion

Seafood Paella From Scratch

Basic Beginner Knife Skills

Pappardelle Pasta From Scratch

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Progressive Dinner

Start your private exclusively curated progressive dinner right in the heart of Jacksonville, Florida. With anywhere from 2 up to 12 people, you will experience a mixologist & culinary dream come true. This progressive dinner party will take you on a culinary experience in one night. Your certified tour guide will help bring dashes of landmarks, neighborhoods, and murals to life as you sit back and enjoy your European Tuk Tuk ride.

Progressive Dinner Party

5-star, locally owned restaurants.

Enjoy top-rated Jacksonville restaurants on this authentic culinary experience. This event is exclusively customized to fit your party – you will have the opportunity to work directly with our Chief Tuk’n ® Officer, Steph Dale, to craft the perfect adventure. At each stop, you build your own meal from anything on the menu! Many of our partner restaurants have even created a special menu for their Go Tuk’n ® guests.

The Progressive Dinner is great for many occasions!

• Date Nights – anniversaries and engagements are especially popular
• Celebrations – indulge in spectacular food and beverages with friends and loved ones
• Gifts – give the gift of an unforgettable experience

Progressive Dinner Sample Itinerary

Stop 1: Begin the journey with cocktails at a wonderful rooftop location or visit a local distillery for a tasting with the owners

Stop 2: Enjoy appetizers and possibly another cocktail!

Stop 3: Select a spectacular entrée from a top-rated menu

Stop 4: Indulge in decadent desserts and after-dinner cocktails

What is the difference between a progressive dinner and a food tour?

Typically, a food tour consists of pre-set samplings – smaller portions and not customizable – that each restaurant arranges with the tour operator ahead of time. The cost of the samplings is then built into the cost of the tour for each person.

A progressive dinner consists of entirely personalized stops where the customers purchase their meals and are able to select the food & beverage of their choice. The tour operator is able to work with clients to create an experience tailored to them, including any dietary restrictions or food preferences.

What does the experience include?

We spend 4-5 hours using our partnerships and knowledge of Jax to craft the perfect experience for each booking. This includes working one-on-one with guests and coordinating with restaurants to create a truly personalized experience.

Our tour guides whisk guests to each stop while pointing out some area highlights and ensuring a unique experience. The guides never leave the location (guests are not just left to fend for themselves!) and make sure guests get the most out of the evening. You can think of them as the “butler” for the evening!

Food and drink are not included in the Progressive Dinner price. This was a conscious choice so guests have the opportunity to try anything on the menu!

Cancellation Policy: Reservations must be cancelled at least 2 weeks prior to the event in order to receive a full refund. Cancellations within two weeks are eligible for Go Tuk’n ® credit.

$360 1 Private Tuk (up to 6 passengers)

$900 2 Private Tuks (up to 12 passengers)

Please note: Gratuity is included. The cost of the food & drinks are in addition to the booking price. 

Toni was our Tuk tour guide, she was awesome! On point with the music she choose and was very knowledgeable about the surrounding area. She made sure we got in and seated immediately at our tables. I highly recommend doing this! We experienced the Progressive tour! Fantastic!

– Heather C.

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Riverside/5 Points Culinary Tour (Jacksonville)

• Alcoholic Beverages
• 3 hours of glorious food and pairings (wine, cocktail, beer) at 4 fabulous venues. Guided and hosted city tour in route to each venue. All-inclusive of food and alcoholic beverages.
• Tour Host gratuity
• 1000 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204, USA River & Post (on Rooftop) *Look for your guide with our company logo name. Please meet 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Make sure to include your CELLULAR number, in the contact information, so that we may reconfirm all tour details the morning of your tour.
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Wheelchair accessible
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Alcoholic Beverages will not be served to under aged
• When making your reservation, please note any severe, LIFE-THREATENING food allergies (IE: nut or shellfish). We CANNOT guarantee accommodations for: special dietary requests, vegan, kosher, dairy allergies, sugar, soy, gluten-free restrictions, pescatarian, etc.
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at 1000 Riverside Ave 1000 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204, USA River & Post (on Rooftop) *Look for your guide with our company logo name. Please meet 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Make sure to include your CELLULAR number, in the contact information, so that we may reconfirm all tour details the morning of your tour. See address & details
• Pass by 5 Points Vintage
• You'll return to the starting point

• ccturner48 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Experience history on your palate! Jessica was very informative. Tied St Augustine history to our culinary experience. Also pointed out places and shops of interest that were not on the tour but that we might enjoy at another time. Read more Written April 20, 2024
• Dan C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Satisfied palate and soul We enjoyed each of the venues and the stories Jessica provided. She is so passionate about the history and city of St. Augustine, it made the tour our favorite of the week. We highly suggest you request Jessica as your guide! Read more Written April 20, 2024
• greattimeorgoodbyes 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Don’t hesitate book now🍾 Bonny truly made our trip to Saint Augustine unforgettable! As our tour guide, she went above and beyond to make sure we had an incredible experience. Her wealth of knowledge about the city’s history added depth to our journey, and we left feeling enriched and enlightened. Not only did Bonny provide great insights into Saint Augustine’s past, but she also curated fantastic food options, including restaurant choices, wine tasting place and fabulous desserts. All these tours did include some wine, which I thought I was a nice option. It was a culinary adventure that perfectly complemented our exploration of the city’s rich heritage. Bonny’s passion for her work shines through in every aspect of the tour. Her heart is like a pot of gold, and her infectious energy kept us engaged and entertained throughout. If you’re considering a trip to Saint Augustine, I highly recommend selecting Bonny as your guide. You’ll learn a lot, eat a lot, and drink a lot - what more could you ask for? Thank you, Bonny, for making our trip so memorable. You’re amazing! Read more Written April 12, 2024
• giwpriestap 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience Alex was our guide and she was informed and alert and friendly and funny and she scheduled 4 stops as a part of this tour that gave us a great tour of the city as well as a fabulous variety of food. To call it "tastings" does not do it justice as we were all "stuffed" by the time the 3 hour tour was over. You just can't go wrong with Tasting Tours. Read more Written April 10, 2024
• Nomad34860320245 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Tour, Amazing Food, Lots of Laughs This was such a fun evening! We tasted some amazing dishes, visited some places we wouldn't have found on our own, and we met so many fantastic people. I can't say enough good things about our guide, Jessica, and the great job she did filling us in on every little detail along the way. We learned a lot about St. Augustine, and in the end, we felt more connected to the city. We visited some really fun locations. Jessica also went out of her way to connect with every single person there. She's passionate about her role, and it was great to learn from her and also to learn a little more about her. We had the best evening with her as our guide. Read more Written April 8, 2024
• Sightsee58071739078 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Good Eats in St Augustine We enjoyed the afternoon. Thanks so much, Judi. Good eats, good company and good conversation. Would happily share this tour with other family & friends. Beth H Read more Written April 7, 2024
• deborahpI4903JY 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very Fun and Great Food What am awesome time, Judi with an I was our guide. We were here for a birthday celebration and Judi definitely showed us a lovely experience. Well worth it 😉 Read more Written April 6, 2024
• F8622BOjoym 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Corks and Forks Judi with an I was the best tour guide. I totally enjoyed my corks and forks experience and will highly recommend it. Thank you so very ch for this enjoyable time Read more Written April 6, 2024
• craigv502 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Bonny’s the best! Bonny Furlong took us to some delightful places. She was engaging and entertaining! We’ll be going with her again soon! ❤️🤍💙 Read more Written April 6, 2024
• kayladJ2913IV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful Time We had a wonderful time on our tour with Kimberly. She was very kind, fun and shared a lot about St. Augustine. I would highly recommend this tour while you are visiting the area. Read more Written April 2, 2024
• Passenger52088698665 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Incredible Kimberly was amazing! I have done over 50 food tours and this was amazing! Loved the food and conversation. Definitely recommend! Thank you, Kimberly! Read more Written March 27, 2024
• karenandkarl123 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Dining experience in St. Augustine We really enjoyed the food but were very disappointed in the lack of history and information about the area. The last time we took the tour, there was a lot more history. Read more Written March 27, 2024
• amberroyalh 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Tour We took a quick weekend trip for our anniversary and decided to book this tour in a whim after seeing such good reviews. Wow, so worth it! This was literally the highlight of our trip! Bonny was our guide and she was absolutely amazing! We had yummy fun, great wine, and also learned a lot we didn’t know about St. Augustine even though we’ve been several times! Highly recommend! Read more Written March 26, 2024
• L6873ITeileenh 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great fun! Don’t expect a-lot of food, but do expect a-lot of fun. This is a great way to get to know the town and enjoy meeting new people while sampling food and drinks. Read more Written March 26, 2024
• debbies380 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great for locals and tourists We were fortunate to upgrade from the strolling fork/cork tour to the golf cart tour allowing us to explore 2 fantastic places on Anastastia Island. Alex, our guide was super enthusiastic and knowledgeable on all the best places for food and wine in St. Augustine so whether you are a local or just visiting, it is such a worthwhile experience. Read more Written March 23, 2024

More to explore in Jacksonville

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Riverside/5 Points Culinary Tour (Jacksonville) provided by The Tasting Tours

20 Best Things To Do In Jacksonville, Florida

Explore the best things to see, do, and eat on your next trip to Jacksonville.

Comprising 840 square miles in northeast Florida, Jacksonville is the largest city in the continental U.S. (four other cities are larger, but they are all in Alaska). This spaciousness gives rise to the city’s distinct features across neighborhoods, from the collective beaches on the Atlantic Coast to the historic downtown area sliced by the St. Johns River. Jacksonville’s energy is captured in the pride that you’ll see while traveling around the city and hear at Jaguars football games when fans shout their catchphrase “Duuuval!”

If you’re heading to Jax, read on for our best tips for what to see, do, and eat while you’re in town.

Where To Eat And Drink In Jacksonville

Order up a squawking goat at maple street biscuit.

Start your day at a Jacksonville breakfast standby: Maple Street Biscuit, which started right here in 2012 and has since expanded into seven states. The Squawking Goat, a buttery biscuit sandwich made with a fried chicken patty, slab of goat cheese, and a generous drizzle of sweet-and-sour pepper jelly, remains popular after being featured on Food Network in 2016.

maplestreetbiscuits.com , multiple locations

Celebrate Taco Tuesday at Oaxaca Club

This new Jacksonville Beach restaurant, which pays homage to Oaxacan cuisine with seasonal items like roasted oysters, fresh aguachile made from local fish, and wild mushroom pozole, is a great place to visit on a Tuesday, where you can sample the taco menu for a discounted price. We enjoyed the al pastor, prepared with marinated pork, fresh pineapple, and drizzle of chile piquin salsa.

theoaxacaclub.com , 131 1st. Ave. N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

Cozy in for Date Night at Orsay

Orsay, a cozy restaurant that embodies unfussy, rustic French cuisine in Jax’s Riverside/Avondale Historic District, serves a menu where steak frites are celebrated equally to classics like bouillabaisse and beef stroganoff.

restaurantorsay.com , 3630 Park St., Jacksonville, FL 32205

Sample Instagrammable Asian Snacks on Beach Boulevard

Jacksonville’s rich cultural diversity is reflected in the myriad cuisine options throughout the city, and a fun way to experience this is on Beach Boulevard on a self-styled boba tea and ice cream crawl. OMG Cafe & Tea serves up adorable (and realistic) shar pei puppy-shaped ice creams, while just across the street Mumuyi Bakery ’s delicate crepe cakes in flavors like durian and matcha, plus their boba tea topped with sea salt cheese foam have earned something of a cult following.

Order Shrimp and Grits at Bellwether

Whether you’re dining out for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, shrimp and grits always hit the spot. At this downtown local hangout, the shrimp are perfectly seasoned atop a bed of creamy grits—true Southern comfort food at its finest. 

bellwetherjax.com , 117 W. Forsyth St., Jacksonville, FL 32202

Enjoy Florida-Style Barbecue at the Bearded Pig

With two locations in Jacksonville, the Bearded Pig offers a smoky hug for the palate in the form of spare ribs, brisket, chicken, and Bearded Poutine: cheese curds and fries topped with brisket and pork. Visit the original location in San Marco to experience this vibrant Jacksonville enclave.

thebeardedpigbbq.com , 1808 Kings Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32250

Create Your Own Chocolate Bar at Sweet Pete’s

A visit to the 100-year-old mansion that houses Sweet Pete’s is a must on any trip to downtown Jacksonville. You can book a tour of the production facilities and also create your very own signature chocolate bar with your choice of toppings for $6. If you have a bit more time and interest, try out a chocolate pizza-making class or hand-pulled lollipop class.

sweetpetescandy.com , 400 N. Hogan St., Jacksonville, FL 32202

Have a Drink at a Legendary Bar

For a tipple with a side of history, head to Pete’s Bar at Beaches Town Center. The first bar to open in Duval County following Prohibition in 1933, the bar’s original owner sold bootleg hooch from a nearby store. Author John Grisham wrote his book, “The Brethren,” while stationed here, and the bar has hosted other famous patrons, as well, including Ernest Hemingway.

petesbar.com , 17 First St., Neptune Beach, FL 32266

Treat Yourself In Jacksonville

Shop for luxury brands at st. johns town center.

A stroll through this stunning outdoor mall might just lead to your next favorite handbag or pair of stilettos, with brands including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Tiffany & Co., and Nordstrom represented, alongside nearly two dozen restaurants ideal for a quick midday refuel during your shopping extravaganza.

simon.com/mall/st-johns-town-center , 4663 River City Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32246

Find a Unique Gift Made by Local Artisans

Looking for something special to gift or take home that you can only find in Jax? Head to the Atlantic Beach Arts Market , a co-op space featuring more than 100 local arts and crafts vendors, from shell art to handmade soaps. On Saturdays in Historic Riverside, check out Riverside Arts Market for artisan jewelry, gourmet dog treats, and more.

Enjoy an Oceanfront Massage at One Ocean Resort & Spa

Several treatment rooms, including one designated for couples’ massage, face the Atlantic Ocean at One Ocean Resort & Spa. Treatments take their cues from the surrounding environment, including a Sea Foam Envelopment, an Ocean Polish, and an Orange Blossom and Coconut Crush exfoliation. Even an overcast day with storms rolling in over the waves makes for a soothing spa treatment experience, complemented by a soothing steam shower or soak in the jacuzzi in the women’s locker room.

oneoceanresort.com, 1 Ocean Blvd Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Get Outside In Jacksonville

See the sunrise from jax beach pier.

There’s nothing quite like sipping your coffee while taking in the golden sunrise on the ocean while surfers carve the waves near the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier. The nearly quarter-mile pier has a modest $2 day fee for walkers.

jacksonvillebeach.org , 503 N. 1st St., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

Photograph the “Bonelike” Driftwood at Big Talbot Island State Park

The twisted beached driftwood at this Florida state park has earned its moniker, Boneyard Beach—a striking contrast to the more typical Jacksonville beaches located south. This is an easy stop along the scenic portion of A1A on a day trip from Jacksonville on your way to Amelia Island. 

floridastateparks.org , State Road A1A North, Jacksonville, FL

Experience Diverse Florida Ecosystems at Hanna Park

One of the things that makes this 450-acre city park unique is the different habitats contained within, including a lake and beach area, which was formerly Manhattan Beach, the first African-American beach in Florida under Jim Crow era segregation. Hiking, camping, ziplining, and kayaking are all available here—including adaptive kayaking for people of all abilities.

visitjacksonville.com , 500 Wonderwood Expressway, Jacksonville, FL 32233

Stroll Through the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens

Experience 126 acres of lush tree-lined trails nestled in Jacksonville’s Arlington district, giving an impression of what Florida looked like in its undeveloped state centuries ago. Check the website for scheduled activities and events, like yoga in nature. The Arboretum is also pet-friendly. 

jacksonvillearboretum.org , 1445 Millcoe Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Explore Jacksonville Culture

Understand the hidden history of jacksonville with a downtown tour.

So much of Jacksonville’s history is hidden in plain sight—even to locals who’ve lived here all their lives. Explore Jax Core does a great job of transporting visitors through Jacksonville’s history, exploring the lives of notable Jacksonville personalities like Abraham Lincoln Lewis, Florida’s first Black millionaire, and James Weldon Johnson, the man who penned the Black national anthem “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” as well as other unsung stories. Tour guide Yolanda Copeland leads walking tours, shuttles, and even zips visitors around in her electric climate-controlled super-sized golf cart, sharing stories that will leave you in contemplation for days afterward.

explorejaxcore.com , 135 West Monroe St. Jacksonville, FL 32202

Celebrate James Weldon Johnson’s Legacy at Two New Parks

The memory previously mentioned Johnson has experienced a renaissance in Jacksonville in recent years, first with a downtown park being named in his honor, and also with a soon-to-be-unveiled Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing Park, situated in the historic LaVilla neighborhood. This park will honor Johnson and his brother, John Rosamond Johnson with public art, exhibits, events, and more.

visitjacksonville.com , 120 Lee St., Jacksonville, FL 32204

Experience Thought-Provoking Artwork at MOCA Jacksonville

Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville’s frequently rotating gallery spaces captivate visitors with deep dives into artistic themes (the current exhibit, which runs through early July 2024, peeks into the 1970s art scene in New York with the Norman E. Fisher Collection, with sculpture, video, and installations representing Andy Warhol to Philip Glass).

mocajacksonville.unf.edu , 333 N. Laura St., Jacksonville, FL 32202

Plan the Perfect Picnic at Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

Located at the site of the Cummer family 1902 residence, this museum and English garden space has blossomed into a must-visit destination. Seasonal Friday night picnics may be ordered in advance to savor the garden's beautiful outdoor expanse.

cummermuseum.org , 829 Riverside Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32204

Take in a Free Afternoon Jazz Concert

Every Wednesday afternoon in James Weldon Johnson Park, pull up a chair, order a snack from one of the on-site food trucks, and enjoy some delicious jazz music along with the locals. It’s a fantastic way to take in a beautiful downtown afternoon.

jamesweldonjohnsonpark.org , 135 W. Monroe St., Jacksonville, FL 32202

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Read the original article on Southern Living .

Friends, colleagues react to death of Bob Graham, past Florida governor, U.S. senator

Florida's political class paid homage to the late Gov. and U.S. Sen. Bob Graham after news of his death Tuesday night at the age of 87.

His daughter Gwen, a former member of Congress for the Tallahassee area, announced his death in a social media post . He died at home in a Gainesville retirement community, surrounded by family.

Graham, a lifelong Democrat, was governor in 1979-87 and one of the Sunshine State's U.S. senators from 1987-2005.

Gwen Graham posted a statement from the Graham family, calling the family patriarch a “visionary leader, dedicated public servant and even more importantly, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.” The family added that he devoted his life to bettering the world around him. 

“The memorials to that devotion are everywhere – from the Everglades and other natural treasures he was determined to preserve, to the colleges and universities he championed with his commitment to higher education, to the global understanding he helped to foster through his work with the intelligence community and so many more,” the family said. 

They also recalled his “work days,” the hundreds of events where he performed for a day the jobs held by average Floridians. 

“While he valued his opportunities to represent others in public office, the jobs Bob Graham most loved were those he spent working alongside everyday Floridians,” the statement said, adding that it “forever changed his perspective on Florida and his approach to public service.” 

Joe Biden calls Graham a 'colleague, friend, and devoted Floridian'

President Joe Biden, in a statement released by the White House, said Graham's "nearly 50 years of service to his beloved home state and to our country have made America a safer and stronger nation.""Bob chose a life of service, working his way up from state legislator, to governor, senator, and presidential candidate. He and I served together in the U.S. Senate, as respective chairs of the Intelligence and Foreign Relations committees in the wake of 9/11, working to heal a shattered nation and to protect America in a changing world," the president said.

"Bob stood on principle against the Iraq War," he added. "He cosponsored my landmark Violence Against Women Act, transforming the way our nation responds to domestic abuse and sexual assault. He was committed to education and to the environment, continuing work that he’d begun as governor to support public schools and universities, and to protect the water supply, wetlands, and wildlife of Florida’s iconic Everglades. He was full of humor and humanity, and I’m grateful for the support that he gave me over the years."Bob loved people, and he knew that politics at its core is about learning from and serving others. That’s why he spent more than 400 'work days' on the job with constituents, doing everything from picking tomatoes, to handling baggage, to patrolling the streets with police. He knew it matters to walk a mile in other folks’ shoes.

"In recent years, he sought to instill that same ethic and empathy in a new generation of public servants through his center in Gainesville, and by working to require civics classes in public schools. He inspired his own daughter, Gwen, to serve in Congress as well; and I’m proud to have her in my administration today, as an Assistant Secretary of Education. Bob was so proud, too."

Later Wednesday, former President Barack Obama posted on X: "Bob Graham was a friend and a consummate public servant. As a governor, senator, and legislator, he spent decades fighting for the people of Florida. He was also a champion of the environment, which is why, after the BP oil spill, I asked Bob to co-chair a commission tasked with preventing a disaster of that magnitude from ever happening again. Michelle and I are thinking of Bob’s family today, and everyone who knew and loved him."

Who is Bob Graham? Here’s what to know about the former Florida governor and senator

Bob Graham 'made a huge difference for Florida'

Jim Eaton, a Tallahassee attorney, worked in legislative affairs for Graham as governor and managed his 1986 campaign before that.

“Like all of those who had the privilege to work with Bob Graham, I’m deeply saddened to hear of his passing," Eaton said. "President Kennedy said, ‘One man can make a difference and every man should try.’  Bob Graham made a huge difference for Florida, in so many ways — environmental programs, improving education, and many others.

"Graham’s particular genius was working alongside average Floridians day-by-day at their jobs, working a full day in construction, picking vegetables, teaching classes and collecting trash at the back of a truck," Eaton added. "Work days connected him to the people of Florida in a fundamental, non-partisan way that is gone from our politics.

"We need more like him and we mourn his passing.”

Graham was 'one of my heroes'

“He is one of my heroes for a large number of reasons,” said Jon Mills, dean emeritus at the University of Florida Law School and a former Florida House Speaker. 

“I’m looking at my home office wall and I have pictures of signing ceremonies of bills related to wetlands, growth management and water quality: All things that he was integral in supporting and doing. In the environmental area, he was a hero.” 

'He was truly beloved'

Steve Schale, a longtime Democratic operative and Barack Obama’s 2008 Florida campaign director, recalled Graham’s ability to connect with people. 

“Whether staffing him at an event or grabbing breakfast at a local diner, he always took the time to make whoever wanted his time feel special,” Schale said.

“He was truly beloved. I remember one poll we did in 2012, he had virtually no negative name ID whatsoever. Even people who disagreed with him believed him to be a good man. And he was.” 

His 'genuineness' stood out; lost in current, divided era of politics

Susan MacManus, a retired political scientist at the University of South Florida, author of books on Florida politics and member of the council of advisors at the Graham Center at the University of Florida, said what stood out about how Graham was his “genuineness.” 

“Here’s a guy who was very rich, Harvard-educated, who could stand next to a person flipping hamburgers at a fast food restaurant and be conversant in a genuine way,” she said. 

MacManus said Graham was from a more cohesive era in politics. And memories of him stand in sharp contrast with the bitterly polarized politics of today. 

“Now, you see this real gap between people, the education and wealth gap. He was able to make that not even an issue,” she said. “There’s a divide now between the working class and the elites. He was not like that. And the person he was conversing with felt his equal. He was not just saying to them, ‘Hey, vote for me.’” 

Whether Graham could have emerged in the current, divisive era of politics remains a question, she conceded.  

“Bottom line is he had a genuineness about him that is just so missing in politicians today,” MacManus said. “And it was reflected in wanting to know someone’s name, and all about anyone he worked alongside on his work days, which were full days, not just 15 minutes while the cameras are there.” 

'Florida weeps for you'

Sean Shaw, son of the late Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Leander Shaw, who Graham appointed to the court in 1983, posted on X, “This hurts." 

“Bob Graham was the best of Florida. Ethics, Environment, Diversity. People. Without Bob Graham, there would be no Chief Justice Leander Shaw. And it was the honor of a lifetime for me to campaign by his side.” 

Shaw, a former state representative, said of Graham, “Florida weeps for you.” 

'A statesman who truly cared'

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, a Republican whose family owns Panama City’s Captain Anderson’s restaurant, also wrote on X that Graham “will long be remembered as as a statesman who truly cared for the state of Florida. 

“He was a longtime customer of Captain Anderson’s and was kind enough to take me to lunch in the FL Senate dining room and share some wisdom when I was just a student in community college.” 

A 'good man ... a great Floridian'

Republican U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, who also served two terms as Florida governor, called Graham a “good man and a great Floridian who dedicated his life to our state. 

“His legacy will live forever,” Scott said on X. “Not because of any title he held, but for what he did with those opportunities to improve Florida and the lives of families in the Sunshine State. Ann and I are heartbroken to learn of his passing.” 

Florida's other U.S. senator, Republican Marco Rubio, added: "Bob Graham was a selfless public servant, whose legacy and impact will live on. From his days in the state House to his days in the governor’s mansion and the U.S. Senate, Bob Graham always understood whom he served. It was a core value, one that he lived out even after he retired from public service. Florida, and the nation, lost a very good man."

Fellow Democrats mourn Bob Graham's passing

State Sen. Shevrin Jones, D-Miami Gardens, posted on X, “In times of loss, we remember a giant among us. Bob Graham was not just a governor or a U.S. Senator, he was a beacon of leadership and a devoted family man. His legacy of compassion and dedication will endure.” 

Nikki Fried, the state’s Democratic Party chair and a former state agriculture commissioner, recalled that “growing up in Miami, (Graham) was the first political name I learned as he was beloved by all. His love for our state may have only been matched by his love for his Florida Gators.” 

Florida's current governor on Bob Graham's passing

Graham's daughter, Gwen, ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in 2018, when Florida's current governor, Ron DeSantis ran and was first elected as the Republican nominee. She has since been a critic of the DeSantis administration.

DeSantis posted on X Wednesday morning his reaction to Graham's death, hours after many of the remembrances had begun rolling in.

"Florida mourns the loss of former Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Graham today," DeSantis wrote. "He was a devoted public servant who, among other important work, made enormous achievements in conserving Florida's natural resources. We are grateful for his service to our state and nation. May he rest in peace."

A 'great public servant,' lost

Former two-term Florida Gov. Jeb Bush also commented Wednesday morning on X: "Florida and our country has lost a great public servant. Bob Graham served Floridians with a servant's heart, with integrity and with civility. Columba and I are praying for the Graham family."

'Always understood whom he served'

Republican U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, elected to the U.S. Senate six years after Graham left in 2005, remembered his qualities.

“Bob Graham was a selfless public servant, whose legacy and impact will live on," Rubio said, adding that he "always understood whom he served."

"It was a core value, one that he lived out even after he retired from public service. Florida, and the nation, lost a very good man," Rubio said.

Lawson recalls what Graham meant

Former U.S. Rep. Al Lawson, D-Tallahassee, remembered the former governor and U.S. senator as a guide.

"Gov. Graham gave African-Americans the opportunity to play major roles in state government," Lawson said. "He was my role model. Gov Graham cared about poor people in the state and opened up doors to help them live a better life. He was a beloved governor throughout the state because he put people over politics."

Former state Sen. Rob Bradley remembers Bob Graham

Former state Sen. Rob Bradley, a Fleming Island Republican, posted on X that "Bob Graham loved Florida. Never stopped fighting for her."

In a personal memory, Bradley – who served in the Senate 2012-20 – said "in 1988, he gave a group of kids a personal tour of the U.S. Senate floor after we randomly ran into him. I next visited with him 30 years later at the Florida Capitol. We talked land conservation. May he rest in peace."

Bob Graham: A possible vice president

Former U.S. Rep. Mark Foley of West Palm Beach wrote with an anecdote about Graham after the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks.

“There were no commercial flights so Bob Graham (and former U.S. Reps.) Ileana Ros- Lehtinen and Lincoln Diaz-Balart and I met at Andrews Air Force Base to be flown by Mil-Air (military airplane) to Hialeah,” Foley said.

“During the trip I approached Bob, who always had a reporter’s notepad in hand, … and said, ‘Senator, if Al Gore had picked you instead of Joe Lieberman, we’d be flying on Air Force 2 now to Florida instead of this old relic of an Air Force parachute plane.’ “

The 2000 presidential election was famously decided by 537 votes in Florida. If Graham “was on the ticket, ‘Gore-Graham’ would have swept Florida and the presidency (and) would have altered the course of history,” said Foley, a Republican.

Tallahassee's first Black leadership mayor remembers Graham

In 1978, Graham "made a decision that shaped my professional life," former Tallahassee Mayor John Marks said. Graham appointed him to the Florida Public Service Commission, making him the then-youngest, at age 29, and "first African-American ever to hold such a position."

"This decision marked a significant milestone not only in my career but also in state government's efforts to embrace diversity and inclusivity," said Marks, in office 2003-14, the longest-serving mayor in Tallahassee history.

"I was deeply honored by the governor's trust and foresight, which provided me with an invaluable platform for growth and public service. He will forever be remembered as a humanitarian, a statesman and an architect of change."

Obituary: Bob Graham, former Florida governor and U.S. senator with a common touch, dies at 87

Jim Rosica and other staff of the USA TODAY Network-Florida contributed.

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