Experience Downtown First Wednesday Art Walk Like a Local

Downtown Jacksonville is the place to be the first Wednesday of every month from 5 to 9 pm.

From local art and musical performances to delicious food and even silent disco after hours, Art Walk has so many options. Downtown businesses keep their doors open past their normal hours and local vendors line the streets for this event that brings the whole community together.

Photo by: Ken McCray

Start your journey in James Weldon Johnson Park, located at 135 W. Monroe Street, to experience the hub of Art Walk. Here you will find street performances, food trucks and art vendors of all kinds. Head to the Main Stage for live music.

Local Tip: If you walk past the Cake Queen’s tent, I must advise you to buy a slice or two. My favorite is the Strawberry Shortcake one!

Head further down Laura Street and stop at the Visit Jacksonville Visitor Center, located on the corner of Laura and Forsyth Streets. Each month there are new artists set up indoors welcoming visitors and locals alike. Win a prize, take a picture with the photobooth and collect brochures on other things to do while you’re in Jacksonville!

Local Tip: Every month there is a brewery set up in the Visitor Center giving out FREE beer samples! You can’t pass that up. And if you haven’t heard about the Jax Ale Trail, ask one of the Visit Jax employees for a passport so you can receive your first stamp while you’re there.

Walk south along Laura Street and pass by The Creative Exchange, also known as CX904. Their storefront is inside the Bank of America tower but during Art Walk they bring their art outdoors for passersby to experience its’ beauty. Stop and take a look at the talent on display.

Continue toward the river and walk through The Breezeway at VyStar Tower at 76 S Laura Street. Experience more live music, food and drink options as well as many more artists. Local vendors from markets such as the Melanin Market and Vagabond Flea Market set up here regularly.

Local Tip: Stay “after hours” for silent disco here starting at 8 pm most months.

The Jessie Ball duPont Center, known by locals as The Jessie, is another spot along the Art Walk footprint. At 40 E Adams Street, between Adams and Forsyth Streets, you will find this beautiful building. You’ll know it when you see it as this structure is art itself. Note the incredible architecture and murals along the building before you walk inside to find more local artists. Once inside, stop by The Corner Gallery to check out the current exhibit. Here you will also get to experience live performances and oftentimes they have a programming activity for kids.

Local Fun Fact: This building used to be the Main Public Library in Downtown Jacksonville. Now it is home to many nonprofit offices.

Photo by: @movingthemargins

These are just some of the highlights of the Downtown First Wednesday Art Walk. While you’re Downtown, support businesses that extend their hours for this event and consider dining at one of our local eateries for dinner or a nightcap before ending your evening. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to mark your calendars for the upcoming Art Walks. You won’t want to miss out!

Local Tip - Parking edition: If you are lucky enough to find street parking, it is free after 6 pm on weekdays. And if you can’t find street parking, head to the VyStar Tower Parking at 37 Hogan Street for free parking during Art Walk. The garage will close at the end of Art Walk.

Author

Lauren

Local Expert

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