Riverside Arts Market

One of my favorite things to do in Jacksonville is visit the Riverside Arts Market (RAM). Every Saturday between the hours of 10am and 3pm, you can find a flourishing community of people supporting local artisans. Parking is free at the Black Knight building next to the market, but I generally park in the strip of spaces between the Cummer and  The Garden Club of Jacksonville. The earlier you get there, the better parking situation you face. 

RAM has something for everyone, hand crafts include soaps, candles, jewelry, pet treats and apparel, baby clothes, and more food options than you could ever try in one day. With a full farmers market on one side of the market, you can find the freshest produce around. Grab a coffee from Pura Bean - my personal favorite is the cold brew - and enjoy the day. You can bring your four-legged-friend with you, and with so many vendors catering to pets you can pick out a special treat for them that's sure to get their tail wagging. 

All that walking around is sure to work up an appetite, but you won't have to go far to find lunch. With food trucks and a wide assortment of food stands, there's sure to be something that you like. Personally, I like to go for a gyro or chicken on a stick. On occasion, for those of age, local craft beer selections are available as well. Once you have your lunch, you can have a seat and listen to live music while enjoying the view of the river.