Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

"Our visit to the Botanical Garden was our first. It's a large place, with plenty of trails to wander along and admire the magnificent natural scenery. In January, unfortunately, there weren't many flowering plants, but that didn't disappoint us, because we truly enjoyed being surrounded by nature. You should definitely come here with your family and children!"

"The $20 ticket for holiday lights is worth it! Really fun. They sell s’mores kits, beer and wine. There are two food trucks. Santa for kids!! Parking will be easier if you arrive close to 5:30. You can use night ticket to come during day and get free entry for day. It’s $3 daytime and a lot of pretty hikes. Hit like if appropriate . Have a great time !!"

"We visited at night for the glowing gardens event and it was beautiful. The lights were very well done and they had light up playground equipment for kids. It wasn't very well run though. Parking was a mess and we had to park a good half mile away and walk to the event in the complete dark. Plus it cost $12. Not until afterward when we saw people getting on a bus did we realize there was free parking and shuttles at a nearby church. Wish we had known that beforehand. Bathrooms were few and far between. I saw one wine booth at the start but none anywhere after nor any hot drinks. They might have been there somewhere but I didn't see them. For the lights I'd give it a definite 5 stars. For the organization, maybe 3 stars. I'd come back again but a little more prepared this time."