The Cummer Museum of Arts and Garden is one of Florida's grandest museums of fine art. Founded in 1958 by Nina Cummer, an enthusiastic gardener, and lover of gardens in all their forms, she was also a well-known civic leader and art collector. Upon her death she bestowed her home, fronting the St John's River, and its extensive art collection to create the museum which bears her name.

Originally the museum consisted of 60 works of art that Cummer had bequeathed in her estate but since then the collection has grown to over 5000 pieces of art. The museum is complemented by the historic gardens in which it is located and provides a unique backdrop that draws a wide range of visitors. The Cummer Museum of Arts and Garden is also noted for its contribution to the local community and provides its visitors with a wide range of learning opportunities, diverse art exhibitions, and the opportunity to simply enjoy the beauty of the natural environment that surrounds it.

The gardens provide an opportunity for visitors to discover a unique natural space that provides another aspect of beauty, along with the art aesthetic, and provides a charming outdoor experience. The convergence of the museum's art, gardens, and educational programs opens up a new world of opportunities for learning and is a great way for adults and children to experience both the longstanding history of the museum as well as looking to the future of the arts. The museum is committed to continuing its role in this endeavor by providing the resources and effort required to achieve this mission to the northeast Florida community.

The Cummer Museum of Arts and Garden is located on land that was originally the Timucua indigenous tribe's ancestral homeland and has never been formally ceded to the federal government. They were one of the tribes that roamed the land from southeast of present-day Georgia to the north and central areas of present-day Florida. Historically, it is claimed that the last members of the Timucua tribe left the area with the Spanish colonists after it was ceded to England and the last known recorded member died in Cuba in 1767. The museum recognizes the significance of its location, the history of dispossession that informs it, and seeks to respect the land and its traditional owners.

The continuing mission of the Cummer Museum of Arts and Garden is to remain a socially aware partner of the local community and to connect and reflect the diverse range of people in the Jacksonville area. This historic site remains focused on making sure that its facilities, educational and other programs, exhibitions, and services are available to all visitors.

Also, check out the University of North Florida Nature Trails