Norman Studios

The Beaches Museum & History Park tells the story of the Beaches area--from the Timucua Native Americans to current day. The museum has both permanent and changing exhibits, including photographs of the Nazi U-boat attack off Jacksonville Beach, an 800-year-old Timucuan canoe, photographs of the establishment of the first lifeguards in the United States, plus a century-old depot, railroad foreman's house, and chapel open to tour.Best and worst times to go the Beaches Museum & History ParkGo in December, when the museum hosts their version of the Polar Express, featuring the Porter steam locomotive, and Holiday in the Park, when professional designers decorate the interior and exterior of the historic buildings. Avoid going on Mondays, when the museum is closed, and during any major Beach event, like Springing the Blues or the Great Atlantic Festival, because parking is scarce.Must see/do at the Beaches Museum & History ParkMake time to see the 25-ton 1911 Porter steam locomotive and the 1900 train depot. Reserve a spot and attend a concert or history talk that the museum sometimes holds in the 1887 chapel.Admission to the Beaches Museum & History ParkAdmission is free, but the museum will accept donations.Parking and public transportation to the Beaches Museum & History ParkFrom Beach Blvd, turn on 4th St. N in front of the museum and park for free on Pablo Ave. The #9 JTA bus, which runs from downtown, goes right by the museum.Insider tip for visitors to the Beaches Museum & History ParkAsk for a tour guide. They are free, and they have interesting background stories to share.Other places to visit near the Beaches Museum & History ParkJacksonville Beach is only three blocks from the museum. Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach are close by. Hanna Park is fewer than 10 miles away.Author's bio: Freelance writer Barbara Merchant roams Jacksonville and St. Augustine with the experienced eye of a native and the open eagerness of a tourist.