Ritz Theatre & Museum, Jacksonville

Smack dab in an area once known as the Harlem of the South sits the Ritz Theatre and Museum, its neon red "Ritz" sign and corner striping the only remainders of the original 1929 music house. The venue houses a 400-seat theatre that hosts music, amateur nights, and theatrical events. The museum has walk-in exhibits designed to expose visitors to the history and ambience of the African American neighborhood.

Parking at the Ritz Theatre and Museum
Parking is free and plentiful.

Best and worst times to go to the Ritz Theatre and Museum
There really isn't a bad time to visit the museum, but it may be helpful to know that during late September to mid-October and in mid-January the Ritz installs new exhibits. During that period, often only the permanent side of the museum is open. One of the best ways to appreciate the Ritz Theatre and Museum involves planning ahead. Arrange to attend an event on a night the museum will be open. Get a drink at the theatre bar and stroll through the museum before your event starts. You'll get the full experience.

Admission to the Ritz Theatre and Museum
Museum prices are under $10 and include a free tour if you call ahead and make a reservation.

Must see/do at the Ritz Theatre and Museum
Make it a priority to see the Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing! animatronic exhibit that features James Weldon Johnson and his brother John Rosamond Johnson. With the late actor Ossie Davis voicing James and singer/actor Harry Burney voicing John, they speak about growing up in Jacksonville, their respective careers, and how they came to write "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing."

Other places to visit near the Ritz Theatre and Museum
More African American history memorabilia can be found a few blocks away in the Clara White Mission and Museum. Housed in the century-old Globe Theatre, it is the oldest African American mission in the state of Florida. Also nearby is the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, which is free. It's located in a massive Greek Revival structure with Doric columns that was built in 1921.

Insider tip for visitors to the Ritz Theatre and Museum
Pay close attention to the Ellie Lee Weems photography exhibit. Weems was an African American photographer who spent roughly 50 years documenting life in the Deep South. A number of visitors have been surprised to find relatives, and sometimes themselves, in his photos.

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.