I think for this review it would be best to tell how our day unfolded. We arrive at the MOCA around noon on Saturday. I am able to find a premium parking spot right in the front. I'm thinking this is great as it was 95 degrees. We walk over to the Burrito Gallery for lunch before visiting the museum. We are greeted by a nice woman who informs us the credit card terminal is down. No problem, it happens, we'll go around the block and get some cash. Turns out the closest one had bean stolen so we head around Hemming to find another ATM. On the way we found a nice piece on the side of a building which I found more interesting than most of the pieces I would later see. When we got back we found out the third floor was closed to install a new installation (which seemed interesting from the brochure) and two more floors were dedicated to office space and a children's exhibit/craft space which didn't interest us. The first floor consists of a gift shop, cafe, theater and a large art piece. The shop, cafe and theater were closed. The second floor had a few interesting pieces but nothing extraordinary. We were there for 30 minutes. I have attached a photo of the piece we found near the ATM.

First of all, I want to say the staff here was amazing. Everyone was very friendly and helpful. That being said, it took me less than half an hour to see everything at a very leisurely pace which was unexpected. I lingered as much as I could but there was no way I could stay the hour I had planned. The atrium on the first floor had an interesting lighting feature, but that's all, and it was closed for an event. The second floor is where the art is. It was modest in size but did have some nice pieces including a series by Sol LeWitt. The third floor was closed for an installation. The forth floor is offices. The fifth floor has a kids space that seemed like it would be fun for at least an hour for a family as it's all interactive, but there was construction going on in the hallway. I recommend calling to make sure the third floor is open to make your trip worth it. It seems like they do a lot for/with the community and are a good resource for local art students as well.

Weird security presence at Moca today. I brought in my umbrella with me because it was raining, and the security officer said I couldn't carry it with me. I thought that was strange, but I got permission to put it on a bench and looked at the rest of the exhibit. I went to the third floor and took my umbrella with me, because I didn't want it to be stolen, and got permission to do that as well. I placed my umbrella on the bench up there, and wasn't carrying it around. About three minutes after being up there, a security gaurd approaches me, and says they want all umbrellas on the ground floor. At that point, I'd had enough and left, but not before a Moca staff member almost stepped in my way trying to stop me. It's a rainy day. If umbrellas were going to be a problem, they should have said as much when I paid my fee to visit the museum.

They have some awesome exhibits here. Recently went and saw the New York Times exhibit and it's great. They also feature local artists too. If you've never been try and get out there some time. They change the exhibits up pretty often. I think it's something like every 3 months maybe? They have what's called Project Atrium that's a big space with 40ft. walls right as you enter. It's an open space for emerging artists to get a chance to plaster with their artwork all over and showcase in a big open area. I believe it's 3 floors of exhibits, and on the first floor they have a little eatery and bar. The eatery is pretty expensive; the name escapes me right now though. I'll come in here every few months to get some inspiration and see what other artists are producing. Great date night activity as well.

Very excellent museum with very unique and thought-provoking art on display. The museum is quite clean and it's clear its standards are high. The only reason I'm giving it four stars is that the exhibition I saw on the third floor, "Romancing the Mirror," contains two large works depicting nude women engaging in what appears to the casual viewer to be salacious acts, and it may not be appropriate for young children to be viewing. If there were some sort of sign warning about the blatant graphic nudity within it would be fine, but considering how it was just sort of out in the open, it was a bit off-putting. But the museum was a great experience on all other accounts.

Unfortunately, I can not recommend visiting this museum. As other reviewers, we also had a very negative experience with the racist security guard. The minute she heard us talking in a foreign language, she walked towards us and told us we were not allowed to film or take pictures. I pointed out to her that I was allowed to take photos without flash according to the website. She admitted that this was true, but then had someone follow us at close distance through the rest of our museums visit. This quickly became very uncomfortable and we decided to cut our visit short and left. The museum is overpriced for what it has to offer anyway.

Great museum showing some of the most forward thinking artists of this generation. I love the large scale atrium gallery piece which changes all the time and they had a large sculpture in there when I went that was the highlight of my experience. Many other smaller pieces were great as well however the extremely small collection really shows and the limited information on each piece didn't help either. The 2nd floor was also under renovation which meant a large part of the museum was inaccessible. Staff was friendly and the location is fantastic in the heart of the historic downtown area.

I never thought I’d spend so much time staring at beautiful art on a simple Sunday. The installations are truly inspiring and jaw dropping. There is so much to see and ponder on when you truly take the time to disconnect from your phone and understand the meaningfulness behind each piece. This was my first time coming to MOCA out of pure curiosity but I throughly enjoyed it. They offer a student discount as well! For under $10, the ticket was worth it. I got to see some of the most unreal pieces in my life. I hope to come back soon.

This museum is terrible. Particularly the kids area. Last time I was here was about 6 years ago and you know what, it hasn't changed a bit! Exhibits are lame and crayons and paper missing. And we came at opening. How hard is it to make sure there are crayons and paper?? Jacksonville, you need to visit other cities and check out their museums, particularly the kids areas of those museums, and update your offerings. So glad I didn't pay any money to see this place! I gave you an extra star for letting us in for free.

We where there during the Wes day Art Walk and they sure could have taken MUSH MORE avenge of the "Bar" and the restaurant in side It almost looked Very Empty and after you did find the bar and get a drink You could not leave a very small area with not sets and you could not enter the ART area until you drank your drink Must room was where the gift shop was once but it l@@ked in inviting. I was hoping for much more from MY University. U.N.F. sure missed out on this opportunity

Excellent rotating exhibitions. An inexpensive and entertaining event for the family, whether you're local or visiting from out of town. I haven't personally tried the cafe but I hear good things. There is a small gift shop at the entrance that often carries local art at reasonable prices. No dedicated parking structure so you'll have to find a garage or metered street parking. It's located a short walk or drive from several restaurants and bars in downtown Jacksonville.

I was pretty surprised at how under whelming the art was. Me and my son love museums but we were both pretty bored. I believe the 2nd floor is the one with the record player display? Besides some pieces on that floor and the interactive art on the first floor there wasn’t much to see. I’ll wait patiently for the next exhibit
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

I attended a meet and greet event in which they discuss their 100-year anniversary in 2024, and projects that they would be working on. It all sounds very exciting and I'm looking forward to attending many of the events in 2024, but I will be checking back in next week during the weekday just to get a longer view of the exhibits.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

This museum has some thought-provoking art. Bo Burnett was my favorite artist on exhibit there. Parking was easy and on the street with no fee because we came on a Sunday. Plan to spend about an hour and a half. It’s a gathering place for students. The staff were really friendly. It’s worth your time when you’re in Jacksonville.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$1–5

Although this museum is small compared to the others in Jacksonville, it's impact is just as astonishing. The interior design of the building alone is beautiful. The pieces they decide to display and the order in which they are presented are beautiful, powerful art. The museum is child friendly, although I personally feel like you have to be on an adult level to truly appreciate what's in there. Regardless I'd recommend MOCA to anyone.

We’re visiting from charlotte, NC… They offer a discount for military, students, children, elderly… But other than that the prices are very affordable. The art shown was very nice, and we were even able to experience a interactive art piece. I definitely enjoyed my time and if possible, I will come back.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

The MOCA is beautiful and definitely a place to visit in downtown Jacksonville. The parking can be an issue but there are parking garages and it was free parking during the weekend. The art was of course amazing! The MOCA is a smaller, more intimate museum with only 4 floors but the space itself is quite interesting. The main art display was very, very cool! I posted a few pictures: Home was the theme.

Unexpectedly amazing collection of work! Project Atrium changes often, and is worth checking out each time. Lectures and events are not as publicized as I would hope - but they are always great! You should go! It's great to swing by during lunch or after a meeting. Free for UNF students, and to the public during Art Walk - but if you want to spend time with the art, don't go during Art Walk.

This museum is so inspiring and beautiful. The artwork is breathtaking. If you need to take a break from the hectic routine, you need to stop by. It is so refreshing after submerging into each piece of art. Also all the personal are so kind, friendly and knowledgeable. I also enjoyed talking to the security guard on his point of view of a painting. Pretty lovely experince ❤️

We have visited manh times. It is a great small museum. The exhibits change frequently which allows for repeat visits without getting bored. It is also fairly inexpensive. Modern art isn't for everyone but it is best for those that like being challenged.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

My visit to the MOCA was not all I expected, I would have been more impress if this museum would have had other artist that truly represent other side of the same demographic you are presenting some art. It would be better to invite artist from South, Central America, Spain, Dominican Republic or any other Country that will truly represent the other side of the coin.

Very underwhelming. Some of the art was thoughtful and interesting, but other pieces were very difficult to understand without some explanation, which was only available by QR code rather than a written description. I understand that there is value in having viewers develop their own meaning, but it seems like a missed opportunity for education and dialogue.

One of about 2.5 museums in Jacksonville that is actually a museum. They try to bring cool things from time to time. Project Atrium is interesting most of the times (large open space that allows an artist to do anything with it). It is free during Artwalk (first Wednesday evening of the month). The restaurant downstairs is also a great place.

Nice local museum, would be cool if there were more exhibits in the space they have but since the exhibitions rotate maybe they feel since it changes frequently that makes up for it. They are still masking as of June 2022
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Excellent collection of contemporary art and an exquisite visual arts education institution. From Joan Mitchell to Frank Stella to Lauren Fensterstock. I visit as often as my own studio time allows. Museum Nights (every first and third Wednesday of each month)are always fun and refreshing with new artists sharing their experiences. More

Went yesterday and paid $5.00 each due to the 3rd floor being closed for some reason. The museum needs a lot of work. Looked like a lot of old displays and not the best art of some of the artists. Not sure why they don't have any benches or other places to sit, but that seems like it would be a good addition too. Very disappointing.

This was our first trip to the MOCA. The third floor was closed because they are installing a new exhibit so ticket prices were half off. That seemed fair. The staff is friendly and helpful. The Exploration Loft on the top floor was fun, even for us old people. We will be back to see the exhibit on the third floor after it opens.

Always a pleasure when I visit the museum to see the creative and thought provoking works presented by the local and visiting national artist. Well clean and well maintained and never crowded even on the busiest nights due to proper crowd/ visitor control. Worth a visit to view some very interesting and beautiful pieces of art.

Disappointed. We came in with two kids expecting to utilize the 5th floor kids floor from what I read from reviews. Spent $32 on a rainy Sunday went straight up to 5th floor and it was roped off. I don’t understand why the staff instructed us to start at the top 5th floor when it was roped off. Very boring and disappointing

I wouldnt go downtown just for this museum- but its definitely worth a stop if your in the area! Small museum, only a few sections, but good art on display. Very clean facility, very friendly staff.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Love a good museum and this one always has some great exhibits. Right now entrance is free while their elevator is under renovation. I believe this will be the case until the beginning of November.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

It is a beautiful place. Roomy. Very exquisitely setup. There was a lot of people for the event I was there for but it was not stuffy or cold. The temperature was perfect. The lighting was awesome. The waitstaff was quick & friendly as well non- intrusive. It was just a very welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

When I went it was free admission due to the elevators being down and they only had a floor of art which granted it was cool and I love art the staff was nice just wish they had more to offer
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

only floors 2,3 and 5 open. 5 was children's art exhibit. 3 was interesting exhibit of John Cage and 2 was UNF Alumni exhibit. Staff was friendly and engaging. $5 for students and seniors.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$1–5

The day I went the tickets were free, if you have to pay dont go, the place was nice and the caffe was delicious, and we had a great time laughing at the art (there not bad there just to deep for us mortals to understand)
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Very nice little museum. Doesn't take long to go through the 4 floors. They had an exhibit featuring kids from a local hospital - very sweet! Great staff. Two interactive art stations.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Very lovely quiet museum with interesting art. The visiting artist's work, Jenn Peek, has beautifully touching work on the 5th floor. In the exhibition area for a few more days is a interactive light exhibition by Kedgar Volta is phenomenal. It is only up until the end of the weekend, 3/1/20 I think.

It's a bit small, but that's not a downside just wish there were more pieces on display. However, the ones that were, were lovely. Worth going back! -Street parking free on Sunday-
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

First time there. I will definitely go back. The lady working there, I believe she was the security guard. She said she had been employed there for a very long time. She was awesome! She walked around with us off and on throughout our visit. She was so knowledgeable and shared her knowledge with us!

Never been here before and it was an awesome place. We did the lunch and learn polarity event and it was a very good sandwich. I love how they support aspiring artist from UNF.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Clean and fun. We like to walk through during the monthly art walks. Always enjoyable. They do ask that you wear a mask, but they provide on for you if you don't have one.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

This is one to miss...While I am only a moderate fan of contemporary art, I just have to admit I don't get the Wok absurdity. There were some objects of skill and creativity
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$1–5

My wife and I had very good experience there. She's a major art enthusiast. Me, not so much. But I know if she's having a good time in a museum, then it's a good time.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Awesome Place To View Some Contemporary Art in Jacksonville, With A Bonus Of Some Excellent Food At The Nola Moca Restaurant Right Inside The Museum (Sorry, I Regret No Food Pics To Share)!!! My Wife Had A Spectacular Time With Major Love Points For Me On Valentine's Day Date Night!!!

The building and the building around this location is stunning. Just as stunning as the art inside. I went at 6 pm on a Thursday (gallery is open 5 to 9 pm on Thursdays) and was the only one In the gallery. The art was beautiful and contained many different media's and canvases.

I thought the museum was lame. My wife was talking about this museum for a while so we brought the entire family. $26 for entry was high for what we saw. Some of the art was outstanding! One floor was under refurbishment as they installed the new exhibit. Oh well live and learn.

Museum is nice but 3rd floor is under construction, leaving only the 2nd as a viewable exhibit. I'd argue worth the visit when it's running at full capacity.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$1–5

It has very nice artworks and some of them are very unique. Staff is really helpful. Saturdays are free and surrounding is very colourful.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

MOCA is a real gem in Downtown Jacksonville! The ATRIUM has the most amazing exhibits and there is always something cool to see on the upper floors. The location is awesome —close to Chamblin’s for great coffee & books before or after you visit the museum.

It was really nice, a bit small, has a cafe area in the first floor. The art was lovely and good service. Bought the tickets via sale.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

I took my grandchildren during spring break. The people were kind and informative, and the cost was fair. We enjoyed walking through.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Nice quiet spot in downtown Jacksonville. Located at Hemming Park in a nice rehabed building. Nice collection in the permanent gallery and thoughtful exhibits. As part of UNF it seems like it's staffed by students who seem disinterested in being there.

Fun museum. Bit small, but definitely worth the price (free). Love that they offer free days if you have a library card. Beautiful, thought-provoking exhibits. Very helpful and knowledgeable staff. A fantastic, cultural icon in downtown Jacksonville.

The museum has interesting collections, especially those of c t g e 50s and 60s. The curating is solid and the staff is kind. There is plenty of near by parking and the museum is just across the park from the tram. The space is wheelchair accessible.

Small, but the space isn't wasted. The exhibits they pick are all incredible in their own way, and the room that isn't used to exhibit art within this building is used for classes and for kids to learn about and create art, which I wholly support.

Entry was free because their elevator wasn’t working, but is a cool place to take the kids and show teach them about art.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

It's art, I guess The museum was great and clean displays. Some of the artists made great pieces. Thoughts on photo provided
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Beautiful medium sized museum brought to you by the local college. They had a well curated collection and a spacious and modern exhibit hall. Across the street is a nice park with outdoor sculptures. Overall a great way to kill about an hour.

VERY impressive collection of Kara Walker's work currently on display. Also, exhibiting until 2023 you have a rare opportunity to see the work by Shervone Neckles. Some of the pieces in the collection were also on view at the Venice biennial.

Nice little Museum. This was our first visit and we plan to stop by and see what's up on future trip to the area!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Went during the River Arts Walk, which is every 1st Wednesday of every month. MOCA is an interesting place to see.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Lived her for a decade or two and did not know about this find! Diagonally located from City Hall and next to James Walden Park, you have to stop in. The Sunday we went there was an exhibition so we could not get in for free. Still the

The museum had a wonderful selection of art and a very nice staff. While not the largest space its three floors showed plenty of art. Downtown Jacksonville doesn't have a lot of things to do so I'm glas this museum is there for tourist.

We brought our students for a field trip. The staff was so accommodating, helpful and patient. They really went out of their way for the children! Their resources and art centers were engaging. We'd love to come back for another visit!

Interesting exhibits and nice atmosphere. The staff was friendly. The entire tour of the museum was short though.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

We had our Annual Company Christmas party there and it was a very nice place the service was great just wish we had access to see the Art exhibit there. I will return tho to see it myself. Merry Christmas everyone …

Free on Saturday not what we were expecting some art I do not consider to be art but it's up to one perspective.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

I had a great experience. There were some really nice pieces of artwork and they have a few interactive stations that most people will enjoy.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Saturdays of 2023 are free thanks to Vystar. The museum is great! You should definitely check it out.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

There is some good art there. But it felt a little sparse and with so much wonderful art and with so many amazing artist out of jacksonville it sees it. There could be a lot more things to look at there. I still enjoyed it

Art was beautiful, can't wait till the elevator is fixed so we can go on the additional floors.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

I had a great visit at MOCA Saturday. The staff was very friendly. One of the staff even informed me that entry is free on Saturdays for the remainder of 2023. I definitely recommend MOCA.
Visited on
Weekend

I’m Not impressed. Saw very few pieces that were even something you could call art. I’m not on artist and I could fill this place with more pleasing things to look at. If I would’ve paid I’d be disappointed More

I thought the exhibits were interesting and the museum is a good size. Not so big that you get worn out trying to look at everything. Free admission for B of A customers the first weekend of the month is nice.

It was a beautiful museum. Wish it had more to see. Will def visit again in the future.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Great small museum that always has contemporary art worth seeing. The 4th floor has a kids' area that seems like it would be pretty cool if it was more active. We were the only ones there when we visited.

All the exhibits are pretty neat. I can definitely spend at while looking at all the art. The staff is really informed and really helpful. One of the places to check out if you're visiting Jacksonville.

Lots of interesting art, sculpture and experimental pieces. Well worth a trip.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

It was such a fun experience. There were only 3 floors with one exhibit each, so it would be an easy first experience with art museums for kids. It was an enjoyable hour and a half for what it costs!

Great hall but the art was the missing component, at least this time around.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Amazing arts all time , peaceful place , clean all time , very nice ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$1–5

Went for the free annual museum day but there's also free admission with a library card. Interesting changing exhibits. Especially enjoyed the art of local children on the top floor.

Great experience with Modern and contemporary arts! Excellent location in beautiful downtown Jacksonville. Across from Hemming Plaza and next to Jacksonville Public Library.

The place is small but has interesting pieces. The staff were very nice. If you’re a healthcare worker bring your ID to get free admission. Otherwise tickets are only $8.

Always love. Props to the curators.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Great place to visit while downtown, they even have a restaurant inside. The museum is not large, bit lots of local artist works are exhibited there.

Small. Quote quiet with some nice art. I did notice that there aren't many "contemporary" pieces compared to other art museum in the city. More

Our special Contemporary art museum here in Jacksonville. Great installation art and exhibits are worth the trip to downtown Jacksonville.

This is a lovely place to spend a few hours enjoying a variety of art. These were a few of our faves! I look forward to our next visit.

Compact but very well curated museum in the city center. Good collection and interesting loans. Excellent restaurant at the entrance.

It was great, the staff I super nice and the camp here is incredibly fun!! The loft is also great if you have small children

Beautiful displays of art. I really enjoyed the Karen Walker exhibit. I learned much and felt deep while visiting MOCA. More

Only a few good things to look at and a little boring but everyone was nice. The interesting stuff there was very nice!

We love to go look at the art, and also make art as a family up on the 5th floor (typically during special events).

It was very nice! My wife's office Christmas party was held there. Good food & good drinks, everyone had a blast.

A good way to spend an hour or two. Intresting exhibits and friendly, informative staff.
Visited on…
More

Nice staff and well maintained museum. There were a few interactive art which I enjoyed. I spent an hour here.

This venue was lackluster to say the least. There was nothing special, nice or even welcoming about the space.

Friendly staffs but do not have many artworks on display. You can go through everything in 20 minutes maximum.

Not really my jam, so glad it was free thanks to Vystar. The tent thing I the middle was pretty cool.