Riverside Arts Market
The merchandise is one of the draws at this market, held Saturday from 10 to 3; the unique location is another. It's tucked under the soaring bridge that carries I--95 over the St. Johns River, a block from the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and a healthy walk along the Riverwalk from Downtown. Singles, couples, and families (and their dogs) all come to shop for locally created art and crafts; sample bites from food trucks and other vendors, including some excellent area restaurants; and check out street performers or the live music shows on the riverfront stage. Quality is high in every aspect—artists and vendors all go through a fairly rigorous application/audition process—and what there is to see or hear or eat varies from week to week. There's also a farmers' market, with licensed farmers and growers selling everything from just-laid eggs and local honey to salad greens that were still in the earth the day before. Because it's sheltered by the bridge, RAM goes on rain or shine. Free parking is available at adjacent businesses, and a "bike valet" service encourages people to arrive on two wheels.
