Sipping & Playing in Jacksonville – June 2025

WE’RE GETTING TO THAT TIME of year when the Britt Festival is about to kick off—which means it’s prime time to discover the best spots in town for a drink or bite before the show. If you have kids (or not), The Miners’ Bazaar is a hidden gem you’ll want on your list.

Tucked right in the heart of downtown Jacksonville, Miners’ is a convenient and cozy pre-Britt stop. Even better, it’s run by owner Rosie Taylor—one of the kindest, most welcoming people you’ll meet. She’s always ready to help you explore the rotating menu of food, drinks, and art projects with genuine warmth. And if Rosie’s not there, no worries—the rest of the team is just as friendly and knowledgeable, keeping the same inviting vibe no matter who’s working.

So, what makes this place so special?

  • Kid-Approved, Parent-Perfect—My six-year-old daughter absolutely loves it here. Whether she’s diving into a paint-by-number kit or one of the many creative rotating projects they have ready to go, she’s happily occupied. Meanwhile, I get to unwind with my favorite: The Shrubble. As a sparkling wine enthusiast, I’m a big fan—it’s a crisp, refreshing mix of champagne, seasonal fruit, and herbs. They rotate the flavors to match the season, which keeps it fun and fresh. My husband’s go-to? The house-crafted Negroni—bold, balanced, and (according to him) one of the best in the valley.
  • Outdoor Oasis—The outdoor spaces are just as charming as the interior. Out front, there are rocking chairs on the patio where you can sip and people-watch on California Street. If you prefer a quieter vibe, the shaded back patio is perfect for escaping the bustle. And yes—there’s often live music. One of our favorite local moments was seeing our neighbor on harmonica under the twinkling lights with his band. Check their website for upcoming shows—they host a great mix of rotating local musicians.
  • Art-Lover’s Paradise—Even if you’re not naturally artsy (I’m not either), it’s inspiring to see the creativity flowing here. You’ll often catch guests fully immersed in everything from painting to handcrafts. Miners’ also hosts special workshops like Stitch Bracelets and Cyanotype Bandanas, making it a great place to try something new or brush up on your skills. They also offer a private room for events—we actually hosted our daughter’s birthday there, and it was a hit with kids and adults alike.
  • A Local Favorite with Room for Everyone—Whether you’re heading to Britt, wrangling kids on a weekend, or just looking for a spot to unwind with a cocktail and a side of creativity, Miners’ Bazaar delivers. Not feeling up to DIY? No problem—they also feature a beautifully-curated shop of handcrafted goods from local artists.

The Miners’ Bazaar is located at 235 E California Street in Jacksonville. Check out their menu, upcoming events, or reserve a table at theminersbazaar.com.

Whether you’re chasing kid-friendly fun or just a peaceful moment with a drink in hand, you’ll leave with a full heart, maybe a new hobby, and definitely a new favorite cocktail (seriously—try the Shrubble).

Disclaimer: I’m just an enthusiastic wine taster with zero formal expertise—just a mom on a mission to find the best places to sip and relax!