Jackson Free Press

If you think Jackson has nothing to do, think again. The city, as every true Jacksonian knows, is filled with attractions and events for everyone.

Mynelle Gardens (4736 Clinton Blvd., 601-960-1894)

Mynelle Gardens has beautiful landscapes filled with azaleas, day lilies and other colorful bulbs. With only a $4 entrance fee, patrons can explore acres of wildlife and greenery. It even makes a great spot for photo shoots, such as senior portraits, and if you happen to find yourself needing these, engagement photos.

Fondren's First Thursday (fondrensfirstthursday.com)

The first Thursday of most months, Fondren hosts a block party that includes live music, food and vendors. It consistently draws in approximately 5,000 people to enjoy the unifying experience of music, art, food and people-watching.

Skate-N-Shake Roller Rink (2460 Terry Road, Suite 1600, 601-346-2522)

If you're in the mood for nostalgia, go to Skate-N-Shake. You can skate around this rink until your calves can't take it anymore. The rink has amenities such as an arcade, a Chill Lounge for those 21 and older, birthday party rooms and 
8,000 square feet of rink.

Museum After Hours (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515)

Museum After Hours is a one-night pop-up event every third Thursday of the month where local artists showcase their work, and executive chef Nick Wallace cooks up something special. And if you want more, it also has trivia, a cash bar and Screen on the Green, where it plays on the Art Garden's lawn. In September, the museum will show "Guardians of the Galaxy."

Broadway at Thalia Mara Hall (225 E. Pascagoula St., 601-960-1535)

Cancel your trip to New York City because Broadway is coming to Jackson. Starting later this year, Jacksonians can see Broadway plays such as "Annie," "Jersey Boys" and several more at Thalia Mara Hall. And if you want to see something a little more local, New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3531) is about to go into its 50th season. For more information, visit newstagetheatre.com.

The Jackson Zoo (2918 W. Capitol St., 601-352-2580)

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Besides those animals, the zoo is home to a variety of other animals including otters, monkeys, alligators and many more furry and scaly friends. And besides having lots of cute and cool animals, the zoo is also interactive so you can learn while looking around.

Karaoke Bars

If you tend to burst out in song at random times, Jackson can help you out. There are a number of bars that cater to your need to sing and your need to eat, including Fenian's Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055), Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, 601-899-0038), Last Call Sports Grill (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700) and Martin's Restaurant & Lounge (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712) are just a few.

Many more fun ideas await at bestofjackson.com.