With its laugh-out-loud humor, big heart, and wildly imaginative energy, Dog Man: The Musical is exactly the kind of show that gets kids buzzing with excitement before the curtain even rises. And when something this fun comes to Clay County, it opens the door to more than just a night at the theater—it becomes the perfect reason to turn the day into a full family adventure!
That’s what makes this Clay County itinerary such an easy win for families. Everything is close, welcoming, and refreshingly low-stress, so you can plan a day around the show without rushing. From playful pre-show stops and a relaxed lunch to a sweet treat after the final bow, this itinerary is designed to flow naturally, letting kids burn energy, have fun, and settle in for an evening of live theater that feels special for everyone.
*24-25 Touring Company Photo by Jeremy Daniel L-R/ Sadie Jayne Kennedy, Brandon James Butorovich,Mundo Ballejos, Marquise Neal24-25 Touring Company Photo by Jeremy Daniel L-R/ Sadie Jayne Kennedy, Glory Yepassis-Zembrou, BrandonJames Butorovich, Marquise Neal, Jacob Wernecke, Mundo Ballej
Fun Pre-Show Activities
Before the curtain rises, this is your chance to kick off the day in a way that fits your family best. Whether that means burning off some energy, indulging in baked goods, or shopping around a place that sparks curiosity, these pre-show stops make it easy to settle into the fun without feeling rushed.
Top of the Tee (Fleming Island)
If your crew likes to move, laugh, and try something new, Top of the Tee is an easy win. This high-tech driving range turns golf into a game, with interactive modes that keep both kids and parents engaged. No experience required, no pressure to be perfect—just a chance to swing, score points, and enjoy some friendly competition before the evening ahead.
Luckiest Man Sports Cards (Orange Park)
Got collectors or card fans in the family? Luckiest Man Sports Cards is the kind of place where kids instantly feel at home. As Clay County’s only trading card store, it offers everything from sports cards to Pokémon and Star Wars favorites. Even if you’re just browsing, the nostalgic atmosphere makes it easy to linger and connect over shared interests.
YUM – A Southern Market (Middleburg)
For families who prefer a gentler start, YUM – A Southern Market feels like a cheerful wander through a place made for curiosity. Kids gravitate straight to the bakery case, while parents enjoy browsing the boutique filled with charming gifts and décor. It’s colorful, cozy, and wonderfully unhurried—perfect if you want to start the day on a sweet note.
Enjoy a Meal Before the Show
After a day of exploring and play, it’s time to grab a bite before the show—nothing fancy, nothing rushed. Just a relaxed lunch where kids can be kids, parents can unwind, and everyone can refuel before the evening ahead.
Whitey’s Fish Camp (Fleming Island)
Whitey’s Fish Camp has been a Clay County staple since 1963, and it’s especially great for families who want a laid-back pre-show meal with a view. (Perfect before spending a few hours in the theater!) Sitting along a scenic waterway connected to Doctors Lake, it feels casual and welcoming, with plenty to take in while you enjoy your food.
The menu has something for everyone, including a kids’ menu with crowd-pleasers like popcorn shrimp and chicken strips. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in, eat, and feel relaxed heading into the evening.
Dog Man: The Musical Showtime at Thrasher-Horne Center
Based on Dav Pilkey’s wildly popular book series, Dog Man: The Musical brings big laughs, big heart, and a whole lot of imagination to the stage. The story follows Dog Man (a hero with the head of a dog and the body of a police officer) as he faces off against familiar foes like Petey the Cat and Flippy the cyborg fish, all while learning about kindness, creativity, and believing in yourself.
Where: Thrasher-Horne Center, Orange Park
When: March 10, 2026, at 6:30 pm
Tickets: On sale on the Thrasher-Horne Center website
A cast member, Lauren Dodds, who plays “Li’l Petey & Others” in Dog Man: The Musical, shared that the show is written “in the voice of a kid,” with the goal of celebrating silliness and imagination rather than toning it down. “Kids can see their creations on stage,” she explained. “It really reinforces that their ideas matter.”
Parents often hear it described as “the best first live theater experience for kids.” While the production is created by seasoned Broadway professionals, it’s intentionally fast-moving, funny, and accessible, keeping kids engaged while still drawing the whole family into the story. As Lauren put it, “It’s made for kids, but it really brings families into the experience together.”
*24-25 Touring Company Photo by Jeremy Daniel L-R/ Glory Yepassis-Zembrou, Mundo Ballejos, JakeWernecke, Sadie Jayne Kennedy, Marquise Neal, Brandon James Butorovich
End the Night with a Sweet Treat
After the applause fades, there’s just one more stop, because no great family night out ends without dessert!
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice (Orange Park)
Just a short drive from the theater and open until 10 pm, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice in Orange Park is a perfect post-show treat stop. With dozens of flavors to choose from, kids can mix fruity Italian ice with creamy soft-serve to create something entirely their own.
It’s a chance to talk about favorite scenes, and let the excitement of the show settle before heading home after a memorable family day.
Turn This Fun Outing Into a Full Family Day
Our Dog Man family itinerary isn’t about doing everything—it’s about choosing a handful of moments that fit together well. The stops are close, the atmosphere is welcoming, and every experience leaves room for kids to laugh, imagine, and just be themselves. It’s a day built around creativity, humor, and enjoying time together, without the pressure to rush from place to place.
Whether your family loves staying active, getting a little artsy, or likes to plan around their next snack, Clay County makes it easy to shape a day that feels special without feeling overwhelming. Pick what works for your family, grab tickets to Dog Man: The Musical, and enjoy a day that feels joyful, manageable, and full of imagination from start to finish.