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From parks and museums to botanical gardens, there are many great opportunities for entertainment in Jacksonville, FL. When weighing your options, you may struggle to decide due to the number of activities you can choose from. Today, we're looking at our favorite weekend activities in the Jacksonville area that we think you should make the drive over to. Drive on Over: 3 Weekend Activities Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Visiting Catty Shack Ranch One of the best things to do on a Saturday night in Jax is visiting Catty Shack Ranch at 1860 Starratt Road. Every Friday and Saturday from 6 to 7:30 PM, night feedings are held. After a brief introductory video, you can take a self-guided walking tour through the ranch. You can see the animals that live here, including foxes, bobcats, cougars, and lions. At 7 o'clock, it is feeding time! The executive director of the wildlife sanctuary will share fun facts about the animals that live here. You can also go on an enrichment tour from 1 to 3 Sunday. Typically, this self-guided walking tour takes 45 to 60 minutes to complete. more 2. Exploring Little Talbot Island State Park We also recommend exploring Little Talbot Island State Park at 12157 Heckscher Dr. There are many great outdoor activities that you can enjoy here, including surfing, paddling, and swimming. There are also hiking and biking trails that can be enjoyed. Birding is another popular activity that can be enjoyed out here. Some of the species you may be able to see include: Painted buntings Snowy owls Great-horned owls Plovers 3. Touring Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Touring Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens at 370 Zoo Parkway is another great way to spend a Saturday in Jax. There are over a dozen exhibits housing mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, and amphibians from around the world. One of the most popular exhibits is Stingray Bay. Here, you can get an up-close look at Atlantic guitarfish, cownose stingrays, Atlantic stingrays, and bluntnose stingrays. The Land of the Tiger exhibit is also really popular. In this exhibit, you can find Malayan and Sumatran tigers. You can also find Visayan warty pigs and bluegills here. If you're a fan of birds, you can't miss the Emerald Forest Aviary exhibit. It is home to over a dozen bird species. While there are many great ways to enjoy a beautiful weekend in Jax, you need a car you can count on, like a 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata. If you're in the market for a new car, take one for a test drive by visiting us today at Tom Bush Mazda.

Thanks to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, there are no shortage of scenic drives in Jacksonville, FL, from gorgeous meanders down the shore-lined AIA Highway to beautiful drives into the interior of the state, where you'll find huge trees wreathed in Spanish moss. Your 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata is the perfect sophisticated and sporty ride to get you there with exceptional driving and an integrated entertainment system. 4 Scenic Drives You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL 1. River Road Historic District You'll find the River Road Historic District less than half an hour outside of Jacksonville in nearby Orange Park, and it's well worth the short drive. This part of Florida is full of historic buildings, lovely glimpses of the inland St. John's River, and plenty of unique old-growth southern trees. It's also a unique drive because it takes you inland to see a whole new side of the Sunshine State. more 2. Fort Clinch State Park Fort Clinch State Park, at 2601 Atlantic Avenue in nearby Fernandina Beach, is less than an hour from Jacksonville, and the scenic drive out there is absolutely stunning, especially when you get closer to the park. From the trees draped in Spanish moss to the bucolic fields and countryside, you'll see it's a lovely, peaceful drive, and you'll get to enjoy the historical fort at the end. 3. AIA Highway Arguably one of the most incredible drives in the entire state, the AIA Highway drive goes down the Atlantic Ocean, starting in Fernandina Beach and ending at Turner Butler Boulevard. Expect stunning views of the pristine ocean, windswept beaches, and candy-colored houses on your way down. If you're looking for a gorgeous slice of sand and sea, and you want to see it from your car, the AIA Highway is an excellent choice. 4. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Travel less than an hour away to Georgia's Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, at 2700 Suwannee Canal Road, and enjoy the best of northern Florida and southern Georgia. With plenty of ancient trees, wildlife, and beautiful nature the whole way out, the drive out to this refuge is a splendid way to spend the day. Plus, you can explore the preserve itself and see all of Georgia's incredible flora and fauna. Enjoy some of the top drives in this amazing part of the Sunshine State. You don't have to go too far to find somewhere gorgeous to go cruising, and you can even hit up a few fun hotspots on the way. To get to these four incredible drives and see the best of the state, you'll need some excellent wheels. Stop in and see us at Tom Bush Mazda and check out our great inventory today.

From tourist attractions to hidden gems, there's a lot to love about living in Jacksonville, FL. That said, we all need a break from our routine every once in a while, and there are lots of fun cities and charming towns near Jax that you can escape to. If you feel like you need a break, load your family into your 2024 Mazda CX-90, and check out one of these great weekend getaways. 3 Great Weekend Getaways in Driving Distance of Jacksonville, FL 1. Amelia Island If you are a history buff visiting Amelia Island, you need to check out American Beach at the end of Lewis Street. It was founded by A. L. Lewis in 1935 in response to the segregation laws in the state. Today, this pristine beach can be enjoyed by anyone, and it serves as Florida's Black Heritage Trail's first stop. We also love Amelia Island State Park at Florida A1A. This state park is open from 8 AM until sundown daily, and parking is free. However, there is a fee to enjoy the park. You will need to put $2 per person into the honor box before entering. One of the greatest things about this park is that it is great for birdwatching. Depending on the season, you may see such bird species as: Bald eagles Least terns Wilson's plover Osprey Pelicans Royal terns Piping plovers Black skimmers Willets more 2. St. Marys We also love visiting St. Marys. One of our favorite places to visit is Crooked River State Park at 6222 Charlie Smith Sr Hwy. In this convenient state park, you can enjoy the best of the maritime forest and Intracoastal Waterway. We recommend staying in one of the comfy, cozy cottages near the tidal river. However, you can also camp surrounded by beautiful old oaks and massive palmettos. This 500-acre park features over five dozen campsites, 11 cottages, four picnic shelters, and two group shelters. It is a great place to picnic, and it is also a great place for a wedding or vow renewal. Some things you can do here include biking, birding, boating, and fishing. 3. Daytona Beach, FL We also recommend checking out Daytona International Speedway at 1801 W International Speedway Blvd. With a Fanzone ticket, you can: Sign the finish line Look in the garage Enjoy the pre-race concert There are many great places to get away from Jax for the weekend, and you can explore them whenever you want with reliable transportation. Just make sure you stay on top of your manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule to keep your car running smoothly. If it's been a while since your last tire rotation, contact us now at Tom Bush Mazda to schedule a service appointment.

If you're an avid reader, finding the best bookstores near Jacksonville, FL can ensure a steady supply of books to read and increase your appreciation of the various literary works available in-store. Luckily, you have many good locations to choose from, whether you love poetry, romance, mystery, fantasy, science-fiction, or other genres of literature. 3 Great Bookstores You Can Drive to Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Chamblin's Uptown Centrally located in downtown Jacksonville at 215 North Laura St., Chamblin's Uptown is a two-story independent bookstore with roughly 800,000 books available in-store. This retail location doubles as a cafe serving breakfast and lunch all day. Local coffee from Sweetwater Coffee and delicious baked goods from Old Cup Bakery are some popular menu items served. Not only is Chamblin's Uptown a bookseller-slash-cafe but a great book-buying and trading outlet, too. If you're not looking to buy a book or grab a morning cup of coffee, you can sell your used books for a profit or trade in your old collection for a new one. This store opens daily, unlike its sister Roosevelt location, which closes on Sundays. more 2. Femme Fire Books If you're a big fan of female authors, then Femme Fire Books, located at 2766 Park St. STE 1, has a carefully curated collection of books you need to read. From gripping works of fiction to works inspired by real-life stories and events, this bookstore is quite possibly one of Jacksonville's greatest celebrations of female books and literature. There's something for everyone; whether you're looking for a sci-fi novel, a food-themed travel book, or want funny books to read to your kids. A once purely online store, this brick-and-mortar store is now open from Wednesday through Sunday. Drive to this location in your comfortable Mazda CX-9 to see the great collection of female-authored books on their shelves. 3. San Marco Books Located at 1971 San Marco Blvd, San Marco Books is a family-run bookstore that opens Monday through Saturday. It offers a large selection of Jacksonville and Florida history books, children's books, teens' books, and more. To encourage a reading culture in the local community, this location runs book clubs and sells literary gifts for people of all ages. The bookstore also partners with local schools to provide learners with convenient access to summer reading resources. Knowing convenient locations for finding your favorite books can help increase your love for reading. But you don't want your car to break down when you're driving down to a bookstore close to you. Schedule a service at Tom Bush Mazda of Jacksonville to keep the vehicle in good working condition and ensure a problem-free visit to your desired book-selling, buying, or trading destination.

Jacksonville, FL is one of the best places for taking photos because there are almost endless opportunities. No matter if you'd like a historical backdrop, a modern setting, or a beautiful natural area, you're sure to find what you're looking for. Four great photo spots are Atlantic National Bank, St. Andrew's Church, Metropolitan Park, and James Weldon Johnson Park. Photo Spots Just Down the Road: 4 Great Spots for Taking Photos Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Atlantic National Bank Do you want to capture some urban photos featuring one of the most historic buildings in the area? If so, head downtown to Atlantic National Bank. This skyscraper was constructed in 1909, so it's been around for well over 100 years. At one point, it was the tallest building in the city. Although this white marble and terra-cotta structure has now been converted to office space, it's still impressive. You can find ANB at 121 Atlantic Place. more 2. St. Andrew's Church Gothic churches are great for hauntingly spooky pictures. St. Andrew's Church is unique because it's the only big downtown church to survive the Great Fire of 1901. It was constructed in 1888, and it features stone trimmings, Florida pine woodwork, and mahogany doors. Nowadays, the church is the headquarters of the Jacksonville Historical Society. Drive your Mazda CX-30 to 317 A Philip Randolph Street and snap some photos with this unique building. 3. Metropolitan Park Drive your Mazda to Metropolitan Park & Marina and enjoy this incredible green space located on the St. Johns River. You'll be able to take some pictures at the marina, where you can admire dozens of boats and even a few yachts. The park is open every day from 7 am to dusk, and you don't have to make a reservation unless there's a concert or a football game. 4. James Weldon Johnson Park James Weldon Johnson Park is a stunning space located in the heart of the city. Aside from lots of beautiful, green areas, it features an outdoor dining area, two stages, public art projects, and a Kids' Zone. No matter what kind of picture, you'd like to take, you're sure to find the perfect spot in this historical setting. There are also plenty of live events throughout the year, so you can get unique snaps of performances and concerts. If you're looking to take exciting photos in your local area, head to Atlantic National Bank, St. Andrew's Church, Metropolitan Park, and James Weldon Johnson Park. These four locations offer ideal backdrops and stunning vistas. Once you've taken your pictures, stop by Tom Bush Mazda and have a look at our great range of Mazda vehicles. We can help you find the perfect car to take you on your next photographic adventure.

Jacksonville, FL, has many beautiful and scenic parks where you can spread a blanket, enjoy some food, and soak up the sun. If the kids tag along, they can play in the park as you relax and take in the serene surroundings. Here are our top picnic spots that you should check out in Jax. Drive on Over: 4 Favorite Picnic Spots in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Riverside Park Located in the heart of downtown at 753 Park St, Riverside is a great spot for holding a picnic. Spread a blanket under the shade of one of the enormous trees and enjoy a meal as you enjoy the scenic views of the St. Johns River. After your picnic, you can go for a leisurely stroll along the river or around the park. Kids can watch and feed the ducks in the pond and play in the well-equipped playground. more 2. Oceanfront Park For a picnic with a touch of coastal magic, head to Oceanfront Park at 429 1st St S. This park is situated along the Atlantic Ocean, offering gorgeous beachfront views. Set up a picnic on one of the benches and enjoy your meal as you listen to the sounds of the crashing waves. You can also go swimming, build a sandcastle, or even try beach yoga. One thing to love about this park is that it's peaceful and not too busy. You can read a book, walk on the beach, and enjoy a beautiful sunset without worrying about bumping into a lot of people. 3. Boone Park Bone Park is the perfect spot to bring the kids for an afternoon of eating, playing, and relaxing. With the spacious five-seater seating capacity of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S, the entire family can join in on the fun. Drive to 3700 Park St, and check out this park that features various picnic tables, pavilions, and expansive green areas. The park boasts various amenities like walking trails, tennis courts, and a kids' playground. While the little ones have a blast on the playground, you can relax and enjoy the scenic views or sweat it out on the tennis court. 4. Memorial Park If you're a history enthusiast, you should check out Memorial Park, located at 1620 Riverside Avenue. This park honors the brave soldiers who served in World War 1. It features a beautiful walking park lined with trees and lots of green areas to enjoy a picnic. After your meal, stroll around the park and check out the several statutes and memorials. You can even relax on the grass as you enjoy the beautiful river views. Dogs are allowed here, so if you have canine friends, bring them along for a fun time outdoors. Pack a picnic basket, take the car, and head over to one of these locations for a relaxing time outdoors. If you are shopping for a new Mazda, stop by Tom Bush Mazda and browse through our inventory of new and used Mazdas. You can even take your dream car on a test drive!

Are you a resident of Jacksonville, FL and looking for ways to keep everybody entertained this summer while sticking to a budget? If you want to get out and about without breaking the bank, there are plenty of free things to do that are right on your doorstep. Here are some suggestions. Make the Drive: 3 Free Things To Do Near Jacksonville, FL Baldwin Rail Trail Drive your whole family in style to the Baldwin Rail Trail while enjoying the ride in your spacious and extravagant, three-row 2024 Mazda CX-90. The accessible-to-all Rail Trail begins at 2 Imeson Road and is a 15-mile-long paved pathway that hosts walking, running, skating, biking, and even a gentle trot on horseback. There are very popular bird-watching stations along the route where it's possible to see a diverse range of our feathered friends. Take in the pretty flowers and trees that line the path as you wind your way along, taking welcome pit stops at one of the many picnic tables provided. You can even take your dog along, although they should remain on a leash because there is always lots of wildlife out and about, including snakes, birds, land turtles, chickens, deer, and turkeys. more Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve Located at 12713 Fort Caroline Road, this preserve is a stunning, untouched protected area that consists of coastal wetlands and winding waterways. It offers historic cultural sites, salt marshes, wildlife, and a trail that weaves its way through shaded areas and stunning beaches. There's no need to splash out on lunch as you can enjoy a relaxed picnic on one of the tables provided at Cedar Point, the Kingsley Plantation, and the Theodore Roosevelt Area. Throughout the summer, free 1 to 2-hour events are planned for every Saturday and Sunday. Events include an open house at the Kingsley Plantation, a pop-up ranger talk, a group hike into the charming Theodore Roosevelt area, and a guided tour of the Fort Caroline grounds. Little Talbot Island State Park This secluded natural beauty spot is situated at 12157 Heckscher Drive. Its unspoiled beaches stretch for over 5 miles, while its bike trails are an impressive 3 miles long. Here, you can experience the unique blend of beautiful aqua waves with faded fallen trunks from ancient cedar and palm trees. Its unusual landscape creates a breathtaking and unique paradise. Here, you can kayak along Myrtle Creek, enjoy an invigorating swim in the ocean, or take a relaxed stroll along the cool, shaded walking trail. Then you can top up your tan while sunbathing on the golden beach or cool off by paddling in the shallow waves, with the sea breeze in your hair and sand in between your toes. A wonderful time is sure to be had by all! This mix of fantastic days out just goes to shoe that you don't always have to spend money to have a good time. Enjoy the wildlife that inhabits the Baldwin rail trail, attend an event at the Timacuan Reserve, or spend a fun-filled day at Little Talbot Island State Park. Whichever you choose, be sure to visit Jacksonville's Tom Bush Mazda to see our wonderful range of new and used cars.

Welcome to fun-filled Jacksonville, FL. When you've got a good tan at the beach and are ready to enjoy the air conditioning inside, bowling is always a good choice. Check out one of the following local bowling alleys for an evening of entertainment. Drive on Down: 4 of the Best Bowling Alleys Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Freedom Lanes This newly remodeled establishment at Bldg. 609 Gillis St. has 16 lanes, friendly staff, and some of the best pizza and French fries around. Come celebrate a birthday with the whole family. The adults can enjoy a beer while the kids practice their bowling skills with automatic scoring and bumpers. There's also an arcade room and pool tables. And they keep everything clean. Please drink responsibly and in moderation, and do not drink and drive. 2. Pinz Bowling Center Pinz is a modern facility with excellent amenities and entertainment at affordable prices. Go at night for a disco-style bowling experience. They have specials for groups and families, such as $50 for a 2-hour bowling session with up to 4 people. The food is very good, so order wings, a pizza, and sodas and get ready for a great time. You can even join a league at your skill level. They are located at 244 Baltimore St. and are open Tuesday through Saturday. more 3. Jax Lanes Bowling Center This large, colorful center, at 8720 Beach Blvd., boasts 32 lanes and an arcade. You'll find a clean facility, friendly staff, good food, and affordable prices. Order the Philly cheesesteak, a large pepperoni pizza, or a large order of fries for everyone. Let the kids run wild in the arcade while you are buying slots for your group. You can even enjoy the occasional karaoke night in addition to bowling fun. They are open seven days a week. 4. Bowlero Southside Another great choice to bring the family or even host corporate events is Bowlero. They have beautiful lanes, an arcade, and more. We suggest an over-fired pizza and a pitcher of beer. Or order a cocktail from their full bar. Also, check out Sunday Funday and the Friday night After Party special. They are open seven days a week with different hours each day. Check their website for more information. They are located at 10333 San Jose Blvd. Pack the whole family up in your brand new 2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Premium AWD and drive to your favorite bowling venue. Visit Tom Bush Mazda at 9876 Atlantic Blvd. and meet our friendly associates. We are here to help you with your vehicle needs. So ask about a test drive and our financing options. Our qualified mechanics are also available to service your current vehicle. We look forward to seeing you soon.

You might assume that, being in Florida, we have lots of Caribbean restaurants: and you'd be absolutely right. We're spoiled for choice, if anything, here in Jacksonville, FL. We'd like to share a few of our favorite spots with you, so pick up your friends in your sporty Mazda3 and make a night of it at one of these places. 3 Caribbean Restaurants Worth the Drive Near Jacksonville, FL Spices Right smack in the middle of town at 1319 Rogero Rd, this is the place to enjoy hearty portions and delicious spices. You'll find them open from 11am until 8pm Monday through Thursday and until 8:30pm on Friday and Saturday. They're closed on Sundays. Everything made here is fresh, and they're especially known for their fast to-go service. It's busy here, so be aware. There's so much to recommend here that we're not quite sure where to start, but some of our favorite meals are the Callaloo and Saltfish, the curried goat, and the jerk snapper. You don't want to leave without having their fried plantains or cabbage. They also make terrific smoothies here. Irie Head over to the southwest side of town for this unassuming, easygoing spot with incredible flavors. You'll find them at 1177 Park Ave in Orange Park, and they're open from 11am until 7:30pm every day but Sunday. Prices here are reasonable, we love the friendly atmosphere, and you can't ask for better food. You'll really want to try the coconut shrimp, the conch, and the Trinidad and Tobago curry chicken. We also love the traditional oxtail and the curried goat here. Their jerk ribs are also really excellent, and the red snapper is always done right. more Caribbean Soul and Cuisine If you're on the north side of town, stop at this spot at 5507 Norwood Ave in the Norwood Plaza Flea Market. It's small, it's easy to miss, it's unassuming, it's closed on Mondays: and it's got food so bursting with flavor you'll think you've died and woken up in Jamaica. Do not be put off by the run-down strip mall it's in. They're open from noon until 8pm Tuesday through Thursday, until 9pm on Friday and Saturday, and until 7pm on Sundays. Every day is a different special, so you'll want to try several things and then come on your favorite days. For example, on Tuesday, you can get all kinds of seafood made to order, but no curried goat, which you can get every other day. Be sure to try their fried lobster tail. Come see us at Tom Bush Mazda to make sure your vehicle is ready for all your local island-dining adventures!

If you're looking for a great birdwatching spot close to Jacksonville, FL, you'll love the following locations! These spots offer amazing opportunities to see various birds and are perfect for novice and experienced birdwatchers. So grab your binoculars and get ready for some fun! 4 Great Birdwatching Spots in Driving Distance of Jacksonville, FL Emeralda Marsh Emeralda Marsh is located on the eastern side of Lake Griffin and covers nearly 6,600 acres. It is home to various bird species, including sandhill crane, green-winged teal, and wood ducks. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, stopping to peer through the binoculars at the birds in their natural habitat. The marsh is also home to turtles, alligators, and fish, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Emeralda Marsh is also a beautiful spot for photography and nature walks. more Huguenot Park-Nassau Sound The park is situated on the shores of Nassau River, and its extensive wetlands provide a habitat for various birds. Among the most commonly seen birds at Huguenot Park are falcons, brown pelicans, and common and Gull-billed terns. The park also provides a great opportunity to see some of Florida's unique bird species, such as Wilson's plover and the American Oystercatcher. Huguenot Park is an important stopover for migrating birds, and its wetlands provide food and shelter for these birds. Fort George and Talbot Islands With a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, maritime forests, and beaches, the islands offer a home to many different types of birds. In addition, the islands are located near the mouth of the St. Johns River, making them an ideal spot for migrating birds. Thousands of birders flock to the islands every year to catch a glimpse of rare and beautiful bird species. Some of the most popular birds on the islands include piping plovers and painted buntings. The islands also offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and downtown Jacksonville. Duval and Nassau Tidal Marshes Drive to Duval and Nassau Tidal Marshes in your stylish yet comfy Mazda3 Sedan with heated seats for an afternoon of wildlife watching. The Duval marshes, located near the St. Johns River, are salt marshes that support a variety of plant and animal life and are known for their tranquil beauty due to their proximity to the Atlantic Coast. Duval and Nassau Tidal Marshes are also home to various bird species, including seaside sparrows, marsh wren, Worthington's, and McGillivray's. If you're looking for great birding sites close to Jacksonville, you'll want to check out the above spots. Contact us at Tom Bush Mazda today for all your automotive needs. We'd be happy to help you get set up with a vehicle that will allow you to explore these locations in style and comfort. Image by 👀 Mabel Amber, who will one day from Pixabay

Although you may not see the leaves changing colors, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fall season in Jacksonville, FL. Whether you prefer cozy indoor events or strolling around in the crisp weather, we have some ideas for you. Check out these fun fall activities in the area! more 3 Fun Fall Activities You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL 1. Stroll Around a Pumpkin Patch Conagree and Penn started as a rice farm and quickly blossomed into a thriving farm of orchards, vines, and animals. The stunning farm is a popular destination for weddings, dinners, and workshops. Throughout the year, the farm hosts various seasonal picking events where you are invited to gather fresh produce right off the land. During Fall, this place hosts a breathtaking pumpkin patch filled to the brim with flashy orange gourds. In order to enter the pumpkin patch, you must purchase a farm pass. Pumpkins are available for purchase at $12 a pumpkin. 2. Skate Around at Community First Igloo As the weather gets cooler, the desire to skate gets stronger. Luckily, you won't have to wait for the snow to get on the rink (not like you'll get any snow in Florida.) Community First Igloo is the epicenter of ice sports in Northeast Florida. The indoor ice rink features 2 NHL-sized rinks, 3 party rooms, and a rinkside cafe. Some activities hosted at the center include training camps, sled hockey, and figure skating. In early November, the rinks open up for public skating. General admission is $12 and skate rentals are $5. Be sure that your skates are the right size and that they are on correctly before getting on the ice! 3. Enjoy a Morning Brunch at Another Broken Egg Cafe One of the best parts about fall is that you get to try tons of seasonal flavors! With flavors like warm pumpkin spice and salted caramel apple, we think that this is really the season of eating. At Another Broken Egg Cafe, you'll be able to order fall specialties that you won't be able to find any other time of year. This cozy restaurant is a great place to start your morning! One of the best seasonal menu items is the Spiked Chocolate Chip Pancakes. These handmade pancakes are layered with chocolate cream cheese, chocolate chips, and fresh strawberries served with a side of chocolate liqueur. We recommend pairing it with the Pumpkin Spice Spiked Cold Brew, a concoction of rum and pumpkin cold brew topped with spiced cream! Whether you pick a perfect pumpkin, take a spin on skates, or dine on festive treats, we hope you enjoy a perfect Fall day! With the 2022 Mazda3 Sedan, you'll have no trouble keeping up with your plans all season long. Visit Tom Bush Mazda to see what's in stock! Image by Paul Brennan from Pixabay

With so many bodies of water in and around it, Northeast Florida is a boat enthusiast's paradise! Residents of Jacksonville, FL are ideally located within the region, especially since it boasts a longer coastline than any other city in the state. So, take advantage of your Mazda CX-9's 3,500-pound towing capacity and take the boat out to any of these fine boating spots! more Take the Car and Check Out These 4 Great Boating Destinations Near Jacksonville FL 1. St. Johns River Along Downtown Jacksonville What better way to take in the sights and sounds of downtown Jacksonville than by taking a cruise in your own boat on the St. Johns River? First, you'll want to head over to the Southbank area's St. Johns Marina, which serves as the perfect spot to launch your boat. Once you hit the river, look to the north to get an amazing view of the Central Core's beautiful waterfront. Head east and you'll be able to see Metropolitan Park and the Hart Bridge. 2. Jacksonville Beach If you're into water sports and ocean fishing, then Jacksonville Beach will surely become one of your favorite places to take your boat. Don't forget to bring along your fishing gear since there are great opportunities to catch grouper, bluefish, sea trout, flounder, and much more! After launching your boat, try heading to the Mayport Jetties near the mouth of the St. Johns River, which is considered one of the best areas to catch fish. While you're exploring the coast, you might even get the chance to meet a few members of the local dolphin population! 3. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve This gorgeous 46,00-acre preserve is the perfect place for smaller boats to explore and features some of the First Coast's most interesting landmarks. The preserve consists of a diverse system of waterways and wetlands where visitors can view a wide variety of wildlife. Boaters can also make a stop close to the Fort Caroline National Memorial, which is the site of an attempted French settlement that was attacked by the Spanish in 1565. Enter the Fort George River within the preserve and you'll catch a glimpse of the Kingsley Plantation, the state's oldest standing plantation. 4. Bird Island The aptly named Bird Island is located in Nassau Sound between the southern tip of Amelia Island and Little Talbot Island, which has been classified by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Numerous bird species have come to inhabit Bird Island, including the American oystercatcher, black skimmer, brown pelican, and laughing gull. There are also various species of tern in the area. Boaters who count themselves as avid birders won't want to miss out on visiting this location! While the area surrounding Jacksonville is filled with destinations for boaters, these places definitely offer some of the most unique experiences. Do you also love driving cars? Head on over to Tom Bush Mazda today and test drive one of our exciting new models! Image by Michelle Raponi from Pixabay