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The smell of fresh bread, cinnamon rolls, and fresh donuts are enough to whet anyone's appetite. In Jacksonville, FL, we love freshly-baked goods. We're also really pleased that our city has some of the best bakeries in the county: maybe even in the state. When you're looking for great local baking we know just the places you can get it. These are some of our favorites, and we hope you'll enjoy them as much as we do. more 3 Favorite Local Bakeries in Jacksonville, FL Sweet Theory Baking Co. Sweet Theory was founded in 2012, and it's located at 1243 King Street. They have an amazing variety of cakes, buns, rolls, and other delicious treats. They only bake small quantities, but they're freshly baked every day. When you walk in, you're assailed by cinnamon, vanilla, chocolate, and other delicious scents. Looking around at the options, it's difficult to know which one you want right now. Sweet Theory is also perfect if you have a nut allergy, as they're nut-free. Their selection includes cupcakes, brownies, donuts, and cinnamon rolls. You can also get cake slices or whole cakes. It's important to visit them early, as their goods are in high demand and you could miss out on your favorite treat. We love their cupcakes, especially the banana chip and the blondie explosion. They're open from 8.30 am to 4 pm Tuesday to Friday, and from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturdays. The Donut Shoppe As the name suggests, the focus of this bakery is donuts. They've been a part of our city since 1962, and they've won the JaxBest award for the best donuts in Jacksonville numerous times. With a pedigree like this, if you love donuts you have to visit this store. All their donuts are freshly made daily, and they have twenty-one varieties available. Ten of the donut varieties are yeast-raised, and the remaining eleven are cake donuts Our favorite is the apple fritter, or ugly as they're called. Its twice the size of a hand, and the apple flavor is on point. Another great favorite is the Bavarian creme. The Donut Shoppe is located at 1534 University Boulevard N, and they're open from 5 am to 1 pm Tuesday to Sunday. Amaretti Desserts Amaretti is a hidden gem. The owner is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, and her skill is reflected in the amazing variety of baked goods available. All their items are baked daily from scratch, and they offer cookies, pies, desserts, and breakfast pastries. They also make cupcakes on a daily schedule. For breakfast, we love the pecan sticky buns and their delicious cinnamon rolls. They have thirteen varieties of cakes and pies, including their special cheesecake. If you're looking for something lighter, we recommend their chocolate chip cookies. Amaretti can be found at 14965 Old St. Augustine Road, Suite 105. After visiting the best bakeries in town, come in and visit the best car dealer in town at Tom Bush Mazda.

If you're ever in Jacksonville, FL, you'll quickly find there is no shortage of awesome places to check out with friends and family. If you're looking for spots to hang out and listen to some of the best musicians that come through the city, the live music venues on the list below can offer you just that. Whether you want a night of singing and dancing, or simply want to hear some great music while having your lunch, this city has more than enough places for you. more 3 Popular Live Music Venues in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Blue Jay Listening Room With such an intimate setting, the Blue Jay Listening Room provides a relaxing evening every time you visit. It would be hard to find a place that cares more about music than the owner of this venue, meaning that everyone that comes by is guaranteed to be treated with an experience unlike any other. Enjoy the stylish seating, carefully arranged to make your time here as comfortable as it could be, and grab a drink or two with friends while you watch the stage. The menu includes a list of excellent beer and wine, but do remember to drink responsibly while you're here. No matter what kind of genre you're interested in, the variety of performances that Blue Jay puts on makes this a place for everyone. Come by on Tuesdays for their highly popular jazz nights! 2. Archetype If you're in the mood for something other than live bands, Archetype is a venue that features many different kinds of musical acts. Although traditional bands and musicians often take the stage, this place is also popular because of the awesome DJs that perform here. Grab something to eat or drink at the bar, provided by friendly and attentive staff, and if you need a break from the electric atmosphere, the outdoor patio is the perfect spot to relax for a while. 3. Breezy Jazz House & Restaurant If you're a fan of jazz music, there's no better place in the city to check out than the Breezy Jazz House. Hosting some of the best acts around, the owners of this place pride themselves on the amazing atmosphere they've managed to create. Make a reservation and have lunch at this beloved spot, ordering from a menu of salmon, chicken, pasta, and more. Why not try one of their delicious cake desserts after your meal for the full dining experience? There's an endless number of awesome spots to check out in the area, but why not start with one of the three places on this list for a guaranteed great time. Start listening to the talented bands and musicians that this city has to offer today. Stop by Tom Bush Mazda for one of the best inventories of vehicles you'll find. We also have a range of services and high-quality parts for sale should you require them.

Jacksonville, FL has beautiful beaches, warm weather, and bright sunshine.With a large cosmopolitan population, a history stretching back to 1564, and our position on the St. John's River, we have accumulated many unique features. For locals who aren't familiar with all the wonders of our city, these are some of the places everyone should visit more Top 3 Jacksonville, FL Landmarks Every Local Should Visit at Least Once Kingsley Plantation This property was originally the home of businessman and farmer Zephaniah Kingsley in the 18th century. The main house was built in 1798 and is the oldest surviving plantation house in Florida. The original kitchen building, barn, and 25 slave cabins have also survived. The main house can be viewed every Saturday and Sunday, and tours are in an open house format. There is also an audio tour and a park ranger who can provide additional fascinating information about the estate's history. Aside from the main house, you're free to wander through all of the other buildings. The kitchen building and barn both have interpretive exhibits, and you can also view a beautiful garden with cotton, indigo, sugarcane, and citrus that's maintained by the rangers. Kingsley's is located at 11676 Palmetto Avenu,e and there's no entrance fee. Jacksonville National Cemetary This cemetery occupies 526 acres and serves as a final resting place for men and women from the US military who served our country. The grounds are beautiful and serene, and this hallowed place is filled with quiet dignity. The main building contains computers where you can find the tombstone of a loved one. Water fountains and restrooms are also available, and the office building overlooks a tranquil reflective pool. The cemetery can be found at 4083 Lannie Road, and visiting hours are daily from sunrise to sunset. Ribault Monument This monument is located in Timucuan Preserve and overlooks the St. Johns River. The column honors French military explorer Jean Ribault who lead the exploration of the river mouth 450 years ago. This exploration paved the way for the building of Fort Caroline, and the growth of the community that would become Jacksonville. Signs are displayed around the monument explaining the history and significance of Ribault's accomplishments. The monument is set on the highest point in the city at 96ft above sea level. Live oaks trees surround the column, and the view of the river is spectacular. The surrounding area is quiet and peaceful, and it's a wonderful spot for quiet contemplation. The monument is located at 12713 Fort Caroline Road. If you're a local you'll certainly find a wealth of information at these sites you might not know. When you've explored these places, come in and see us at Tom Bush Mazda. Our family-owned dealership has been part of Jacksonville for over 45 years, and we have the perfect deal on a new vehicle that'll you'll love.

There are plenty of places that we love having a meal at here in Jacksonville, FL. There are so many outstanding local restaurants that picking our favorites can be difficult, but these four Thai restaurants each offer something exceptional that sets them apart from the crowd. more Top 4 Thai Restaurants in Jacksonville, FL 1. Sala Thai Restaurant A true taste of Thai cuisine that you can get right here in our city is waiting for you at Sala Thai Restaurant. They serve lunch Monday through Saturday and dinner all seven days of the week, so there's always a table waiting for you here whenever you want to enjoy your favorite dishes. We stopped in for dinner and absolutely loved the fried tofu and peanut sauce that they brought out for our appetizer. Then feast on their kaeng curry, with your choice of pork, beef, or chicken swimming in a delicious yellow ginger and curry powder coconut milk curry sauce with a variety of fresh vegetables accompanying the meat. 2. Thai Green House Authentic Thai food that you're sure to love is available for takeout, delivery, or dining in at Thai Green House. Stop in early enough and you can get yourself a great meal without emptying out your wallet with their lunch specials, giving you an entrée with your choice of protein, as well as either soup or fried spring rolls. It's hard not to love their duck with basil sauce dish, giving you a half duck sauteed with ground chicken, peppercorn, fresh basil, carrots, onion, and bell peppers for a meaty and delicious plate of food. Anyone with a sweet tooth will also love the dessert menu here, with fried ice cream and Thai-style rice pudding to snack on after your meal. 3. Aroi Thai Restaurant Culture and authenticity as well as a modern interpretation of classic Thai culinary styles gives Aroi Thai Restaurant a personality that is all its own. Call in a reservation and head to their Lomax Street location and you'll be in for a memorable dining experience. Try out the chicken satay or the minced pork gyoza served with a specialty sauce to get your meal underway. You also can't go wrong with the pad woonsen at this spot, served in a savory brown sauce that lends a mouthwatering flavor to the noodles, veggies, and meat or tofu. 4. Bounxouthai If you ask us, there aren't many better dishes that can be found in our town than the Volcano Shrimp at Bounxouthai. Steamed veggies and a generous helping of jumbo-sized shrimp come flavored with a blend of three different sauces that create a unique sensation in your mouth. Some Thai-style iced coffee or tea makes the perfect refreshment to have on the side with your meal. You'll have a new favorite after you try out any of these local restaurants here in our city. To find your new favorite dealership, come in and see us. Choose Tom Bush Mazda for all of your needs as a driver!

Is there anything better than spending a day checking out an awesome museum? Jacksonville is home to several notable museums, each with a unique perspective and story to tell. If you're looking for an enlightening and fun day out, be sure to check out one of these fantastic Jacksonville, FL attractions! more 4 of the Best Museums to Visit in and Around Jacksonville, FL Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is located in Jacksonville's historic Riverside neighborhood and is one of North Florida's most unique cultural attractions. With the combination of art gallery space, stunning gardens, walking trails, and more, this museum has something to offer everyone! The museum is located on the banks of St. Johns River and maintains some of the most stunning and historically significant gardens in the state. Cummer Museum contains five thousand art pieces with sculptures and artwork from 2100 BC to the 21st century. The Cummer Museum houses several special exhibits, including a collection of Japanese prints and rare books. Museum of Science & History The Museum of Science & History is a fascinating museum where you can learn about the world around us, from the earliest times to today. The MOSH is a great way to spend time with family and show kids how awesome science can be! The museum has incredible traveling exhibits available all year round. Visitors to MOSH will learn about different eras in history, explore how the body works, discover what makes up the world around us, enjoy the onsite planetarium, and much more! Museum of Contemporary Art The Museum of Contemporary Art is located near downtown Jacksonville. This museum focuses on showcasing local contemporary art and featuring rotating exhibitions year-round. The Museum of Contemporary Art's current location opened in 2003 and has been one of Jacksonville's major cultural attractions. MOCA Jacksonville also offers a broad range of community programs for everyone to get involved in and enjoy! The MOCA offers several floors of unique exhibits featuring a variety of media, including photography, video, sculpture, and painting. They also have unique curricula for children and programs focusing on diversity and inclusion. World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum If you love golf, you'll love the World Golf Hall of Fame and Museum. Located in St. Augustine, this museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the world of golf. With interactive displays and engaging exhibitions, everyone can learn something new! The World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum celebrates some of the greatest players in history with statues, photographs, and a 275 seat IMAX theatre. The museum also has trophies on display, hall of fame plaques for players, replica holes representing moments in history, golf simulators, and much more! If you are looking for a great activity this weekend, head to one of these phenomenal attractions near Jacksonville, Florida. Whether you want to view priceless artifacts or learn something new, there is plenty to do. If you're looking for a new car, stop by Tom Bush Mazda and check out our fantastic inventory!

Located on the northeastern corner of Florida, the city of Jacksonville, FL, is a popular spot for visitors wanting to explore the nearby state parks and idyllic beaches that the area has to offer. Whether you are into water sports, challenging hikes, or simply want to sunbathe in a beautiful beach, these are some nearby destinations you should not miss while in the region. Fill up your tank, invite your friends, and hit the road now! more 3 Amazing State Parks to Visit Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Crooked River State Park Sitting on the south banks of the Crooked River, this beautiful state park is a top-rated destination for visitors from all over the states of Georgia and northern Florida. Covering an area of about 500 acres, the park is operated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and features excellent facilities for a vast array of water sports and outdoor activities. Although the park can be visited free of charge, visitors are required to pay a $5 parking fee. Crooked River State Park is located a little over 40 miles northeast of downtown Jacksonville, making it possible to reach it in about 45 minutes by car along route I-95. Some of the facilities available for visitors include picnic shelters, a boat ramp, a dock, a children's playground, and RV campsites. If you are into mountain biking, birdwatching, fishing, hiking, paddling, boating, or miniature golfing, Crooked River State Park is the place to be. 2. Big Shoals State Park Featuring the largest whitewater rapids in the entire state of Florida, Big Shoals State Park is another destination you should check out if you are looking for spots to get away from the city and take in the beautiful nature that the region has to offer. This state park is open year-round between 8:00 am and sundown. Visitors are required to pay a $4 entrance fee per vehicle, or $2 for pedestrians, cyclists, and extra passengers. Big Shoals State Park is located a little over 70 miles west of downtown Jacksonville, making it possible to reach it in about an hour by car, driving along route I-10. Once in the park, make sure to check out its extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails. This nature reserve also features excellent facilities including camping areas, freshwater fishing piers, photogenic limestone bluffs, fully equipped picnic spots, and restrooms. 3. Anastasia State Park Established in 1949 and managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Anastasia State Park is an excellent spot for a vast array of recreational activities including camping, birdwatching, fishing, sunbathing, kayaking, sailboarding, and picnicking. Covering a surface area of a little over 1,700 acres, this state park is located about 45 miles southeast of downtown Jacksonville and can be reached in just 50 minutes by car along route I-95. Before you hit the road and check out these fantastic parks, stop by Tom Bush Mazda! Talk to one of our expert agents, check out our different new and used models, and take home your favorite vehicle with a flexible financing plant that adapts to your needs.

Looking to find perfect gifts and get a great experience while you're out there? These shopping destinations are home to a variety of different stores so you can find something for everybody on your gift list. You'll find each of these destinations right here in the Jacksonville, FL area, letting you get all your list checked off without traveling far. more 5 of the Best Holiday Shopping Destinations in Jacksonville, FL 1. The Avenues Find this two-level mall just off of Exit 339 to meet all of your browsing needs all with one stop. The modern design of the décor and tasty options at the food court make this a great place to hang out in between visiting the stores. Pick up all of the latest fashions for men, women, and children at H&M, then pick up a gift with some wow factor when you browse all of the jewelry available at Zales. 2. Avondale Center A casual, laid-back experience where you can find furniture, books, specialty foods and so much more is waiting for you at Avondale Center. Stop in at The Florida Creamery for their ice cream to get yourself a sweet treat to enjoy on your visit, available in all kinds of flavors. Then find something unique at one of the many mom and pop stores the center is home to, giving you the perfect way to find a one-of-a-kind gift. 3. St. John's Town Center Wander the grounds of this open-air mall and you'll find more than 167 stores to browse through. The peaceful koi fish and turtle pond at the center of the mall make a great place to relax in between your buying sprees. When you're out browsing, you'll be able to choose from all of the latest high-end fashions at Louis Vitton or get yourself all of the bath and body supplies you need for your spa day at Jones and Roses. 4. Jacksonville Regional Center All sorts of businesses can be found at Jacksonville Regional Center, letting you check off just about anything that could be on your gift list on your visit. Get all of the furniture your house could need at affordable rates from Rent a Center. Get a great meal at Marco Polo once you've got all of your buying in, with hearty portions of tasty Mongolian BBQ to fill your belly. 5. River City Marketplace Shop at everything from the big-name brands you know and love to unique, smaller stores when you visit River City Marketplace. If you're searching for apparel for anyone in your life, no matter their style, Ross Dress for Less has you covered. You'll also be able to find all of the tools and equipment you need to tackle your next home improvement project when you shop around at Lowe's, making this a perfect spot for all DIY types. If a new vehicle is on someone's wish list, you won't find a better deal than what we have to offer you at our dealership. Shop at Tom Bush Mazda today!

Jacksonville, FL is known for having some amazing dining options that range from fresh seafood to the freshest foodie trends. We'd like to share with you our four favorite places for delicious Italian food in Jax. more 4 Great Spots for Italian Food in Jacksonville, FL 1. Catullo's Italian From its food truck beginnings, Catullo's has quickly become a top Italian restaurant in Jacksonville. From the standout Pear Fiocchi to Porcini Mushroom Tortelloni and everything else, this is a prime place for authentic, flavorful Italian cuisine. It's a good idea to save room for dessert as these offerings, which include limoncello cake and cannoli, are just as phenomenal as the entrees. If you're a chocolate lover, you may be tempted to order the Chocolate Temptation Cake which is made with Ecuadorian cacao and hazelnuts. Since Catullo's is a walk-in only, no reservations, small restaurant, it's important to arrive right at opening time to be sure to get a table. 2. Taverna With its modern decor and mix of booths, tables, and counter seating, Taverna is a great all-around Italian restaurant option for solo, couple, or group dining. You'll find yummy takes on classic Italian cuisine that include some vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices. From the House Made Ravioli to the Sicilian Seafood Stew, there's something on the menu here for everyone. Whether you opt for a pasta-laden dish or pizza, Taverna also has plenty of desserts to end your meal. You could choose a warm apple crisp, peach cobbler, or the Dark Chocolate Molten Lava Cake. Another dessert option is Italian gelato or sorbetto. 3. Moon River For an Italian dining atmosphere that's a little on the funkier side, Moon River, with its paint-splattered tabletops and low-key vibe, is a great choice, especially if you want pizza. Moon River has over 25 pizza toppings from anchovies to white cheddar and you can pick from several different salads in either the full-size or half-size versions. The House Salad has assorted veggies with creamy Italian dressing and mozzarella cheese. You can select the Build Your Own Pizza and Moon River offers vegan toppings from artichoke hearts to tempeh. Calzones and breadsticks are popular extras here. 4. Maggiano's Little Italy Decorated with rustic red-checked tablecloths and elegant dark wood, Maggiano's is a comfortable place to enjoy authentic Italian cooking. From their Famous Rigatoni with herb-roasted chicken and Marsala cream sauce to Mom's Lasanga made with meatballs and sausage, they have a variety of hearty menu choices. Four Cheese Ravioli and Linguine with Clams are classic Italian favorites. Maggiano's also has gluten-free and vegan menu selections. Located at St. Johns Tower Center, Maggiano's is open for lunch and dinner. In addition to their 270-seat indoor dining room, in nice weather, they also offer outdoor seating on two patios. While experiencing the tasty Italian dining Jacksonville has to offer, stop by Tom Bush Mazda. Since 1974, we've been helping Jax drivers with quality Mazda vehicles, financing, and service. We can help you and answer all your questions!

Jacksonville, FL is the home to many fishing locations that have been around for decades. Keep reading as we have provided a list of some great fishing spots near Jacksonville that are perfect for anyone wanting to go fishing. more 7 of the Best Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL Jennings State Forest True fishing enthusiasts will be glad to know that the Jennings State Forest is a haven for those who love to cast their line. There you can find largemouth bass, perch, and pickerel as well. Not only does this forest have excellent conditions, but it also provides plenty of opportunities for camping or hiking. The Mandarin Park The Mandarin Park is one of the premier spots near Jacksonville and an ideal place for beginner and experienced anglers. The waters are beautiful, providing a relaxing atmosphere with different types of fish to choose from, like largemouth basses or smallmouths, depending on what you're looking for in your next meal! It even gets better while teaching children about fishing giving them an appreciation for nature too. Blue Cypress Park Blue Cypress Park is the perfect getaway for anglers. The fishing here offers excellent fish and scenic views, with plenty of facilities available for those who want more than just their own company on the waterway. Boat landings, ramps, and docks provide access points that suit any skill level or outdoor enthusiast's interests - whether beginner or expert anglers alike. Mayport Boat Ramp Mayport Boat Ramp is the perfect spot for anglers and boaters alike. Located in Jacksonville, Florida, it offers boat access to the water and mooring or docking space with services such as fuel refills, marine supplies, and repairs on vessels of all kinds. Dames Point Park The Dames Point Park offers a beautiful spot to catch some fish and enjoy the Florida sun. You can relax on the beach or take an exciting stroll through the park while checking out all the plants that grow there. The park also has plenty of shady trees for your picnic needs, so you won't have any trouble finding shade when needing some rest in nature's arms. Castaway Island A paradise for anglers, Castaway Island is a magnificent destination and home to some excellent spots. The island features coral reefs that offer spectacular diving or snorkeling opportunities, as well as beaches with endless sandbanks perfect for relaxing in the sun while listening out at sea life everywhere around you! Visitors are allowed to enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking through lush forests rich with wildlife. Alpines Grove Park Fishing in Alpines Grove Park is one of the best outdoor activities you can do with your family. Fishing here has been said to be entertaining and relaxing - not to mention that it's completely free. There are plenty of areas that will satisfy any angler! With trails galore within this picturesque space, some people may prefer running while others take a walk -whatever suits them most. No matter what type of fishing experience you're seeking in Jacksonville, these locations will have it waiting for you right around the corner. Hop in your car and drive over to these locales. After angling, stop by Tom Bush Mazda and purchase your next new or used car. You can also schedule a test drive.

With so many different attractions to see, Jacksonville, FL is an exciting place to visit. While you're venturing the city, it's always good to stop and relax from time to time at one of the great coffee shops available. Check out this list to see where you can find some nice cups of joe in the state's most populous city. more 5 Favorite Local Coffee Shops Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Bold Bean Coffee Roasters If you asked people in the Riverside area what their favorite coffee place was, there's a good chance a lot of them would say Bold Bean. With the customer's best interests at heart, the folks at this spot have a genuine passion for making the best coffee they can. The exposed brick and incredible artwork on the walls at this place create a comfortable atmosphere to sit down with a cup of coffee, latte, espresso, and more. Buy from their online store to start making your own. 2. The Coffee Grinder The modern vibe of the Coffee Grinder makes it the place to go for a lot of coffee lovers, their menu living up to the highest standards. They have hot and cold teas, and a list of different types of coffee, with plenty of areas to chill with friends or alone. Enjoy the range of artwork on display, and listen to the awesome music provided by the DJs that often perform here. Accessible to everyone, this spot is an awesome place to come to work or study. 3. Urban Grind If you're simply looking for a classic cup of coffee or tea brewed by expert hands, Urban Grind is the place for you. Come by this cafe at any time during the day for a relaxing atmosphere, and order from a menu of delicious breakfast and lunch options. From wraps, sandwiches, and salads, to delicious pastries, this place caters to many different tastes. Their staff are as friendly as they come, providing an awesome environment to enjoy a nice meal and a beverage. 4. Vagabond Coffee Vagabond is a shop that works hard to bring together the community, and one that will make you feel welcome as soon as you walk through the door. The bright colors of this place, combined with awesome staff and quality coffee, make for a pleasant time with friends and family. With vegan options available, enjoy a menu of unique beverages and baked goods, including some of the classic coffee and tea orders. 5. Sippers Coffeehouse This intimate spot is a good place to come for a reliable coffee and something to eat. They have a list of different beverages, including teas and smoothies, and their breakfast and lunch options are popular among returning customers. Try their acai bowl and relax in their comfortable seating areas, inside or out. The attentive customer service is a highlight of this place, and their drive-thru is available if you're looking to make a quick stop on your way to work. Start your morning off right by visiting any of the spots on this list for an excellent cup of coffee or tea. While you're in the city, stop by Tom Bush Mazda for a selection of great new and used vehicles, services, and parts.

Despite being one of the largest and most populous cities in the southern United States, the city of Jacksonville, FL, boasts several beautiful parks, green areas, and nature reserves. Both within its city limits and in the surroundings, you can find fantastic destinations where locals and visitors enjoy some time away from the bustle of the downtown area, go for a relaxing hike, or have a picnic with friends on a sunny day. more 3 Great Parks Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Four Creeks State Forest Located about 25 miles northwest of the Jacksonville city center, in Nassau County, Four Creeks State Forest is one of the nearest spots for numerous outdoor sports including hiking, fishing, hunting, canoeing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and kayaking. This public recreation area boasts over 13,000 acres of pine flatwoods and wetlands and was named after the four creeks that crisscross its territory. Getting here from downtown Jacksonville takes about half an hour by car, driving along routes I-95 and FL-115. Although Four Creeks State Forest is primarily a hiking, fishing, and boating destination, this expansive nature reserve is also an excellent spot to visit whenever you want to unwind and enjoy some quiet time surrounded by nature. This park features several miles of multi-use trails, as well as picnic areas equipped with public grills, pavilions, and clean restrooms. This public recreation area is open year-round from sunrise to sunset and can be visited free of charge. 2. Cary State Forest Covering a territory of over 13,000 acres near the town of Bryceville, Cary State Forest is another fantastic destination for an exciting day trip from Jacksonville. The second State Forest ever established in the state of Florida, this place opened its doors to the public in 1937 and has since become one of the go-to weekend destinations for thousands of locals. Getting here from downtown Jacksonville takes a little under half an hour by car, driving northwest along route I-10. Featuring vast slash pine flatwoods, open prairies, and thick forests, this beautiful nature reserve offers the public a plethora of recreational activities including hiking, wildlife watching, hunting, horseback riding, and camping. Open year-round during daylight hours, the Cary State Forest recreation area charges a $2 day-use fee per adult. For information on the cultural events and programs organized at this park, make sure to check out their official website. 3. Reddie Point Preserve Located in the Charter Point neighborhood, along the banks of the St. Johns River, Reddie Point Preserve is one of the go-to green areas for weekend visitors from all over Jacksonville. Getting here from the downtown area takes about 15 minutes by car, driving along routes FL-115 and University Boulevard. Reddie Point Preserve features some of the best views of the river and is a popular spot for boating, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. Before you hit the road and set off to these fantastic destinations, stop by Tom Bush Mazda. Talk to one of our sales representatives, ask for a test drive, and learn more about the different financing plans we have available for our customers.

Jacksonville, FL is the biggest city in the Sunshine State, well-known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and a long list of attractions. Families are sure to have fun at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, art lovers and history buffs can spend hours at the city's galleries and museums, and fans of fine dining will fall in love with Jacksonville's many highly-rated restaurants. If you're planning a trip to the River City, here are some of the best hotels to stay at. more 5 Great Hotels for Visiting Jacksonville, FL 1. DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront The DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront is one of the top-rated places to stay in the whole of Jacksonville, and it's not hard to see why. This place has an amazing location, right in the historic San Marco District, with many rooms looking out onto the St. Johns River. MOSH (the Museum of Science and History) is minutes away, and the hotel boasts two on-site eateries, a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour gym. 2. Jacksonville River City Downtown Hotel If you want to be right at the heart of the action, surrounded by Downtown Jacksonville's shops, restaurants, and attractions, the Jacksonville River City Downtown Hotel is an amazing place to stay. Many local landmarks are within walking distance of this hotel, and it also has some of the nicest rooms in the area, beautifully decorated and appointed with Keurig coffee makers, big-screen TVs, work desks, and premium bedding. 3. Aloft Jacksonville Airport If you're flying in or out of Jacksonville Airport and need a good-quality hotel nearby, Aloft should be just right for you. This hotel offers a free shuttle service to the airport, which is only a few miles away and is still nicely situated for visits to Jacksonville's attractions, museums, and shops. The hotel has really attractive, modern rooms with high ceilings and plenty of useful amenities, such as refrigerators, coffee makers, work desks, and 42" TVs. 4. Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville Downtown Well-suited for long-term stays, the Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville Downtown offers all the comforts and conveniences you need to feel right at home. You can rent a full studio or two-bedroom suite here, complete with living area, full kitchen, and even grocery delivery services. There's also a free hot breakfast service, speedy internet access, and a state-of-the-art fitness studio. 5. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Jacksonville West This hotel is located in a peaceful setting on the western side of Jacksonville, with easy access to the museums, galleries, markets, and attractions of the city's downtown districts. Guests can choose from a wide range of rooms and suites here, perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends. All rooms feature microwaves, fridges, and coffee-making facilities, as well as free Wi-Fi and a TV. Jacksonville has so much to offer, and these accommodation options will help you make the most of your time in the city. While in the area, you may also need some auto servicing or repairs. Visit Tom Bush Mazda to get your car checked out by some of Jacksonville's best mechanics.