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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.

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.

Residents of Jacksonville, FL have so many entertainment options right on their doorstep. That includes a range of amazing stadiums and sports venues where people can enjoy watching sports. Keep reading to learn more about five local favorites. Drive on Over: 5 Favorite Stadiums and Sports Venues Near Jacksonville, FL 1. TIAA Bank Field TIAA Bank Field is one of the largest and best-known buildings in Jacksonville and the surrounding area. This 67,000-seat stadium is home to the Jacksonville Jaguars of the NFL and also hosts college games, including the Gator Bowl. You'll find TIAA Bank Field on TIAA Bank Field Drive in the Downtown area. If you're driving in the city, an efficient car like the 2023 Mazda Sedan 2.5 S Preferred is a great option. 2. Hodges Stadium The 12,000-seat Hodges Stadium is perfect for sports fans of all kinds. Hodges Stadium hosts soccer, track, and more. The stadium is located on the Jacksonville campus of the University of North Florida. Hodges Stadium also hosts pro soccer for Jackson Armada FC. This team plays in the North American Soccer League, and the atmosphere at their games is electric. Or, if you want to get patriotic while enjoying fast-paced sporting action, you can enjoy watching the United States National Rugby team here too. 3. VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena is the best indoor arena in Jacksonville. This 14,000-seat stadium is home to three professional sports teams, so there's something for everyone to enjoy. The Jacksonville Sharks indoor football team and Jacksonville Icemen hockey team are both regular tenants, while basketball games and other events take place here, too. more You'll find VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena at 300 A Phillip Randolph Boulevard. It's immediately next to TIAA Bank Field. Concerts and other events sometimes take place at the arena. 4. Jack Taylor Stadium If you're a fan of local sports played at a quality venue, Jack Taylor Stadium might be for you. This small stadium seats only a few thousand people and hosts various high school athletic events for local teams. Jack Taylor Stadium is located on the campus of Fletcher Middle School. The street address is 700 Seagate Avenue. 5. 121 Financial Ballpark Thanks to its beautiful weather, Florida is the perfect place to enjoy baseball, and Jacksonville has its own minor league team, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. They play at 121 Financial Ballpark, a well-equipped ballpark capable of seating more than 10,000 fans. The Jumbo Shrimp are the Triple-A affiliates of the Miami Marlins. That means you can enjoy watching Major League stars of the future playing close to home. You'll find the stadium on A. Philip Randolph Boulevard. With the right car, you can go around to all these great venues and discover more favourites for yourself. Stop by Tom Bush Mazda today and browse our inventory.

You said yes to that first date. Now you've said yes to spending forever with the love of your life. Now it's time to say yes to a location for the biggest day of your life. Here are the top wedding venues for a breathtaking ceremony and memory-making reception in Jacksonville, FL. 5 Popular Wedding Venues We Love In Jacksonville, FL 1. The Ribault Club Located on Jacksonville's Fort George Island, this 16-000-square-foot venue offers versatile space and timeless elegance. The property's giant oak trees, with flowing, outstretched branches dripping with greenery, create a stunning scene for vows ceremonies. The Ribault Club is flexible for indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions with a veranda, french doors, terrazzo floors, and neo-classical architecture. 2. The Glass Factory This 16,000-square-foot historic factory displays an industrial, unique aesthetic with exposed bricks, an open floor plan, and high ceilings. The space can hold both the ceremony and reception and offers a bridal lounge and groom's room. The Glass Factory accommodations and decor is fully customizable and offers a full catering kitchen. more 3. Venue 841 Located along the St. Johns River in Downtown Jacksonville, Venue 841 delivers glamourous riverfront views for your dream ceremony and reception. In addition to the riverfront option, other venue areas include the grand ballroom, waterfront courtyard, a gazebo, and covered veranda. Additional amenities include white folding ceremony chairs, guest tables, a DJ table, gold chivari reception chairs, a parking garage with an attendant, and more. 4. The River Club The River Club's venue delivers flawless elegance and timeless class with breathtaking views of downtown. The River Club has facilities that can hold 25 of your closest friends and family for an intimate affair in the Duval Room to 250 guests in the spacey, picturesque River Ballroom. The club offers services covering your wedding needs, including event staff, wedding coordinators, photographers, wedding and groom cakes, transportation, bridesmaids' luncheons, and floral arrangements. 5. Garden Club of Jacksonville This nonprofit boasts more than just beautiful gardens but plays home to a ballroom, library, club room, and other supporting spaces. Located on the St. Johns River, the Garden Club offers a variety of elegant options, including the ballroom that showcases six crystal chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook a view of the river and courtyard. The courtyard offers an enchanting reception aesthetic with a scenic view of the river, lush gardens, and a dramatic three-tier fountain. After the vows and celebrations, you'll need a car to carry you and your partner into the next phase of your life. Drive away from your ceremony in style in your sleek, sporty 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata, the convertible two-seater that's made for romantic weekend drives and trips. Visit Tom Bush Mazda today to test drive a vehicle from our endless selection.

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

Jacksonville, FL is undoubtedly one of the most exciting places in the state to live in and visit! The vibrant city is home to a bustling economy, a diverse array of cultures, and one of the most extensive park systems in the country. Read on to learn about some of the most exciting local attractions in and around Jax! more 4 Favorite Local Attractions You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL 1. Ripley's Believe It or Not! Located a short drive away in St. Augustine, this location was originally built as a Moorish Revival-style mansion and is the oldest of all Ripley's museums. Its famous Odditorium features 14 galleries filled with thousands of strange artifacts and pop culture items. The newest gallery is the Jungle Room, which houses many tribal artifacts and animal oddities like a taxidermy of a tortoise that somehow managed to live with a hippo tusk lodged in its shell. Paranormal enthusiasts definitely won't want to miss the museum's Haunted Castle Investigation! During this 60-minute tour, experienced guides teach guests all about the ins and outs of ghost hunting while delving into the dark history of St. Augustine. 2. Castaway Island Preserve Some of Northeast Florida's most stunning scenery is on full display when you visit this beautiful nature preserve. The 235-acre preserve is situated along the Intracoastal Waterway and encompasses a vast marshland ecosystem that has become home to a variety of wildlife. You'll be able to hike through several winding trails or use the high-strength roof rails of your Mazda CX-50 to take your kayak along and explore the park's waterways. 3. St. Johns Town Center This 1.2 million-square-foot outdoor mall boasts over 175 shops and over 20 restaurants, making it one of the top shopping destinations in Jacksonville. The stores range from Target and Dillard's to Tiffany & Co. and Louis Vuitton, so there's something for everyone. Building up an appetite after all that shopping? Stop by for some fresh Japanese food at Sushi House or enjoy a flavorful dry-aged steak at The Capital Grille! 4. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens If you're an appreciator of fine art, then visiting Cummer is an absolute must when you're in the Jacksonville area. The museum's permanent collection showcases over 5,000 pieces of art from just about every era, from prehistoric times to the 21st century. Along with enjoying scenic riverfront views, visitors can also take a walk through the museum's enchanting gardens, which include both English- and Italian-inspired arrangements. Jacksonville is filled with amazing attractions like these, so you'll always have a great excuse to get out of the house and into your car! Need a new ride? Head on over to Tom Bush Mazda today and browse our huge inventory of new and used automobiles! Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Looking for a fun day in Jacksonville, FL, look no further than downtown! There are plenty of things to see and do, and the best part is that it's all within walking distance. Here are three of our favorite spots in downtown Jacksonville. Drive Around Town: 3 Fun Things to See and Do in Downtown Jacksonville, FL 1. The Jacksonville Landing The Jacksonville Landing is a riverfront shopping, dining, and entertainment complex in Downtown Jacksonville, Florida. The Landing includes many restaurants, shops, and businesses, an amphitheater, and a hotel. It is located on the north bank of the St. Johns River, just south of the Main Street Bridge. The Landing is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jacksonville and a popular venue for special events and concerts. Every year, it hosts the River City Pride festival, the largest Pride festival in Florida. It is also a popular gathering place for fans during football season. The Landing is a vibrant part of Downtown Jacksonville and essential to the city's identity. 2. The Museum of Contemporary Art The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is one of the world's leading institutions for contemporary art exhibitions. MOCA has a collection of paintings, sculptures, installations, and other works. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the work of both established and emerging artists. Visitors to MOCA can also take advantage of the museum's educational programs, which include tours, lectures, and workshops. Whether you're an art lover or simply looking for something different to do, a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art is sure to be an unforgettable experience. more 3. The Riverside Arts Market The Riverside Arts Market, located in the heart of Jacksonville's Historic Riverside neighborhood, is one of the area's most beloved weekend destinations. The market, which runs from 10 am to 3 pm every Saturday, features a wide variety of local vendors selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to fresh produce. In addition to being a great place to find unique gifts and tasty snacks, the Riverside Arts Market is also a vibrant community gathering space. On any given day, you'll find families strolling along the riverfront, friends catching up over coffee, and dogs taking a break from their walk to enjoy a doggie ice cream. With its lively atmosphere and commitment to supporting local businesses, it's no wonder that the Riverside Arts Market is such a cherished part of Jacksonville's culture. The 2022 Mazda 3 Sedan is the perfect car to take you to any one of these fun destinations in downtown Jacksonville. With its electronic stability control (ESC) and driver monitoring-alert system, you'll be safe and sound as you explore all that Jacksonville offers. Be sure to visit Tom Bush Mazda in Jacksonville so one of our dedicated staff will help you find a car that fits your needs.

The city of Jacksonville, FL, is located in the northeastern corner of the state and is a popular gateway for travelers exploring the region during the summer months. If you are traveling around in your 2022 Mazda CX-30 and are looking for the best places to enjoy your favorite summer activities with your family or a group of friends, here are three destinations you can reach in less than two hours from the city center. 3 Favorite Summer Activities You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL 1. Snorkeling at Ocala National Forest Covering an area of over 430,000 acres and established in 1908, Ocala National Forest is the second largest nationally protected forest in the entire state of Florida, as well as one of the oldest public recreation areas in the region. Boasting over 600 small lakes, rivers, and springs, this place is a true paradise for water sports enthusiasts, welcoming visitors from all over the country. Located about 85 miles south of downtown Jacksonville, Ocala National Forest can be reached in about one hour and a half by car. Once you make your way to this sprawling nature reserve, some of the best snorkeling spots are located in the Alexander Springs and Salt Springs areas. Featuring crystal-clear waters, these places let you spot different species of fish and turtles. more 2. Canoeing at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Established in the late 1930s and welcoming over 400,000 visitors each year, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is another well-known summertime destination for Jacksonville locals. Featuring a massive swampland open to canoeing and boating, this nature reserve is a place where you can spend a weekend taking a break from the urban frenzy and surrounded by nature. Open between 7:00 am and 7:30 pm, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is located about 50 miles northwest of the Jacksonville city center and can be reached in a little over one hour by car via route US-23. Besides canoeing and boating, this nature reserve offers plenty of opportunities for other popular activities including swimming, fishing, hiking, and camping. 3. Sunbathing at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park If everything you are looking for is a sandy beach where you can spend a day sunbathing and swimming in the ocean, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is the place to be. Located just 17 miles east of downtown Jacksonville, this public recreation area is one of the most popular weekend destinations among locals. Featuring pristine beaches, picnic pavilions, grills, and a playground, this place is perfect for a day trip with your family. Are you thinking of buying a new or used vehicle to check out these fantastic summertime destinations? Visit us today at Tom Bush Mazda! Talk to one of our agents about our latest deals and take home a car that adapts to your needs and budget.