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The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, one of the best zoos in the country, is the first of its kind, where botanical gardens include animal habitats. The animal exhibits feature a wide selection of mammals, reptiles, birds, fish, and amphibians. Experience a colorful display of fauna and flora from all over the world. Go on a walking safari or board the train for a zoo adventure of a lifetime. more 5 Things to See at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens 1. Stroll Through Rivers of Color The zoo's Main Path through the gardens connects to the loops where the animals are displayed. Along both sides of this walkway, the linear Rivers of Color Gardens explodes with colors from flowering perennials, shrubs, and trees. The magnificent display is changed seasonally to keep the zoo colorful throughout the year. 2. Go on a South African Adventure The country of South Africa is world-renowned for its Big Five, and the zoo features three of these magnificent creatures. Between the soft African grasslands, thorn trees, and koppies (hills), lion, white southern rhinoceros, and elephant roam just like they do on the plains in their home country. The exhibit also includes giraffes, zebra, cheetahs, kudu, and other African animals in this beautiful two-acre landscape. The African Forest exhibit features gorillas, lemurs, mandrill, and various other monkeys and apes from the continent. 3. Explore the Riverview Gardens and Wild Florida Stroll on pathways in the shade of the trees between plants that attract insects and other wildlife at Trout River Plaza. The botanical garden plaza provides picturesque views of the Trout River. Here you might even spot some of the animals that live there. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, manatees, snapping turtles, and other indigenous animals. In the center of the plaza is a fountain surrounded by a menagerie of animals of the Trout River. The Wild Florida exhibit showcases mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians native to the state. Here you can view black bears, bobcats, coyotes, and a variety of snakes, lizards, and tortoises. 4.  Discover the Tropical Gardens at Range of the Jaguar The Range of the Jaguar exhibit features giant otters, capybara, cotton-top tamarins, giant anteaters, flamingo, snakes, turtles, tortoises, and of course, beautiful jaguars. The gardens surrounding the exhibit showcase exotic tropical plants from all over the world. It's the perfect place to sit and relax in the shade of the native live oak trees and magnolias surrounded by ferns, palms, and bromeliads in this beautiful tropical setting. 5. Experience the Asia Continent The astounding Asian Bamboo Garden, with a Moon Gate, Lotus Pool, and Weeping Tree Bridge, is the gateway to the Asian animal exhibits. Fierscome comodo dragons, Asian small-clawed otter, North Sulawesi Babirusa, and hornbills call this area home. Enjoy a stroll through the Bamboo Mist Forest and see bronze Giant Panda sculptures and rest at the Orchid Pavilion that overlooks the Koi Pond and the Yin Yang Terraces. The zoo hosts a wide range of events, tours, and educational programs throughout the year. Visitors can even hand feed a few of the inhabitants. Visit Tom Bush Mazda today, and our team of experts will take care of all your vehicle requirements.

Looking for a destination for your next adventure out into nature? You can find a unique view of nature waiting for you nearby at Big Talbot Island State Park. With some truly one-of-a-kind things to see here, this spot provides an experience you can't get anywhere but our area. To help you get your most out of the visit to the island, we've got a few tips for you to keep in mind while you're there. more Plan Your Trip: 5 Tips for Visiting Big Talbot Island State Park 1. Check Out Boneyard Beach One of the most striking sights awaiting you at the state park is boneyard beach. This memorable beach offers a quieter escape from everything than more crowded beaches closer to the city, with no skyscrapers in sight deep in the Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve where it lies. You'll see massive driftwood trees that make the beach resemble an elephant graveyard, and even climb them if you feel adventurous. 2. See the Salt Marsh Another attraction here at Big Talbot Island is the unique ecosystem the nearby salt marsh creates. These coastal grasslands are hugely important to the natural world as some of the most productive ecosystems on the planet. You may catch a glimpse of elegant birds that feed in these marshes, like herons or egrets, or spot some of the other local wildlife who make their home here like bobcats or raccoons. 3. Go out on the Water While the scenery is worth visiting for itself, those who like to get out on the water for a closer look will find plenty to do at Big Talbot Island. The boat ramp and canoe or kayak launch site both allow for easy access to the water. Bring your gear and a lunch basket to turn the day into a fishing outing. All sorts of different fish can be caught out on the water near the island. 4. Fun Activities to Do Fishing isn't the only thing you can do for a bit of fun on your visit here. You can hike the trails and see all sorts of wildlife that call the park home, or walk the beaches to see what seashells you can find. Some of the trails also make great choices for biking or rollerblading. This is also a dog-friendly park, so you can bring your furry friend to join in on your fun day out. 5. Plan an Event Here The natural beauty of the state park makes the perfect backdrop for your next event. You can even hold your big day here, as the state park is available for weddings. For a more casual occasion that will still be a whole lot of fun, bring some snacks along on your visit. The picnic pavilion makes this park the perfect site to have a meal out in nature. Ready to get out to Big Talbot Island for your next outing? Our service team can help get your vehicle into top condition to make the trip. Come on in and see us at Tom Bush Mazda today!

Jacksonville, FL, is home to some beautiful natural environments that host a number of hiking trails allowing locals and visitors to explore the area. There are trails available that will suit all skill levels and a wide variety of terrains to choose from. Most of the trails offer hikers the opportunity to take in the wildlife and plant species unique to the area. more Top 5 Hiking Trails and Paths Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Castaway Island Reserve Castaway Island is an undeveloped wetland preserve. Several raised trails offering fabulous views run through the wetlands. The trails take in the San Pablo River and the coastal habitats that surround it. Along the trails, hikers can take in the beautiful wildflowers that are unique to the area. There is also access to the coast via a wooden bridge along one trail with the beach and its spectacular views, the perfect place to take a breather. 2. Tillie K Fowler Regional Park The two-mile Island Trail takes hikers along the Ortega River, taking in the floodplains and upland forest habitats, and is one of the more scenic trails within the park. The 500-acre park has several other trails of varying degrees of difficulty. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about the nature of the area before heading out on the trails, with the park having a nature education center and wildlife watchtower available for hikers. 3.  Talbot Islands State Park For hikers looking to take in some local wildlife while hiking, Talbot Islands State Park is the place to go. It is not uncommon to spot bald eagles fishing in the winter and spring from the park's trails. There are a number of trails within the park, including Big Talbot Bluffs Beach Walk and its beautiful coastal views and the Black Rock Trail, which takes in sand formations that have an appearance of black rock lava. 4. Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens The Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is another area packed with trails that offer the opportunity to see wildlife in its natural environment. The man-made 0.3 mile Lake Loop is a great place to start with kids. The Upper Ravine Trail is especially popular over the winter months due to the spectacular views it offers, while the Live Oak Trail features 100-year-old oaks. For those looking for a challenge, the Rosemary Ridge trail will more than fit the bill. 5. University of North Florida Eco Trails The 382-acre Sawmill Slough Preserve is on the University of North Florida campus and has five trails available to the public. The length of the trails varies between 0.31 and 2.85 miles in length, with most offering great views of Lake Oneida. Each of the trails offers its own unique features, with one playing host to a range of small mammals and another having blueberries to sample along the route. Of particular note is the Broadwalk Trail which is wheelchair accessible. The trails in and around Jacksonville have something for everyone, offering a range of different terrains and landscapes for hikers. If you are looking to arrive at the trails in style, call in and see the team at Tom Bush Mazda.

Looking for a fun day out that will give you plenty of options for outdoor adventures to have? Look no further than Amelia Island State Park. Just a short drive away from Jacksonville, there are plenty of things to do waiting for you at this scenic wilderness park right here in the local area. Let's take a look at some of the highlights of what you can do on your day at the park. more Top 5 Fun Things to Do at Amelia Island State Park 1. Enjoy the Sights See why nature lovers say that Amelia Island is the place to get a glimpse of the ‘real Florida.' From its breathtaking beaches to the fascinating salt marshes and beachside forests, there's nothing quite like this park in the whole country. Whether you want to walk the nature trails through the woods or stroll down by the beach, you'll find a perfect hike that suits you at the park. 2. Ride Your Bike Like to do a bit of cycling? Amelia Island is the perfect destination for you, with over 200 acres of beachside trails for you to cruise across. The biking trails are well maintained to keep your ride smooth and safe. You'll also be treated to stunning views of the island and its unique environments as you ride along the trails. 3. Ride a Horse Bike riding is one thing, but did you know that Amelia Island Park is the only Florida state park that offers horseback riding on its beaches? That means that you'll be getting a truly unique experience on your visit. Kelly Seahorse Ranch offers horseback tours and even more exciting opportunities for visitors to the park. You'll be able to get in on the action whether you're a veteran rider or never sat in the saddle in your life. 4. Experience Local Wildlife The unique ecosystems that flourish on Amelia Island are home to a number of fascinating animals that you'll be able to spot on your visit. In particular, there's a whole variety of birds that pass through the island on their migratory paths. You'll be able to see a different cast of characters depending on the time of year you visit. Or plan your visit to see the monarch butterfly migration that passes through the island each year. 5. Go Fishing With its miles of coastal areas, you better believe Amelia Island makes the perfect destination for fishers of all skill levels. You'll be able to cast your lines from pristine seaside fishing spots and enjoy the lapping of the waves as you wait for a bite. The On the Line Bait and Tackle Shop has you covered if you need to stock up on any supplies before trying to catch a big one. There's plenty more waiting for you at Amelia Island than what we can list here. And if you need to cruise down to the park in style, come see our selection of new and pre-owned vehicles. Visit Tom Bush Mazda to find your perfect ride!