Blog / Things To Do In Jacksonville

Blog

All Things To Do In Jacksonville Jacksonville Mazda Dealer Tom Bush Mazda Jacksonville Mazda Service Tom Bush Mazda Service Jacksonville Amenities Jacksonville Entertainment Jacksonville Used Cars Tom Bush Family of Dealerships Jacksonville Eateries Jacksonville Restaurants Jacksonville Parks Family Fun in Jacksonville Jacksonville Landmarks Jacksonville Foodies Tom Bush Financing Mazda Trade-In Tom Bush Mazda Collision Center Food Delivery in Jacksonville Auto Financing Jacksonville Museums Road Trips Things To Do Near Jacksonville Car Warranty Jacksonville Collision Shopping in Jacksonville Weekend Getaways Holiday Fun

4 of the Best Museums to Visit in and Around Jacksonville, FL

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!

Swing on children's playground

3 Amazing State Parks to Visit Near Jacksonville, FL

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.

5 of the Best Holiday Shopping Destinations in Jacksonville, FL

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!

Different pasta dishes on a white table

4 Great Spots for Italian Food in Jacksonville, FL

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!

Lake with deck

7 of the Best Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL

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.

Latte with coffee writen in chocolate

5 Favorite Local Coffee Shops Near Jacksonville, FL

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.

Creek and trees

3 Great Parks Near Jacksonville, FL

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.

5 Great Hotels for Visiting Jacksonville, FL

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.

3 of the Best Day Trips You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL

Thanks to its enviable location along the western coast of the state, the city of Jacksonville, FL, is a popular summer destination among visitors from all over the region. While Jacksonville certainly has enough attractions to keep you busy for a couple of days, the city is also an excellent base from where you can go on exciting day trips to nearby destinations. Whether you prefer urban areas or natural escapes, these are some spots you should check out. more 3 of the Best Day Trips You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Big Talbot Island State Park Established in 1982 and managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Big Talbot Island State Park is a fantastic day trip destination for visitors wanting to get away from the city and check out one of the most pristine nature reserves in the region. This state park is a popular destination for a vast array of sports and outdoor activities, including kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, boating, canoeing, swimming, and picnicking. Open year-round from eight in the morning until sundown, Big Talbot Island State Park welcomes visitors with several miles of hiking trails, as well as well-maintained amenities including fishing piers, boat ramps, and public beaches. Besides the beautiful landscapes, this nature reserve is also an excellent spot for wildlife watching, as it is home to sea turtles, alligators, foxes, bald eagles, and river otters. Getting here from downtown Jacksonville takes a little over 35 minutes by car. 2. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Spanning a territory of over 400,000 acres, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is the best day trip destination for those looking for a place to truly disconnect from the routine. Featuring massive swamps and wetlands where visitors can enjoy different activities including hiking, canoeing, boating, fishing, and hunting, this nature reserve was established in 1937 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Driving here from the Jacksonville city center takes about an hour, heading northwest along route US-23. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is considered one of the most popular sites in the National Wildlife Refuge System of the United States, welcoming nearly 400,000 visitors each year. There is evidence that points out the fact that the area was inhabited by Native Americans as early as 2500 B.C., making this site not only a beautiful nature reserve but also a place of great historical significance. 3. Savannah Established in 1733 along the banks of the Savannah River, Savannah is the oldest city in the state of Georgia and a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. With a charming downtown area and numerous historic buildings, Savannah is a great day trip destination for Jacksonville locals looking for a place to go for a relaxing stroll, eat some great food, and check out some cozy local cafés. Going on a day trip to any destination is always more enjoyable in a safe and reliable vehicle. Whether you are looking for a sedan, an SUV, or a coupe, visit us at Tom Bush Mazda and check out the amazing deals we have available for you.

People riding bikes

6 of the Best Bike Paths in and Around Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL is one of the largest cities in the country by area and thus offers a ton of activities. Biking is a very popular activity that is available to people of all ages in the area. Whether you are alone, with friends, or with the family the Jacksonville area has plenty of bike paths to accommodate everyone. more 6 of the Best Bike Paths for Biking in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail This trail is 14.5 miles through the woodlands and wetlands of the area. Along the way, you are likely to see a lot of different animals including rabbits, hawks, kingfishers, wild turkeys, and deer. The path is well maintained, very flat, and overall just a smooth ride the entire way. 2. Georgia Coast Rail-Trail The Georgia Coast Rail-Trail is two disconnected trails that combine to form a 6.2-mile trail. It is just north of Jacksonville in Georgia and will one day be completed as a 68-mile trail that spans most of the Georgia shoreline. The trail does not get a lot of traffic and even crosses a river that is a popular spot for fishing. 3. Amelia Island Trail Amelia Island Trail is about 6 miles long, well paved, and has a lot of shade to help keep riders cool. It is a part of the East Coast Greenway which is the network of paths being finished to connect Maine to Florida entirely by bike. This trail is connected to Amelia Island State Park which allows easy access to the beaches there as well. 4. Jekyll Island Trail On the Southeast coast of Georgia, this trail is just under 25 miles and a loop of the island it is on. Jekyll Island trail offers plenty in terms of wildlife, scenery, and historic sites to check out. The trail is very well marked, has wide paths, and is a pretty easy ride to experience while exploring Jekyll Island. 5. Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail A trail that extends for over 30 miles, Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail is an experience like no other. If you are looking to see some of the animals inhabiting Florida then this trail is definitely for you as things that have been spotted include black bears, bobcats, turkeys, snakes, and alligators. The surface of the trail is in excellent condition and the ride is wonderfully shaded to help beat the heat. 6. Timucuan Trail The Timucuan Trail is 4.8 miles and by using the George Crady Bridge can connect to the Amelia Island Trail. It has been built through the Big Talbot Island State Park and Little Talbot Island State Park which both offer access to beaches and seeing wildlife. It is not a difficult trail at all making it an ideal activity for the whole family. Being able to get yourself and your bike equipment to and from the paths safely is very important. Contact Tom Bush Mazda today and find the Mazda that can deliver you to your next outing safely.

Little girl eating ice cream cone

5 Best Ice Cream Places in and Around Jacksonville, FL

The warm weather is here, making this the perfect time to enjoy some frozen treat. With so many places in Jacksonville to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where you want to go. Luckily for you, we have compiled six top ice cream places around Jacksonville, FL that are sure to make your mouth water. more 5 Best Ice Cream Places in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Whit's Frozen Custard of Mandarin Whit's Frozen Custard of Mandarin is an old-fashioned, family-run treat shop. It has quickly established itself as a favorite in the area for its delicious frozen custards. They have various flavors and offer sundaes, banana splits, shakes, and floats. Besides having more than 20 flavors, Whit's also offers gluten-free cones on request. All flavors are natural with no artificial sweeteners. Be sure to enjoy your treat out by their small patio overlooking the busy streets while listening to live music. The staff at Whit's are friendly to their customers as well. Also, their prices are affordable for the quality of food you get from them. 2. Dreamette If you want to experience Jacksonville's best frozen yogurt, then Dreamette is a must. It is a dessert hotspot in Southside Florida. You can find all of your favorite flavors and some unique ones too. In addition, they have vegan options, which are hard to come by for many places in the area. What really sets them apart from other shops is their sundaes with toppings like whipped cream or hot fudge so that you don't need syrup. Their banana splits also include two bananas instead of one--talk about next-level indulgence. This family-owned business has been going strong for more than five years. 3. Sweet Pete's Who doesn't love a frozen treat cone? Sweet Pete's is the answer for those hot summer days when you want to cool off. They have an impressive variety of flavors that will please any sweet tooth, such as Mint Chip and Butter Pecan. Pete's offers over 20 different toppings, so whatever your preference, there's something for everyone here. Their custom toppings make their menu unique as well. 4. Marble Slab Creamery This treats shop offers a colossal number of frozen treat flavors that you can mix and match to create your flavor combination. You can also select a sundae from their pre-made menu. In addition, they offer many types of desserts and pastries to go along with its signature frozen treats. The treat is blended right in front of you before it's served. You can also get pastries for dessert or enjoy a meal at the restaurant. 5. Roots And Fruits Juicery This is one of the best places in Florida for healthy foods and drinks. You will find a vast selection of fresh fruit, gluten-free food items, and vegan options at Roots and Fruits Juicery. The company also provides catering services to provide nutritious meals during events like weddings or business meetings. This establishment has been satisfying locals with its delicious products made from natural ingredients - all without compromising on taste. Are you looking for a good Mazda car? Contact Tom Bush Mazda today to schedule a test drive.

5 Keys to Getting Car Financing at Your Jacksonville Mazda Dealer

So you're ready to purchase a vehicle from your local Mazda dealer, but you're a little unsure about the car financing process. The good news is, it's actually pretty simple. By following a few simple steps, you'll be able to arrange excellent financing at your Jacksonville, FL dealership. more 5 Keys to Getting Car Financing at Your Jacksonville, FL Mazda Dealer 1. Know Your Credit Score One of the most important steps you can take before you head to the dealership is to check your credit. Your credit history and score play a huge role in determining what type of financing you'll be offered. Those who have excellent credit scores are usually offered the lowest interest rates, which means you'll pay less out of your pocket over the life of the loan. Checking your credit in advance should give you a pretty good idea of what type of financing you can expect to be offered. And if your credit score could use a little work, it may be smart to postpone your purchase for a few months while you work on improving your score. 2. Be Realistic About Your Budget It's easy to walk into a dealership and fall in love with the most expensive model on the floor. But it's important to be realistic about which vehicle will best suit your needs and your budget. Think about what you can afford and what type of payment will fit into your monthly budget. If you're borrowing less because you're purchasing a less expensive vehicle, you may be more likely to qualify for a lower interest rate. 3. Make a Down Payment Another way of lowering the total amount you're borrowing is to make a down payment on the vehicle. It is possible to purchase a new car without putting money down, but it's a wise move to put cash down if you can. 4. Aim for a Shorter-Term Loan Shorter-term loans, which are repaid over fewer years, are always going to be your best financing option if you can swing them. Shorter-term loans usually carry higher monthly payments, and you'll want to make sure you can accommodate those payments in your monthly budget. But the faster you pay off the loan, the less you'll pay out in interest over time. 5. Pay Fees in Cash In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, you'll also be paying taxes, fees, and in some cases the expense associated with a warranty. These fees are often lumped into the total purchase and become a part of the financed amount. But this means you end up paying interest on those fees. The smart way to go, if you can afford it, is to pay for those extra fees and taxes separately with cash. That means you're paying just the fees, and not interest on the fees. Armed with these financial tips, you'll easily be able to arrange a terrific financing package. Head on over to Tom Bush Mazda today and pick out your next vehicle!

Contact Us

Fill out this form below and we'll contact you shortly
*Required Fields