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Welcome to beautiful Jacksonville, FL, where there are endless activities and shopping adventures to be had. When you're out there having a great time or taking care of business, we know you'll want great food. And when you're craving great cuisine from our Southern neighbors, we've got some suggestions on excellent Mexican restaurants that are perfect for the whole family or work group. more 5 of the Best Mexican Restaurants in Jacksonville, FL 1. La Perla This locals' favorite offers a variety of traditional dishes, including beef tacos, steak quesadillas, mole de pollo, fajitas, nachos, and more. They strive to use only the freshest ingredients to prepare quality food. We suggest the lengua burrito and a shrimp cocktail. If spice is your thing, you need to try the hot homemade salsa—yum! If you feel like relaxing in your hotel, they offer a convenient online ordering service for takeout or delivery. 2. Tequila's Town For tasty food and large portions, try this establishment. We enjoy the steak tacos, chicken enchiladas, and veggie fajitas. The thin, crispy chips and salsa are tasty treats while you decide on your order. You can also customize the fillings for your entree for a minimal upcharge. They have a great happy hour on Fridays with decent prices on margaritas and cervecas. Please remember to drink responsibly and in moderation. Do not drink and drive. Alcohol is for adults of legal drinking age only. 3. El Castillo This family-owned eatery serves authentic dishes at affordable prices. We recommend the carna asada burrito, cheese quesadillas, and chicken tacos, which come with flavorful beans and rice. Be sure to have the chips and cheese dip. They also offer a variety of housemade juices. Adjoining the restaurant is a Mexican market, which offers candies, baked items, and other goodies. 4. Nacho Taco The staff here are super friendly and they serve fresh, made-to-order traditional food. Dine in their outdoor venue, which is dog friendly, or grab your meal for takeout. The servings are plentiful as well, so you'll likely have leftovers for that late-night snack or lunch the next day. Try the taco platter with beans and rice or the beef fajitas. Check their Facebook page for specials and updates. 5. Fresh Mex & Co Tex-Mex Cantina This is a nice place to sit back, relax, and enjoy good music in a cozy setting. They serve Tex-Mex classics, such as fajitas, steak burritos, and nachos. The servers are friendly and attentive. Munch on their tasty chips, salsa, and housemade guacamole. Check them out for their happy hour specials with great deals on appetizers and drinks. Have a mango or strawberry margarita, either frozen or on the rocks. We hope you enjoy your stay in the area. While you're out cruising the town, stop by Tom Bush Mazda for a test drive in one of our new or previously owned cars and SUVs. Our friendly staff will answer your questions, discuss financing options with you, and get you out on the roads in your new wheels in no time.

Get ready to sink your teeth into something truly delicious, because we've got all the spots in our area serving up the best burgers you can find flipping on any grill. While you could settle for the same-old flavor you know from fast-food chains, these local restaurants offer something better with the fresh and unique flavors they deliver to your plate. All of them are right here in Jacksonville, FL so get out there and take a bite today. more Where to Get the Best Burgers in Jacksonville, FL Relish The motto here tells you everything about what you should expect when you come in for a meal: big, tasty burgers. They use over forty fresh, natural ingredients to create their ideal burger to serve to you. Go for their Triple Tasty if you've got a big-time hunger that just won't quit, with three-quarters of a pound of certified Angus beef giving you enough to fill your belly with, along with some cheddar bacon ranch fries on the side. Hamburger Mary's Eat, drink, and be ‘Mary' at this delicious local grill. Their Mini-Mary sliders take everything you love about a full-sized burger and condense it down into a bite-sized package that are a whole lot of fun to eat. For your main course, we recommend their Big Kahuna Burger. A slice of grilled pineapple adds something a little different to this burger, with Mary's special sauce contrasting beautifully in every bite. Grub The goal the founders of Grub set out with is a simple one: good people serving good food to other good people. The burgers they've created to achieve that goal are something special. You have got to try their Scorpion burger for a one-of-a-kind sandwich experience that you won't find anywhere else. The Trinidad Moruga Scorpion Sauce adds a unique flavor, with pepper jack cheese and jalapenos for some extra heat. Harps American Pub and Grill A down-home, welcoming atmosphere makes you feel right at home when you stop in at Harps for a visit. They have three decades of experience serving quality food, and you'll taste the difference that experience makes from your very first bite. The tangy BBQ sauce on their The Buffalo burger kept us coming back for more, with sauteed mushrooms and onions adding a zesty flavor. M Shack When M Shack made the claim to have the best hamburgers around, we had to see for ourselves to find out if the talk was true. The sandwich they served us was certainly right up there with the best we've ever enjoyed. We had the Sunrise Burger, complete with a sunny side egg and a hash brown to complete the ultimate breakfast burger experience, with their signature Shack Sauce elevating the flavor even further. You'll be blown away by the delicious burgers and top-notch service you get at these local restaurants. We aim to knock your socks off with the standard of service we provide, as well. Come on down to Tom Bush Mazda and experience the local dealership advantage!

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.

The near-endless sunshine and warm weather of the Jacksonville, FL area make this a great place to get outdoors and enjoy some physical sports and activities. If you're a golf fan, there are dozens of world-class golf courses in the area, and this guide will go over just a few of our favorites. more Hit the Links! 5 Great Golf Courses Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Players Stadium Course TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach is home to the world-renowned Players Stadium Course. Home of the Players Championship, this course was built back in 1982, designed by legendary course creator Pete Dye, in conjunction with Deane Beman. Even first-time visitors should recognize the 17th hole here, as it's one of the most photographed holes in the world, with lots of water, little islands, and tree-lined fairways completing a very balanced and beautiful course. 2. Ocean Links Over at the Amelia Island Plantation Resort, golf lovers can discover the Ocean Links course. Created by Pete Dye and Bobby Weed, this course backs right onto the ocean, with several holes enjoying waterfront views as far as the eye can see. The surrounding scenery here is the star of the show, but the course itself is wonderfully put-together, with some short par-4s and more challenging longer holes too. It's sure to test the driving, putting, and chipping skills of every player who gives it a try, helping beginners improve their overall game. 3. Bent Creek If you're looking for great value golf in the Jacksonville area, head on down to Bent Creek. This accessible, affordable course offers 18 holes of fun across more than 6,600 yards. The course was crafted by architect Bobby Weed, alongside consultant Mark McCumber, and is very popular with the locals here. Both beginners and intermediate golfers are sure to enjoy the undulating terrain and picturesque Floridian nature throughout this course. 4. Ocean Course You'll need to visit the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club to enjoy the Ocean Course. Filled with carefully positioned water hazards, a whole lot of bunkers, and wide open spaces where the ocean winds can really come into play, this is a very technical, engaging sort of course, well-suited to players who like a challenge. The terrific trio of Herbert Bertram Strong, Robert Trent Jones, and Bobby Weed came together to craft the Ocean Course, and the 9th hole might be its most striking feature. It was the first island green ever to be built on a golf course. 5. Lagoon Course You won't even need to leave the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club for this course. Dotted with lagoons, lakes, and tall trees along narrow fairways and short greens, it measures up at just over 6,000 yards in total, with a par of 70. Robert Trent Jones put together the first nine holes back in 1961, before Joe Lee came along in 1977 to complete the course with the back nine. This unique creation process has given the Lagoon Course a truly one-of-a-kind structure and feel, and a thorough restoration project in 2007 has helped to make this one of the best courses in the Sunshine State today. It's clear to see that there's a lot of golfing fun to be had in and around Jacksonville. While you're in the area, you might also want to get some essential auto services or visit a local dealer to browse new and used vehicles. Visit Tom Bush Mazda for all of your auto needs.

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!

Are you hungry for some mouth-watering, smokey BBQ meats? Keep reading to learn about our favorite spots in Jacksonville, FL that serve up the best barbecue meats and sides in the city! more 6 of the Best Barbecue Spots in Jacksonville, FL Butt Hutt Smokehouse Butt Hutt's incredible smoked brisket and side dishes have helped them stack up several food choice awards, most notably the 2015 Food Truck Champion for Best BBQ Category. They originally got started by only making delicious BBQ sauces, but it wasn't long before their aspirations moved to mastering the art of perfectly seasoned, succulent meats. We highly recommend trying the brisket with their homemade coconut curry and honey sauce. It's out of this world. The Bearded Pig The Bearded Pig is our go-to BBQ spot for delectable Southern-style smoked meats. Each menu item is better than the next but their standouts are the brisket, burnt ends, and smoked sausage. For side dishes, you can't go wrong with the Bearded Pig's baked beans and Mac and Cheese. They also have a wide selection of ice-cold brews on tap to enjoy with your meal. Just be sure not to drink and drive. Bow Leg'z BBQ Bow Leg'z BBQ does things a little differently and combines Southern-style BBQ with Caribbean spices. The result is a unique and delicious taste explosion with every bite of their moist brisket. Their unique formula of dry rubs, herbs, and smoke has brought them plenty of notoriety in Jacksonville. Check them out to enjoy a different spin on the classics you love. Berndt Ends BBQ This once famous food truck smoked its way into becoming a brick-and-mortar restaurant, much to the delight of countless Jacksonville residents. Berndt Ends BBQ was the food-child of world-class pitmaster Shaine Berndt, who spent years mastering the art of seasoning and smoking brisket until it reached that melt-in-your-mouth consistency. He won numerous food truck competitions, and it was only a matter of time before he expanded and gave his fans more of his fantastic BBQ. Gators BBQ If it's Texas-style brisket your appetite desires, hop in the car and head over to Gators BBQ. Their slow-smoked brisket cooks for 18 hours and melts in your mouth with every bite. You can also try one or all of their eight homemade sauces to enhance the flavors of your dish. The atmosphere is unbeatable and the staff is extremely friendly. You'll enjoy your experience from the minute you walk in, to the minute you're licking your fingers clean. Monroe's Smokehouse BBQ Monroe's goes above and beyond to make their customers feel like one of the family. Not only that, but their smoked meats and sides are some of the best in the city. We recommend ordering the “smoked Texas” platter if you're a beef lover, or the “Carolina pork” platter if it's juicy pork you crave. Be sure to visit all of these incredible BBQ restaurants in the comfort and style of a new Mazda vehicle. Visit 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.