Blog / Jacksonville Entertainment

Blog

All Jacksonville Entertainment Jacksonville BMW Dealer Tom Bush BMW Things To Do In Jacksonville Jacksonville Amenities Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville Service Jacksonville BMW Service Jacksonville Luxury Cars Jacksonville Used Cars Tom Bush Family of Dealerships Jacksonville Parks Jacksonville Eateries Jacksonville Restaurants Family Fun in Jacksonville Jacksonville Landmarks Jacksonville Beaches Tom Bush BMW Collision Repair Holidays in Jacksonville Jacksonville Vegetarian Eating Things To Do Near Jacksonville Vegan Foodies BMW Lease Jacksonville Jacksonville Collision Small Town Fun
Seafood Platter

5 Great Seafood Restaurants in and Around Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL is an ideal travel destination with a surplus of sun and outdoor and nature activities. The town is also home to a number of great shopping destinations and delicious restaurants that you and your travel companions are sure to enjoy. If you find yourself craving seafood during your trip, make sure to check out the delicious seafood restaurants in and around Jacksonville! more 5 Great Seafood Restaurants In and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar is located in Jacksonville and is open for lunch and dinner daily. Available lunch menu items include soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, House specialties, and sides. All House specialties are served with a side salad and available specialties include seared scallops and shrimp white cheddar mac and cheese, lemon caper rainbow trout, blackened chicken, red beans, and rice, and grilled chicken white cheddar mac and cheese. 2. Safe Harbor Seafood Safe Harbor Seafood is located in Atlantic Beach and offers fast and casual dockside dining. The restaurant catches and prepares fresh seafood daily and boasts impressive views and a relaxing atmosphere. The restaurant's menu includes appetizers, salads, soups, tacos, sides, build-your-own Kona bowls, Safe Harbor baskets, sandwiches, and burgers. Available appetizers include fried fish bites, spinach cakes, crab cakes, shrimp nachos, crab dip, and shrimp dip. 3. Southern Coast Seafood Southern Coast Seafood is located in Jacksonville and specializes in locally-caught fresh seafood. The restaurant's menu includes starters, soups, salads, handhelds, mains, seafood platters, and sides. Available mains include pan-seared scallops, bone-in rib chops, poke bowls, so-co shrimp and grits, and Cajun shrimp pasta. Available sides include bacon sherry charred green beans, rosemary brown butter mashed sweet potatoes, and white mac and cheese. 4. Dockside Seafood Restaurant Dockside Seafood Restaurant is located in Neptune Beach and serves relaxing lunches right on the water. The restaurant boasts a casual setting and serves high-quality and fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant's menu includes starters, baskets, dockside combos, salads, tacos, soups, sandwiches, and sides. Baskets are served with fries, slaw, and your choice of sauce, and include choices like fried shrimp, grilled shrimp, fried scallops, clam strips, and oysters. 5. Seafood Island Bar and Grille Seafood Island Bar and Grille is located in Jacksonville and is a friendly and relaxing place to dine. The restaurant's menu includes starters, salads, Seafood Island platters, seaweed pastas, hearty stews, regular sides, premium sides, and desserts. Available starters include wings, fried okra, crab cakes, coconut shrimp, fried calamari, fried green tomatoes, and fried pickles. Available hearty stews include shrimp and grits, tomato basil bisque, and island oyster stew. To find a great car that can take you on all of your future seafood trips, stop by Tom Bush BMW today and browse our inventory of new and pre-owned BMWs! Our vision is to create an innovative environment where we are able to guarantee employee and customer satisfaction through treating everyone with respect, engaging in fair business transactions, and nurturing lasting relationships.

3 girls looking at ocean

6 Fun Day Trips You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL

Around Jacksonville, FL there are some genuinely excellent day trips you can take. To narrow down the brilliant options, the following is a list we've made detailing our favorites. more 6 Fun Day Trips You Can Take Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Blue Springs State Park This is a beautiful 2600 acre part of the St John's river, with crystal-clear blue waters, natural beauty, and exciting wildlife. We recommend visiting here during manatee season and looking out for the West Indian manatees that glide through the water in the springs. We believe this is a great spot to swim, kayak in, or book an ecological tour to make the most of this stunning scenery. The waters are pretty warm, which is an added bonus! 2. Amelia Island Only 30 miles from Jacksonville, Amelia Island is a paradise for birds and holiday-seekers alike. If you're outdoorsy, we advise you to head to the white-sand beaches such as Fernandina Beach and watch the gorgeous sunset rippling over the water. For a more cultural experience, the more inhabited part of the island has enlightening art galleries, a relaxed small-town to explore, and historic saloons. The island also hosts festivals and has rolling grass golf courses. 3. Palatka For a more historically immersive experience, we love Palatka's preserved town with homes and churches dating as far back as the 1800s. This small town is packed with cultural gems for art lovers; there's a blossoming creative scene. We advise going on a tour of the Palatka murals or visiting the galleries to see art aplenty. If you prefer nature, there's the nearby Ravine Gardens State Park, which displays two awe-inspiring ravines and thriving plant life. 4. Ichetucknee Springs We adore Ichetucknee Springs for its family-friendly atmosphere; the interconnecting transparent waterways are beloved by swimmers and tubers alike. Nearby stores are selling affordable tubes so that everyone can get in on the fun. In addition, these clear springs are bordered by well-established trees, making the whole area feel like a luxurious natural spa. You can soak up the sun by splashing about in the water here or search the trees for swooping birds. 5. Big Talbot Island State Park Another attractive option is this state park, which has a road running through it, perfect for inline skaters, cyclists, and handicapped visitors. We advise keen birdwatchers to head here because Big Talbot Island State Park preserves many exciting bird species flitting about in the wetlands. Suppose you want to see the island from the water. In that case, you can take a kayaking tour led by a knowledgeable guide that can give you a unique natural perspective. 6. Cedar Key This is a laid-back destination for those seeking a traditional holiday, renowned for its fishing opportunities and seafood restaurants. In addition, the Cedar Key Museum State Park, home to a Native American shell mound believed to be around 1,800 years old, is a beloved tourist attraction for families. From taking a dip in crystal-clear springs to photographing a mural embellished town, the area around Jacksonville provides magnificent opportunities for enjoyable trips. Visit us at Tom Bush BMW to get the reliable car that can get you to these beautiful locations!

Silhouette of DJ in a night club

The Top 9 Spots to Go Dancing Near Jacksonville, FL

Sometimes, your inner twinkle-toes take over and you just want to dance the night away. Whether you're looking for a lively date activity or just a fun night out, find your rhythm at these prime dancing destinations in and around Jacksonville, FL. more The Top 9 Spots to Go Dancing Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Firefly Bay This cocktail bar is a rocking place to go to enjoy great meals, great drinks, and live music. The energetic covers pumped out by talent will have your feet stomping and itching to take the dance floor. You can show off your moves until the wee hours on weekends. 2. Eclipse Nightclub For a retro experience, take a time machine back to the last great decades of the eighties and nineties. Indulge in the music scene of way-back-when by swaying to the DJ-spun hits of this nostalgic era. For a breather, chill on the outdoor patio. 3. The Dance Shack If you want to meet some new people and brush up on your dance skills, or maybe even learn a new discipline, this dance lesson haven is the spot for you. Instructors live by the philosophy that life's a dance, and they will polish your partnering skills for weddings, parties, and so much more. Before you know it, you'll be an expert in salsa, swing, or traditional ballroom. 4.  Cuba Libre Bar The dance floor is always a packed place for talented locals and beginners alike to display their very best Latin dance moves. Authentic cultural art-work, beautiful leather couches, and a large TV screen add to the distinct atmosphere and ambiance. Once you've tried out popular drinks such as the Mojito (always drinking responsibly, in moderation, and abstaining from driving, of course), get in your groove and show ‘em how it's done. 5. The Volstead A downtown speakeasy with movie nights, culinary concoctions like the Jam, and a charming, laid-back atmosphere…what more could you want? How about some amazing dance-themed events like Sunday Swing Nights? 6. Metro Entertainment Nightclub This LGBTQ+-friendly club has it all for a festive night, from karaoke to pool tables to drag shows. And no matter your dance style, you'll discover your own little corner of fun in one of the five themed bars that emphasize everything from sports to piano-playing. 7. 1Vibe Dance Choreographer Jen Colvin has created this home-grown dance experience for lovers of hip hop, jazz, and contemporary music. Special events and weekly classes help spread the dance love to an inclusive community that welcomes all dancers. 8. The Ole Barn Country music enthusiasts are not forgotten at this refuge that includes a cabin-like interior, a fun-and-games-packed backyard, and country-western tunes made for cowboy boots and line dances. 9. '57 Heaven If you're a proud part of the older club or are simply an old soul, revisit the era of sock hops, be-bops, and maybe even a little disco with music and dance straight from the mid-twentieth century. Free dance lessons are even on-hand for revelers who want to experience a vital part of the fifties and sixties scene. Before you take your dance shoes off, boogie on over and find a stylish ride that'll help take your rhythmic vibe on the road. Visit Tom Bush BMW and find your auto in our BMW Buzz showroom.

3 of the Best Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL

Located on the eastern coast of Florida and along the banks of the St. Johns River, the city of Jacksonville, FL, has always been associated with fishing and water sports. Whether you are an expert or an amateur angler, Jacksonville is not far from some excellent fishing spots where you can easily spend a day or more catching some great specimens of the local fish species. more 3 of the Best Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Located on Little Talbot Island, about 17 miles northeast of downtown Jacksonville, Little Talbot Island State Park is known for its sandy beaches, maritime forests, large tracts of saltwater marshes, and fishing bridges. This state park spans a surface area of more than 2,500 acres and was established in 1951 by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Getting here from Jacksonville takes about half an hour by car, driving along Heckscher Drive. Some of the fish species you can find during your visit to Little Talbot Island State Park include redfish, striped bass, millet, bluefish, and sheepshead. Once you get to the entrance of the park, it is a good idea to talk to the ranger and ask for a map of the best fishing areas. This state park features public boat ramps that can be used by anglers on the north end of the island. 2. Jennings State Forest With a surface area of over 25,000 acres, Jennings State Forest is another popular destination among anglers from Jacksonville and other towns and cities in northern Florida. The best fishing areas in the forest are located within the Indian Ford Recreation Area, on the southern part of this expansive nature reserve. The most commonly found fish species here are largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish, sunfish, and crappie. In order to fish in the area, anglers most hold a valid license. The main entrance of Jennings State Forest is located about 40 miles southwest of the Jacksonville city center, making it possible to reach it in less than an hour by car along route I-10. Once here, grab your gear and head south to the Indian Ford Recreation Area, but make sure to take some time to explore the rest of the state forest and check out its beautiful landscapes. 3. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge With excellent dockside and boat fishing opportunities, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent destination for anglers looking for a quiet nature spot that can be visited as part of a day trip or a camping adventure. This nature reserve covers an area of more than 400,000 acres and was established in 1937, soon becoming a top-rated destination among anglers from all over northern Florida. Some of the fish species you can catch here include bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Are you ready to check out these fantastic fishing destinations? While you are on your way, stop by Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville. We have an extensive inventory of new and used vehicles and the most convenient financing plans in the market. Talk to our sales representatives and take home a new set of wheels for your next fishing adventure.

Live Music Stamp

6 Popular Live Music Venues in and Around Jacksonville, FL

One of the most popular cities in America, Jacksonville, FL is home to some of the best attractions you'll ever find. With museums, parks, restaurants, and some of the best music venues around, this city will always have something fun you haven't tried. Why not start with some music, and visit one of these popular venues among visitors and locals? more 6 Popular Live Music Venues in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. 1904 Music Hall An intimate venue with an awesome atmosphere, the 1904 Music Hall is a stellar spot for a night of live performances. There's a bar full of wine and craft beer, so you can enjoy the tunes with a good drink, but remember to drink responsibly. Sit inside and listen, or head outside to their relaxing patio and courtyard. You can enjoy some food while you hang out, making this a perfect place to spend time with friends and family. 2. Birdies One of the best-decorated places in the area, Birdies is a great bar with an incredible look. The staff is super friendly, willing to go above and beyond to make sure you have everything you need. Play pool, sing some karaoke, and of course, experience some of the best live music around. 3. Cliffs Bar & Grill A definite local favorite, Cliffs Bar and Grill offers just about everything you could ask for. Enjoy the night with some cold drinks, and listen to some great live music. Come on a different day and take part in karaoke, trivia nights, pool tournaments, or sit and watch the game on the tv screens. If you can't decide on what kind of place you want to visit, come to Cliffs Bar and Grill and experience it all. 4. Jack Rabbits Live For an electric concert hosting a variety of music genres, visit Jack Rabbits, a venue that has become synonymous with local music lovers. This place has some great staff and a welcoming community. Regular bands that have rocked this stage for years will surely give you an awesome night to remember. This solid bar and intimate setting is a must when traveling through the area. 5. The Arena Considered by many locals to be the holder of some of the best events of the year, the Arena is a go-to experience for anyone in the area. With an incredible stage and even better people, this place is committed to entertaining you, no matter what kind of show they're putting on. Their concerts are popular among regulars, and if you're feeling something different, visit when they're showing some epic productions like Alice in Wonderland or the Greatest Showman. 6. The Volstead Specializing in creating the best hand-crafted cocktails in the area, this speakeasy-style venue will take care of you in every way. Its chill vibe, live music, and exceptional staff will make this one of your most enjoyable nights in Jacksonville. The Volstead has become legendary, with its swing dancing events and masterclasses on how to craft the perfect cocktail, this cool underground spot would be a shame to miss. If you're looking for a great night of music, any one of these options will do the trick. If you're looking for some great deals on vehicles and services, check out Tom Bush BMW today!

Couple walking off an RV

4 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Jacksonville, FL

Camping in Jacksonville, FL, provide campers with loads of outdoor activities in beautiful surroundings. Camp between the dunes on pristine white beaches or deep in the maritime forests and discover the Florida wilderness on miles of hiking and biking trails that snake through the diverse ecosystem. Paddle and fish in rivers, ponds, salt marshes, and the ocean, and observe an abundance of bird and animal life. more 4 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Campground Pitch your tent between the dunes surrounded by Southern magnolias in the shade of a dense live oak and American holly maritime hammock on one of the very few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in the state. The beautiful campground has 36 sites with water, 20 and 30 amp electricity, picnic tables, and fire rings. There are two restrooms with hot showers, a laundry facility, and a dump station. You can experience the island's untouched beauty and the abundant birdlife hiking and biking down four miles of trails that wind through forests and salt marshes. Kayak, canoe, and fish in the tidal creeks on the edge of the campground. There is a dock, a bait cleaning station, and a boat launch. The campground also has a campfire circle, playground, and easy access to the scenic Nature Loop Trail. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park Campground The park runs for 450-acres along a pristine white beach where you can laze the day away in the hot Florida sun and cool off in the ocean. Wildlife such as alligators, foxes, shorebirds, and wading birds are plentiful and can be observed on over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. The park is well known for its popular mountain biking trail suitable for both novice and experienced riders. There is a freshwater pond for fishing and paddling, and the little ones can enjoy the splash park and playground. The campground is set in a shady area in the woods with 300 tent and RV sites, or you can sleep in one of the rustic cabins. The campground has electric and water hookups, restrooms with hot showers, a dump station, and 24-hour security. There is also a camp store with everything you need to ensure a comfortable stay. 3. Huguenot Memorial Park Campground The scenic 295-acre park is on a peninsula surrounded by rivers and the Atlantic Ocean. The campground has 70 RV and tent sites with electricity. The lack of sewer and water facilities is well worth the sacrifice of sleeping on a pristine sandy beach. Pack your surfboard, kayak, and fishing gear, and if you enjoy birdwatching, the Great Florida Birding Trail cuts through the park. It's a wildlife area and is considered the prime birding destination in the county by the Duval Audubon Society. You can find out more about the conservation efforts, especially the nesting terns and shorebirds, at the Nature Center, where there are interactive displays, reference books, and knowledgeable naturalists. You are welcome to bring your pooch along to enjoy the beach with you, but your pet must be kept on a leash at all times. 4. Flamingo Lake RV Resort Camp out in your RV in the breathtaking Florida wilderness on the shores of Flamingo Lake with every modern amenity you could possibly dream of. The pet-friendly resort offers spacious back-in and pull-through RV lakefront and lake view sites. Each campsite has a gravel or paved pad, full hookups, a picnic table, and Wi-Fi. The luxury lakefront sites can accommodate big rigs with added double swing seats and raised cast iron bonfire pits. There is a laundry facility, camp store, and dump station. You can paddle, fish, and swim in the 17-acre Flamingo Lake, relax on the beach, take your four-legged friend to play at the pet area, and dine at the Flamingo Lake Sunrise Café. The resort also has a playground, clubhouse, fitness center, and swimming pool. Get ready for a camp experience of a lifetime in one of the most beautiful destinations in the country. Visit Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville today. Our friendly and professional automotive experts will ensure that your vehicle runs at its best.

Golf ball going into hole

The Top 5 Golf Courses Near Jacksonville, FL

With so much to do in Jacksonville, FL, it's hard to narrow down which attractions you'd like to take in if you're just visiting for the weekend. With beaches, water sports, hiking trails, shopping, and nightlife, sometimes it's easy to forget about all the great golf courses in the area. The year-round excellent weather makes any time a good time to hit the links when in Jax. Here are some of the best courses in the area. more The Top 5 Golf Courses Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Eagle Harbor Golf Club This terrific little track is enjoyable for the entire family and all skill levels thanks to its affordable prices and forgiving fairways. The course is always in great shape and provides scenic views to take in as you make your way around the 18 holes. The greens are large and undulating which can make for a challenging day of putting but the course plays fair for the most part. The tee boxes are nicely manicured giving it that country club feel. 2. Hyde Park Golf Club This course offers a tremendous amount of bang for your buck with its super affordable green fees. It's not the longest course in the world at 6400 yards but it's plenty challenging and the greens are usually in pristine condition and play fairly fast. There's a driving range on site if you're looking to tune up your game before the round. If you prefer to walk the course, you also have that option at Hyde Park. 3. Blue Sky Golf Club This club has had some recent renovations and is in great shape. It's challenging enough for the average player but makes a great course for beginners because of the wide-open fairways. The staff is super friendly, and you won't find a pretentious vibe that some golf clubs unfortunately harbor. Be sure to head to the clubhouse for some delicious bites after the round. They have great burgers and wings to fill your belly. 4. Jacksonville Beach Golf Club This picturesque course makes for an excellent day out on the links with its well-manicured fairways and quick, elevated greens. Drink in the salty ocean breeze as you traverse the 18 holes of challenging yet fair golf. If you're a bit of a hacker be sure to bring your flippers because you'll need them to fish your ball out of the numerous water hazards. Keep an eye out for wayward alligators as they have been known to frequent the track. 5. Deerwood Country Club This course is always in fabulous condition and has the beauty to match. It's a private course so you'll need to play with a member if you go. There are multiple tee locations to suit your skill level and the fairways and greens are smooth and fast. Come early to take advantage of the great practice facility before you tee off. You'll need to hone your skills because there's a fair amount of water on the track. When the round is over, head down to Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville and check out our excellent selection of sharp new vehicles to get you to your next round in style.

Contact Us

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