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Located on the Atlantic coast of the state, Jacksonville, FL is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, as well as the most populous city in Florida. Featuring a plethora of local attractions and being a perfect base for road trippers exploring the region, it is no surprise that Jacksonville is home to excellent hotels for all budgets and preferences. If you are planning a visit, these are some great accommodation options you should check out. more 3 of the Best Hotels for Visiting Jacksonville, FL 1. Marriot Jacksonville Downtown Located in the heart of the city center, in one of the most popular business and cultural districts, the Marriot Jacksonville Downtown hotel is a perfect spot for visitors looking for the best amenities and the highest standards of comfort in the industry. This Marriot hotel features a fitness center open 24/7, as well as an outdoor swimming pool with sweeping views of the city's downtown area and the St. Johns River. Thanks to its privileged location, the Marriot Jacksonville Downtown hotel allows guests to visit most of the city's attractions on foot. Important landmarks such as the Jacksonville Museum of Contemporary Art, The Landing Park, and the John T. Alsop Jr. Bridge are just a few minutes' walk from the property. This Marriot hotel features a lounge bar, as well as two in-house restaurants serving international and traditional Southern dishes. 2. Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront Also located along the banks of the St. Johns River, the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront hotel is another high-end property featuring panoramic views of the city, on-site restaurants, a rooftop heated swimming pool, as well as expansive ballrooms and meeting rooms for special events. This Hyatt Regency property follows the strictest cleaning and sanitizing standards in the industry and has been one of the top-rated accommodation facilities in the city since it opened its doors in 2001. Featuring 951 guest rooms in a 19-story building, Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront welcomes all types of visitors with excellent facilities and friendly staff members who are always ready to help you. Whether you are visiting Jacksonville alone, with your friends, or with your family, this property is always an excellent choice. Some additional amenities include a fitness center open 24/7, free complimentary Wi-Fi in all areas, a business center, and on-site dining options. 3. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Riverfront Located just a short walk from the Southbank Riverwalk and right across the river from the downtown area, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Riverfront is an excellent option for visitors looking for a comfortable place to stay with great amenities and stunning views of the city center. This property welcomes guests with free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property, a business center, a fitness center, on-site restaurants, and an outdoor pool. Are you ready to hit the road and go on a road trip to Jacksonville and other beautiful destinations in the state of Florida? Before you leave, stop by Tom Bush BMW! We have an extensive collection of new and pre-owned cars, as well as the best deals in the Jacksonville area.

Here in Jacksonville, FL, we have beautiful scenery, amazing beaches, and almost perfect weather all year round. We also have some of the best places for shopping in Florida. Whether you're looking for antiques, art, or a special present for someone we have stores you'll love. These are some of our favorite places for retail therapy. more 3 of the Best Places for Holiday Shopping Near Jacksonville, FL The Avenues Since its opening in the 1990s, this mall has maintained its position as one of the premier malls in Jacksonville. They have a wide selection of stores from JCPenney and Sears to Pepper Palace and Secret Scientist. With a wealth of choices, there is something for everyone when you're looking for the perfect gift here. The mall is set on two levels and also includes numerous food options that cater to the whole family. Parking can be difficult on holidays, so it's advisable to visit the mall early to get a good parking spot. Security at the mall is very good, and also discreet. The Avenues is located at 10300 Southside Blvd. The Art Center Cooperative If you're looking for artwork in Jacksonville, look no further than the Art Center. The cooperative won the award for the best gallery in 2021, and when you visit them you'll see why they did. More than 30 local artists' collections are displayed here, and they organize themed shows that are changed every seven weeks. The cooperative is managed and run by the artists themselves, and you're guaranteed to find a great gift choice here. Paintings, sculptures, books, jewelry, functional pieces, and glasswork are a few of the many forms of art on display. The Art Center has recently moved, and you can now find it at 1225 Hendricks Ave. They're open from Monday to Saturday from noon to 5 pm. Sweet Pete's Candy For candy and chocolates, Sweet Pete's is a dream. Founded by renowned candy maker Peter Behringer, this is the largest candy store in the southeast. The store occupies a 22,0000 square foot historic mansion and all three floors are filled with amazing treats. They have an amazing selection of bulk candy, specialist collections, gift baskets, and retro candies. If the incredible candy selection isn't enough, they also have a range of gifts available including plush toys and clothing. The first floor contains the ice cream shop and boxed candy, the second-floor houses an amazing array of bulk candy, and the third floor is dedicated to a restaurant and specialist party areas. Chocolate-making courses for adults and kids are also available. Be sure to visit Sweet Pete's at 400 N Hogan St. to satisfy that sweet tooth craving. They're open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. After visiting these amazing stores, you'll be loaded with parcels. A new car definitely makes a retail spree much easier. Come and see our amazing selection of cars at Tom Bush BMW. The keys to your new car are waiting for you.

Your BMW has a lot of working parts that keep it running well. Just one of these parts is your vehicle's air filter. The air filter is necessary for catching dirt and other dangerous particles before they reach your engine and cause costly damage. The expert mechanics at your BMW dealer typically inspect your air filter during your regularly scheduled maintenance visits, however, you should still be aware of the signs that it's time for a new car air filter. more Time For a New Car Air Filter? Visit Your BMW Dealer Today You Notice a Lack of Power When You Drive You know your BMW is a powerful vehicle, so if you're noticing a lack of power when you accelerate this likely means you have a clogged air filter. When dangerous particles block air from getting through to your engine this can create a lack of power. Some of these particles may even be working their way through your engine, which can lead to serious damage. Take your car to your mechanic to get it fixed immediately. Your Air Filter Looks Clogged If possible, check your air filter every few months or if you notice a change in the way your vehicle is acting. You simply need to pop it out once you open your hood and look to see if it looks noticeably dirty or clogged. If it looks dark or dirty you should visit your dealership as soon as possible for a new one. You Receive a Check Engine Code Your BMW is designed to warn you of any issues that need attention. If your engine isn't receiving enough airflow or is circulating dangerous particles it should let you know. If you have a newer model BMW you will likely receive an email or text through your messaging system, but all models, including classic BMW vehicles, will put up a check engine message on your dashboard. Get this dealt with immediately. Your Exhaust Is Suddenly Very Dark If you notice your exhaust is dark or cloudy this can mean your air filter is clogged and not allowing your fuel to circulate properly. The fuel that remains unburned will likely be pushed out through your exhaust pipe. If you notice this, make an appointment to see your mechanic before it causes any further damage. Your Exhaust Is Smelly Even if your exhaust doesn't look different, if it smells different this can also mean your air filter is clogged and your fuel is being burned improperly. So, if you notice any changes at all coming from your exhaust you need to get this checked as soon as possible. Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville is the place to go if you're looking to buy a new or used BMW. Our expert service team is passionate about finding you the right vehicle, helping you with financing, and providing you with the best maintenance to keep it running smoothly. We'd love for you to stop by or contact us at Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville to view our large inventory of new and used vehicles or to book your next maintenance appointment.

If you're looking for ways to stay in shape in Jacksonville, FL, you're in luck. Our city is home to various fitness options, from walking outdoors to yoga studios. Check out the many different ways in Jax to stay fit and in shape! more Fitness in Jacksonville, FL: 4 Great Ways to Stay in Shape 1. Walking Outdoors Get a good pair of walking shoes and start exploring all the outdoor spaces around town. There are plenty of parks with paved trails or unpaved paths that you can use to go running, walking, biking, and more! The best part is they're usually free, so anyone can enjoy them no matter how much money they have in their pocket at any given time - which means there's no excuse not to get moving. The Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens is a great place to go for a walk. Its gorgeous scenery and multiple walking trails make it suitable for all skill levels. If you're looking for something more adventurous, head down to The Julington-Durbin Preserve, where you'll find three trails totaling over 7 miles of hiking. These moderately difficult trails are full of natural flora and wildlife, so wear great shoes and remember your camera! 2. Crossfit If you're looking for a challenging and constantly-changing workout, Crossfit may be the right choice for you. Jax is home to quite a few Crossfit gyms, and most of them are open to anyone who wants to come to give it a try - regardless of your skill level. Just be prepared for a great workout and muscle soreness the next day! Crossfit is unique because the movements it uses are designed to mimic the motions we use every day. Crossfit is characterized by workouts that change daily and can be adjusted based on your physical ability and age. Although Crossfit can modify the intensity level, you should check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine. 3. Join a Gym If you're looking for a more traditional workout and personal training, joining a gym is a great option. On St. John's Bluff Rd, the Florida Extreme Gym gets rave reviews for its group exercise and fat loss programs. Florida Extreme is an excellent choice with its amazing staff and unique, top-of-the-line equipment. You can also buy their group training and fat loss classes a la carte if you're looking to get in shape without breaking the bank. 4. Cycling Studio There are a few cycling studios in town, and they offer classes for all experience levels. If you're new to cycling, the studio will probably have instructors who can help you get started. And if you're looking for a more intense workout, most studios offer high-intensity classes that will definitely get your heart rate up. Rebel Studio Jax is a cycling and yoga studio in town which offers programs for all skill levels. The studio has several cycling classes, including a 45-minute full-body workout! If you're looking to get off the cycle, they have yoga classes that include power yoga and stretching. Jax is a great place to explore if you're looking to stay in shape. There are so many different options for getting fit here you'll never run out of options. Stop by Tom Bush BMW for a variety of fantastic choices for your next car. We'll be happy to set up a test drive!

Jacksonville, FL is a super city to visit for the whole family, with landmarks, attractions, and activities that people of all ages can enjoy. Whether you're interested in art, animals, science, or soft, sandy beaches, you'll find it all right here. Let's take a look at some of the best kid-friendly activities to try in and around the Jacksonville area. more 5 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Meet the Animals at Jacksonville Zoo One of Jacksonville's most-visited landmarks, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens draws in more than a million people each year, and it's not hard to see why. This is one of the best zoos in the country, home to tigers, apes, bears, and more. Any animal lovers in your family will have the time of their lives getting up close and personal with these creatures and learning all about the zoo's impressive animal conservation efforts. 2. Have a Splash at Adventure Landing Adventure Landing in Jacksonville Beach is one of the biggest family entertainment centers in the whole of northeast Florida, offering a huge selection of fun activities and thrilling experiences for every guest. The Shipwreck Island Waterpark is filled with huge slides and a half-million-gallon wave pool, but if you'd prefer to stay dry, the park also has golf courses, an arcade, laser tag, and batting cages. 3. Learn Something New at MOSH MOSH stands for the Museum of Science and History, and it's one of Jacksonville's best museums, perfect for families. Guests will find lots of intriguing and interactive exhibits here, teaching you all about everything from how the human body works to how the first Native Americans lived and prospered on Florida's lands many years ago. 4. Hit the Beach at Little Talbot Island Of course, whenever you're in Florida, one of the best things to do is head to the beach and soak up the sun. If you're in the Jacksonville area, Little Talbot Island State Park is a great place to go for some coastal fun. It's one of the last undeveloped barrier islands in the area, boasting several miles of pristine beaches and some beautiful bike trials, too. Families can play, walk, sunbathe, surf, and make many happy memories on this heavenly little island. 5. Escape into Nature at Tillie K. Fowler Park If you feel like getting away from the hustle and bustle of the big city streets, Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park is a really pleasant place to spend some time with the kids. This park features an array of hiking trails and well-maintained boardwalks, complete with a kids' playground, visitors center, and observation tower. It's a super spot for nature lovers and wildlife watchers of all ages. So, if you're planning a trip to Jacksonville with your family and looking for some fun things to do, you can choose from any of the exciting attractions and activities listed above to make your stay an enjoyable and memorable one. And if you're a car lover looking for another great place to visit in Jacksonville, the city's best BMW dealer is ready and waiting to welcome you. Visit Tom Bush BMW to browse a stunning selection of new and used BMW models.

Jacksonville, FL is a great destination for those who want to explore the outdoors and try some delicious cuisines. During your visit, consider checking out some of the town's attractions, such as the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens and the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, as well as its unique restaurants. If you find yourself craving Italian food, be sure to also check out some of the places listed below! more Where to Find the Best Italian Food Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Casa Dora Italian Cuisine and Pizzeria Casa Dora is located in Jacksonville and sells some of the most popular pizza in the town. The restaurant has been serving the local community lunch and dinner for a while and makes sure that its pizzas are hot and fresh. Aside from pizza, the restaurant also serves appetizers, salads, baked pasta specials, pasta dinners, and dinner entrees. Available pasta dinners include tortellini with marinara sauce, spaghetti and carbonara chicken, and fettuccine Alfredo. 2. Sorrento Italian Restaurant Sorrento Italian Restaurant is located in Jacksonville and has been bringing the charm of Southern Europe to the town for over 30 years. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner and boasts a warm elegance and welcoming hospitality. Sorrento's chef is committed to excellence and creativity and believes in creating food that speaks for itself. Some of the restaurant's dishes include linguini and clams, salmon puttanesca, sausage and fettuccine, and spaghettini. 3. Taverna Taverna is located in Jacksonville and serves modern interpretations of classic recipes. The restaurant uses authentic Italian ingredients, seasonal produce, and local purveyors for its brunch, lunch, and dinner dishes. Available dinner dishes include spaghetti frutti di mare, sautéed mussels and clams, and house-made ravioli. For those looking for breakfast food, Taverna serves prosciutto scones, lemon-ricotta pancakes, poached eggs, and breakfast pizza for brunch. 4. Moon River Pizza Moon River Pizza is located in Jacksonville and is open for dine-in and carry-out Monday-Saturday. The restaurant is a casual restaurant with a variety of dishes including salads, pizzas, calzones, specials, and breadsticks. If you're in the mood to create your own pizza, Moon River Pizza offers numerous delicious toppings such as white cheddar cheese, banana peppers, sliced meatballs, and breaded eggplant. 5. Leci's Italian Cafe Leci's Italian Cafe is located in Jacksonville and is open Monday-Saturday. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, and also has a buffet for those looking to try a variety of dishes. The restaurant's lunch menu includes dishes like shrimp or scallops aioli, a chicken parmigiana sandwich, and a steak and cheese sandwich. Its dinner menu includes dishes like fried meat or cheese ravioli, pasta with garlic and olive oil, and baked ziti alla parmigiana. After you've had some mouthwatering pizza or pasta, it is a great time to search for the new car you've been wanting. Stop by Tom Bush BMW today and browse our selection of new and used BMW vehicles! We are devoted to helping and serving our customers to the best of our ability, and we are happy to answer any questions you may have.

There are so many phenomenal places to grab a coffee in Jacksonville these days. Check out five of our favorite local coffee shops in and around Jacksonville, FL. more 5 Favorite Local Coffee Shops in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Bold Bean Bold Bean is part of the Riverside neighborhood and its thriving mix of restaurants, boutique shops, and bars. Located on Stockton Street, Bold Bean was founded in 2011 and focuses on sustainably sourced, specialty coffees. They source the best coffees available and roast them on site. Bold Bean has been lucky over the years to have attracted such a loyal following of regulars from nearby. If you're looking for a place to hang out each week or just looking for something different other than your routine, check them out soon! 2. Bold Bean Jacksonville Beach If you want a hot brew while smelling the sea breeze, then check out their Jacksonville Beach location. Enjoying a cup of coffee at the Bold Bean Jax Beach location is like taking a vacation right at home. Located within walking distance from the beach, you'll find a busy cafe where locals just like you gather for freshly roasted java. Fans rave about the unique coffee flavors, knowledgeable staff, and relaxed vibe. 3. Vagabond Coffee Vagabond Coffee is a community gathering place with great coffee guaranteed to satisfy any palate. You'll find everything you need to get your day started or to kick back and relax.  This Murray Hill shop serves fantastic coffee and freshly-baked pastries. The Murray Hill roastery produces coffee in small batches with unusual flavors. They also roast their beans several days per week so they can serve some of the freshest coffee in town! 4. Social Grounds Coffee Company Social Grounds Coffee Company is a veteran-owned coffee company with a social mission. Social Grounds offers good, high-quality coffee while supporting Vets transitioning out of homelessness or returning from active duty. Located on N. Main Street, Social Grounds donates a portion of each purchase to vets needing support in Jacksonville. This small relaxing cafe brews a great cup of java while empowering vets throughout the region.  Try the Warrior Blend while you're there, a wonderful caramel, chocolate, and cherry blend which benefits the Wounded Warrior Project. 5. The Coffee Grinder Funky and laid-back, the Coffee Grinder is your go-to establishment for getting great food and coffee in a lively atmosphere. Whether you're starting your day with an espresso or winding it up over a Chai Tea Latte, this Southside Jacksonville café is the place to be. Electronic music sets the tone several nights a week, with the help of local DJs from the area. Located on the corner of Baymeadows Road and Southside Boulevard, The Coffee Grinder offers a  welcoming atmosphere where all can come to enjoy good conversation, tasty food, and great java! Jacksonville residents have many great coffee spots to explore! While you're out, stop by Tom Bush BMW and check out our brand new cars. We'd be happy to answer your questions and schedule a test drive.

Looking to have some fun and enjoy some fresh air all right here in our local community when you check out the parks that we featured below. Each one of them let you have an outdoor adventure without leaving the Jacksonville, FL area, so you won't have to go far to have a whole lot of fun. more 7 Favorite Local Parks Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Lovelace Park If you're looking for a fun place to bring the kiddos for a day out that will give them plenty of activities to partake in, the playground at Lovelace Park makes the perfect destination. Whether they're swinging on the monkey bars or sliding down any of the several slides, they're sure to have a great time playing here. 2. James Weldon Johnson Park The first and oldest park in our city still makes a great place to visit even to this day. Originally a village green, the gardens here make a relaxing place to sit down and enjoy some fresh air. There are all sorts of fun and eye-catching sculptures on display here too, creating a unique atmosphere that you'll only find here. 3. Riverside Park Shoot some hoops at the basketball courts provided at Riverside Park, or just stretch out and enjoy the greenery and fresh air that you can find here. The picnic tables also provide you with some great spots to enjoy an outdoor meal, so bring a few sandwiches or snacks along to get the most out of your visit. 4. Jacksonville Drew Park Play ball at Jacksonville Drew Park and the four-diamond softball complex you can find on the premises here. You can also find outdoor grills here, so bring along some burgers or hot dogs and have an open-air cookout on your day out here. 5. Losco Regional Park Cool off in the warmer months with the splash pad that you can find at Losco Regional Park. The renovated playground features lots of innovative ways for any children playing here to have a whole lot of fun, making this every kids' favorite park to go to. 6. Stockton Park This dog-friendly spot makes a great place to bring out man's best friend for a walk or a run, with plenty of room for your furry friend to work off their energy. The beautiful scenery, including some spectacular views of the ocean, will ensure that you have as much fun as your canine companion does. 7. Memorial Park Beautiful views of the nearby waterfront make Memorial Park stand out among all the places you can plan a day out in our area. Anyone looking to do a little fishing can bring their rod along and cast out from the docks that you can find at this park. Take a ride in a new vehicle from our dealership to get yourself and your crew out to all of the great outdoor destinations that you can find here in our city. Get your next vehicle from Tom Bush BMW today!

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.

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!

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.

There's no better way to enjoy the beautiful weather of Jacksonville, FL than by visiting one of the city's many amazing outdoor attractions. From plants and parks to animals and arboretum, this city has got it all. Keep reading to discover our favorite outdoor activities located in and around Jacksonville. more 3 Great Outdoor Activities to Enjoy Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville Zoo Jacksonville Zoo is the perfect place to travel the globe and see creatures from all around the world without ever leaving Florida. The zoo grounds span over 93 acres and are home to more than two thousand animals along with one thousand species of exotic plants. If you prefer to admire animals that are both exciting and close to home, be sure to check out the Wild Florida exhibit that houses turtles, black bears, alligators, and other native animals. When planning your trip around the zoo, it can be helpful to remember that animals are separated by continent, and the main dining area is located in Africa. We suggest heading over to Asia first to view Komodo dragons and tigers before walking along the main pathway to Australia, where you can spot kangaroos. South America hosts jaguars, the African forest exhibit is home to giraffes, and the African plains area is the place to go for rhinos and elephants. 2. Jacksonville Arboretum Jacksonville Arboretum is open daily for tours, special events, and the opportunity for visitors to view a wide variety of flora along a multitude of trails. Specialty plants are abundant at the arboretum, and our personal favorites range from avocado trees with enormous evergreen leaves to shrubs that produce miracle fruits that make sour foods taste sweet. Try to find your favorite plants on your walk, or simply wander around and find something new. If you're looking for the perfect blend of exercise and nature, you can find it at the Jacksonville Arboretum. For a short and easy walk, we suggest either the lake loop trail that travels 0.3 miles around Lake Ray or the live oak trail that passes through an ancient forest. If you're in search of a more strenuous walk, get your steps in while enjoying the beauty of the sand ridge trail through a marsh environment. 3. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a nonprofit haven for endangered cats such as lions, pumas, leopards, tigers, and lynxes that are in need of a protective home. Everything is run by volunteers, and they've been saving the lives of abandoned and mistreated big cats for dozens of years. Before your visit, check out the resident section of their website to meet some of the animals you may see on your tour. Daytime tours of the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary take place in the afternoon and guide visitors through the habitats of the animals. If you're up for a little bit more, book a night feeding tour to learn from an expert and witness the big cats consume more than six hundred pounds of meat. Alternatively, younger children are sure to enjoy an enrichment tour, which allows visitors the opportunity to observe the animals engaging in a rotating array of activities. No matter which of these amazing outdoor attractions you decide to visit first, we know that you'll love every minute. After you've enjoyed your visit, swing by Tom Bush BMW to find a reliable and quality vehicle!