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Driver side view of silver BMW

At a Glance: The 2021 BMW X4

Are you thinking about buying a new luxury vehicle? Take a look at the 2021 BMW X4. If you're curious about this amazing car, here's everything you need to know. At a Glance: The 2021 BMW X4 The Basics of the New BMW X4 This sporty little coupe will easily impress you. The BMW X4 is a good-looking, high-performance car that's going to attract eyes wherever you go. Carefully styled and equipped with some amazing features, it's impossible not to love this incredibly fun car. The '21 BMW X4 receives a few upgrades this year that will make your ride more enjoyable and convenient. A few features that were not previously available or only available as options now come standard for the X4. This includes Android Auto along with changes to some of the packages. Pricing and Trim Levels All three of the '21 BMW X4's trim levels will get you an amazing car that's super fun to drive. The first available trim level is the X4 xDrive30i that starts at around $51,600. The X4 M40i models will offer you a more powerful engine along with additional features. There's also a great option for drivers looking to sit in the lap of luxury and experience true power and beauty. The X4 M, starting at $73,400, will go above and beyond any expectations that you might have for this already super impressive vehicle. Engine and Performance Hop behind the wheel of the '21 BMW X4 and experience incredible muscle and power. Going with the base trim level will provide you with a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 248 horsepower. If you'd prefer more power, then take a look at the X4 M0i. This model will get you a 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that makes 382 horsepower. The X4 M models will offer you even more muscle under the hood. When you purchase this trim level, you'll get a turbocharged inline-six engine that makes a breathtaking 473 horsepower, making it perfect for drivers looking for more of a thrill. Interior Style and Comfort For a car of this price point, you can expect a stunning and incredibly comfortable interior. The '21 BMW X4's cabin uses high-quality materials across all trim levels, and you'll be delighted by the elegant and sophisticated design. The dash keeps everything within easy view and reach, and other features like the car's fantastic sound system will make driving a luxurious delight. There's also lots of space inside the '21 BMW X4. You and your passengers will be able to stretch out, and if you're taking this coupe on a trip, there will be enough space to store all your luggage. If you've been looking for a super fun coupe that can provide you with a range of both fun and useful features, this is the car for you. You won't need to spend long behind the '21 BMW X4's wheel to feel its incredible power. Test drive one today when you come to Tom Bush BMW.

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? 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!

BMW car emblem

6 Essential Features of the 2021 BMW X2

The BMW X2, BMW's entrance into the subcompact luxury SUV market, has garnered a lot of attention for its sporty persona since its release. BMW has taken great effort to build a car that fulfills both the sports car persona and family vehicle persona. Here are six essential features of the 2021 BMW X2. 6 Essential Features of the 2021 BMW X2 1. Three Trims BMW's latest X2 comes in three trims and each brings performance and style increases. The standard sDrive 28i, the mid-level XDrive28i, and the top-level M35i all present comfortable rides in sporty styles that will grab attention no matter where you go. The xDrive28i and the M35i have a slightly lower suspension, giving the vehicle a sportier feel. 2. Engine Performance BMW's X2 standard model comes with a 2.0L turbo engine and gives 258 lb-ft of torque and 228 horsepower, while the M35i's engine deals out 331 lb-ft of torque and 301 horsepower. Both AWD and FWD drivetrains are available, and every trim comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The suspension and handling give a smooth ride with the damper control and 19-inch wheels. 3. Safety Even the base-model X2 is decked out for safety. Coming standard, the X2 includes a rearview camera and front and rear park distance control. The Drivers Assist package contains a forward-collision warning system, a lane departure warning system, and a parking assistant that integrates with the rearview camera. For additional fees, a speed limit monitor can be added along with a heads-up display. 4. Space Space is plentiful in the X2. With all seats up the cargo space offers 21.5 cubic feet of storage, while with seats folded down, you gain an extra 30 cubic feet of storage. The interior of the vehicle offers small side compartments and two beverage holders come standard in the center console. 5. Interior Design The attention-grabbing interior is well-laid out. The instruments are analog but there is a touchscreen located in the center console for navigation and camera views. The screen size of the touchscreen can come in a 6.5-inch screen, right up to a 10.25-inch screen. Controls are tactile and very responsive. As an upgrade, a heated steering wheel and heated seating can be chosen. Seating can be chosen in a range of designs including contrasting colors, so you can feel like a speed racer behind the wheel. Seats can be chosen in cloth, or leather for an additional price. 5 seats are included, two front and a three-seat bench in the back. The front seats have an eight-way power controller, and the M35i top-level model has 12-way power seats. 6. Infotainment The center console touchscreen contains access to BMW's Drive system. Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth is standard, along with a Harman Kardon sound system and navigation. All models come with automatic climate control, a powered tailgate, and a push-button start. A wireless charging pad is optional, along with keyless entry and a large sunroof. Since the BMW X2 has no doubt grabbed your attention, give us a call at Tom Bush BMW today to arrange a test drive today.

BMW Steering Wheel

Getting to Know the 2021 BMW 3 Series

BMW's classic 3 Series has been making a statement since the 1970's, setting a high standard in the compact luxury sports sedan market that other brands would try to emulate for years to come. Five decades later, the latest generation of 3 Series continues to set a high bar for style and performance. The 2021 BMW 3 Series has all the classic elements you would expect with some new surprises for this model year. The Iconic Compact Luxury Sports Sedan Whichever 3 Series model you go with, you will be getting a sleekly designed performance vehicle that handles beautifully whether on a winding country road, on the stop-and-go city streets, or on the highway. Critics agree that this compact sports sedan delivers an agile, smooth, and highly responsive ride. Every model in the 3 Series lineup comes with standard rear-wheel drive, but buyers can upgrade to BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system on any model. Most 3 Series have an eight-speed automatic transmission, except the M3 which comes with a six-speed manual. There are also several engine options that we'll go into more detail on below. Pricing on the 2021 BMW 3 Series There are many options in this series so that discerning BMW buyers can have exactly what they want. Let's break down the various models with a small sample of some of the key features that come standard with each (note that AWD is available on any of these models for an extra $2,000). BMW 330i ($42,245) 255-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine LED headlights and taillights Faux leather upholstery 8-inch touchscreen with navigation BMW 330e ($45,545) Plug-in hybrid powertrain 23 miles of all-electric range Adaptive LED headlights Lane departure warning BMW M340i ($55,695) 382-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine Sport-inspired body frame Sport steering wheel Performance brakes and suspension BMW M3 ($70,895) Turbocharged 3.0-liter I-6 engine Six-speed manual transmission Heated front seats Aerodynamic body frame 2021 BMW M3 Competition ($73,795) Twin-turbo 3.0-liter I-6 engine Eight-speed automatic transmission M-color seatbelts Custom exterior black trim What's New for 2021 The 330e plug-in hybrid now delivers up to 22 miles of all-electric range. The M340i also brings some new hybrid technology with the addition of a 48-volt hybrid system that is paired to a 6-cylinder engine. The 3 Series infotainment system has been upgraded to include Android Auto.  Keyless entry and automatic high beams now come standard on all models. Interior Styling The 3 Series interior has a sleek and modern design that uses only the most premium materials. Absolutely every detail in this vehicle speaks to the highest quality standards. With an ergonomic layout and well-placed controls, it's clear that a tremendous amount of thought and planning has gone into the engineering of the 3 Series lineup. Cargo capacity is ample for a compact sedan, with 17 cubic feet of space that can accommodate up to six carry-on suitcases. We have some beautiful 3 Series models waiting on the lot for a test drive. Visit us today at Tom Bush BMW in Jacksonville, FL!

Side view of 2021 BMW X1

See Why Critics Love the 2021 BMW X1

From city streets to the open highway, the 2021 BMW X1 sports activity vehicle is ready to take on any road. Combining the sheer luxury and class that BMW vehicles are well-known for with a range of capable features, this SUV delivers you the total package to open up more possibilities for your next road trip. Learn more about what makes the X1 a critics' favorite when you read about the features we highlighted below. See Why Critics Love the 2021 BMW X1 Inspired Performance With a four-cylinder TwinPower turbo engine driving you forward, you'll bring some excitement back to your daily drive when you choose the X1. The power your engine provides is paired with the efficient eight-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission to give you a smooth ride as you go through the gears, keeping the 228 horsepower you bring to the road in precise control. Near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution makes the ride feel well-balanced, too. Add the available xDrive all-wheel-drive system for even more road-gripping traction. This intelligent feature detects if one of your tires begins to lose traction, sending power to where it's needed most to keep you firmly planted on the road in any conditions. Driving with the confidence this system provides will give you an engaging experience from the moment you sit in the driver's seat to when you arrive at your destination. Versatile, Smart Interior The cabin waiting for you inside the X1 is the perfect companion for all your adventures on the road. Spacious seating for up to five means your passengers can spread out and enjoy the ride. The rear seats feature a 40/20/40 split which folds down to let you adjust and make more room for cargo or passengers as needed. That gives you a maximum of 58.7 cubic feet in cargo capacity, letting you pack for the road ahead. You'll also enjoy the latest technology when you're riding in your X1. The 8.8-inch control console for your infotainment system features voice-activated commands that let you take control without ever taking your hands off the wheel. There's also an available projected heads-up display that makes the vehicle information you need available at a glance to the lower corner of your windshield. Advanced Safety Features Drive with confidence knowing that BMW has incorporated the latest safety features in the X1 to help keep you safe. Driver assistance tech like the lane departure warning system helps keep you on a safe path to your next destination. If you begin to drift out of your lane, this system provides you with a helpful heads-up so that you know to navigate back to a safe part of the road. Think that the X1 may have just what you're looking for in your next vehicle? Come learn everything you need to know about this vehicle when you stop in and talk to our team of knowledgeable BMW experts. Visit us today at Tom Bush BMW and see what all the hype over the X1 is about!

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. 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.

Chocolate ice cream being scooped

The Top 3 Ice Cream Places in Jacksonville, FL

There's nothing better than a cup or cone full of cool ice cream on a hot day, and Jacksonville, FL is packed full of incredible spots to grab a frozen treat. Read on to discover our top three favorites that rise above the rest. The Top 3 Ice Cream Places in Jacksonville, FL 1. Kilwins Kilwins is beloved by Jacksonville locals for its rich and creamy texture that spans a wide variety of flavors. They've been following the same classic recipe since 1985 that features the highest quality of ingredients, such as fresh dairy products supplied by local family farms. All of Kilwins scoops are guaranteed to be Kosher, and you can enjoy them in a freshly made waffle-cone or with hand-crafted caramel and hot fudge for an extra treat. Chocolate lovers should try either the Fudgie Brownie with chocolate flakes or the Sea-Salt Chocolate Caramel with candy swirled in; if you prefer a vanilla base, you're sure to love the All American Two Berry Pie with strawberry and blackberry. Coffee fans can savor the Cappuccino Chocolate Chip, while fruit lovers will enjoy the Traverse City Cherry with brandy sauce. Kids of all ages are sure to smile with the first bite of the multi-colored Superman. 2. Dreamette Dreamette provides a nostalgic trip down memory lane with classic scoops, plentiful flavor choices, sundaes, floats, and more. Soft serve comes in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or a swirled combination, and we recommend enjoying it in a dipped cone for a tasty sugar rush. Banana splits are topped with strawberries, pineapples, walnuts, chocolate syrup, and a cherry. If you're extra hungry, treat yourself to a Strawberry Shortcake Waffle Bowl! Turn your single scoop into a sundae with the addition of blueberries, peaches, cherry, Snickers, Reeses, Heath, butterscotch, coconut, peanut butter, cheesecake, and more. If you're in the mood for a sweet drink, try a classic shake or malt. We highly recommend the Cake Batter, the Honeymoon, the Banana Pudding, the Thin Mint, and the Cinnamon Toast Crunch. 3. Mayday Mayday is the place to go for hand-crafted scoops, homemade sprinkles, freshly baked waffle cones, and pints of your favorite flavor to take on the road. Flavors rotate seasonally, so be sure to check back often to try as many as possible. In addition to their dairy-based classics, Mayday also serves up scoops in dairy-free Almond Butter Chocolate, Strawberry Mint Sorbet, Piña Colada, Sweet Lime, Toasted Coconut, and High Dive Melon made from coconut milk. Fans of fruit won't want to miss the Blueberry Toast Crunch with berry compote, the Straight Strawberry with fresh fruit, and the Ice Box Lemon with zest swirled throughout. If you're a caramel lover, the Queen Salted Caramel with pink Himalayan salt is the way to go. In addition, we'll recommend the Coffee + Donuts with bits of glazed donuts, the Cloud 9 with homemade marshmallow fluff, and the Key Lime Pie with a classic Florida flavor to just about anyone. No matter what flavor you ultimately decide on, we guarantee that one of these places is poised to become your new favorite. After savoring every last drop, swing by Tom Bush BMW for the best selection of vehicles in the state!

Front passenger side of red BMW

Get to Know the 2021 BMW 8 Series

Among all of the other high-end luxury options on the auto market, there's one that stands above the rest. With a decades-long reputation for quality driving it forward, the 2021 BMW 8 Series is already familiar with the trends other manufacturers are still chasing. Get to Know the 2021 BMW 8 Series Elegant Craftsmanship First impressions are important, and you'll leave the right kind of impression with the impressive style your new 8 Series shows off. Building off the iconic legacy of past BMW vehicles, the new 8 Series captures both that historic legacy and the promise of new experiences in its modern redesign. The signature kidney grille gives the unmistakable look of a BMW vehicle, with other accents enhancing the bold style you'll drive with. Luxury Cabin Inside Opening up the doors to see what's waiting for you within the 8 Series is just as impressive as seeing the refined style on display on the exterior. The multi-functional seats are designed to make your driving experience as comfortable and ergonomic as possible. Add a touch of luxury to the style on display inside your car when you choose between extended or full Merino leather trim for your seating and upholstery. Driven to Excite Any of the available engine options for your 8 Series will give you a smooth and responsive ride that delivers all the best of what modern engineering can offer. You'll enjoy up to 617 horsepower, giving you plenty of power to call upon when you need to make a quick pass or merge onto the highway. You'll also enjoy cost-saving and eco-friendly fuel efficiency, achieving an impressive 30 miles per gallon on the highway. Designed with Safety in Mind With both driver assist technology that mitigates threats before they become a problem and additional features that offer you more awareness, the 8 Series keeps you safe like no other vehicle you've driven before. A rear-view camera makes reversing out of tight spaces simple as can be. For even more difficult situations, the Active Guard system comes with features like frontal collision warning and lane departure warning to help you navigate safely. Covered For Miles to Come Along with a high-quality vehicle, you'll also get one of the industry's best coverage plans when you buy an 8 Series. The BMW Ultimate Care program covers your new vehicle for 3 years or 36,000 miles, depending on which comes first. You'll have BMW authorized technicians performing regularly scheduled maintenances on your vehicle, keeping your 8 Series running as good as it was the day you drove it off the lot. Experience high-end luxury in an entirely new way when you drive the 8 Series. We can get you behind the wheel for a test drive so you can get the full picture of what driving a BMW is like. Visit us today at Tom Bush BMW!

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. 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.

2 people hiking

4 Favorite Local Hiking Trails Near Jacksonville, FL

Despite being one of the largest cities in the state, Jacksonville, FL will surprise you with its many miles of beautiful hiking trails. Whether you're taking a hike through one of Jacksonville's many green spaces or a stroll down near the beach, you're sure to appreciate this area of outstanding natural beauty. 4 Favorite Local Hiking Trails Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens Jacksonville Arboretum and the surrounding gardens include many miles of trails to explore. most of them are fairly short, but walkers will love the variety of tree species and plants and the views of the man-made lake are stunning. If you prefer a more strenuous hike, then the Upper Ravine rail, located on the south side. The views from here are amazing too, especially during the winter when the lack of leaves on the trees allows you great views of the parks and cities. Another trail to attempt that will be of special interest to botanists is the Live Oak Trail which features several ancient oak trees of 100 years old or more. 2. Julington-Durbin Preserve This preserve is formed by the fork made by the confluence of two streams, Julington and Durbin Creeks. The preserve is full of lush green foliage and includes numerous diverse habitats, including low flatwoods, sandhills, and lush floodplain swamps. The preserve includes a moderately difficult trail that winds for over 20 miles through the Preserve and past a tranquil lake. While the trail is mostly flat underfoot, it does include some patches that are tricky to navigate underfoot. 3. Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park The largest city-maintained park in Jacksonville, Tillie K Fowler Regional Park stretches for over 500 acres on the banks of the lower Ortega River. It is widely known as a great place for wildlife watching, with an observation tower and nature center where visitors can learn about the unique riverine wildlife here. One of the best hikes here is the Island Hiking Trail, a gorgeous trail that takes you through the peaceful forests of the park. 4. Talbot Islands State Parks Comprising of two neighboring state parks, Little and Big Talbot Islands, this area forms a stop-off point on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, so you can be sure to see some incredible wildlife here. Terns are particularly common here, including the rarer Royal Tern, but you can also expect to see Wilson's Plovers, and if the lucky may even spot Bald Eagles fishing these waters during the winter and early spring. The Black Rock Trail is a great hiking trail to explore and takes you past some incredible sandy rock formations and incredible views of the river delta and the sea. These are just some of the beautiful trails to be found nearby, but whichever you decide to choose, you'll be rewarded with a chance to soak up the beautiful landscapes that Jacksonville has to offer. And, if you're looking for a new vehicle to take you on your next hike, look no further! Head down to Tom Bush BMW today, where our incredible team will be happy to help you find your new car.

Front view of BMW

6 BMW Maintenance Tips Every Owner Can Use

Regular BMW maintenance performed by a qualified technician is vital to ensure reliability, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Although you need an expert for most repairs, there is a lot that you can do on your own to ensure that your vehicle is in good condition. The following tips will help you to keep your BMW in tip-top shape. 6 BMW Maintenance Tips Every Owner Can Use 1. Routine Maintenance Is Crucial Good car maintenance starts with quality services. To ensure that your vehicle is always in tip-top condition, you must stick to the factory prescribed maintenance schedule. Take your vehicle to a certified service center where qualified technicians who have the knowledge and skills to perform quality maintenance and repairs will service your vehicle. 2. Check the Fluids Regularly For your vehicle to function properly, the fluids must be clean and at the correct levels. Check the coolant, oil, brake, transmission, power steering, and windshield washer fluid levels regularly and top them off when necessary. Also, when you reverse out of a parking spot, check the ground for puddles. If you notice a wet stain, it could indicate that your vehicle is leaking fluid. Ask your technician for an inspection as soon as possible to avoid further damage. 3. Inspect the Battery The last thing you need is a dead battery and getting stuck next to the road. Inspect the battery cables to ensure that they are securely attached and check for leakage or corrosion around the terminals and cables. If you spot build-up, clean it off with a brush and a mixture of baking soda and water. If you notice that your headlights are dim or flickering or the accessories are not working as they should, ask your technician to perform a battery test and inspection. 4. Take Care of Your Tires Regularly inflate your vehicle's tires, including the spare. When your tires are inflated to the correct pressure levels, it will reduce wear and tear and increase fuel efficiency. Check the tread depth and look for any damage, such as cracks or bulges. Regular rotations will prevent uneven tread wear, prolong the life of the tires, and keep you safe on the road. 5. Don't Ignore Strange Sounds or Odors When you smell an unfamiliar odor or hear an unusual sound, it's never a good sign. Strange sounds or unpleasant odors are an indication that something is not working as it should. It could be a minor problem or something that needs urgent attention. Ask your technician to do a thorough inspection. 6. Wash and Wax Your Car A good wash once a week or so doesn't just make your car look great, but it also protects the paint. The elements, road dirt, dust, tree sap, and bird droppings can cause a lot of damage. To protect your paint, wax your car at least twice a year. Wax acts as a shield to protect the paint from minor nicks and scratches. A little bit of extra car care goes a long way. Contact Tom Bush BMW today. Our trained technicians perform thorough vehicle inspections and quality maintenance and repairs to ensure that your vehicle performs at its best.

Tree Branches

Top 6 Things to Do at Big Talbot Island State Park

Big Talbot Island State Park is one of Northeast Florida's beautiful sea islands and a natural preserve with unique eco-systems. Hiking and biking trails wind their way through breathtaking maritime forests and marshes to pristine golden beaches. Fish and paddle on the salt marsh, creeks, or in the ocean, and if you visit from November to March, you will spot the spray of Northern Atlantic Right Whales from the coast. Top 6 Things to Do at Big Talbot Island State Park 1. Hiking Explore the beautiful island hiking and see white-tailed deer, raccoons, and gopher tortoises along the way. Hike on the Pine trail along the shoreline to the marsh. The Blackrock Trail winds through the maritime hammock and down to the beach, and the Old Kings Highway and Jones Cut through the coastal woodlands. The Shoreline Trail meanders to Nassau Sound and Boneyard Beach and winds through the skeletons of live oak and cedar trees near the shore. The park also offers ranger-led guided hikes on request. 2. Biking The park has miles of paved and unpaved trails for biking. Cycle down the 3.9-mile paved multi-purpose Timucuan Trail through the maritime forest and enjoy panoramic views of Spoonbill Pond and Nassau Sound. Find information on the natural wonders on the interpretive panels along the way. The Shoreline Trail, Black Rock Trail, Kings Highway, and Jones Cut provide miles of mountain biking trails through live oak forests and to the park's beaches. 3. Birdwatching The park is a haven for birdwatchers with covered birding pavillions along the elevated boardwalk at Spoonbill Pond. Here wading birds and foraging shorebirds are in abundance. You will see barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, painted buntings, and doves in the trees on the hiking trails that snake through the forest. On a stroll along the beach, birders spot brown pelicans, osprey, terns, piping plovers, and black skimmers. During the winter, bald eagles soar above the shoreline and sit in the pines at Spoonbill Pond. 4. Fishing The park is a prime destination for angling, with plenty of excellent fishing spots along the ocean shoreline, in the creeks, and the large saltwater marsh that surrounds the island. Here you can fish from the shores, boats, the floating dock, or the George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier. Anglers hook whiting, redfish, speckled sea trout, and flounder all year round. The island is a popular fly-fishing area during the fall and spring flood tides when tailing reds are abundant. Off Simpson's Creek bridge, black drum is plentiful, and half-mile down the Blackrock Trail, fishermen reel in pompano and flounder at the point. 5. Boating and Paddling Boating enthusiasts have numerous options to enjoy the creeks, marshes, and the Atlantic Ocean on powerboats, canoes, or kayaks. From the southern end of the island, at Kayak Amelia, canoeists and kayakers can explore the salt marsh or float down Simpson's and Myrtle Creeks. Boaters can reach Nassau Sound and the Atlantic Ocean from the deep-water boat ramp at the north end of the island.  Kayak Amelia offers guided paddle tours and kayak and paddleboard rentals. This pristine island park's diverse habitats and abundance of wildlife is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Contact Tom Bush BMW today. Our qualified technicians are here to ensure that your vehicle is in excellent running condition.

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