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The city of Jacksonville, FL is the most populous urban area in the state of Florida and the seat of Duval County. Home to more than one and a half million inhabitants, it receives thousands of tourists from all around the world each year. However, Jacksonville is not only a great destination by itself but also an excellent base to explore nearby state parks and nature reserves with scenic views, hiking trails, and recreational facilities. more 3 Favorite Hiking Trails and Walking Paths Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Ocala National Forest With tens of miles of hiking and mountain biking paths, including part of the mythical Florida Trail, the Ocala National Forest is a great spot for beginner and expert hikers coming from all over the country. This nature reserve is located less than a hundred miles south of Jacksonville, making it possible to reach it in about an hour and 45 minutes by car. Apart from hiking, other activities in the area include boating, scuba diving, swimming, canoeing, and fishing. The Ocala National Forest was established in 1908 and covers an area of more than 430,000 acres, so you can rest assured that you will hardly get bored or run out of places to explore while in the area. Apart from the Florida Trail, the forest is also crisscrossed by the Lake Eaton Sinkhole Trail, the Salt Springs Observation Trail, the St. Francis Trail, and the Yearling Trail. This place also features several well-equipped campsites. 2. Jennings State Forest Located less than 30 miles west of downtown Jacksonville, the Jennings State Forest is a perfect spot for a hiking day trip or a weekend escape from Florida's largest city. This nature escape boasts an area of more than 25,000 acres and is managed by the Florida Forest Service. Some of the most popular activities among visitors include canoeing, horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking, as well as camping at the Dunn's Creek and North Fork Black Creek campgrounds. For hikers, the best place to start exploring the Jennings State Forest is the North Fork Black Creek Trail, a loop path with a total length of five miles that goes through different sandhills, slope forests, and streams. While hiking along any of the courses, you will see not only wildflowers and trees but also alligators, wading birds, raccoons, white-tailed deer, and songbirds. Getting to this state forest takes a little over half an hour by car. 3. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge With a territory of more than 400,000 acres, the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is located just across the state line in southern Georgia. Established in 1937, it is one of the best spots for hiking and other outdoor sports, including mountain biking, fishing, canoeing, and boating. The main path in the area is the Swamp Island Drive, which has a length of nine miles and passes through a scenic observation tower.

As the biggest city in Florida, Jacksonville is one of the Sunshine State's liveliest and most exciting places to visit. From its family-friendly attractions like Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and Shipwreck Island Water Park to its cultural hotspots like the Cummer Museum of Art and Kingsley Plantation, Jacksonville, FL has a lot to offer for guests of all ages. If you're planning a visit, here are some of the best hotels in the city. more 5 of the Best Hotels for Visiting Jacksonville, FL 1. Omni Jacksonville Hotel To experience the peak of Jacksonville accommodation, there's no better place than the Omni Jacksonville Hotel. By far one of the most luxurious places to stay in the whole city, the Omni offers stunning rooms with flat-screen TVs, Keurig coffee makers, free Wi-Fi, the coziest bedding, and much more. Guests can also enjoy the on-site amenities like the gift shop, restaurant, fitness center, business center, and concierge service. 2. Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park If you're looking for something a little different for your stay in Jacksonville, you may want to consider a few nights at Aloft. An innovative and exciting accommodation location, this hotel always aims to please its guests with some surprising services and unexpected extras, including a free shuttle service around the city, on-site electric car charging stations, boutique-style rooms with hypoallergenic bedding, a breakfast bar, and a cocktail bar. 3. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville Town Center When it comes to choosing a hotel, location is always an important factor. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville Town Center has one of the best locations in the city. It's situated right at the heart of the action, mere minutes from popular attractions and top-class eateries. You can see it all from this hotel, while also enjoying comfortable rooms and useful amenities like a 24-hour front desk and outdoor pool. 4. Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville South Bartram Park The Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville South Bartram Park has a great location, with guests able to enjoy lovely lake views from the comfort of their rooms.  The super spacious suites at this hotel come complete with flat screen TVs, kitchenettes, dining areas, and living spaces, with separate bedrooms and bathrooms. As for the hotel facilities, you'll find on-site dining, a business center, a communal lounge, and even a mini golf course here. 5. Best Western Premier Jacksonville Hotel Whether you're heading to Jacksonville alone, with a partner, or with the family, the Best Western Premier is a fine place to stay. It offers affordable rooms, a nice location just 10 minutes away from the heart of the city, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and on-site dining at the highly rated Nila's Restaurant and Lounge. Whether you're looking for fine dining, exciting attractions, beautiful beaches, or something totally different, you'll find it in Jacksonville, and these are just some of the best places to stay in the city. If you need any work done on your car while you're in the area, you can also visit a trusted local dealer for services and repairs. Visit Tom Bush Volkswagen for all your auto needs in Jacksonville.

However you're planning to spend your day, it's like to go better if you start things off with a delicious breakfast. Luckily for folks in Jacksonville, FL, there are plenty of nearby spots to enjoy an early bite. In fact, some say the city has some of the best breakfast places in the country. Whether you like it sweet or savory, hot or cold, there's something here for you. more 4 Best Breakfast Places for Early Risers in Jacksonville, FL. 1. Secret Garden Café Serving breakfast from 8am to 2pm daily, the Secret Garden Café offers up healthy portions of hearty food to start the day. Their breakfast bowls and platters are a great value and taste amazing too. If you've got a huge appetite, try the everything platter. Featuring eggs, biscuits, bacon, sausages, turkey links, and grits. Vegetarian and light options are also available. Located on Beach Boulevard, Secret Garden Café is open daily from 8am to 2pm. 2. 1748 Bakehouse Run by a married couple, a baker and a chef, 1748 Bakehouse offers a warm welcome and a menu packed with yummy breakfast favorites. This café is quite upmarket, serving up stylish treats like chia pudding, sourdough toast, and granola. If you're after something a little more substantial, try the breakfast sandwich, featuring eggs, bacon, greens, cheese, and mayo. 1748 Bakehouse is open 8am to 3pm, Tuesday through Saturday, and 9am to 3pm on Sundays. Why not browse the bakery while you're here? You could take away a specialty-made cake or pastry to enjoy later. 3. Cool Moose Café This quaint café offers some excellent twists on old staples, as well as the best coffee in the city. Their meat lover's quesadilla is one of their more popular offerings, featuring eggs, sausage, ham, and bacon, served in a grilled flour tortilla with mega spicy ghost jack cheese. Vegetarians love the Breakfast Portobello, a grilled portobello cap, stuffed with onion, spinach, tomato, and garlic. Established in 1998, this friendly eatery prides itself on providing a warm welcome and great customer service. Cool Moose Café is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 8am to 2pm. If it's a warm day, enjoy your breakfast in the outdoor seating area. 4. First Watch If you're looking for a healthy breakfast, First Watch is the place for you. Offering a delicious menu of nutritious treats, you're guaranteed to come away feeling refreshed and revitalized. Enjoy an omelet, grits, or bagel, prepared with fresh, low-fat ingredients. Or for an even healthier option, try avocado toast, or a superfood bowl including coconut milk, blueberries, and chia seed. Thirsty? Wash it all down with a bottomless cup of premium Project Sunrise Coffee. Or for even more vitamins and minerals, try a specialty juice. We recommend the Golden Glow, with pineapple, turmeric, coconut water, and lemon. This growing chain has plenty of locations, with several in Jacksonville. Now your belly's full and you're ready to start the day, it's time to check out another local business. Stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen today for a great deal on a new or us

Is there any better feeling than soaking up that sweet Vitamin D while having fun outdoors? There are lots of fun outdoor activities to keep everyone occupied here in Jackson, FL, so we've decided to share some of our favorites with you. Once you've read this, get ready to pack the family up for an adventure. more 6 Favorite Outdoor Activities in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. e2ride Bike Tours A bike tour is a great way to learn more about the area while soaking up some rays and having fun at the same time! e2ride has a range of different tours starting from $45 for three hours. They are an award-winning tour company and know their stuff. Their tours run several times daily; all they ask is that you bring your own bicycle. 2. Adventures up the Creek If you're looking for something more adventurous, why not book a kayak tour and explore the beautiful waterways in Jacksonville? This company provides all the equipment you will need and supplies you with snacks to keep you energized throughout the day. Don't worry if you have little to no kayaking experience; the instructors will teach you everything you need to know. 3. Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens Jacksonville Zoo is just over 73 acres and is always a great day trip. With so much to see and do here, you'll always learn something new and see something you haven't seen before. They have over 2000 animals, so make sure you get here early to make the most of the day. They run great educational programs for kids and have won many awards for conservation and wellness towards animals. 4. Jax Jet Ski Rentals If you want to kick it up a notch exploring the waterways, you can always rent a jet ski. Their staff will show you everything you need to know, so there's no need to worry if you've never been on a jet ski before. Just show up and be prepared for a wild adventure on the water. 5. Atlantic Beach If you'd prefer to lounge and work on your tan, the beach is always an excellent spot for that. This beach is well maintained and clean, with lifeguards on duty. There are also lots of excellent dining facilities nearby if you get hungry. 6. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary Catty Shack is a wildlife sanctuary that provides a safe home for endangered big cats. They offer daily tours as well as nighttime feeding events. A trip to Catty Shack allows you the chance to get up close and personal with some of your favorite big cats. All the cats here have been rescued, and their keepers will educate you on every animal's backstory that brought them to live at the sanctuary. These are only a few of the incredible activities you can do in the area, and we hope you find them as much fun as we did! While you're nearby, we'd love you to visit us at Tom Bush Volkswage n, where we can discuss some of our great car deals with you.

Stop what you're doing, it's time to chow down! We've searched far and wide and tried the best burgers in Jacksonville, FL to give you the scoop on where to find the tastiest patties and fresh topping. Hungry yet? Keep reading and you will be! more The Best Burgers in Jacksonville, FL: 5 Places to Go Ted's Montana Grill Ted's burger menu features a wide range of selections with unique names and flavors. Some of the more interesting ones include the George's Classic Cadillac burger, which as you may have guessed, is as big a burger as they come, and the For and Knife Burger. They also serve a delicious all-natural veggie burger that would make any meat-eater raise an eyebrow. Ingredients are farm fresh and their buns are gluten-free. The French Pantry Don't be fooled by its fancy name. The French Pantry whips up a burger that will knock your socks off. Their Texas Burger is loaded with guacamole, Monterey Jack cheese, and poblano peppers. Hungry for something a little more gourmet-ish? The Kobe beef burger will melt in your mouth and is topped with a homemade cranberry relish, garlic aioli, and is served between a kaiser bun. With choices like these, it's no wonder this is one of the most popular burger spots in the city. Metro Diner Metro Diner is your one-stop shop for classic American flavors and hefty portions that will put a smile on your face. If you think your appetite is up for a challenge, order the Bold City Burger. It's an all-beef patty topped with cheese and a combination of bacon and sausage. Another heavy-hitter is the Holy Davoli Burger, which features a beef patty served between two grilled cheese sandwiches. Are you getting a sense of what you're in for? Next stop, flavor town! M Shack This popular burger joint is touted by many as having some of the tastiest burgers in all of Florida. Their burgers are made fresh every day with 100% AAA ground beef. Menu options include masterpieces like the Portobello Truffle Burger and the Insanity Burger. The latter features two stacked patties and a plethora of tasty and fresh ingredients. If you're in the mood for something lighter, their homemade veggie burger will hit the spot and give its meaty cousin a run for its money, Wicked Barley If you're hungry for something different and in the mood for a burger with unique flavor combinations, head to Wicked Basket and enjoy their variety of beefy creations. The house-named Wicked Burger is a fan favorite and features golden caramelized sherry onions and is served on a toasted brioche bun. Other menu options like the Bratwurst include veal and pork bratwurst on a pretzel bun. There are also few vegan and vegetarian options for plant-based burger lovers. Be sure to visit all of these incredible burger restaurants in the comfort and luxury of a Volkswagen vehicle! Stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen today and preview our fantastic selection of new and pre-owned cars and SUVs.

Nothing beats a fresh baked good served warm out of the oven and, whether you prefer triple-layered cakes or traditional biscuits, one of the many bakeries of Jacksonville, FL has something for you. Keep reading to discover our favorite spots to savor the city's baked goods. more 3 Favorite Bakeries in Jacksonville, FL 1. Sweet Theory Baking Co. Sweet Theory Baking Co. has been creating all baked treats from natural ingredients and by hand since 2012. Doughnuts are $2.50 or $28 for a dozen, and flavors include French toast, lemon poppy, maple bacon, dirty chai, matcha strawberry, earl grey lavender, salted caramel brownie, and espresso cacao nibs. Treat yourself to a Cinnamon Roll topped with vanilla glaze, or go with a biscuit such as the Club Chick with sun-dried tomato aioli for a savory choice. Cupcakes are available in regular or mini sizes, and our favorites include the Blondie Explosion with salted caramel frosting, the Coconut with strawberry cake, and the So Fudging Bananas topped with chocolate chips. A Specialty Cake is the key to elevating your next event, and we particularly love the Cinnamon Roll Cake with Snickerdoodle batter and cinnamon drizzle as well as the So Fudging Good Cake with sunbutter frosting and a brownie layer. 2. Sweet By Holly Sweet By Holly is the perfect place to stop by for a spur-of-the-moment cupcake in addition to a planned cake order for your next big hosting event. Fruit-flavored cupcakes range from the Keylime with graham cracker topping to the Blueberry Cheesecake with fresh berries and buttercream. Chocolate lovers are sure to enjoy the High Hat with dark chocolate ganache, the German Chocolate with pecans, and the Blackout topped with sprinkles and cocoa powder. Customers with vegan and gluten-free dietary restrictions can enjoy Chocolate Raspberry, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Vanilla, and Red Velvet Cream Cheese cupcakes without a worry. Order one of Holly's signature cakes such as the Bliss Cake with flower stars and crystal sugar, the Rosette Cake with pink flowers and strawberry filling, or the Spiderman Cake prepared with only a day's notice for a guaranteed showstopper. 3. Le Macaron French Pastries Le Macaron French Pastries is our go-to bakery whenever we're craving a taste of France in Florida. All pastries, or pâtisseries, are prepared in-house and in line with traditional French standards. We love to pair our afternoon coffee or tea with a macaroon such as the Raspberry Jam, Mint White Chocolate, Lemon Cream, Columbian Coffee, Sicilian Pistachio, or Orange Grand Marnier. Order a macaron tower for your next work or at-home party to wow your guests! Daily pastries include savory mini quiches, butter croissants, custard-filled pistachio eclairs, mille-feuilles with sweet pastry cream, fruit tarts, and fluffy waffles paired with gelato. Cakes feature multiple layers with filling in between and resemble a flat cookie perfect for sharing. We highly recommend the Raspberry Cake with chocolate macarons, the Gateau Choco-Coconut Cake with sponge filling, and the King Cake for a traditional Mardi Gras treat. Begin your day with a pastry, treat yourself to a cupcake after work, or savor a slice of flavorful cake from one of these amazing restaurants. Afterward, head over to Tom Bush Volkswagen for the best deals on cars, services, and more!

Jacksonville, FL, has some of the most scenic biking trails in the state. The trails range from easy to difficult and run through a diverse landscape with breathtaking panoramic views. Here you can ride on paved trails in the shade under the tree canopy, over bridges, or on the sand down a stretch of beach and appreciate the picturesque scenery. more 6 Popular Biking Trails in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. The Jacksonville Baldwin Trail This shady 15-mile paved trail is one of the oldest in the area and suitable for all types of bikes and skill levels. The path runs under a dense tree canopy through wetlands, hardwood forests, and flatwoods. A great spot to take a breather is at Camp Milton Historic Preserve halfway down the trail. The best place to start is the Imeson Road trailhead. There are also restrooms and benches along the tail. 2. A1A Ocean Islands Trail This 40-mile scenic trail is one of the newest paths and starts at the Amelia Island Bridge and runs to Big and Little Talbot Island State Parks. You will ride through lush forests and along beautiful beaches. You can take the St. Johns River Ferry, a highlight of the tail, and ride on to Mayport, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville Beach. The trail also gives cyclists access to the Timucuan Trail. 3. Timucuan Trail Take a scenic and moderate ride through Big Talbot and Little Talbot State Parks. Some sections of the trail are along the road and A1A bike lane. In Little Talbot Island State Park, the path runs along the park's road and then crosses the Amelia River. The trail is part of the East Coast Greenway trail network that stretches from Florida to Maine. It is a picturesque ride not to be missed when you want to experience panoramic views and natural scenery. 4. Kathryn Abby Hanna Park Trails Over 15 miles of mountain bike trails snake through the park. The trails marked as difficult are regarded as the most hardcore trails in the region. The surfaces change from sand to dirt and mud constantly. Also, watch out for exposed tree roots along the way. All the trails run in the same direction, so at least you don't have to worry about traffic coming from the front. 5. WKC Trail This loop mountain bike trail in the Tillie Fowler Regional Park is flat and snakes around trees but offers little side loops with increased difficulty for a more challenging ride. You have to navigate around tight corners, over roots, and over log crossings. The trail gives riders access to an advanced section and a jump line and drop. 6. Beach and Peach Trails Beach and Peach Urban Park welcomes anyone on a bike, doesn't matter what your skill level is, to enjoy the trails that run through the park. The paths and jumps in the park were hand-built by volunteers who love biking. The park offers a fun biking experience where you can practice your skills before you tackle those hardcore trails in the region. The city has loads of on and off-road trails. The trails are for all skill levels, and scenic rides and practice runs. Contact Tom Bush Volkswagen today and let one of our friendly and knowledgeable team members assist you with any of your vehicle requirements.

The untouched, natural beauty of Little Talbot Island State Park, the diverse habitat, and the abundant wildlife make this little island paradise a haven for nature lovers. As one of only a few undeveloped barrier islands that remain in the region, visitors are treated to picturesque beaches, lush forests, and breathtaking vistas. more 6 Fun Activities to Enjoy at Little Talbot Island State Park 1. Hiking Explore the pristine island wilderness on foot along the one-mile Nature Trail that begins at the salt marshes of Myrtle Creek and meanders past sand dunes and through the maritime forest. The trail has interpretive signs along the way on the indigenous plants and animals in the park. To make the trail fun for the kids, get Hide and Seek instructions from the ranger station and find treasures along the path. The 4-mile Dune Ridge Trail loops through a hammock, past a beach dune, a marsh, and ends with a leisurely stroll down the beach. 2. Bicycling Cyclists have a choice of on and off-road trails that run through the park. There is the 2.5-mile paved, multi-purpose Timucuan Trail and the off-road Dune Ridge Trail. On the Timucuan Trail, there is a pavilion, benches, a water fountain, and free air to inflate your bike's tires. The trail also has interpretive panels with information on the fauna and flora in the park. The Dune Trail runs through the forest and along the beach. 3. Paddling Long Island Outfitters and Kayak Amelia have everything you need to enjoy the water. They have canoe and kayak rentals and offer guided trips and informative tours around the island. If you have your own kayak or canoe, there is a launch at the campgrounds. 4. Birding There are an abundance of birds on the Atlantic Coast. The park is home to a wide variety of migrating birds, songbirds in the hammock forest, and wading birds down at the marsh. Be on the lookout for painted buntings, red knots, plovers, terns, and great horned owls. During the late spring and summer, you will see nesting shorebirds and their young. 5. Fishing For fishermen, the five miles of beach and the salt marsh offer excellent fishing opportunities. At the salt marsh, anglers hook black drum, redfish, flounder, and trout. The On The Line Bait shop at Kayak Amelia has everything you need. The owners are helpful and eagerly offer advice on fishing in the park. Make sure to get a free edition of the Fishing Connection magazine for inside fishing tips, the best bait to use, and where what is biting at the ranger station. The campground has a bait cleaning station and a dock into Myrtle Creek. 6. Camping Camp under the stars between ancient dunes and a hammock of live oaks, holly, and magnolias. The park has RV and tent sites with electricity, picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water. The restrooms have hot showers, there is a laundry, and a dump station. You can bring your pets along if they are well-behaved and leashed. Pets are allowed on the trails but not on the beaches. Pack your picnic basket and enjoy the day in the park. Stroll through the forest, swim in the ocean, and have lunch at one of the beach-side pavilions. Contact Tom Bush Volkswagen today for the best quality new and pre-owned vehicles.