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Considered the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, Jacksonville, FL, is an important cultural and economic hub located in the northeastern corner of the state. Welcoming millions of visitors each year, Jacksonville offers plenty of cultural sites, historical monuments, and landmarks where you can learn more about the area and its history. If you are looking for the best museums to visit while in town, these are some places you should not miss. more The 3 Best Museums to Visit in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens Located in the Five Points neighborhood of Jacksonville and along the banks of the St. Johns River, Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is one of the most important cultural centers in town. Founded in 1961 and featuring over 6,000 artifacts in its permanent collection, this place is mostly focused on American and European paintings, along with other valuable pieces of art. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2010, the place welcomes over 130,000 visitors each year. Along with the museum's permanent collection and temporary exhibits, another element that makes this place a top-rated spot for visitors is the series of flower gardens spread across its grounds. Covering about one and a half acres, these gardens date back to the early 1900s and feature elaborate ornaments and sculptures, native Florida plants, fountains, and live oak trees. Getting to the complex from downtown Jacksonville takes about five minutes by car, driving west along Riverside Avenue. 2. Museum of Science & History (MOSH) Established in 1941 and located on the Southbank Riverwalk of the city, the Museum of Science & History of Jacksonville is the most visited museum in town. With a large permanent collection and seasonal exhibits, this place features interactive installations and is an excellent spot for visitors of all ages. Jacksonville's Museum of Science & History is also home to the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium, which welcomes over 60,000 people each year. Located less than a mile south of downtown Jacksonville, this museum can be easily included in a walking tour around the city's landmarks. Open Monday to Saturday between 10 am and 5 pm, and on Sundays between 12 pm and 5 pm, the museum charges an entry fee of $15.95 for adults and $12.95 for students, seniors, military, and children aged 3-12. Before you visit, make sure to check out the museum's official website for information about upcoming events and programs. 3. Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA) Founded in 1924 as the Jacksonville Fine Arts Society, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville is one of the largest and most important contemporary art institutions in the region. Located in the heart of Jacksonville's downtown area, this museum hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions by artists from all around the world, as well as cultural events organized by local volunteers. Are you planning to buy a new or used car in the Jacksonville area? If the answer is yes, stop searching and visit us at Tom Bush Volkswagen! Meet our friendly and knowledgeable team of experts, check out our different models, and find a financing plan that adapts to your needs.

With its privileged location in the northeastern corner of the state, the city of Jacksonville, FL is not only a great destination by itself, but also an excellent base to explore nearby nature reserves, state parks, and national forests. If you like birdwatching or other outdoor activities and are looking for places to visit, these are some beautiful spots you can reach in less than two hours from the Jacksonville downtown area. more 3 Favorite Spots for Birdwatching Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Established in 1937, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is one of the largest and most beautiful nature reserves in the region, spanning over 400,000 acres of territory across the states of Georgia and Florida. Welcoming almost half a million visitors each year, this wildlife refuge offers plenty of opportunities for birding, wildlife watching, hiking, fishing, canoeing, and boating. This nature reserve is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and can be visited year-round between 7:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. The visitor center and the main entrance of Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge are located about 60 miles northwest of downtown Jacksonville, a distance that can be covered in a little over an hour by car along routes GA-121 and GA-23. Known for its abundance of animal and plant species, this beautiful refuge is home to large populations of red-cockaded woodpeckers, egrets, herons, wood storks, brown creepers, and European starlings. 2. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve Covering over 46,000 acres of wetlands along the northeastern coast of Florida, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve receives a little under one and a half million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular nature reserves in the entire state. This beautiful spot is home to a vast array of different bird species, including ospreys, bald eagles, northern harriers, reddish egrets, gray kingbirds, ovenbirds, blue-headed vireos, and worm-eating warblers. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is located just 13 miles east of downtown Jacksonville, making it possible to reach it in as little as 20 minutes by car under regular traffic conditions. Besides birding and wildlife watching, this expansive nature reserve is an excellent spot for other activities including kayaking, boating, hiking, and picnicking. This place can be visited free of charge and is open between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. 3. Osceola National Forest Established in the early 1930s and covering an area of about 200,000 acres, Osceola National Forest is another popular spot for birding and wildlife watching in the Jacksonville Area. Home to large populations of sandhill cranes, red-cockaded woodpeckers, prothonotary warblers, and snowy egrets, this national forest is a great day trip destination for solo travelers, families, and groups of friends. Getting here from downtown Jacksonville takes about 50 minutes by car, driving west along route I-10. If you are looking for a new vehicle to visit the best nature reserves in the area, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen. Check out our different models of new and used cars, learn more about our attractive financing plans, and find the vehicle that best suits your needs.

Jacksonville, FL, popularly known as "The River City" or "Jax," is internationally recognized for its beaches and riverfront, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Although mild weather and well-maintained coastal landscapes are among the reasons visitors flock to Jacksonville, shopping is the top reason they choose to visit. Jacksonville is experiencing a boom in outdoor markets and town centers. Here is a list of where you can shop for holiday gifts. more 3 Favorite Holiday Shopping Spots Near Jacksonville, FL St. Johns Town Center You should set out towards the St. Johns Town Center if you want the ultimate purchasing experience in Jax. Located a few minutes from the beach, the center attracts shoppers from all over the metropolitan area. With over 175 stores and restaurants, it's no wonder this is one of the most popular destinations to shop in the area. In addition to Jacksonville residents, Amelia Island, South Georgia, and St. Augustine also flock to the center to shop and dine. When you consider the availability of luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Tiffany's, the migration of shoppers from outlying areas makes sense. Furthermore, the Center offers a great dining experience as well, with national names like Cantina Laredo and Maggiano's joining local favorites to keep your appetites sated. Sawgrass Village The Sawgrass Village, located in Ponte Vedra Beach near the southern entrance to the Players Club off A1A, serves as the primary market center of the Sawgrass Community. A major remodeling of Sawgrass Village was completed in late 2015, adding new retailers to the village that dates back to 1984. In addition to boutique shops, several restaurants are located in the development. A Publix supermarket as well as CVS Pharmacy anchor the center. Directly across the street from Sawgrass Village is the Marriott Sawgrass Golf Resort and Spa, a popular destination for sun-seekers and golfers alike. There is also access to delectable dining options throughout the center, including Caffe Andiamo and Aqua Grill, which are favorites of residents and visitors. The Avenues This multilevel center is just off Interstate 95 on the south side of Jacksonville and features top brand names and a family-friendly ambiance. You can shop for all your favorite brands such as Coach, Original Piece, Victoria's Secret, and Mac in this 1.1 million square foot complex. Rain or shine, The Avenues is a perfect place to shop due to its highly regarded retailers and indoor location. Many luxury retailers, including Dillards, Forever 21, Belk, Sears, and JCPenney's, offering everything from teenage fashion to home goods, anchors the Avenues Mall. You can find Sbarro and Chik-fil-A in the food court and other dining options to sate your appetite. You'll find plenty of parking, but if you want covered parking, you can park in the two-story garage on the north side of the mall. Our goal is to help you find the perfect spot to shop near Jacksonville, so please take the time to explore these options. After you buy supplies for the holidays, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen to check out our new and used car selection or schedule a service appointment.

Jacksonville, FL, is a coastal city with a population of over 800,000 people. There are lots of things to do in the city, including enjoying its 22 miles of beaches, going on a fishing expedition, and exploring historic neighborhoods. Its perfect location also makes it an ideal place for day trips to neighboring cities. Want to see more beaches? Visit the car racing capital or maybe explore state parks? Let's look at places to visit for a quick trip. more 5 Fun Day Trips You Can Take From Jacksonville, FL 1. Salt Springs Salt Springs is in the heart of the Ocala National Forest and is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant life, including dozens of endangered species like the Eastern Indigo Snake and Bald Cypress Trees. There are a variety of activities to enjoy, such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing in the basin, or hiking through the forest to view its diverse ecosystem. Salt Springs has been featured in films like Tarzan and Jurassic Park III. 2. Daytona Beach Also known as "The World's Most Famous Beach", this city is famous not only for its beaches but also for being the capital of car racing. You can spend the day surfing, boating, or fishing. Stroll the pier and boardwalk, then take a tour of the Daytona International Speedway that includes the Motorsports Hall of Fame America. You'll also find the Jackie Robinson Ballpark, a local stadium and now a shrine for the late Hall of Famer. 3. Amelia Island This popular vacation destination is home to the prestigious Amelia Island Plantation. It also has many other luxurious hotels, golf courses, and beaches. If you're a history lover, you'll enjoy Fort Clinch State Park, where you can learn about the life of a Union soldier while touring through the fort's rooms, grounds, and galleries. You'll also find the Big Talbot Island State Park and the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve here. 4. Cross Creek Cross Creek is a historic site in Florida that was once the home of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, " The Yearling". Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park commemorates her life and work. The state park offers an interpretive center with displays of her life, as well as a one-mile hike that leads to the sites mentioned in the book. 5. De Leon Springs Take a trip to De Leon Springs, home of The Sugar Mill Restaurant. Open for breakfast and lunch, this restaurant is a century-old replica of the 1830s mill that once stood here. In the cooler months, restaurant patrons can relax next to a crackling fire while their food is prepared. You'll also see The Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge and its exhibits on native wildlife. Don't forget to book a Fountain of Youth ECO/History tour. 6. Gainesville Gainesville is home to many of Florida's top industries, including the aerospace industry. You'll also find the University of Florida, which has one of the best STEM programs in the state. Browse for art and antiques in the quaint town of Micanopy. Don't miss the Florida Museum of Natural History where you can witness birds and butterflies flying free in the Butterfly Rainforest. Jacksonville may have many things to boast about, but you'll find other places that you'll also enjoy nearby. Before you go on that day trip, schedule an oil change and tire check at Tom Bush Volkswagen. We might even recommend other places you'd be interested in.

Situated on the mouth of St. John's River, Jacksonville, FL sits at the top of the list for fishing spots in the southeast region, with offerings for every type of angler. From deep-sea fishing to dropping a line off one of the city's many piers, this locale has something for everyone. more 6 Favorite Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL 1. St. John's River Spanning 310 miles, St. John's River boasts countless places to drop a line; with both saltwater and freshwater options available, anglers everywhere name this the top spot to fish. You can find a variety of species, including trout, redfish, tarpon, and Spanish Mackerel to name a few. Further inland, you might catch freshwater fish like bass, catfish, and crappie. 2. Nassau Sound Fishing Bridge A one-mile pier that crosses the Nassau Sound, George Crady Bridge is another prime location. This spot is geared for novice and experienced anglers alike, with a cleaning station at the north end; you can also net your own bait if you prefer. This pedestrian-only bridge can be accessed via Amelia Park and requires a $2 park entrance fee. 3. Lake Ponte Vedra Lake Ponte Vedra is located within the Guana River WMA. While the north side of the lake is occasionally closed to fishermen for hunting or drawdown, you can always get bites on the south side with 24-hour access. Beware of dropping stringers here, as they attract gators. 4. Intracoastal Waterway Running nearly 1,100 miles from Norfolk, VA to Miami, FL, the Intracoastal Waterway offers a wide range of places to fish- from wetlands to the various marshes and creeks along the way. If you are looking for views and tranquility, you should drop a line at the Dutton or Castaway Island Preserves. 5. The Gulf Stream Just sixty miles off the Florida coast, The Gulf Stream is the perfect place for deep-sea fishing. This current boasts a variety of fish, large and small, depending on the season. Species found in the Gulf Stream include snapper, grouper, cobia, and much more. There are plenty of boat charters that know all the best places if you don't have a vessel of your own. 6. Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier It's not uncommon for anglers to be seen dropping a line off the local piers along the beach. Whether you are a novice or more experienced angler, you will enjoy fishing off the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier. You can get the experience of deep-sea fishing without the cost of chartering a boat. As an added perk, you do not need a saltwater fishing license; however, the pier charges a $3 fishing fee with a maximum of three rods allowed per person. Once the appropriate license is obtained, you are ready to enjoy all the fishing Jacksonville, FL has to offer. If you need a way to get there, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen. We'll have the right vehicle to get you anywhere you want to go- even those secret spots you don't want to share. Happy fishing!

Jacksonville, FL is a popular destination for those that love the sun, surfing, and beautiful scenery. There are tons of awesome parks in the city, offering amazing facilities so you can enjoy the outdoors in a variety of ways. more 6 Wonderful Parks to Visit Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Memorial Park As you would expect from an area that was designed by the same architects responsible for Central Park in New York, Memorial Park is a special and beautiful place. Located right by the river, this scenic spot is ideal for walking, running, or relaxing in the large grassy areas with a book. The centerpiece of the park is a striking bronze statue, installed to commemorate those that lost their lives during WWI. 2. Ringhaver Park This lovely city park is a great place for a hike in nature. There are several trails to choose from. Both paved and dirt trails wind their way through the glorious green woods, offering many opportunities to take some great photos. There are two well-equipped and clean playgrounds for children of all ages to enjoy. Sports fans will also find their needs catered for with soccer fields, a baseball diamond, and tennis courts all available to use here. 3. Dog Wood Park This roomy, fenced area is one of the best places in the city to bring your four-legged friends! You will surely love watching your pet swim and splash around in the lake. There are several items for your dog to play with dotted around the park, like tubes and tires. A separate enclosure for small dogs means that all breeds are welcome here. Be aware that you must pay to access the facilities, with a daily pass (of $11) or monthly and yearly memberships available. 4. Kathryn Abbey Hannah Park It's easy to see why locals and visitors adore this action-packed park. The camping grounds here are affordable and well-maintained, allowing you to spend a few nights enjoying everything this place has to offer. The gorgeous beach is just a few steps away and has a section dedicated to surfing. There are miles and miles of trails teeming with wildlife to explore and lakes stocked for fishing. This is the perfect place to come with your family for a memorable weekend! 5. Losco Regional Park Losco Park is the perfect destination for families looking for a place where their kids can burn off some excess energy. The unique playground includes a fun and challenging obstacle course for adventurous children to climb. The popular splash pad is a great place to cool off and frolic on hot days. 6. Mandarin Park Here is another excellent area on our list that is on the banks of St Johns River. Mandarin Park has a fishing dock and a boat ramp for those wishing to take to the water. This is also the ideal location for a picnic as the park is furnished with many covered tables and metal BBQ grills. Check out the inventory of new and used vehicles on offer at Tom Bush Volkswagen today!

Some of the country's best campgrounds are near Jacksonville, Florida.  If you are looking for a great place to camp near Jacksonville, FL check out these five awesome spots! more 4 of the Best Campgrounds Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Little Talbot Island State Park offers a quiet, relaxing getaway with 40 campsites and wooded nature trails.  Beaches are on one side of the island, while salt marsh makes up most of the other areas. Located between Jacksonville and Amelia Island, the park's quiet, relaxing atmosphere makes it perfect for anyone looking to spend some time away from their busy lives! Little Talbot Island is a barrier island in Northeast Florida. The site has miles of beach, bike trails, and incredible wildlife like river otters and bobcats. The undisturbed beauty of the park and its habitats is truly a treasure. You can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and kayaking, or you can just relax on the sand and watch the surf. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park You don't have to camp out in a remote wilderness to have an adventure. Head on down to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Jacksonville instead, where there's plenty of fun for kids and their furry friends! You'll find more than 20 miles of trails to explore, and the paths lead across sandy beaches and through cool forests. The kids will love the children's splash park nearby--proving there is something for everyone. If you love the water, take some time out on the freshwater lakes at Hanna Park. The 60-acre freshwater lake is excellent for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. You can rent a paddleboat, kayak, or other gear at the park. Leashed pets are permitted at all times, so have them come along too! 3. Huguenot Memorial Park Huguenot Memorial Park is a 295-acre park with over 70 campsites. The park, which is almost entirely surrounded by water, has waterfront campsites, boating, surfing, and fishing. Huguenot allows you to drive up on the beach, but park officials strongly recommend that you take a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The park has truly stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding wildlife. The park has a bird observation deck which makes it phenomenal for observing sea ducks and loons. Take a break under a seaside pavilion or cook on a grill in one of the picnic areas. Huguenot Memorial Park is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors. 4.  Flamingo Lake RV Resort Enjoy upscale camping at the Flamingo Lake RV Resort. The resort, located in Jacksonville, has 288 RV sites and includes furnished cabins, a restaurant, and a store. Flamingo Lake also has swimming, a lake, and fishing at the resort. Amenities include electricity, laundry facilities, a fitness center, cable, and wireless internet. If you want an adventure or just want some time away, these campsites are perfect destinations. When you return from camping, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen and check out our new cars. We'll be happy to provide information and schedule a test drive.

From drip coffee to specialty lattes, the best coffee in the state of Florida can be found in Jacksonville, FL. We've created a list of our top three coffee shops in the area, and we know that you'll love them as much as we do. Keep reading to find where to enjoy the best drinks and snacks around. more 3 Favorite Coffee Shops Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Brass Tacks Coffee Brass Tacks Coffee is beloved throughout the community for its innovative menu and friendly customer service. When it comes to drinks, our personal favorites include the nitro cold brew, the Vietnamese iced coffee, and their signature blended matcha latte. Customize your beverage with the addition of a syrup flavor such as almond, mint, lavender, Irish cream, hazelnut, Mexican mocha, or a seasonal specialty. In addition to coffee and tea, Brass Tacks Coffee offers tasty breakfast meals that range from biscuit sandwiches with eggs and meat to breakfast burritos filled with beans, cheese, and scrambled eggs. If you're in the mood for something sweet to accompany your espresso drink, look no further than one of their waffle meals topped with your choice of strawberries, whipped cream, and Nutella or bananas, peanut butter, and marshmallow cream. 2. Southern Roots Filling Station Southern Roots Filling Station is the place to go for an unbeatable cup of coffee served with a tasty meal. If you need extra caffeine, order their Cosmic Coffee made from drip coffee combined with a shot of espresso. If you're in the mood for something a little bit sweeter, go with either the cafe con leche with cinnamon and sugar or the Black Panther Latte made from espresso, milk, and chocolate. Add a flavor such as honey or maple spice to your cappuccino, latte, cortado, or chai latte for a delicious burst of sweetness. Breakfast choices are plentiful, and our suggestions include the lox bagel with cashew cream cheese as well as the signature Blisscuit with avocado, tofu, and garlic seasoning. If you're in the mood for something sweeter, try either the granola bowl with coconut flakes and fresh fruit or the peanut butter chia pudding with jam. 3. Bakery Ribault Bakery Ribault is the perfect spot whenever you're craving quality coffee paired with a warm and fresh pastry. Chocolate lovers will have difficulty choosing between the Ethiopian cold brew prepared with notes of dark chocolate and their mocha made with Ghirardelli chocolate. Alternatively, treat yourself to a caramel macchiato with almond milk or a seasonal pumpkin spice latte. If you're a tea drinker, we think that you'll enjoy either the hot Thai tea or the iced blue taro tea with boba. Pastry choices are plentiful, and we especially enjoy the cranberry orange muffins, Nutella croissants, guava turnovers, pistachio muffins, cream cheese tarts, and pear almond tarts. If you're in the mood for something savory, go with either the potato pancakes with sour cream and scrambled eggs or the breakfast croissant with bacon and cheese. A trip to any of these spots is sure to be a special treat, and we're already planning our next trip back. Once you've enjoyed your coffee and food, head over to Tom Bush Volkswagen to purchase your new vehicle!

No matter what day it is, ice cream is always a hit in Florida. Whether you are a traditional custard fan or want to try something new, these shops will never disappoint. Check out these top sweet spots for a cold treat in Jacksonville, FL. more Sweet Spots: 7 Best Places for Ice Cream in Jacksonville, FL 1. Sweet Pete's Candy Shop Sweet Pete's does not disappoint with its gourmet candies and frozen delights. Started by renowned confectioner Peter Behringer, Sweet Pete's is a delight to the senses with over-the-top shakes served in mason jars and sundaes with unlimited toppings. Handmade confections include a giant dessert pretzel and Sweet Pete's brownie a la mode. Yum! 2. Whit's Frozen Custard If you're a fan of frozen custard you have found heaven on earth! This thick, smooth, creamy treat is made fresh daily with flavors like Toasted Coconut Custard with Chocolate Flakes, Mint Custard with Cookies ‘n' Crème, and Pecan Toffee Crunch. Located on Beach Blvd in Jacksonville Beach, Whit's is just a half-mile from the beach. If you'd like to eat there, they've got both indoor and outdoor seating. 3. Dreamette Dreamette is famous for its classic soft serve. Serving the Jacksonville community for over fifty years, Dreamette is legendary for its shakes, sundaes, and banana splits in flavors like hot fudge, gummi bears, butterscotch, and cookie dough. Be sure to bring an appetite for these huge scoops and carry cash because this no-frills spot is cash only. 4. Kilwin's Original Recipe With over thirty-five flavors, Kilwin's serves up spectacular frozen and chocolate creations. Located in St. Johns Town Center, Kilwin's is famous for its handmade chocolate, sweets, and frozen desserts. Get their original recipe in flavors like Blueberry Waffle Cone, Georgia Peach, and New Orleans Praline Pecan. 5. Rita's Located on Jacksonville Beach, Rita's serves up Italian ice and good old-fashioned custard. Rita's creations are made fresh daily and include a creamy version of its Italian ice which is delightful. Their award-winning frozen custard in flavors like Apple Berry Blue, Island Fusion, and Blood Orange is available in creamy and hand-scooped versions. Rita's also serves up gelato and milkshakes. 6. Sweet Frog Ready for fun and phenomenal frozen yogurt? Check out this family-friendly shop and its creamy yogurt concoctions and freshly stocked toppings bar. Sweet Frog on Riverside Avenue has premium yogurt flavors in eye-popping colors like Blue Cotton Candy, Red Velvet, and Georgia Peach. Pick your favorite, then add on toppings like chocolate hazelnut, caramel, and brownies! 7. Mayday With over twenty classic and seasonal flavors, Mayday is one of the best dessert parlors in town. Available from four locations in Jacksonville, their creations include handcrafted cream and homemade waffle cones. This popular shop creates heavenly artisan flavors like Queen Salted Caramel, Mint Monster, and Ice Box Lemon. It also helps that they use homemade cookies and sprinkles! Once you've sampled these frozen delights, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen and schedule a test drive of one of our amazing vehicles.

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.

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.