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Take the VW and Check Out These 3 Local Landmarks Near Jacksonville, FL

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With a population of a little over 1,7 million in its metropolitan area, the Jacksonville, FL, is the largest city in the state and a well-known tourist destination full of landmarks, historical monuments, and beautiful nature reserves. If you are going on a road trip around Florida in your 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan and are looking for new places to explore, these are three local attractions you should definitely check out.

Take the VW and Check Out These 3 Local Landmarks Near Jacksonville, FL

1. Southbank Riverwalk

Sitting along the southern banks of the St. Johns River, the Southbank Riverwalk is a beautiful pedestrian promenade that offers some of the best views of the Jacksonville skyline and is always full of both locals and tourists going for a relaxing stroll. With a total length of a little over a mile, this is one of the best places to start exploring the city.

Open year-round and often hosting local art exhibitions, the Southbank Riverwalk is known for its beautiful sunsets. Whether you are traveling with your family or a group of friends, this place is always an excellent spot to take in some fresh air without going too far from the city center. Getting here from the downtown area takes less than five minutes by car along Main Street.

2. James Weldon Johnson Park

Located right in the heart of the city center, James Weldon Johnson Park is a picturesque urban plaza featuring two fountains, a large stage, and green areas where you have an ice cream and check out the local fairs, music concerts, and cultural events that regularly take place in this beautiful spot.

Open year-round between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm, James Weldon Johnson Park was established in 1857 and is considered the first and oldest park in Jacksonville. Visited by over one million people each year, this place has been the site of important speeches by figures such as John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, and Lyndon B. Johnson. This public square is surrounded by landmark buildings including the Jacksonville City Hall, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the U.S. District Court Clerk.

3. Main Street Bridge

Constructed between 1938 and 1941, the Main Street Bridge of Jacksonville is one of the most recognizable features of the city skyline, as well as an important piece of infrastructure for local transport. This steel vertical lift bridge connects the Downtown and Southbank neighborhoods of the city and is managed by the Florida Department of Transportation.

Are you thinking of buying a new or used car to go on new adventures in Florida and beyond? Stop searching and visit us today at Tom Bush Volkswagen! Book a test drive and ask one of our friendly and knowledgeable colleagues about our latest models and flexible financing plans.

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Vegetarianism is on the rise, and vegetarian dishes can be delicious and healthy. Jacksonville is a big city, but your new Volkswagen Golf will keep you comfortable on your drive across town for one of these delicious meals. Read on to learn about our favorite vegetarian restaurants in Jacksonville, FL. Our 5 Favorite Vegetarian Restaurants in Jacksonville, FL 1. Vegan Cafe Jax You can find this cafe at 2624 Atlantic Blvd. The menu at this restaurant changes regularly as they create delicious dishes using local produce, but you can expect a selection of bowls, sandwiches, salads, burritos, and more. Try a glass of their fresh-squeezed lemonade or a tropical smoothie that is sure to help you beat the Florida heat. more 2. Murray Hillbilly Murray Hillbilly serves a menu of American comfort food, but with a twist: it's all vegan. You can find veganized favorites like plant-based burgers, fried "chickun", and vegan mac & cheese. Try the Git 'Er Done Burger, with a vegan patty, house-made vegan cheese, BBQ soy-based chicken, lettuce, tomato, and special sauce. Murray Hillbilly even hosts a Vegan Bazaar where you can explore local arts and crafts. 3. The Walrus This place is much more than just a vegan restaurant. They serve a range of vegan sandwiches and soups but also host live music and karaoke events. There is even an arcade where kids and adults can enjoy classic games. You can find The Walrus at 948 Edgewood Ave. South. 4. Island Fresh Island Fresh is not exclusively vegetarian, but their menu, inspired by the flavors of the Caribbean, is overflowing with amazing vegan options, including organic tofu and plant-based chorizo, chicken, and beef. Check out their delicious selection of vegetarian sides like sweet plantains, fried yuca, and cheese-stuffed mashed potatoes. 5. 3Natives Jacksonville This local chain has several locations in Jacksonville. Stop by their Mandarin Station location at 11362 San Jose Blvd. They offer a selection of acai bowls, smoothies, salads, wraps, sandwiches, and burritos. They serve dishes with meat, but their vegetarian options truly shine. Try the vegetarian breakfast burrito with egg, pico, corn salsa, cheese, peppers, and avocado ranch.Luckily, diners in Jacksonville are spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants with meatless options. There are plenty of great vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the Jacksonville area, but even non-vegetarian places like Island Fresh are serving up delicious plant-based meat alternatives. Next time you are looking for a delicious and healthy lunch, try one of these places, and afterward, come see us at Tom Bush Volkswagen to see our latest inventory.

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