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We here in Jacksonville, FL know all about hot weather that can get you craving something to cool off with. Luckily, we have the perfect remedy that you can find right here in our city. The ice cream served up by the dessert spots that we featured below are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Stop in at any of these locations to treat yourself to a sensational frozen snack and beat the summer heat. more 5 of the Best Ice Cream Places Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Bambino Scoops Whether you order their creamy and delicious gelato or the fruity flavors of their sorbet, you're sure to be in for a treat from the moment you walk through the doors at Bambino Scoops. They've got a rotation of more than 40 flavors for you to choose from, including fun options like banana chocolate or blue cotton candy. Their sorbet offerings include non-dairy options, perfect for any dietary considerations you may have. 2. Marble Slab Creamery Get one of the to-go kits at Marble Slab Creamery to get a selection of different flavor pints to bring home with you, as well as mix-ins of your choice to create some memorable desserts. Of course, their classic sundaes make a strong option too, from the fudge brownie sundae to the banana split sundae. You can also get any of their wonderful flavors in a drinkable form with their tasty milkshakes. 3. Whit's Frozen Custard All the confections you'll enjoy at Whit's are made daily so that you get the freshest flavor possible. Check out their flavor of the week to get a new experience every time you come in for a visit. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly options on the menu mean that everyone you bring here can find something that suits them no matter what they're looking for. 4. Cookies and Creme Cookies and Creme is open late, so you can satisfy your cravings for sweets even when the sun has gone down. Their fresh-baked cookies make the perfect companion for the frozen treats they serve up. The husband and wife team who run the place also provided us with exceptional service on our visit. 5. Jeremiah's Italian Ice Whether you want fruit-flavored Italian ice, creamy gelato, or delicious soft-serve, you can get all the treats of your sweet dreams at Jeremiah's. The rich and creamy vanilla and chocolate twist soft serve we got was everything you could ask for in a dessert. They also have catering services to bring the sweet experience you get when you eat here to your next event. Stay cool when you enjoy the sweet treats served up at these local businesses in our city. If you want a set of wheels that's as cool as you'll be after enjoying some of these dessert delicacies, come pick out a new ride from our inventory of quality new and pre-owned vehicles. Come on down to Tom Bush BMW of Orange Park and see the coolest rides in our city!

We must confess to a weakness for perfectly cooked dough covered in tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings. While we shouldn't perhaps eat as much as we do, it's made us experts at tracking down the best pizza joints. So to save you the trouble, we're going to let you in on our favorites in Jacksonville, FL. more Where to Find the Best Pizza in Jacksonville, FL 1. Carmines Pie House We start with a diner-style restaurant funkily decorated with murals by local artists that serves an extensive range of pies to suit all tastes. At lunchtime, we'll often order pizza by the slice here for a quick meal, while if we're in for dinner, we're taking an entire pie for ourselves. You can pick from three sizes of New York thin and crispy or go for Chicago-style deep stuffed. Whichever you choose, there's a vast range of meat, vegetable, and gourmet toppings to add, or you can go for one of the quirkily named set recipes like our favorite, “Porky's the Revenge” which has pulled bbq pork, onion, cheese, and sweet potato. 2. Picasso's This restaurant prides itself on the freshest, locally sourced ingredients and uses them to produce a range of pizza that's as extensive as it is delicious. You can choose a New York base from the brick oven or take a more unusual Meditteranean medium-weight crust or even a square-cut thin Saint Louis. From there, it's build-your-favorite from the cheese, meat, seafood, and vegetable selection, or pick a signature dish that's taken your interest. There are over thirty, so you might need the help of the excellent staff to make your choice. “Heart of the Mediterranean” is one gem that we appreciate. The base is covered with extra-virgin olive oil, hand-minced garlic, and cheeses, and then delicious artichokes, palm hearts, sun-dried tomatoes,  fresh goat cheese, and fried basil leaves are added on top. 3. Tony D's New York If you're in town looking for a perfect New York pie, this is an authentic and straightforward place that lets the food do the talking. Our local tip is to check out Tuesday nights when the pizza is offered at extra-special prices. The pies come in 10, 14, 16, and 18-inch diameters, so you'll be good no matter how hungry you are. As usual, you can design your own or go with the menu's selection that has such delights as the “Meatball Parm” or the feast that is the “New York Special.” Whatever you choose, you'll be satisfied, and it's worth knowing that gluten-free base options are available. 4. Joseph's Having been around since 1956, Joseph's is proud to call itself the city's oldest pizzeria. This lively, family-owned institution is a must-visit for fans of everything dough-based. Everything is made from scratch on-site, and we always enjoy the fun atmosphere inside. You'll find daily happy-hour by-the-slice specials that are perfect if you're hungry in the afternoon, and then for dinner, the full homemade pizzas take over. Pies are slow-cooked in the stone-baked oven to produce a perfect crisp crust. You can design your own or take a set choice, and we especially enjoy the “Tivoli,” which has Alfredo sauce, mushrooms, broccoli, mozzarella, and chicken. New visitors should also check out the house specialty “Stuffed Pizza Rolls.” 5. Al's Our last recommendation is a local business that produces New York-style pies from dough made fresh in-house every day. The restaurant is casual with an atmosphere that is great for family get-togethers or parties. Importantly kids are catered for with a menu for the smaller mouths. The gourmet hand-tossed range comes in traditional styles like “The Italian,” or you could try something more exotic like the “Spicy Caribbean Chicken.” Whether we take one of these or create our own, we're always satisfied and full at the end. Preferably before you get greasy fingers, make sure that you visit us at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park. We've been in the area since 1970 and are the number one for the complete BMW line-up and quality pre-owned vehicles.

Whether you are looking for an overnight beachside stay or a tranquil forest retreat, Jacksonville, FL has something for you. Located on the Atlantic Ocean and adorned with mature oaks and pines, this northern part of Florida boasts pristine beaches, abundant fishing, serene canoeing, and miles of hiking. Let's take a look at some of our favorite places for camping. more 5 Favorite Local Camping Areas Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Located on Little Talbot Island, this campground is the perfect place to relax under the canopies of oaks and Spanish moss. Set up your tent on the Florida sand, and take a hike to the gorgeous Atlantic beaches or along saltwater creeks through the forest. Enjoy the company of the otters, turtles, and birds as you fish, canoe, or just watch the waves roll in. Strolling on the beach, you'll likely find unique seashells, starfish, and sand dollars. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park For a family weekend excursion, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is the place to go. In addition to hiking trails lined with palms and boardwalk access to 1.5 miles of soft beach, this park has a lake where the family can kayak, canoe, paddleboat, and fish. Cookout in the picnic areas while the kids exhaust themselves with refreshing fun in the splash park. At the campground store, pick up firewood to end the day sitting out under the stars. 3. Huguenot Campground Located at the oceanfront Huguenot Memorial Park, this Jacksonville campground is right next to the beach. Cast a line into the Atlantic Ocean and watch the boats come in as you unwind to the lulling sounds of the sea. The campground amenities are new, clean, and well-maintained. 4. Cary Campground If you're looking for some peace and relaxation, this campground is located in Cary State Forest. Providing both RV and primitive sites, the forest's most popular activities are wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing and horseback riding. After a day of recreation, rest by the fire in the secluded peacefulness of the spacious sites. You'll be away from the crowds, but still have the amenities of 30/50 amp electricity hookups, water, a cement pad, a fire ring, and benches. 5. Jennings State Forest: Hammock and Bootleggers Campgrounds For those drawn to more secluded and unplugged primitive outings, we recommend Hammock and Bootleggers Campgrounds located in the Jennings State Forest. Just 10 miles southwest of Jacksonville, you will find the quiet, rustic beauty of creeks, tall pine trees, and an abundance of wildlife. The sites are level and spaced far apart, equipped with picnic tables and firepits. The state forest is open for hiking, bicycling, canoeing, and horseback riding. Jacksonville, FL offers wonderful campgrounds to meet your idea of a proper outdoor experience. If you are taking a trip to any of these incredible areas, make sure to do so in the comfort of one of the finest cars or SUVs in the area. Visit Tom Bush BMW Orange Park today where our knowledgeable staff will help you find a vehicle that best suits your needs.

Jacksonville, FL, or JAX to locals, is a popular location for residents and visitors alike. As a large city, it can be tougher to find the best places to eat, so here are our picks for the seven top Chinese restaurants in JAX. more The Top 7 Chinese Restaurants in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Jimmy Fu's Asian Restaurant Sweet and Sour Chicken and Shrimp with Garlic Sauce are just a few of the favorite dishes at Jimmy Fu's. Wonton Soup and Egg Drop Soup are also popular here. This small place, in an Arlington shopping mall location, is known for fresh takeout food prepared to order. The portions are large and they have lunch specials. 2. TimWah Chinese Dim Sum Restaurant Dim Sum translates from Cantonese as "close to the heart" and TimWah goes above and beyond to create flavorful, heartfelt options for these tasty bite-size dumplings. You just have to order the Red Bean Piggy Bun because it's delicious, but it's also something to see. It's a round dumpling shaped into a whimsical pig's head complete with ears and a snout! Talk about something you're not going to cook at home for yourself, right? Fried Pork Dumplings, Salt and Pepper Shrimp, and Rice Noodles with Shrimp are other favorites at TimWah. For dessert, there are sweet varieties of Dim Sum including Custard Egg Tarts. Both hot and sweet tea are available as well as canned soft drinks. 3. Fong's Chinese Restaurant Known for large portions of fresh food at great prices, Fong's is a takeout place at Girvin Plaza Center on Atlantic. It's usually best to call in your order ahead before picking it up. Singapore Rice Noodles, Pork Fried Rice, and Sesame Chicken are popular here, but there are many more dishes available. Fong's will usually cook to order for you such as by adding more spice or varying an ingredient. 5. Peony Asian Bistro For great soups, Peony offers Shrimp and Pork Wonton and Spicy Hot and Sour. The Hot Pots here are satisfying and have different combinations of fish, chicken, tofu, and vegetables to select. Peking Duck and Sesame Chicken are featured dishes, and there are also many seafood, beef, and pork options. Sides at Peony Asian Bistro include steamed or fried rice, egg rolls, and crispy noodles. They have both hot tea and sweet tea as well as lemonade and soft drinks. 6. Silver Star Chinese Restaurant Silver Star is known for providing good value for the money and they have classic Chinese dishes as well as Dim Sum. If you ask, they will not add MSG to your food. Mu Shu Pork, Peking Duck, Crispy Shrimp Dumplings, Steamed BBQ Pork Buns, and Chinese Cabbage with Oyster Sauce are just some of the flavorful favorites. You may be surprised, but the chicken feet are pretty tasty too! 7. Blue Bamboo Canton Bistro For a dine-in option in decent surroundings, Blue Bamboo has classic American Chinese dishes as well as Dim Sum on Sundays. What's different here is that they offer a variety of cakes for dessert as well as specialty drinks like the Chocolate Martini and Salted Caramel Martini. If you do drink alcohol, don't drink and drive. After trying out one of our favorite Chinese eateries, contact Tom Bush BMW Orange Park. Ask about our specials on new or used cars and on parts and service!

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day so make sure yours is done right!. Check out some of our favorite breakfast places in Jacksonville, FL to start your day on the right foot! more 6 Best Breakfast Places for Early Risers in Jacksonville, FL Angie's Grom Angie's Grom is a popular Jacksonville breakfast restaurant located a few blocks from Oceanfront Park. The interior is full of beach-fun memorabilia and other wacky stuff like old surfboards, Christmas lights, and an array of artwork and street signs. Their claim-to-fame menu item is the “Volcano” burrito. It's loaded with breakfast munchies like eggs, sausage, and cheese. It also has other foods you wouldn't normally eat in the morning, but it's delicious nonetheless. Beach Diner Beach Diner is a family-owned classic diner located in a Ponte Vedra Beach strip mall. It's just a two-minute drive from the glistening Atlantic Ocean, so it comes as no surprise that its navy-colored and wood-trimmed interior resembles the inside of a boat. The breakfast bar is huge and you'll always find several people enjoying their spectacular eggs benedict served with grits and fruit on the side. The staff at Beach Diner are personable and the service is quick. Beach Hut Cafe Just off the coast of Jacksonville Beach is this quaint breakfast restaurant. The Beach Hut Cafe does simplicity really well, with a nicely decorated interior that features light colors, some charming pictures, and tables that sort of resembling picnic tables. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy one of their homemade breakfast dishes. Their award-winning corn beef hash is their hook-line and sinker, but don't sleep on their massive French toast served with Texas-sized bread. Biscottis Biscottis came from modest beginnings, first starting as a tiny cafe with seating for less than 40 people. Today, however, Biscottis breakfast specials have helped it grow to a full-size breakfast eatery that can seat over 100 people. It's located just a few minutes from downtown Jacksonville by car and features savory dishes that are guaranteed to please your taste buds. We highly recommend the steak medallion Benedict. Black Sheep Restaurant The Black Sheep Restaurant is a well-known breakfast destination in Jacksonville that serves big portions and flavors. The cardamom pancakes are massive, fluffy, and come with fresh fruit and real maple syrup. The thick and juicy grilled country ham and cheese is perfect for early-risers with a more ambitious appetite. The decor is simple but elegant, and the service is as friendly as it gets. Cool Moose Cafe The Cool Moose Cafe first opened in 1998 and hasn't become one of the most popular spots in Jacksonville to enjoy a hearty and tasty breakfast. To our carnivore readers, we can't recommend the Meat Lover's Breakfast Quesadilla enough! It's enough food to feed two people so you may want to ask for a doggy bag in case it's too much for one sitting. Visitors will also love the warm and cozy ambiance this cafe offers. Stop by Tom Bush BMW Orange Park to get a look at our fantastic selection of new and pre-owned vehicles!

For passionate foodies, Jacksonville, FL is the place to be. With its wide range of restaurants and cafes, along with its unique local cuisine, there's something to suit all palates. If you're a fan of fresh, locally grown ingredients, you can find that too, with a huge variety of amazing farmers markets throughout the city. more Discover Local Flavors at the 5 Best Jacksonville Farmers Markets 1. Valdes This independent, family-run market offers a great range of fruits, vegetables, meat, beer (please drink responsibly), and more. Prices are super-low, and the range of veggies is particularly impressive. You'll likely come across herbs and spices you've never even heard of! The owners pride themselves on offering quality customer service and will go above and beyond to help you. This indoor market is open 7 days a week. Monday, through Saturday. It's open from 8 AM to 7 PM, and Sunday hours are 9 AM to 5 PM. 2. Hemming Plaza Held on Fridays throughout the year, this buzzing market features a range of fresh produce and other yummy food items. Located in James Weldon Johnson Park, there are vendors selling everything you could possibly want. Hot and thirsty? Try some of the juicy watermelon or grapes available at the many produce stores. Hungry? Try a burrito from a food truck made with fresh, local ingredients. While you're here, you can also enjoy live entertainment, and a range of craft stores, as well as the beautiful surrounds of this sprawling, urban park. 3. Jacksonville With over one million visitors each year, this vast market offers locally grown produce from dozens of different vendors. As well as its wide selection of fruits and veggies, you'll find treats like honey, cheese, seafood, and more. Whatever you choose, you can be sure it'll be delicious! Open Monday through Saturday from 7 AM to 5 PM, and Sundays from 9 AM to 4 PM, this popular market has been around since 1932 and can be found on West Beaver Street. 4. Riverside Arts Market Located on the banks of St. Johns River, under the Fuller Warren Bridge, this thriving community market welcomes thousands of visitors each Saturday. There's a farmers section, with fantastic local vendors. One of the most popular new vendors is Down to Earth Farm, with their organic produce grown just outside city limits. There's plenty of parking nearby, and entry to the market is free. 5. Orange Park This popular outdoor market runs September through June and features over 100 vendors selling delicious fresh produce, baked goods, honey, and other delicious food. There are also craft stores run by local artisans and live music. Whether you're looking to pick up okra for a pot of gumbo, cupcakes for a birthday party, or just enjoy a day out with the family, this is the place for you. The market was voted as the best in Northeast Florida, and a quick visit will soon show you why it's so highly rated. Need a great vehicle to get around all these markets and more? Stop by om Bush BMW Orange Park today for a great deal on a new or used vehicle.

What meal is more iconic and all-American than the old-fashioned hamburger? We sure can't think of anything that captures the culinary spirit of our country the way this tasty sandwich does. We've got some great burger joints right here in Jacksonville, FL that grill up some tasty patties and put their own unique spin on this classic meal. We've listed our five picks for the best burgers in the city so you can check them out yourself. more Top 5 Best Burgers in Jacksonville, FL 1. Harps American Pub and Grill A go-to for locals seeking great food for more than three decades now, the burgers you'll find at Harps are some of the best you can get anywhere. The pick of the bunch in our opinion has to be their Texas Hold ‘Em Burger. Southwestern seasoning, grilled jalapenos, Tijuana sauce, salsa, and jalapeno-jack cheese put a Tex-Mex spin on your usual burger. Go all-in by adding chili and cheese for a small extra charge. 2. Carolina Jax The award-winning Angus burgers grilled up at Carolina Jax have earned acclaim from critics and locals alike, and one bite into one of these tasty creations is enough to tell you why. We love their OBX burger, which comes with roasted poblano mayo, Cajun ranch, and Key Lime guacamole to give it a unique blend of flavors. Wash it all down with a bottle of one of their craft sodas. 3. Johnny Angel's This retro-themed diner treats you to a taste of heaven with their burgers as well as a fun old-school atmosphere to enjoy it in. The tangy BBQ sauce their Volcano Burger comes drizzled with is finger-licking good, while two thick-sliced onion rings give it a bit of crunch. Get yours with a side of their tasty Mexicali fries that are a step up from the traditional French fries you're used to. 4. Cruisers Grill Come to this spot for the laid-back beach atmosphere they create, but stay for the delicious burgers that come out of their kitchen. Whatever goes into the secret sauce that tops their Royale Wit Cheeseburger is absolutely delicious, while the house candied bacon adds another layer of flavor. Get yours with a tall plate of their nachos and a side of fresh guacamole. 5. Relish The motto at relish tells you everything you need to know about this spot: big, tasty burgers. You can get anything from a traditional beef patty here to more out-there creations like a salmon or turkey burger. Whatever you end up ordering, you'll be able to customize your meal by picking from the extras and sauces they have to offer. For us, nothing beats the Sweet Thai Relish sauce. These local spots serve up some big flavors that you won't have to go far to get. For a great local dealership experience you can also find right around the corner, come in and see us. Visit Tom Bush BMW Orange Park today and see what we can do for you!

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park stretches out for 1.5 miles along beautiful beaches and offers visitors 450 acres of fun-filled adventures. Here you can paddle on the freshwater lake and surf at one of the best beaches in northeast Florida. Bring along your fishing tackle, hiking boots, mountain bike, and pack a picnic basket for a whole day of outdoor activities and adventures. more Top 7 Activities to Enjoy at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park 1. Hiking Over 20 miles of scenic trails run along the beach and between the majestic oaks. The sand, dirt, and boardwalk trails range in difficulty, with some of the tracks suitable for everyone, young and old. On your hike, keep your eyes peeled for alligators around the water and for foxes. 2. Mountain Biking The off-road mountain bike track ranges from easy to difficult with flat sections for the inexperienced rider to challenging areas with obstacles and steep inclines for hardcore mountain bikers. The camping store has mountain bikes available for rental. 3. Kayaking and Canoeing The 60-acre freshwater Hannah Lake is the perfect place to kayak and canoe. The lake is a great place to practice your paddling skills. There are many shady spots close to the shore where you will see a variety of wading birds. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats can be rented. The park also offers informative guided tours on the wildlife and history of the park. 4. Surfing The park boasts one of the top surfing spots in the region. Local surfers say The Poles, at the north end of the beach, has some of the best waves in northeast Florida, and experienced surfers wet their boards daily, all year round. This part of the beach is not fit for beginners. 5. Fishing Here you can catch fresh or saltwater fish from either the ocean or Hannah Lake. You can fish from piers, banks, or a boat, and there are several fish attractors around the lake. The lake holds channel catfish, bream, crappie, and bass.  Fishing tackle can be rented at the camp store. 6. Picnicking The beautiful picnic areas under the trees all have tables and grills for barbecues right next to the beach and perfect for family get-togethers and parties. The park also has a splash pad and playground to keep the kids entertained while you prepare lunch. 7. Camping The shady campground is in a wooded area with beautiful old oaks, sweet gums, and palm trees. Bring a tent or roll in with your RV for a few nights to take full advantage of all the activities. The campsites have electric hookups, tables, fire rings, and grills. There are restrooms with hot showers and a dump station. The park also has cozy cabins if you need a bit more luxury. There is a store at the campground that stocks everything you need to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Arrive at the park early in the morning to ensure that you have enough time to enjoy all the great adventures. Visit Tom Bush BMW today. Our dealership offers our customers automotive excellence and complete customer satisfaction.