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Drive on Over

Drive on Over: 5 Free Things to Do Near Jacksonville, FL

Having fun doesn't have to be expensive. There are plenty of free things to do in Jacksonville, FL, whether you're visiting the area or planning a fun staycation. And with an eco-friendly vehicle like the 2024 BMW X5, you can explore the area while reducing your environmental footprint. 5 Free Things to Do Near Jacksonville, FL Atlantic Beach Spending an afternoon at the beach is the perfect way to enjoy the warm Florida weather. Atlantic Beach is within 15 miles of the downtown area, and it runs alongside Ocean Boulevard and Beach Avenue. From swimming to sunbathing, the beach is a popular leisure spot. You can also get out of the sun and enjoy some shade at the nearby parks, including Johansen Park and Waters Park. more James Weldon Johnson Park Formerly known as Hemming Park, James Weldon Johnson Park is located at the corner of West Duval Street and North Laura Street in the Downtown area. The central fountain provides some much-needed shade on a hot day, and the mosaics and art installations make for some great photo ops. Friendship Fountain Perhaps one of the most recognizable Jacksonville landmarks, the Friendship Fountain is in St John Rivers Park between South Main Street and Acosta Expressway. The fountain and its surrounding park are a popular spot for taking a stroll in the shade and snapping a few selfies. The city is currently working on developing a light show that would illuminate the fountain in the evenings. Timucuan Preserve You can't visit Jacksonville without driving to the Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve located to the northeast of the city. Inside the preserve, you'll find the Fort Caroline Memorial, an area dedicated to a settlement that dates back to the 16th century. You'll also get to see the Kingsley Plantation, a historical building from the 18th century. An audio tour is available for the plantation, and you can see the inside if you visit the preserve during an open house weekend. Riverside Avondale Historic District Riverside and Avondale are two historic neighborhoods located in the southwest portion of Jacksonville, near St Johns River. If you're looking for something to do, taking a stroll through these neighborhoods is a great way to discover some unique buildings and see what life in Jacksonville is like. If you're in the area on a Saturday, don't miss the Riverside Arts Market near Riverside Avenue and the Fuller Warren Bridge. The Riverside Avondale Preservation Society also organizes some fun events, including free bike tours of the neighborhood, garden tours, live music, and more. Make your trip or staycation in Jacksonville feel even more special with these free activities! When you're done exploring the area, stop by Tom Bush BMW Orange Park to learn more about our new and pre-owned inventory!

Jacksonville, FL

3 of the Best Tourist Sites in Driving Distance of Jacksonville, FL

The city of Jacksonville, FL is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States. Not surprisingly, this place is home to numerous local landmarks and attractions that make it an increasingly popular destination among visitors from all around the world. If you are searching for nearby places to explore in your 2023 BMW X1, here are three of the best tourist sites in and around the city. 3 of the Best Tourist Sites in Driving Distance of Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Sitting right by the confluence of the Trout and St. Johns River at 370 Zoo Parkway, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, covering an area of over 120 acres and welcoming more than one million visitors each year. Taking part in over 50 national and international initiatives for the conservation of species, this zoo is home to over 2,000 different animals. First established in 1914, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has become a true symbol of the city. A major redevelopment took place in the 1990s, and the place is nowadays divided into a series of thematic exhibits. Some of the species you will find here include jaguars, rhinos, flamingos, giraffes, elephants, apes, manatees, koalas, Malayan tigers, babirusas, and Visayan warty pigs. more 2. Museum of Science and History Located at 1025 Museum Circle and right by the southern banks of the St. Johns River, the Museum of Science and History of Jacksonville is another excellent local attraction you should check out while in the city. Established in the early 1940s, this is the most visited museum in Jacksonville and features an extensive array of permanent and temporary exhibits that showcase the history of the area along with some of the major scientific developments that are shaping its future. Whether you are visiting Jacksonville alone or with your family, the Museum of Science and History is a place you should not miss. Some of the most recommended exhibits and areas include “Health in Motion,” “Currents of Time,” “Interpreting Northeast Florida,” the Space Science Gallery, and the JEA Science Theater. 3. Little Talbot Island State Park Located about 25 miles northeast of the city center, Little Talbot Island State Park is a well-known tourist attraction and one of the most popular weekend getaways among Jacksonville residents. A sprawling nature reserve sitting on the Atlantic shore, this state park covers an area of about 2,500 acres and features salt marshes, dunes, and maritime forests that provide habitat to a variety of migratory birds. Getting here from downtown Jacksonville takes about half an hour via Heckscher Drive. Are you looking for the best car dealership in Jacksonville to buy the perfect vehicle for an off road adventure with your family? The search is over! Visit us today at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park and explore the fantastic models we have available for you.

3 Winter Activities

3 Winter Activities You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL

Winter in Jacksonville, FL, is a magical time filled with plenty of activities to enjoy. From snow skiing to ice skating, there are plenty of ways to stay active and have fun during the winter months. Whether you're looking for an outdoor adventure or an indoor activity, Jacksonville has a variety of winter activities that can be reached by car. 3 Winter Activities You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL Ice Skating at the Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex The Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex is an indoor ice rink located just 25 minutes away from downtown Jacksonville at 3605 Philips Hwy. It's a great place to get out of the cold and enjoy a fun-filled day of ice skating. The rink is open year-round, but during the winter months, it's a great way to get some exercise and stay active. The rink offers public skating sessions throughout the week, so you can always find a time to fit your schedule. They also offer skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, knowledgeable instructors will help you improve your skills and have fun. The Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex also offer a variety of other activities, such as birthday parties, laser tag, and arcade games. more Snow Tubing at Snowcat Ridge Alpine Snowpark If you're looking for a more adventurous winter activity, you should consider snow tubing at Snowcat Ridge Alpine Snowpark. It's located about an hour and a half away from Jacksonville, but it's worth the drive for a fun-filled day of snow tubing. Snowcat Ridge Alpine Snowpark has two different tubing hills, each with its own unique features. The first hill is designed for beginners, with gentle slopes and wide chutes that are perfect for younger kids and first-timers. The second hill is designed for more experienced snow tubers, with steep drops and tight turns that will challenge even the most seasoned tubers. Snowcat Ridge also offers a variety of amenities, such as a snack bar, heated seating area, fire pits, and more. It is located at 27839 St Joe Rd, Dade City. Winter Hiking at the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is located at 12713 Ft Caroline Rd. It's a vast park that covers 46,000 acres, with plenty of trails to explore. The park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, so you can find one that suits your ability. The trails range from easy, flat trails to more challenging hikes with rugged terrain. No matter which trail you choose, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the preserve's diverse wildlife and landscapes. From ice skating to snow tubing to winter hiking, Jacksonville has something for everyone. So get out there and enjoy the beauty of winter! Driving to these fun activities with the whole family is a breeze, thanks to your BMW X1 xDrive28i, which offers enough interior room to accommodate them comfortably. Visit us today at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park, and one of our agents will tell you all about our latest models!

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Drive on Over: 3 Landmarks You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL

Home to a diverse population of almost two million inhabitants, the city of Jacksonville, FL, is the most populous metropolis in the state of Florida and the largest city by area in the contiguous United States. Featuring plenty of local landmarks and places to discover, it is a popular destination among visitors from all over the country. If you are traveling around the region and are looking for the best places to discover, here are three spots you should not miss. Drive on Over: 3 Landmarks You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL 1. MOSH - Museum of Science & History of Jacksonville Featuring large aquariums and exhibits, and welcoming visitors of all ages, the MOSH - Museum of Science & History of Jacksonville is one of the most important attractions you should check out while exploring the city. Established in the early 1940s, this facility specializes in local history and science, with three floors of permanent exhibits and the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. MOSH - Museum of Science & History of Jacksonville is located near the Southbank Riverwalk on the southern banks of the St. Johns River. Getting here from the city center takes less than five minutes by car, making it an easy place to visit while going on a tour around the city's main attractions. more 2. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve Comprising over 46,000 acres of waterways, wetlands, and salt marshes, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is another fantastic place you should visit during your visit to Jacksonville. Established in the late 1980s and expanded in 1999, this place is managed by the National Park Service and can be reached in about 20 minutes from the city center via route FL-115 and Fort Caroline Road. Managed by the National Park Service, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 and offers great opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, shore fishing, and picnicking. This nature reserve is also a magnet for wildlife watchers, with plenty of bird species including clapper rails, black vultures, little blue herons, and snowy egrets. 3. James Weldon Johnson Park Located in the heart of the downtown area, James Weldon Johnson Park is a beautiful and lively square surrounded by some of the most important buildings in Jacksonville. Featuring two fountains and a large stage, this place regularly hosts concerts, cultural events, fairs, and other events. Created in 1857, this city square is considered the oldest park in the city. Whether you are going on an offroad adventure or discovering the local attractions that the city has to offer, the 2023 BMW X2 has everything you need to keep you and your passengers safe and comfortable on the road. Visit us today at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park! Check out this and other vehicles, learn about our latest deals, and ask one of our agents about the financing options we have available for you.

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3 Fun Summer Activities You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL

An excellent starting point for a trip around the natural wonders of the region, the city of Jacksonville, FL, is located in the northeastern part of the state and offers plenty of opportunities to go on day trips and enjoy your favorite summer activities with your family or a group of friends. If you are planning a trip around Florida in your 2022 BMW X3, here are three fantastic spots you should check out. 3 Fun Summer Activities You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL 1. Paddling at Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park A true paddler's paradise sitting along a tributary of the Nassau River, Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park is a popular summertime destination that covers an area of about 4,000 acres and is home to a wide variety of wildlife species. Located a little over 20 miles northeast of the Jacksonville city center, this state park can be reached in about 25 minutes by car via route FL-115. Open year-round between 8:00 am and sundown, Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park is one of the most popular destinations for kayaking and canoeing in northeastern Florida. As you paddle though the pristine marsh waters between Black Hammock Island and Pumpkin Hill Creek, you can see and listen the different wading birds, shore birds, and otters that live in the area. more 2. Camping at Little Talbot Island State Park Located a little over 25 miles northeast of downtown Jacksonville, Little Talbot Island State Park is another excellent summertime destination where you can spend a weekend sleeping under the stars and taking a break from the frenzy of the city. Featuring sandy beaches, boat launches, picnic spots, and a fully equipped campground, this place has been popular among locals since it was established in the early 1950s. Spanning over 2,500 acres, Little Talbot Island State Park is home to a variety of native and migrating birds, making it a true paradise for wildlife watchers and photographers. The campgrounds at this fantastic nature reserve feature excellent amenities including campfire circles, picnic pavilions, restrooms, showers, and drinking water. Reservations can be made online through the park's official website. 3. Horseback Riding at Amelia Island State Park The only Florida state park that offers horseback riding on its beaches, Amelia Island State Park is an excellent destination that can be reached in about 40 minutes by car from the Jacksonville city center. Spanning an area of about 200 acres, this state park features pristine beaches and is one of the most scenic nature reserves in the area. Opening hours are between 8:00 am and sundown. Are you ready to hit the road and explore these fantastic destinations with your friends and family? Before you leave, visit us at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park! Check out our inventory, talk to our friendly sales agents, and learn about our latest deals.

Jacksonville, Fl

The 3 Best Views a Short Drive From Jacksonville, FL

Those that have been through the ins and outs of Jacksonville, FL, know that there are some truly stunning sights out there that are easily worth the trip. When you're looking for something scenic, there's a lot of ground to cover, so this list will break down some of the best views you can find. The 3 Best Views a Short Drive From Jacksonville, FL 1. Tillie K. Fowler Park If you're a fan of nature, you're already a fan of this park without even knowing it. It's not uncommon to spot some of the wildlife out here, and there's something serene about the birds chirping in the early morning. Most people get here by hiking, so if you're into some outdoor fun, this is a great stop. Everyone likes to show their pets that they love them, and you can absolutely spoil them here. This park has two different dog parks depending on the size of your breed, so you won't have to worry about your dog getting injured by another twice its size. If you want to kill a few hours in the summer breeze, this is an amazing place to do it. 2. San Marco Square Architecture seems so impossibly complicated, and you'll be mesmerized once you cross paths with San Marco Square. Whether it's the towering pillars or checkered stone flooring, you'll find a lot of beauty in this small little area. There is also a statue that is a spectacle, depicting a pack of lions that are scarily accurate. There are always local events popping up as well if you want to get to know some of the community. When you're making a lot of new friends, you might appreciate the extra space of the Mazda CX-30, which makes it that much easier to get to your destination with all your passengers in tow. more 3. Avondale Historic District If you're a fan of America's past, you'll appreciate the Avondale Historic District which has everything from good food to better stories. You can always ask some of the locals about each and every piece, and catch up on years of tales and events that you'd otherwise not know. Depending on the time of year, they also sell tickets that let you tour some of the private homes in the area. If you're a fan of old architecture or you find yourself curious about what it would look like, you can easily book a quick tour with some amazing guides. It's hard not to get lost in the moment when you visit these places, so you may want to budget your time carefully. With so many places to go, you'll need a vehicle that can handle all that mileage. For something strong and reliable, you'll want to stop by Tom Bush BMW Orange Par k and take a look at their newest stock, which features some of the hottest cars on the market.

Take the Car and Discover These 3 Great Birdwatching Spots Near Jacksonville, FL

If you're looking for a great place to birdwatch near Jacksonville, FL, look no further. We'll provide you with three great spots to please any avid birdwatcher. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, these spots offer something for everyone. So pack up the car and get ready to enjoy some of the best birdwatching in Florida. Take the Car and Discover These 3 Great Birdwatching Spots Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Reddie Point Preserve Located in Northeast Florida, this 450-acre preserve is home to various birds, including herons, egrets, ospreys, and bald eagles. There are also ample opportunities to see other wildlife, such as alligators, snakes, and deer. The preserve has several miles of hiking trails and a boardwalk that winds through a cypress swamp. Additional, there preserve is a popular location to go fishing. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the freshwater marshes. Whether you're an experienced birder or just getting started, Reddie Point Preserve is a great place to enjoy some time outdoors and see some amazing animals. 2. Birdwatch Station If you love birds, Birdwatch Station in Jacksonville is the perfect place for you. This serene spot is located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville, just a short walk from all the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're an experienced birder or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of Nature, Birdwatch Station has something for everyone. In addition, the station has a gift shop stocked with all the latest birding gear and a cozy cafe where you can relax after a long day of watching the local birds. So if you're looking for a unique way to experience Jacksonville, be sure to check out Birdwatch Station. more 3. Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve is one of the best places in northeast Florida to see birds. This 46,000-acre preserve is home to various habitats, including freshwater marshes, hammocks, and upland forests. As a result, it attracts a wide range of bird species, including herons, egrets, hawks, and owls. The preserve offers several birdwatchers amenities, including observation decks and a boardwalk that winds through the marsh. So if you're looking for a great place to watch birds, Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve should be at the top of your list. Step into the fast lane with the all-new BMW X2 sDrive28i Sports. With plenty of space for all your gear, you'll be able to hit the road without leaving anything behind. And with ConnectedDrive Services, you'll have access to various useful apps and services that will help you stay connected and productive while on the go. Visit Tom Bush BMW Orange Park in Jacksonville to see the variety of cars we have in stock.

Driving Around Town

Driving Around Town: The Top 3 Local Attractions to Jacksonville, FL

Sitting on the Atlantic coast of the state, Jacksonville, FL, is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, as well as a popular tourist destination full of local attractions and activities for all types of visitors. If you are traveling around eastern Florida in your new 2022 BMW X3, these are some of the spots you should not miss while in Jacksonville. Driving Around Town: The Top 3 Local Attractions to Jacksonville, FL 1. Southbank Riverwalk Going for a walk along Jacksonville's Southbank Riverwalk is one of the best ways to start exploring the city. Located at the southern end of the John T. Alsop Jr. Bridge, this pedestrian promenade features some of the best views of the city's skyline and the St. Johns River. With a length of a little over 1,2 miles, the Southbank Riverwalk connects the Friendship Fountain in the west with the Southbank Landing ferry terminal in the east. more Besides being a great spot for a relaxing stroll, the Southbank Riverwalk is also a popular place for local artists, regularly hosting temporary exhibitions and events. If you are around the area in the evening, this is one of the best spots to watch the sunset in the city. Getting here from the downtown area takes a little under 20 minutes on foot. 2. Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Representing the oldest Catholic congregation in the city of Jacksonville, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is one of the local landmarks every visitor must see while in town. Designed in 1905 and constructed between 1907 and 1910, this basilica is one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the area, featuring two asymmetric towers and a bright and magnificent interior. Although the current building opened its doors to the public in 1910, the congregation it represents dates back to 1945. The original church where it was founded was destroyed during the American Civil War by Unionist forces. The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992 and was designed as a minor basilica in 2013. 3. Museum of Contemporary Art Located in the heart of the downtown area, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Jacksonville is a great place to visit for those wanting to learn about the work of local artists. Featuring both permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as a children's area, this art museum is managed by the University of North Florida and is one of the largest institutions of contemporary art in the Southeastern United States. Before you hit the road and explore these fantastic local landmarks in Jacksonville, visit us at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park! We have an extensive inventory of new and used cars, as well as a team of experts who will be happy to find the best deal for you and your family.

4 Amazing State Parks You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL

The 2022 BMW X3 sDrive30i is the ultimate sports activity vehicle. You will love taking it out and exploring. If you are looking for some adventure, there are some amazing state parks near Jacksonville, FL. Here are our favorite spots that you should definitely check out. 4 Amazing State Parks You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL 1. Little and Big Talbot Island Parks Jacksonville, FL is home to a total of 7 of these parks, which is pretty cool considering most people only live near a few at best. Two cool parks located right here in Jacksonville are the Little Talbot Island and Big Talbot Islands parks. At both of these parks, visitors will find pristine beaches that are far enough out away from the population that they aren't overly crowded and busy. Which makes them a perfect spot for a relaxing beach day. You can also find plenty of wildlife, trails, and natural scenery to explore. Aside from this, visitors can do some bird watching, camping, kayaking, surfing, swimming, and shelling. For the ultimate beach experience, we recommend both of these parks to anyone who hasn't tried them out yet. more 2. Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Located about an hour away from Jacksonville, you will find Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. This park is further inland and by contrast, offers visitors a chance to explore and camp in a grassy pine forest. Here you will find campsites that vary by size, a bathhouse, trails to explore, and there is even a swimming area too. You will absolutely need protection from bugs if you plan to stay in the warmer months. If you are going for the day, then parking is only $5. 3. Fort Clinch State Park If you're a fan of history, then you will love exploring Fort Clinch State Park, which is located only 44 minutes away from Jacksonville. Visitors here will have the chance to learn about this 19th-century fort and tour the grounds. There is also a museum on-site that displays exhibits relevant to the fort, and the park has live reenactments to bring history to life at this historic location. Visitors can also enjoy activities like camping, fishing, swimming, shelling, hiking, and more. 4. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park If your idea of adventure is exploring crystal clear blue waters, then you may want to check out Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park. Here you can find opportunities for hiking, camping, paddling, and more. However, the swimming and snorkeling opportunities are probably what draw most visitors in. This is a unique experience that you won't soon forget, and this state park is only about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Jacksonville. We hope you enjoy your next trip. If you are looking for a quality luxury vehicle that will get you excited about your travels, we would love to help. Contact us today at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park, and we can help you find the best vehicle to complement your lifestyle. We look forward to meeting with you soon!

4 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Jacksonville, FL

Whether you want the next big adventure for your kids or you're looking for an educational experience for the whole family, Jacksonville, FL has endless kid-friendly activities to choose from. Use this guide to learn about the many reasons so many families love to call Jacksonville home. more 4 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Jacksonville, FL 1. Fun in the Sun One of the great benefits of living in Jacksonville is the temperate weather year-round. Residents can get memberships as well as day passes to luxury beach clubs like the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club or the Lodge, which are located a short drive from downtown. These clubs include pools, poolside bars and restaurants, beach access with pre-set chairs and umbrellas, and more. If you don't want to pay for a luxury poolside spot, there are plenty of stunning, sprawling beaches to visit with the kids. Jacksonville Beach boasts shops and restaurants along the coastline and sandy beaches that stretch down to Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach. You can even stop along Beach Boulevard at Adventure Landing Water Park for some thrilling waterslides and raft adventures. 2. Historic Old Saint Augustine A short drive South is Old Saint Augustine, the nation's oldest town including early Spanish settlements and a massive fort from the 1600s. Families can book a tour of the historic old town, visit the Lightner Museum and lighthouse, tour the old fort, and even visit historical buildings like the country's oldest little schoolhouse. Saint Augustine also boasts fun family-friendly museums like Ripley's Believe it or Not, and attractions like the Fountain of Youth. 3. Arcades and Amusement Parks Adventure Landing is more than just a water park. This Jacksonville attraction includes rides and rollercoasters, go-karts, mini-golf, and even a massive indoor laser tag course. Along with these features, you can visit the arcade to play traditional arcade games and win tickets to spend on prizes from the store. 4. Nature and Wildlife There are plenty of opportunities for your kids to experience the true wonder of Florida's natural wildlife in Jacksonville. One way is by visiting the Jacksonville Zoo, which boasts endless exhibits of exotic wildlife on view for kids of all ages. If you want to see creatures out in the wild, the Guana National Reserve has nature trails that wind through woodland, swampland, and along the coast of the local estuary. They also have a hands-on children's museum to help kids learn about the local biodiversity. The Ocala National Forest is another great place for hiking and taking in the wildlife of the area. This Florida city has something for kids of all ages if you know where to look. Stop by the sunny beaches and enjoy gorgeous weather or try thrilling activities like rides and water parks. Visit Tom Bush BMW Orange Park today to get set up with the perfect vehicle for your whole family to enjoy as you travel the Jacksonville area.

Fitness in Jacksonville: 4 Local Ways to Stay in Shape

Ready for a good workout in Jacksonville, FL? The Jax is home to many fitness options, from gyms and boot camps to high-energy dance classes. No matter your skill level or interests, you can find a way to get active here. Here are some fun things to do to stay fit! more Fitness in Jacksonville, FL: 4 Local Ways to Stay in Shape 1. Learn Ballet If you want to stay fit, you can take a ballet class. There are many different ballet studios around town, and they offer courses for all experience levels. This is one way to learn something new while getting a good workout. Florida Ballet, the premier instruction and performance center in the city, provides classes for children, teens, and adults. The ballet center offers a diverse curriculum ranging from pre-ballet to preprofessional training. The adult classes are offered weekly in the evening, from beginner to advanced. They also have tap and bodywork classes if you want something different. 2. Hit the Gym If you're looking to join a gym, the Jax has plenty of them to choose from! Most gyms offer different membership packages, so be sure to find one that fits your budget and needs. If you want lots of variety, The GYM Jax is a tremendous full-service gym on Beach Blvd at San Pablo. The GYM Jax offers a variety of classes, including a boot camp, X fit, and more! They offer cardio machines, multiple workout areas, and free weights. They also have personal trainers and childcare available seven days a week. 3. Learn Salsa If you want to get your heart rate up, you can take a salsa class. Salsa is a great way to keep in shape and have fun at the same time. The best part is that you don't need prior experience or knowledge about dance before signing up for one of these lessons! If you opt for dancing as part of your workout routine, you're guaranteed never to get bored. The Dance Shack in Southside Blvd. has a variety of programs ranging from beginner and advanced to social dancing classes. They offer instruction in various styles, including salsa and the cha-cha-cha! The Dance Shack also offers swing and ballroom dance, and you can take classes even if you don't have a partner. They offer private lessons or affordable group lessons starting at only $15! 4. Try Yoga For an excellent workout, sign up for a yoga class. Yoga is a great way to stay fit and flexible, and there are plenty of different studios around town that offer yoga classes for all experience levels. Soluna Yoga is a popular studio in town that offers classes for both novices and experienced yogis.  They offer sessions seven days a week, and you can choose from a variety of styles, including sunrise, restorative, prenatal, yin, and Vinyasa. They also offer chair yoga and therapeutic yoga classes! There are plenty of ways to stay fit in our great city. Whether you're looking for a new hobby, want to lose weight, or just want to get out of the house with friends, these are all great options! If you're looking for a new car, check out Tom Bush BMW Orange Park while you're out. Our team members are ready and waiting to help you find your perfect new or used vehicle!

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5 Favorite Local Parks Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL is home to the largest urban park system in the nation. Included in its 80,000 acres of designated land area are three national and seven state parks and more than 400 city locales. Urbanites seeking an oasis in the bustling city need not go far for playgrounds, trails, or beaches. Check out this list of some of our favorite spots to unwind. more 5 Favorite Local Parks Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Palencia Pirate Ship Park Ahoy, matey! Kids will enjoy "swabbing the deck" and "walking the plank" at this pirate-ship-shaped playground. The nearby athletic park facilities include basketball courts, soccer, and softball fields, as well as a covered pavilion for community events or picnicking. This hidden treasure is located at the entrance to the Palencia neighborhood but is open to the public. 2. Blue Cypress Park If you want to hit the links, Blue Cypress, in Arlington, is a great spot for a quick game. The 9-hole public golf course is part of the park, which sits along the St. Johns River. Originally an 18-hole course, the city reduced the number of holes in the course to protect the environmentally sensitive area. Take an evening stroll along the nature boardwalk trail and soak in the beautiful sunset along the river. 3. Stockton Park The romantic setting of Stockton Park is the perfect spot to bring a date for a leisurely picnic or promenade (note that there are no public restrooms). Located in the charming Ortega neighborhood in Jacksonville's Westside, the park sits beside St. Johns River and the grandiose mansions of Ortega Boulevard. Spend the morning fishing from the park's waterfront edge, then grab a bite to eat at a nearby restaurant like Chomp Chomp, a local sandwich joint. 4. Willowbranch Park This lovely, unassuming park stretches from the Willow Branch Library on one end to baseball and soccer fields on the other end. Dogs are welcome but must stay on a leash. This pocket of heaven is filled with gorgeous old trees and a trickling creek. Lovely and safe, Willowbranch is the perfect spot to get lost in a good book in the shade. 5. Kathryn Abby Hanna Park A Florida park list would not be complete without a beachfront locale. This park is home to the premier surfing spot in Northeast Florida as well as over 20 miles of trails for mountain bikers and casual hikers alike. With 1.5 miles of sandy beach and a kids' splash park that's open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, this place is the perfect spot to beat the heat. Note that there is a small entry fee to enjoy the park. Explore Northeast Florida's best system of recreation areas. Whether you're flying solo or on a family day out, any of the locales on this list have something for everyone. While you're soaking in the beauty of the Sunshine State, stop in at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park to see some of our beautiful luxury vehicles.

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