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The Jacksonville, FL, area is close to some of the most picturesque parts of the state, so it's the perfect place to set off on a relaxing day trip with no particular agenda in mind. Roll the windows down and take one of our three favorite scenic drives in North Florida. The 3 Top Scenic Drives Near Jacksonville, FL SR-13 From Jacksonville to Spuds For this scenic route, you'll start in Jacksonville and travel south along the St. Johns River for an up-close view of old Florida. In addition to the stunning water views, you'll see historic buildings and homes, including the former residences of writer Harriet Beecher Stowe and composer Frederick Delius. The 55-mile stretch is shaded by towering oak trees and drapes of Spanish moss. Spuds is a tiny town situated in the middle of the state's northeastern potato farming region. When you arrive, you can take a side trip to Deep Creek Conservation area, which has hiking and biking trails where you can spot blackbirds, egrets, herons, and other marsh and wading birds. Bring a kayak or canoe if you want to paddle in Deep Creek or along the river. You'll find a boat access ramp on SR-207 just west of its intersection with SR-206 at the Deep Creek Bridge. more SR-A1A From Ormond Beach to Matanzas Inlet To take this drive from Jacksonville, you'll first head to Matanzas Inlet about an hour south of the city. From there, you'll get on SR-A1A, which winds through historic undeveloped parts of the state. This 30-mile stretch is free of traffic lights for at least 20 miles, so you can truly cruise along and enjoy unmatched coastline views. Pack a picnic to enjoy at any of the free beaches and state parks along this route. You can also explore local history at stops like a 1942 World War II submarine watchtower, one of the few still remaining from that era. Find it at 2269 Ocean Shore Blvd near the end of your drive in Ormond Beach. William Bartram Scenic and Historic Trail This trail has been recognized by the Florida Scenic Highways Program for its cultural history and natural beauty. You can observe palmetto and pine trees that have been growing in the region for more than three centuries, expansive swampland, and thick oak forests. Along the way, you'll pass through the area where European pioneer William Bartram settled along the St Johns River with the region's Native Americans. The William Bartram Scenic and Historic Trail is just over 17 miles long and the northern end is located right in Jacksonville, so it's a great scenic drive if you only have an hour or two. Head south on San Jose Blvd and you'll reach the route when that route crosses over Julington Creek just past Mandarin Park. The Mazda Miata is the perfect car if you love driving through Florida with the top down. Test drive it today at Mazda City of Orange Park.

Jacksonville, FL, is one of the Sunshine State's best East Coast gems, and you don't have to spend much money to have fun in this city. These free things to do are family-friendly, immersive, and representative of this city's best. Your 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD with adaptive cruise control and a Wi-Fi hotspot can get you and the family there in complete comfort, and keeps them totally connected. Drive on Down: 5 Free Things to Do Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Kingsley Plantation The Kingsley Plantation, at 11676 Palmetto Ave. on Fort George Island, is one of Jacksonville's most historic locations. Plus, it's surrounded by plenty of hiking trails so that you can combine your journey into the past with some exercise. The Kingsley Plantation combines several structures, including cabins, a barn, and several other structures. You can walk through the grounds, then explore the area around the plantation and do some trekking and birdwatching. more 2. Riverside Arts Market Visit the Riverside Arts Market at 715 Riverside Park Pl. in downtown Jacksonville for some of the city's best shopping, excellent vegetables, and a fun, inclusive community. This Saturday market features artisan food and beauty products, local food trucks, music, and yoga by the river. Leashed, behaved animals are also always welcome. The Riverside Arts Market is an excellent place to find rare art and craft items, and you can connect with the artists on-site while browsing their wares. 3. Fort Caroline National Memorial Fort Caroline National Memorial, at 12713 Fort Caroline Rd., is a recreated fort, a comprehensive visitor's center, and tons of hiking trails through massive trees covered in Spanish Moss. The staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable about the area's history, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits to keep the kids educated and entertained. This spot is a great place to pair your love for the outdoors with a crash course in Florida's fascinating history. 4. Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens at 1445 Millcoe Rd. is a fantastic place to learn about different types of plants and flowers, wander some easy-to-navigate trails, relax on benches and visit pavilions, and enjoy some of Jacksonville's best events. One of the best aspects of this spot is that all the plants and flowers are well-organized and labeled, so you'll be able to pinpoint precisely what you're looking at. Jacksonville is a great town where you don't need to spend a lot of money, or even any at all, to have a fantastic time. These four options will show you the best in Jacksonville and you won't have to open your wallet once. Visit Mazda City of Orange Park today and test drive a great vehicle to get you anywhere you need to go in Florida.

As the First Coast's cultural center, Jacksonville, FL is a bustling city with tons to see and do! Its location on the St. Johns River and Atlantic coast also means breathtaking scenery for nature lovers to enjoy. Here are some of the best tourist sites you won't want to miss when you're in the River City! 4 of the Best Tourist Sites You Can Drive to Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens One of the most impressive fine art collections in the state, spanning from 2100 BCE to contemporary times, can be found at Cummer on 829 Riverside Avenue. There are over 5,000 pieces of artwork divided into several special collections. These include the hundreds of examples of early Meissen porcelain in the Wark Collection, the Hayes Collection of Japanese Prints, and a collection focusing on American realist Joseph Jeffers Dodge. A memorable treat awaits bookworms in the form of Cummer's extensive collection of rare books and archival material. In addition to scenic riverfront views, the gardens that surround the museum are filled with numerous plant species and beautiful statues. more 2. Kingsley Plantation For those with an interest in history, the Kingsley Plantation on 11676 Palmetto Avenue offers a fascinating glimpse into what life was like for plantation slaves in the early 1800s. Its grounds have been well preserved by the National Park Service and feature Florida's oldest plantation house. You'll also be able to take a self-guided or park ranger-led tour of the two-story kitchen house next to the main residence and slave cabins. 3. Little Talbot Island State Park When visiting this gorgeous barrier island, accessible from 12157 Heckscher Drive, you'll definitely want to take advantage of your Mazda CX-9's 3,500-pound towing capacity and bring your boat along! It's one of the best spots for boating, fishing, and other aquatic activities in the Jacksonville area. Visitors can enjoy watching the waves from the park's soft, white sands or go for a hike and encounter a variety of wildlife. 4. Riverside Arts Market The RAM is held every Saturday on 715 Riverside Avenue and hosts a vibrant arts-and-crafts/farmers market with live entertainment, delicious food, and local artwork. Located within the marketplace, the Northbank Riverwalk Artists' Square is a 350-seat amphitheater where you'll be able to catch concerts or even take a yoga class. There's always a wide selection of fresh produce and lots of food trucks serving interesting dishes. Jacksonville is filled with many more fun destinations to discover, but you'll definitely be enjoying the best the city has to offer when you visit these incredible places! Reliable transportation around town is important for a smooth trip, so stop by Mazda City of Orange Park and browse our huge inventory of automobiles!

Jacksonville, FL has a thriving art scene complete with galleries, walks, and festivals. Known as a "city of makers", people all around the nation come to Jacksonville to share their ideas. Here are some of the best local art galleries that the city has to offer! 4 Great Local Art Galleries You Can Drive to Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Mussallem Galleries Mussallem Galleries is an expansive 90,000-square-foot showroom showcasing eclectic paintings, furnishings, objects, and more. The gallery showcases an extensive collection of Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Continental, and European relics from various time periods. The European paintings found at this place date back to the 15th to 19th centuries, showcasing some of the most compelling pieces from the Renaissance. The collection of antique furniture and oriental rugs at this place cannot be missed! The Mussallem family was one of the original rug importers, meaning you will undoubtedly find some of the most iconic carpentry in the world.  One of the best ways to appreciate art history is through furniture! more 2. Florida Mining Gallery The Florida Mining Gallery showcases work by emerging and mid-career artists. The venue provides a space for these artists to mount exhibitions, spark conversations, and push boundaries in the art world. The exhibitions are constantly rotating, meaning there is always some new art to explore. Exhibitions explore photography, painting, and crafts by artists from all around the world! 3. The Art Center Cooperative The Art Center Cooperative provides an affordable venue for artists to display their work. Registered as a 501(c)3-nonprofit cooperative, TAC strives to promote accessibility in the art world. The art center displays work that ranges in paintings, mixed media collages, figure sketches, pastels, fine art photography, and sculptures. The art at the cooperative rotates every two months. The gallery is open Monday to Friday from noon to 5:00 p.m. Prints of the showcased art, as well as the art itself, are available for purchase. 4. ARTSee and Shop This gallery showcases art from over 50 different artists. Located in The Markets at Town Center, you can shop around hundreds of handmade works and crafts. You will find things such as hand-blown glass, wood, ornaments, pottery, paintings, perfume, and more! This is a great place to find a unique gift while supporting the community. ARTSee provides classes and workshops on various art procedures. If you're looking to boost your creativity, we highly encourage you to check one of these classes out. One of the best ways to learn about the community is by browsing local galleries. Whether you just want to look around or you prefer to go on a shopping spree, these places will teach you a lot about the style of the city.  With six color options to choose from in the 2022 Mazda CX-9, you'll also be able to express your personal style. See what's in stock at Mazda City of Orange Park.

Are you searching for great locations to explore local wildlife and amazing views in and around Jacksonville, FL? On your next drive to the city in your Mazda CX-30, you'll find great birdwatching spots and natural parks to visit with your binoculars and camera. 5 Favorite Birdwatching Spots a Short Drive From Jacksonville, FL 1. Birdwatch Station Birdwatch Station is a great place to discover local habitats and experience nature. This site features stunning scenery, including wetlands, plenty of birds, a fabulous boardwalk, and bridges. You'll find many bird species, including ospreys and bald eagles. Birdwatch Station is one of the best locations to visit if you're looking for the perfect place to take spectacular photographs and explore the local wildlife. more 2. Reddie Point Preserve This riverfront recreation space offers over one hundred beautiful acres of picnic shelters, scenic trails, little bridges, and a fishing dock. Reddie Point Preserve is a pet-friendly park, an excellent spot for birding, and a popular place to catch catfish and red bass. You'll find the waterfront offers spectacular views to capture with your camera and is a great place to relax. 3. Theodore Roosevelt Area at Timucuan Preserve Theodore Roosevelt Area at Timucuan Preserve is a wonderful natural park offering a tranquil space, picnic tables, wooded areas, and hiking trails to explore the space. It's a terrific place to discover many species of birds and local habitats. There is a bird observation platform and well-maintained paths, and pets are welcome to visit the park. 4. Julington Durbin Creek Nature Preserve This fantastic preserve offers over two thousand acres of incredible outdoor space operated by the St. Johns River Water District in Duval County. There are two creeks along the preserve's border, which connect to the St. Johns River, and plenty of parking is available. Julington Durbin Creek Nature Preserve is a great place for hiking, cycling, and dog walking, and it's the ideal spot to discover birds and small animals while visiting the area. 5. Castaway Island Preserve Castaway Island Preserve is a natural wetland area with amazing scenery and overlooks to enjoy along the trails. It's one of the region's most relaxing parks for birding, whether you're spending the afternoon hiking or planning a fishing trip. You'll encounter various birds, including bluejays, mockingbirds, ospreys, woodpeckers, and more. It's an excellent place to discover local habitats and enjoy the beautiful views of the preserve.On your next drive through Jacksonville, you'll find stunning natural places to spot birds and small wildlife. Visit us at the Mazda City of Orange Park and see what we have to offer you from our incredible showroom of new and pre-owned vehicles, maintenance plans, and financing options.

Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, and what better way to enjoy it than by taking a road trip to one of the many amazing destinations near Jacksonville, FL? There are plenty of things to do in this area, and we've put together a list of our four favorite summer activities that you can drive to. 4 Fun Summer Activities You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is one of the most popular attractions in Jacksonville. The zoo is home to more than 2,000 and 1,000 plant species worldwide. In addition to its extensive animal collection, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens also features a beautiful botanical garden. The garden contains a variety of plant life, including flowers, trees, and shrubs. Visitors can explore the garden on foot or ride on the zoo's train. Whether you're into plants or animals, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a great place to spend a day. more 2. Kingsley Plantation Kingsley Plantation is a historic plantation located on Fort George Island was built in 1798 by a British businessman and slave trader. It operated as a slave plantation until it was abandoned during the American Civil War. Today, the plantation is owned by the National Park Service and open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the ruins of the plantation house, see the remains of the slave quarters, and learn about the lives of the people who once lived and worked on the plantation. Kingsley Plantation is a reminder of America's complicated history and a fascinating place to explore. 3. The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing wild animals. The sanctuary is home to various animals, including lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, bears, wolves, and more. The sanctuary offers tours of its facility and educational programs for school groups and private individuals. 4. MOSH (Museum Of Science & History) MOSH is one of the most beloved museums in Jacksonville. The museum offers a variety of educational programs, and there is always something new to see. MOSH is also home to a lovely butterfly garden. The garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. In addition, MOSH hosts several special events throughout the year, such as its Halloween Bash and holiday light show. No matter your interests, you will surely find something to enjoy at MOSH. Are you looking for the perfect ride to do fun activities in Jacksonville? The brand new 2022 Mazda 3 Sedan is great for those long summer road trips. With its comfortable seats and advanced safety features, the Mazda is perfect for a family trip or a solo adventure. Visit us at the Mazda City of Orange Park in Jacksonville to see our available cars.

If you're looking for a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature, look no further than your nearby state parks. These parks offer visitors a chance to explore everything from forests and rivers to mountains and beaches. And what's even better? They're usually close to major metropolitan areas, so you can easily get there for a day trip or weekend adventure. We'll take a look at three of the best parks near Jacksonville, FL. Discover Nature With Your New Mazda: 3 Great State Parks Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Little Talbot Island is one of Florida's many parks, and it offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The island is home to a number of nature trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike. There are also several beaches where visitors can sunbathe, swim, or go shelling. For those who want to explore the waters of the Atlantic, there are boats available for rent. In addition, the park features a large campground, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway. Whether you're looking for a day trip or a longer vacation, Little Talbot Island State Park is sure to please. more 2. Amelia Island State Park Amelia Island State Park is located on the southern tip of Amelia Island in Florida. The Park includes a variety of habitats, such as maritime forests, salt marshes, and coastal dunes. These diverse habitats are home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, gopher tortoises, and sea turtles. This park is a special state park because it protects over 200 acres of wilderness. Visitors to the Park can enjoy activities such as fishing, swimming, kayaking, and hiking. There is also a campground where visitors can stay overnight. Amelia Island State Park is a beautiful place to enjoy the outdoors and experience the diverse wildlife of Florida. 3. Huguenot Memorial Park Huguenot Memorial Park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, as well as a playground and picnic pavilion. This park is great for birdwatching, as it is home to a variety of birds, including ospreys, eagles, and herons. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, and leisurely walks along the beach. With its stunning scenery, Huguenot Memorial Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Jacksonville. The all-new Mazda CX-5 is the perfect car for those who want a safe and dependable ride. With its lane keep assist system and low tire pressure warning, you can be sure that this car will keep you safe on the road. And with its stylish design, the Mazda CX-5 will turn heads wherever you go. Visit us at Mazda City of Orange Park in Jacksonville to see our new and used vehicles.

If you love spending time outdoors and exploring all of the scenic views this world offers, you should check out Jacksonville, FL. There are many attractions to visit, so we have narrowed it down for you and found the top three best views within driving distance. Pack the whole family into a roomy Mazda CX-5 and head out for adventure! Take the Car and Check Out These 3 Best Views Near Jacksonville, FL Memorial Park This large park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, who love its prime location on the banks of the majestic St. Johns River. Named Memorial Park for the “Florida Fallen” in 1924, this park honors the 1,700 Florida men and women who died serving in World War I. With 6 acres of space, Memorial Park is full of beautiful areas to sit and read a book, take a walk, or have a picnic. It's also an excellent venue for weddings and special events, which you can organize by contacting the City Office. Visit the park any time between sunrise and sunset. Once you have finished soaking in the views at the park, you can take a leisurely stroll to nearby pubs and restaurants or the 5 Points neighborhood. more Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens The Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a must-see for anyone new to town or who loves being active in nature. This gorgeous space is perfect for relaxing with friends or finding some peace away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you're looking for something slightly more challenging, we suggest exploring one of many award-winning nature trails. This gigantic garden covers 120 acres, and the hiking trails will take you through 13 distinct ecosystems! If you have a green thumb or just love looking at flowers, check out the palm, tea, pollinator, and raised bed gardens. QR codes are located throughout the park to give you access to points of interest and cyber yoga. Jessie Ball DuPont Park This fantastic Florida park is home to one of our favorite views; the Treaty Oak. This incredible tree is over 250 years old, even older than the city it grows in! In the 1930s, Jessie Ball DuPont began trying to preserve and protect the tree by buying the land around it and donating it to the city. For a scenic outing, you can visit the magnificent tree and then walk around the gardens. The park is equipped with picnic tables and benches so you can share a meal with friends, and there are handy trash cans placed all around to ensure that the gardens are kept pristine. Need a great car to take you exploring? Come and see us at Mazda City of Orange Park and we'll show you a range of fantastic vehicles that match your lifestyle and budgetary needs. We value our customers and strive to give them the best service in town!

Jacksonville, FL is rich in history, music, and gorgeous outdoor landscapes. Don't stay cooped up indoors. Instead, get out and about and enjoy these wonderful local landmarks. By the time you come back home, you'll feel energized and more alive than ever. Drive Around Town: 5 Favorite Landmarks Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Little Talbot Island State Park is a beautiful island park, featuring five miles of pristine white-sand beaches. The shore is dotted with driftwood and seashells. Birds of prey perch in the trees, so take your binoculars. Fishing fanatics will enjoy catching flounder and sheepshead at this fun and relaxing location. Go for a hike and a swim, make sand castles on the soft unspoiled sand, and keep your eyes open for sea turtles and tortoises. more 2. Kingsley Plantation Kingsley Plantation is a fascinating historic site on Fort George Island. This property belonged to Zephaniah Kingsley in 1818. While you're there, you'll learn about his wife Anna, a former slave, and about the task-based system of slavery. Visit the ruins of the slave cabins, barn, and kitchen house, and explore the outside of the plantation house. Take the self-guided audio tour and explore the beautiful grounds while learning the unique story of the Kingsleys. The drive out to Kingsley is gorgeous as well. 3. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a beautiful ocean-side park with a lake, white sand beaches, and tons of trails. Go hiking, off-road biking on 13 miles of trails, swimming, paddle boarding, and camping. This park is also one of the best spots to surf in Jacksonville! Pop your surfboard on the roof of your Mazda CX-50 and get ready to catch some waves. Kids will enjoy a treehouse playground complete with a zipline, slides, spinners, and a big spider net. Fun! 4. Riverside Arts Market The Riverside Arts Market, also known as RAM, is another fabulous thing to do in Jacksonville. Head over to the Fuller Warren Bridge on Saturdays to enjoy tasty food, shop the merchandise, and listen to live music. As if that weren't enough of a draw, you'll also enjoy spectacular views of the St. John's river. Check ahead for upcoming events at RAM, ranging from art projects for kids to Fourth of July celebrations, complete with fireworks. 5. San Marcos Historic District This quaint little neighborhood in Jacksonville is a bit off the beaten track, but that doesn't mean it isn't worth a visit! Visit the movie theatre, shop at the independent shops, indulge yourself at the restaurants or coffee shops, and drive around soaking in the lovely architecture. Finish your visit with some ice cream on the sidewalk seating. Now that you've had a wonderful time getting out and about in Jacksonville, why not upgrade your wheels? Visit us at Mazda City of Orange Park to check out our lineup of new and used vehicles. We pride ourselves on offering high-quality cars tailored to your lifestyle and needs. Come on over to test drive a vehicle today!