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Whole pizza sliced

5 of the Best Pizza Joints in Jacksonville, FL

Who says you have to go to New York or Chicago to get your hands on some truly tasty pizza? While those cities have more of a reputation for it, we've got some excellent pizzerias right here in Jacksonville, FL. We took a tour of some of the local favorites, sampled plenty of great pies, then came up with a list of the five best spots to get in a slice in our city so you can try them too. more 5 of the Best Pizza Joints in Jacksonville, FL 1. Mama's Pizzeria and Grill For Italian cooking that's just as good as mama used to make, head on down to Mama's and order up a slice. We loved the simple deliciousness of their Picasso pie, with prosciutto and sun-dried tomatoes improving on the flavor the delicious crust, homemade sauce, and healthy helping of cheese already bring. Munch on some zeppoles for dessert if you want a fried treat to follow your slice with. 2. Biggie's It didn't take long for us to find out why they call this place Biggie's; the slices they serve up are as big as your head. We can't get enough of their Hawaiian Luau pie, with mozzarella cheese sprinkled over their homemade tomato sauce base and topped with pineapple and ham, with a drizzle of olive oil to provide the finishing touch. Order up some fresh-baked garlic knots for a zesty side to enjoy. 3. Milano's Italian Restaurant Milano's has been welcoming customers with a friendly smile since 1998, and locals have been enjoying authentic Italian food ever since. Some of the best slices in town can be found here, with a special recommendation going to their Greek pie, with feta cheese and olives giving every bite a unique Mediterranean twist. 4. Brooklyn Pizzeria Get a taste of the Big Apple here in our city with the authentic NY-style pies served up at this spot. Load up on all the toppings when you order their Brooklyn Special pie or go for a thicker base with the Sicilian thick-crust pie they offer. The chicken wings they cook up here make the perfect partner for your pie, available either mild or hot depending how spicy you like it. 5. Al's Join Al's Club and enjoy rewards like a better deal on the next pie you order. You'll have plenty of great options to choose from, like their BLT pie. It comes loaded up with crispy bacon, sliced tomato, fresh lettuce, and just a little bit of mayonnaise to give you everything you love about the classic sandwich on a fresh-cooked pie. You can't beat the slices being served up from these local pizzerias, just like you can't beat the deals on a new or pre-owned vehicle that we offer at our dealership. Don't take our word for it; come on down and see for yourself instead. Our team is standing by to help you find the next ride of your dreams. Visit us today at Mazda City of Orange Park!

Golf course

The Top 5 Golf Courses Near Jacksonville, FL

It's been a long year for all of us, so there's never been a better time to step outside and make the most of what Jacksonville, FL has to offer, and when it comes to golf courses, we boast some of the finest on the East Coast. Here are five spectacular clubs and resorts that will get you reaching for that driver. more The Top 5 Golf Courses Near Jacksonville, FL 1. TPC Sawgrass World-renowned, the Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass is an absolute must for all fans of the game, providing a professional experience that is rivaled by no other. Enjoy the spectacular views and test your skills against the very best there is to offer, most notably the infamous hole 17, with its island green being the cause of many a heartbreak. At TPC Sawgrass you'll feel the prestigious golfing history in every root. 2. Amelia National Golf and Country Club Few courses can boast a championship layout while being forgiving enough for all levels of play, and Amelia National does all of this while showcasing stunning natural beauty and luscious green fairways that really provide a mouth-watering experience. The scattering of sandy bunkers and undulating greens make every hole unique from tee to pin, and you'll be thinking about your second round before you've even finished your first. 3. Slammer and Squire Golf Course at World Golf Village Running alongside a wetland preservation ensures you're only ever a tee-shot away from a natural marsh or crystal blue lake, and it's just one of the features that make this course such a glorious feast for the eyes and the soul. With a focus on short game, its challenging par-3 holes will be all the talk when dining back at the fabulous clubhouse: though please always remember to drink responsibly, do not drink and drive, and any consumption of alcohol is only intended for adults of legal drinking age. 4. Omni Amelia Island Resort - Oak Marsh Elevate your round of golf with a wonderful ocean breeze as it flurries over the wildly changing, yet beautiful landscape. As you'd expect from a fabulously designed coastal course, water comes into play on all but four of the 18 holes, with sand dunes and tidal marshes providing a rich yet challenging experience for golfers of all levels. 5. Jacksonville Beach Golf Club First built in 1959 and newly revitalized, you'd think a round of golf on the beach couldn't be more idyllic; however Jacksonville Beach Golf Club has taken that experience further. The par 72 course is immaculate, with friendly, supportive, and attentive staff, but don't expect them to help you around the swift greens and punishing drop-offs. We're as proud of our unique golfing heritage as we are of our wonderful range of new and used vehicles. So, whether you're visiting for a round of golf or transporting those golf clubs finds you in the market for extra trunk space, come and visit us at Mazda City today, and we'll satisfy your every need!

Seafood on a plate

The Top 5 Caribbean Restaurants Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL, has some of the best Caribbean restaurants outside of, well, the Caribbean! So when you're new in town, you'll find plenty of restaurants to choose from. If you'd like our opinion on which ones to visit, we've got some suggestions to keep your tummy satisfied. more The Top 5 Caribbean Restaurants Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Irie Diner Great food and outstanding service are what you'll find here at Irie Diner. Their top-notch meals are cooked to perfection using only the freshest ingredients. We suggest the appetizer combo with conch fritters, the jerk wings, or the jerk fries, all of which are seasoned very nicely. For an entree, try the curry goat with rice, the sweet plantains, the macaroni pie, or the red beans and cabbage. For dessert, don't pass up on the rum cake. 2. Spices This family-owned eatery cooks up traditional plates with freshly prepared flavors, such as oxtails, curry chicken, and patties. Try the jerk chicken, curry goat, spicy curry shrimp, coco bread, spinach patties, or meat patties. You can choose from mild or spicy beef. The portions are generous and the prices are decent. Dine in their colorful environment, or call in for a takeout order. 3. Caribbean Sunrise Bakery & Restaurant This is a Caribbean truck offering takeout at affordable prices. A small gem, actually, that serves homestyle Jamaican meals and baked goods. They also offer delivery and catering services, so you can feed a group. Start with the cornbread, which is a must, in our opinion. We suggest the curry chicken, chicken roti, veggie chunks, the beef or veggie patties, or the jerk pocket for an entree. Add a side of steamed cabbage or fried plantains. For delivery, they offer $12 off your first purchase when you order through Grubhub. 4. Balla's Don't judge a restaurant by its outward appearance—otherwise, you might miss a delicious opportunity! For great oxtail, eat here. We enjoy the stewed beef, curry chicken, brown stew shrimp with beans and rice, and the cabbage dish, which is perfectly cooked. The portions are sufficient as well, so you'll probably have leftovers. 5. Green Tree Cuisine When you want a quick bite, order for takeout or delivery from this establishment. They serve rich, flavorful, homecooked food, such as curry goat, beef oxtail, and creole salmon steak. All entrees are served with rice, plantains, and veggies. They also have a variety of vegetarian options, such as the curry coconut chickpea stew, boiled plantains with sauteed vegetables, or the quinoa salad bowl. Wash it all down with a passion, green vibe, or tropic smoothie. When you want to get your vehicle needs in check, in addition to your appetite, be sure to visit us at Mazda City of Orange Park today! Speak with our knowledgeable staff, learn about our specials, discuss your financing options, and take a test drive in one of our new or previously owned cars, trucks, or SUVs. We're happy you're in town, and we look forward to serving you soon!

Tent sitting under a tree by the lake

6 Best Campgrounds Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL is a wonderful place to spend the holidays on your next camping trip. You'll discover amazing scenery, fishing, and campgrounds in and around the area. It's the perfect destination for a family vacation. more 6 Best Campgrounds Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Huguenot Campground This local recreational park is ideal for spending time on the beach, exploring the trails for wildlife, hiking, and cycling. Huguenot Campground offers tent and RV sites with amenities. The park is pet-friendly, spacious, and terrific for families looking for an overnight stay or weekend getaway. Nearby attractions include the local Nature Center and access to the Great Florida Birding Trail. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park Campground If you're looking for a campsite with a spectacular oceanfront and access to amazing hiking trails, you'll love the Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park campground. This park offers fantastic family-friendly attractions, including a splash pad, cabin rentals, RV sites, and a store for outdoor sports and camping supplies. You can explore 20 miles of trails for mountain biking, and there's a lake with 60 acres open to kayaking, pedal boats, canoes, and fishing. The park and campsite are ideal for retreats and special events. 3. Little Talbot Island Campground This state park is a great local spot for camping with your tent or a small camper. Little Talbot Island Campground features large oak trees, scenic views of Myrtle Creek, and a fishing dock. It's a quiet, beautiful place to spend the weekend with friends and family. The site offers restrooms, friendly staff, and lake access for canoeing and kayaking. 4. Big Tree RV Park Big Tree RV Park is a cozy site to spend the weekend with your RV or camper. The park features spacious, shaded lots, RV hookups, and laundry facilities. It's a friendly, down-to-earth place that's ideal for a family vacation or an extended stay. It's one of the favorite campsites in the area, with well-maintained grounds and friendly, helpful staff. 5. Pelican Roost RV Park This fantastic waterfront military campground features all the amenities you need for your RV camping trip and much more. The site offers excellent waterfront access, tent camping, swimming, and fishing. The facilities include a fitness center, restrooms, showers, and a snack bar. You can also enjoy a wide range of outdoor sports in the area, including golf, tennis, and archery. 6. Bow and Arrow RV Campsite The Bow and Arrow RV Campsite is a family-owned park in nearby Yulee, FL. The campsite offers short-term vacation and extended stays year-round. It's a great family-friendly park that welcomes pets and provides free Wi-Fi and cable. The park provides rental cabins, a swimming pool, and 60 acres of secluded woodland for hiking and exploring the local scenery. Nearby attractions include the River City Marketplace, Fernandina Beach, and the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens. You'll find excellent campsites and RV parks in and around the Jacksonville area. Visit us at Mazda City of Orange Park to see our fantastic showroom display on your next trip to town.

The Top 6 Day Trips From Jacksonville, FL

Do you have an itch to just hop in your car and discover someplace new? Check out these unbeatable day trips from Jacksonville, FL that are all just a short drive away! more The Top 6 Day Trips From Jacksonville, FL Salt Springs Salt Springs is about a 90-minute drive south of Jacksonville and provides visitors with plenty of breathtaking scenery. It's close to Ocala National Forest which features these precious Salt Springs. The turquoise blue waters will entice you to jump right in and be sure to bring your goggles to get a look at the stingrays and crabs moving below you. Salt Springs has various degrees of depth and includes a shallow area for toddlers to get their feet wet too! Daytona Beach Florida's car racing capital is 90 miles away from Jacksonville and packed with amazing fun for people of all ages. If you have a passion for thunderous car engines, look no further than the Daytona Raceway, home of the Daytona 500. The city also features one of the most stunning beaches in the state (and country) and has an array of cultural sites to explore. Dining is a treat, as visitors can sample exquisite cuisine from around the world. Amelia Island With just 33 miles separating Jacksonville from this naturally beautiful Island, a day trip to Amelia Island makes perfect sense. Start at the north end where you'll find Fernandina Beach. Enjoy an afternoon of sun, swimming, and snorkeling, before making your way to Fort Clinch State Park. It boasts 1,400 acres of scenic landscape and cultural sites like an army fort that dates back to the Civil War. You can even go island hopping to Big and Little Talbot Island. Cross Creek This quaint community saw its rise to fame thanks to the novel The Yearling, written by Pulitzer Prize-winner Marjorie Kinnan Rawling. It's located approximately 80 miles from Jacksonville and has lovely parks and a bustling main street to enjoy spending the day. Visitors can also take tours of Marjorie Kinnan Rawling's home and property that has been preserved to feature the beautiful magnolias she wrote about. The tenant house and barn are also there to explore. Osceola National Forest For day-trippers who love spending time in the great outdoors, this 200,000-acre forest is less than 60 miles from Jacksonville and provides a plethora of nature-filled activities. Head to Ocean Pond to enjoy some fishing and hiking in the surrounding areas. It also has a charming beach area with picnics nearby. History buffs will enjoy visiting the nearby Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park to enjoy Civil War reenactments during February. De Leon Springs Take a dip in these beautiful freshwater springs just 95 miles from Jacksonville. You can also spot into the Sugar Mill Restaurant located nearby and enjoy some delicious pancakes while sitting by an open fireplace that keeps everyone toasty during colder months. Stop by Mazda City of Orange Park today and find the day trip vehicle of your dreams!

Silhouette of man fishing at sunset

4 Best Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL is one of the best places to fish in the entire United States. With access to saltwater and freshwater species from the nearby St Johns river and the Atlantic Ocean, great opportunities start as soon as you get near the water. There are plenty of fishing spots around. Whether piers, banks, rivers, or even offshore, there will be a spot for everyone. more 4 Best Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier One of the longest piers in the state of Florida, Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier runs for nearly a quarter of a mile of boardwalk out into the ocean. Located on 503 North First Street, the pier offers great opportunities to catch Redfish, Kingfish, and plenty of other saltwater species. The Pier has plenty of facilities with plenty of parking, a tackle shop, and restrooms. The fees to use the pier are $3 for every angler and $1 for anyone else, although children under 6 are free of charge, and you don't need a license to use the pier. 2. Matanzas And Pellicer Creek Flats An excellent inland spot to try for mullet is the Matanzas Pellicer creek flats, which features a very popular mullet run as well as the other inland water species of Redfish and Trout. The Pellicer creek section also features gator trout on their migrations towards the shallows. Be aware of the tide if you want to fish here as it will affect the distribution of fish, as a particularly high tide could force the fish up onto any of the other flats along the Intracoastal waterway. 3. Mosquito Lagoon Another inland place to fish that is worth a try is Mosquito Lagoon. The lagoon is best in the fall, when the trout move to the shallower waters upstream, towards the northern end, where several creeks lead into the lagoon. The section between Three Sisters and the Shotgun Pass can be one of the best places to look for trout. Redfish are particularly plentiful in the lagoon and can be caught year-round, as most of the lagoon's redfish spend their lies there. The clear flats are the best place to try where the shallow waters make it a great place to sight fish. This is also an opportunity to sight cast for the giant “gator” trout that sometimes make an appearance. 4. Trout River Bridge Pier This pier, located on Trout River drive to the north of Jacksonville, is a real local favorite. The pier is a converted bridge, and as such reaches right out into the river. Aside from the excellent scenic views during the day, the pier is also very well lit at night, making it possible to fish around the clock. The trout that give this pier and river their names are plentiful here, but you can also catch a variety of other freshwater species, including catfish and redfish. The pier doesn't have many facilities, but bait and tackle can be bought from a nearby shop. The Jacksonville area is full of places to fish, whether you're looking for a handy pier, or heading out to the creeks. Visit Mazda City of Orange Park today to find out more.

Explore Your Creative Side at Jacksonville's Museum of Contemporary Art

Whether you're a Jacksonville local or just stopping by for a visit, one of the best ways to spend your time in the city is with a trip to the Museum of Contemporary Art. Keep reading to discover tips and tricks to plan your ideal visit. more Explore Your Creative Side at Jacksonville's Museum of Contemporary Art 1. Plan Your Trip General admission is from 11 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon from Tuesday to Saturday. The museum is open from noon to five on Sunday and closed on Monday. While you're at the museum, be sure to wear a mask, social distance from other visitors, check-in umbrellas and oversized items at the entrance, keep food and drink out of the galleries, refrain from smoking, avoid touching the artwork, and feel free to sketch with a pencil in the galleries. Admission costs eight dollars for adults and five dollars for military members, seniors, students, and children between the ages of two and twelve. Children younger than two years old, COVID-19 frontline workers, people on unemployment, UNF students, UNF employees with a guest, and members of the museum can all enjoy free admission. Admission is free for all visitors during Art Walk from 5 to 9 in the evening of the first Wednesday of every month. 2. Take a Tour Going on a tour of the museum is the best way to gain an in-depth appreciation of the exhibits and learn about the stories behind contemporary artworks. You can take a self-guided virtual tour from the comfort of your own home for a chance to explore a 360-degree view of the artwork at any time during the day. Alternatively, you can schedule a live-guided virtual tour by appointment to hear from an expert and learn something new about contemporary art. Tours at the museum are provided to the public at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, and you can also schedule a virtual tour for a private group. When planning your private tour, be sure to reserve your time slot two weeks in advance, and check pricing on the museum's website to find the deal that works for you. School groups are encouraged to book virtual tours, and curriculums are specifically crafted to grade level and filled with informative content. 3. Explore the Exhibits No matter what time you visit, you can always count on the permanent collection of exhibits at the museum to offer a unique perspective. Collections are sorted into six categories that include Art as a Social Commentary, The Evolution of Mark-making, Material as Meaning, New Media, Process and Object Relationship, and (Re)presentation. On any visit, you can explore the metaphor of architecture for the human experience, view art made from salvaged clothes, and more. Current exhibits include Romancing the Mirror, which features the new generation of female artists, Ally Brody: Public Domain, which explores the reach of street art, and Project Atrium: Carl Joe Williams, which is inspired by African American quilt patterns. In addition, you can study the connection between art and geometry with The Circle and the Square or discover the work of contemporary printmakers with the Contemporary Perspectives in Printmedia exhibit. There's no better place to discover the contemporary art scene than at the MOCA, and art critics and casual viewers alike are sure to enjoy every minute at the museum. Once you've planned your trip, head over to Mazda City of Orange Park for unbeatable deals on vehicles and services!

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