Image via Flickr by Rich Jones 

The Jacksonville Dolphins were one of the most well-known college sports teams in Jacksonville, Florida, history. Known for being a popular intercollegiate football team, the Dolphins played for Jacksonville University until the university discontinued the team in 2019. 

While Jacksonville is currently home to many impressive sports teams, here at Keith Pierson Toyota, we’re sure that the Dolphins will be deeply missed by their fans in northeast Florida and will be remembered for years to come. 

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If you’ve decided you’d like a fresh start behind the wheel of a new vehicle, you can choose between buying a car outright or leasing one. Both options have their benefits and will be attractive to different groups of customers. Here at Keith Pierson Toyota, we offer competitive auto financing and leasing deals for you to explore.

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The compact sedan world has benefited from models such as the Toyota Corolla and the Honda Civic. If you’re on the hunt for your next style-forward and city-ready sedan in Jacksonville, Florida, you have your work cut out for you. Let’s explore how the 2022 Corolla and Civic compare and why we prefer the Toyota.

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Jacksonville, Florida, is home to some amazing beaches, fantastic restaurants, wild nightlife, and other local gems that are sure to keep anyone busy. Whether you’re a single person looking for a place to hang out with friends, a couple needing date night activities, or a family in need of some kid-friendly fun, there’s something for you to do any given day, especially on the weekends. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Jacksonville on any weekend throughout the year, then check out these six activities you can do to fill up your weekend with fun.

Relax in Luxury at Amelia Island

Amelia Island is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway that’s still close to home. Take the 40-mile trip northeast for a destination that has a little something for everyone. The beaches at Amelia Island aren’t nearly as crowded as they get here in Jax, so you can spread out on the sand and enjoy the water without bumping shoulders. You can also spend your days exploring nature, like hiking in Amelia Island State Park, riding a Hydro Bike or kayaking on the water, or renting a charter boat for a deep-sea fishing expedition.

Amelia Island is also home to amazing restaurants, both casual and formal. Head to Salt at the Ritz-Carlton for seafood in a luxury coastal atmosphere, or visit the Tavern by Amelia Island Brewing Company for delicious eats that pair with their unique brews. 

But if you really want luxury, book a weekend stay at one of the resorts in the area. The Omni Amelia Island Resort features a full-service spa, pools, sports, sports clinics, Segway and tours for adults and children, group kayaking and nature excursions, and fitness classes. The Ritz-Carlton also has a full-service spa, access to the Golf Club of Amelia and its 18-hole championship course, tennis courts, private beach rentals and beach access, and both an indoor and outdoor pool.

Catch a Show

With multiple small and large-scale event venues in Jacksonville, you’ll never have a dull weekend. The Florida Theatre is a historic venue that plays host to national comedy acts, including Bob Saget and Bill Maher, musical acts, like the Righteous Brothers and Gladys Knight, and other specialty shows for kids and adults. Times Union Center hosts symphony shows, comedy acts, musical theater, and national touring acts of all kinds. TIAA Bank Field is home to the Jaguars, who you can catch playing on Sundays.

Party in Five Points

Stay in Jacksonville for the weekend and enjoy the bustling, historic neighborhood of Five Points. This place features some of the city’s best (and most unique) restaurants and cafes, fabulous shopping centers (including plenty of antique shops and small boutiques), a dog-friendly park, and many awesome bars and clubs. In fact, Five Points is one of the best places to enjoy Jax’s nightlife, especially on the weekend.

For instance, Root Down Jax has beer and wine on tap, plus, this place often hosts cool weekend events, like a silent disco with multiple local DJs, local musical acts, artisan markets, and holiday-themed events, like for Cinco de Mayo. And Rain Dogs hosts music-themed DJ nights, including Hip Hop and Hookah on the first and third Friday of the month, and local artisan markets.

“Hike” the Jax Ale Trail

Grab your Brewery Passport and head off onto the Jax Ale Trail. You can visit one, a few, or all of the collection of local Jacksonville breweries over a weekend on your own. Coordinate your trips to Aardwolf, Bold City, Fishweir, Engine 15, Hyperion, and other local breweries on weekend days when they’re hosting special events, like free concerts, cannot-miss drink specials, visiting food trucks, and holiday events. Or, you can join up with a local tour group so you don’t have to drink alone.

Shop at a Local Market

It’s not just the hip clubs and bars that host local markets; you can find quite a few weekend markets throughout the year in Jacksonville. If you’re looking to stock up on fruits, veggies, imported items, and ethnic foods and ingredients, then you’ve got to hit up the Jacksonville Farmers Market. While this market is open throughout the week, Saturday and Sunday are convenient days to roam around the area, check out all the stalls, and browse the offerings from each vendor. Some of the items you’re likely to find here include produce from local growers, artisan cheese, and ready-to-cook packaged veggie selections.

Another local market you have to visit is the Riverside Arts Market, which is only held on Saturdays. Here you’ll find vendors selling baked goods and sweets, fresh-picked produce, homemade tea blends and coffees, candles, clothing and accessories, jewelry, soaps and bath products, books written by local authors, art, and much more. It’s a great market to spend the whole day browsing vendors’ wares, buying unique gifts, or stocking up on ingredients for the week’s meals. Or, you can go just to browse and each freshly made food, like burgers, chicken, and ice cream, from one of the food trucks.

Tour a Museum

Jacksonville is home to multiple museums, including small museums focused on local history and large museums that cover a variety of cool topics. 

The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens features more than 5,000 works of art that span centuries of artists, and its historic gardens are home to fountains and sculptures placed around both native and non-native plants, flowers, shrubs, and trees. The Cummer Museum offers free admission on the first Saturday of every month and hosts events with hands-on activities for kids and lectures.

The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) has dozens of fantastic, hands-on exhibits that explore the wonders of the world. While you can visit the museum during your fun weekend, consider signing up for MOSH After Dark, an adults-only science experiment event that involves cocktails, Mind Over Matter yoga events, or the kid-friendly MOST Molecules events.

So there you have it, six things to do on the weekend in Jacksonville. Did we miss any of your favorite weekend fun destinations? Let us know! Contact Keith Pierson Toyota, and we’ll be sure to add it to our growing list.

Tags: fun in jacksonville, things to do, weekend guide
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When you want to take someone special out for a date in the Jacksonville area, you’re in luck. With so many restaurants, lounges, and natural settings in Jacksonville, it’s a breeze to find a unique and romantic activity.

Take a Sunset Cruise With St. Johns River Taxi & Tours

See the sparkling lights of the Jacksonville skyline from the open-air passenger boat when you take a sunset cruise with St. Johns Taxis & Tours. Once you and your date board the boat, you’ll cruise along the St. Johns River toward Riverside, Avondale, and San Marco. You’ll watch the sunset while listening to great music and then will return to see the city lights twinkling on the water. You’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages, including libations, to enjoy during your cruise.

Location: 1015 Museum Circle

Telephone: 904-860-8294

Take a Tour of Manifest Distilling

Manifest Distilling is an organic distillery that uses grains, potatoes, and citrus sourced from co-ops that use sustainable growing practices. All of the spirits that Manifest Distilling makes are made in American-made equipment with products grown in North America.

A fun way to learn about the distillation process is by taking a tour of the plant. You’ll get a detailed experience of the production process including mashing, fermentation, and distillation. The tour even includes how they bottle and package the spirits. At the end of the tour, you’ll get to sample some of their beverages. Be sure to stop by the Cocktail Room to enjoy a handcrafted cocktail made with Manifest Distillery’s spirits.

Location: 960 E. Forsyth St.

Telephone: 904-619-1479

Go Camping at Little Talbot Island State Park

You’ll find 5 miles of pristine beaches and loads of solitude when you visit Little Talbot Island State Park. This barrier island is ideal to stroll along looking for pretty shells, watching for colorful birds, enjoying the sunset, then camping under the stars. After a fun day watching dolphins playing in the water, have a picnic at the water’s edge and watch the sunset. Then, head to your campsite and build a crackling fire and enjoy sharing stories with each other. The next morning, you can go fishing, kayaking, or hiking before heading back to the vibrant city of Jacksonville.

Location: 12157 Heckscher Drive

Telephone: 904-251-2320

Share a Pizza at Prati Italia

Have a fun date night sharing a delicious pizza at Prati Italia. This locally owned restaurant serves Roman-style pizzas, homemade pasta, and craft cocktails using the freshest and finest ingredients. As you walk into Prati Italia, you’ll notice the mouthwatering aromatic smells of the garlic, tomatoes, and herbs that are used on the pizzas. Once seated, order a cocktail or a bottle of wine to share and enjoy an appetizer like truffle fries or steamed mussels.

Dive into your pizza with offerings such as The Quinn covered in garlic cream, fresh mozzarella cheese, local mushrooms, and a drizzle of truffle oil. For the ultimate meat pizza, try The Godfather with salami, soppressata, pepperoni, sausage, asiago, and parmesan cheese. Save room for dessert with sweets like tiramisu or flourless chocolate cake.

Location: 4972 Big Island Drive

Telephone: 904-998-9744

See a Show at the Florida Theatre

Since 1927, patrons have been entertained by live performances held at the Florida Theatre. Shows are presented in a stunning building that’s on the National Register of Historic Places. This 1,900-seat theater is a great place for a date night when you want to support performing artists while enjoying each other’s company. You can see stand-up comedians like Bob Saget or Bill Maher, or listen to music from top-name musicians and bands like Dwight Yoakam, Parker McCollum, or Air Supply. Other performances include the mind-boggling Peking Acrobats or the humorous Mystery Science Theater.

Location: 128 E. Forsyth St.

Telephone: 904-355-5661

Enjoy Tex-Mex Cuisine at El Jefe

If you enjoy margaritas and Mexican cuisine while listening to lively Latin-inspired music, head over to El Jefe for a fun Tex-Mex experience. With roots in Texas and after discovering how delicious nachos were at the age of 7, Chef Scott Schwartz fell in love with Tex-Mex food. After moving to Jacksonville, Schwartz decided to open up El Jefe to share the zesty flavors and vibrant Tex-Mex food with others.

After arriving at your table, order one of El Jefe’s signature margaritas to sip on while nibbling on chips and guacamole and sharing a plate of spicy nachos. As you move on from appetizers, you can have wood-grilled steak carne asada tacos or enjoy tacos filled with slow-smoked brisket. Go full Tex-Mex with cheesy enchiladas or have super combo fajitas with steak, chicken, brisket, and shrimp smothered with sour cream and pico de gallo. Be sure to share the tasty coconut flan for dessert.

Location: 947 Edgewood Ave. St.

Telephone: 904-619-0938

Enjoy a Cocktail With Views of Jacksonville

Have a romantic cocktail and an intimate conversation while enjoying sweeping views of Jacksonville when you have a drink on the rooftop terrace of River & Post. The mixologists at River & Post create unique and classic cocktails on a nightly basis. While enjoying your beverage and the views, share small plates of food like the flatbread, barbecue bacon shrimp, or a sushi roll. If you head to the rooftop lounge at sunset, you’ll be treated to a colorful view. Once the sun goes down, you’ll be mesmerized by the twinkling lights of downtown Jacksonville.

Location: 1000 Riverside Ave.

Telephone: 904-575-2366

Our team at Keith Pierson Toyota hopes you and your date had a wonderful time at these fabulous Jacksonville locations and attractions. What activity did you enjoy the most? Is there a hidden gem of a place perfect for date night that we missed? If you can recommend a place that you enjoy, let us know and we’ll add the spot to our list.

If you’d like a new Toyota to get you and your date to these awesome Jacksonville locations, stop by Keith Pierson Toyota today and we can help you find the perfect vehicle to get you where you need to go.

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With 2022 quickly approaching, the team at Keith Pierson Toyota would like to give you a brief glimpse into some of the fun and exciting events taking place in Jacksonville next year. Whether you’re an anime fan, a music enthusiast, a devoted animal lover, or someone with a whole different set of hobbies and interests, there is something for you to enjoy in Jacksonville.

Jacksonville Boat Show

January 28 – 30, 2022

Come and see a wide variety of boats at the North Florida Marine Association’s annual Jacksonville Boat Show. From ski boats and fishing boats to cruisers and personal watercraft, you’ll see an abundance of boats on display. There will also be vendors set up that can meet all of your boating needs, and some of those boating wishes, too. 

When you’re done marveling at all the floating vessels, stay for one of the seminars or kid’s events. Captain Tim Altman of Hoodoo Sportfishing Charters will be giving two seminars over the weekend. Donna Frantz with Fishing 101 will host a Kid’s Fishing Clinic where they’ll also have a chance to win a rod and reel combo courtesy of Barracuda Batteries.

Ticket prices are as follows: Adults $15, children under 12 $5, seniors $12, and military and first responders $12.

The Simon and Garfunkel Story

February 6, 2022

The Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts will be showcasing “The Simon and Garfunkel Story” in February 2022. With huge projection photos displayed and original film footage being shown, a live band will be performing all the hits of this duo, including “Mrs. Robinson,” “Cecilia,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” and “Homeward Bound”.

Throughout the evening, you’ll experience the entire journey of this folk-rock combo, from their humble beginnings to their incredible success as one of the best-selling music groups of the 60s. The night will end with the famous “The Concert in Central Park” reunion from the 1980s, which more than half a million fans attended.

Collective Con

March 11 – 13, 2022

If you’re an avid fan of all things anime, comic book, sci-fi/fantasy, and pop culture, you won’t want to miss Collective Con in March 2022. Held at the Jacksonville Expo Center, this weekend is full of celebrity guests, voice actors, vendors, fan panels, video game tournaments, cosplay contests, and so much more. A few confirmed guests so far include Emily Swallow (“The Mandalorian”), Yuri Lowenthal (“Naruto”), and Johnny Yong Bosch (“Bleach”). Creative guests include Gary Whitta (“Rogue One”), Sam De La Rosa (“Venom”, “Spider-Man”), and Mitsuhiro Arita (“Pokemon TCG”).  

Ticket prices begin at $25 per person. Children 10 and under are free.

All Female Ride

April 1 – 3, 2022

The All Female Ride was created to build a bridge of support for women motorcyclists as well as provide resources for both beginners and seasoned riders. The goal of this event is to share life experiences and create an incredible networking system for women riders from all walks of life. At this event, you’ll be connecting with women from several other states as you ride together, while also motivating and supporting each another. 

Registration begins on Friday, April 1, at Adamec Harley Davidson. The motorcycle ride will take place on Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. with a police escort and a luncheon to follow. The fee for this event is $25.

Jacksonville Jazz Fest

May 26 – 29, 2022

The Jacksonville Jazz Fest is free and one of the largest jazz festivals in the country. What began as the All That Jazz Festival in 1981 has featured a stunning line-up of jazz legends over the years, including Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, Branford Marsalis, and Harry Connick, Jr. Along with amazing musicians, you’ll experience great food, tons of fun, and plenty of free live entertainment.

When you attend, be sure to stop by the Jazz Marketplace. Here you’ll meet artists and creators who display their original wares and unique handiwork. You won’t want to miss the Piano Competition, Jazz Jam, or the Sacred Jazz Brunch. Consider enhancing your festival experience with Premium Experience Packages that give you exclusive access to front-stage seating, reserved parking, VIP wristbands, $200 in food and beverage credits, and much more.

Show Me Reptile and Exotics Show

June 25 – 26, 2022

Show Me Reptile and Exotics Show is a premier reptile expo for both the reptile lover and those who would like to learn more about this curious species. The creator of this expo, Show Me Snakes, has a desire to provide a memorable experience for those who attend and encourage safe and responsible reptile keeping. 

Held at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds, you’ll enjoy a day of learning, exploring, and understanding more about the reptile world with others who respect and care for these animals. You’ll also find everything you need to take proper care of your own reptiles, including high-quality equipment like lighting, heating, feeders, substrates, enclosures, and more. There are also educational stations, face painting kiosks, delicious food, and many other activities. Feel free to ask any of the vendors or staff at the show if you have questions.

Ticket prices begin at $7 per person. You can also purchase a Weekend Warrior package for $20 that will give you access to the show for both days.

Riverside Fall Festival

November 13, 2022

The Riverside Fall Festival is a positive, family-friendly event that welcomes the fall season with carnival games, local food trucks, live music performances, and more. Many local businesses are supporting this seasonal experience, which is free and open to the entire Jacksonville community. 

You can easily fill up your 2022 calendar with all that Jacksonville has to offer. From sports games and music festivals to wedding expos and family-friendly carnivals, there’s absolutely no reason to be bored in this popular Florida metropolis. Is there a favorite celebration of yours that isn’t mentioned here? If so, we’d love to hear about it. Contact us today and we’ll be happy to add it to this list. At Keith Pierson Toyota, we enjoy sharing highly recommended Jacksonville interests and locales to both residents and visitors in the area.

Tags: 2022, jacksonville, new year, things to do
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Jacksonville is in North Florida on the Atlantic coast and is known for sun and fun and offers plenty of things to do. Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean the fun ends. Even with cooler days and longer nights, it’s still a sunny retreat for anyone visiting from farther north. With its mild climate, even in the winter, you can still enjoy outdoor activities with only a jacket to keep you comfortable. So while you might forgo a swim until another time of year, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to keep you busy throughout the winter months.

Indoor Ice Skating

Ready for a more traditional winter activity? Try indoor ice skating at the Community First Igloo rink located at 3605 Philips Highway. It offers daily public skating and figure skating and youth and adult hockey. Never skated before? Don’t be daunted. Sign up for the weekly skate classes that start at $85 per month plus the $50 annual sign-up fee. An experienced teacher will ensure you’ll be skating in no time, and even more importantly, teach you how to stop once you’ve got going. Check the calendar for times for the public skate, classes, and special events. 

Visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is one of only seven zoos in the country with a dedicated animal welfare team ensuring that all animals are healthy, happy, and receiving the best care possible. General admission tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for children from 3 to 12, and $23 for seniors. You can also pay a little more and get the Total Experience tickets, including access to the zoo, 4D theater, unlimited train, unlimited carousel rides, and limited animal feedings. The zoo is located at 370 Zoo Parkway and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens offers more than 100 acres of exhibits and gardens. You’ll also find a gift shop, a sweet shop, two cafes, a restaurant, and a Kona ice cream van. You can see local animals such as the Florida bobcat and Florida manatee, as well as species from all around the world, including magnificent Malayan and Sumatran tigers, the fearsome Komodo Dragon, and the rare Blue-eyed Black Lemur. There are over 150 different species at the zoo, including exotic birds, curious mammals, snakes, other reptiles, newts and amphibians, fish, and other water creatures.

Art and History Museums

A local museum or art gallery visit is a great way to pass a gray winter day. In Jacksonville, you won’t find a shortage of them with over a dozen different museums on offer. An excellent place to start is the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, located along the Riverfront at 829 Riverside Avenue. This museum was founded in 1958 by art collector Ninah Cummer who donated her home and collection to form the largest fine art museum in North Florida, with over 5,000 pieces of art in its collection.

Other Jacksonville museums include the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, one of nine such museums in the country that preserve the original works of important authors, thinkers, and philosophers. Located downtown is the Museum of Science and History which features the Bryan-Golding Planetarium, which is the largest single-lens planetarium in the world. You can spend hours in this museum learning about the history of Northeast Florida through thousands of years of change. If history is your thing, you can also check out the Ritz Theatre and Museum, which houses an extensive collection of African American history from the area.

White Sands Beachwalk

Florida’s mild weather means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get outside whatever the time of year. Jacksonville is lucky enough to be located beside the ocean with over 20 miles of white sand beaches. The main beaches you’ll find in the city are Jacksonville Beach, Mayport Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach, with multiple access points along the way. Winter is the dry season in Florida, perfect for a long walk on an uncrowded beach. You can take in the sunrise over the water if you arrive early enough, then look for pretty shells to take home.

The Florida Theatre

The Florida Theatre first opened to the public in 1927 as a venue for both movies, live shows, and more, with seven stories in total. It is one of only four surviving high-style movie palaces from that era built in Florida. Today it plays host to many traveling acts and events throughout the year and is home to the Florida Ballet, the children’s theatre program Theatreworks, and the Community Nutcracker, which is performed every year in December and is now in its 30th year. So if you’re looking for a show to attend this winter, you’re sure to find something interesting.

Jacksonville Riverwalks

The St. Johns River runs through Jacksonville, with a north and south riverwalk on each side. The Northbank Riverwalk is on the downtown side and starts at East Coastline Drive, goes past the Riverfront Plaza, and continues for a total length of 2 miles of riverside views. The shorter Southbank Riverwalk runs for 1.2 miles from the Friendship Fountain in Friendship Park to the Grand Site historical place. Start your weekend day with a walk or jog along the river, taking in the views, then head downtown for a spot of brunch at any of the many eateries.

Jacksonville is a thriving, diverse city with much to do throughout the year. Take in some museums and cultural centers, go for a walk on the white sand beaches, enjoy a live show, and visit one of the best zoos in the county, all within the city. So whether you live in Jacksonville or are here on a visit, we at Keith Pierson Toyota hope you’ve enjoyed this list and have been inspired to get out and try something new. Contact us and tell us what activity you are most excited to go try.

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When you’re looking for an amazing cup of coffee, and possibly a sweet treat or two to go with it, you will find some incredible coffee shops in the Jacksonville area. At Keith Pierson Toyota, we love starting our day with a fresh cup of joe and look forward to trying new coffee drinks from time to time. Try these highly rated and often recommended coffee bistros for some of the best-tasting brews in Jacksonville.

Bold Bean Coffee Roasters

At Bold Bean Coffee Roasters, their mission is to not only source, roast, and serve remarkable coffees, but to also foster community, be kind to others, and of course, have fun. Founded in 2007, this coffee bistro focuses on serving the Jacksonville community by providing aromatic, sustainably-sourced coffee. They build relationships with various vendors in their supply chain, believing this is the best way to discover the finest coffee available.

What sets Bold Bean apart from its competitors is it’s in-house gas-fired coffee roaster, which provides the staff with precise control over how the beans taste and smell. They also offer three different coffee subscriptions — Roaster’s Choice, Sweet Spot, and Decaf. Roaster’s Choice is a rotating selection of their globally sourced coffees. The Sweet Spot is their signature blend of Latin American coffees and the Decaf subscription is a full-bodied coffee from Risaralda, Columbia. You can choose the frequency of shipments as well as the bag size and grind size. 

Silver Cow

The Silver Cow is an all-in-one coffee shop, neighborhood bar, and community gathering place. Enjoy a great hot coffee or Vietnamese iced coffee on your way to work and then stop back that evening for a craft soda, artisan beer, or glass of boutique wine. Located in historic Murray Hill, this coffee shop features several refreshments such as tea, Italian cream soda, and cider, and light bites like retro candy, Charcuterie snack plates, packaged snacks, and olive and cracker plates. Don’t forget to enjoy a vintage board game or two as well. 

This local coffee boutique is the ideal location for a team-building meeting or a group workshop. The free Wi-Fi and two large flat-screen televisions can be used for any presentation. Plan a small get-together with friends and enjoy a glass of wine or one of their mimosas. What truly makes this place unique is its pet-friendly atmosphere. Take your pup for a walk and stop on by the Silver Cow for an afternoon caffeine recharge.

Brass Tacks Coffee Co.

The mission of Brass Tacks Coffee Co. is to make great coffee more accessible. They do just that by providing amazing coffee that is served by approachable baristas in a friendly cafe atmosphere. Along with their traditional coffee drinks like the cappuccino, iced latte, or cold brew coffee with a wide variety of syrups, Brass Tacks also serves chai lattes, blended matcha, hot or iced tea, and kombucha. If you are interested in serving their coffee in your restaurant, church, or office building, they also provide wholesale coffee for small businesses and organizations.

Brass Tacks serves an interesting menu full of espresso, coffees, and teas, as well as both breakfast, lunch, and snack bites. Stop by on your way to work for a quick hot coffee and breakfast dish like a Build Your Own Burrito, biscuits and gravy, or Nutella waffles. Enjoy a leisurely lunch break with a Chai latte and a Chicken Pot Pie Biscuit, Greek Garden Wrap, or soft Bavarian pretzel with your choice of toppings.

Southern Roots Filling Station

Southern Roots Filling Station is known as Jacksonville’s favorite vegan cafe. With a focus on sustainability and high-quality ingredients, their goal is to inspire community through a commitment to food, coffee, culture, and the environment. The menu is simple and consists of coffee and espresso drinks as well as tea and matcha beverages. And, of course, because it is a plant-based cafe, all of its food offerings are vegan and gluten-free.

Not only does Southern Roots serve remarkable coffee but it also serves in-house made-from-scratch baked goods daily. With a selection of donuts, muffins, scones, biscuits, oat bars, and cookies, all their pastries are inspired by the various seasons. If you have an upcoming birthday celebration or office party, be sure to take advantage of their catering services. Donuts by the dozens, birthday cakes, and mini-cookies are a few of their specialty baked good items you can order for group occasions.

Sago Coffee

Sago Coffee has a mission to bring the beach community together by serving great-tasting coffee in an uplifting atmosphere. By serving their amazing brew to the people of Jacksonville, the owners of Sago aspire to make a positive change in the community. The owners of Sago also believe in giving back in meaningful ways which is why they partner with a wide range of local causes such as Hunger Fight. This early childhood literacy program provides age-appropriate books to preschoolers who attend daycare in low-income areas.

The menu at Sago offers various coffees, teas, signature drinks, sweet and savory dishes, and a kid’s menu. Enjoy a cortado, macchiato, or nitro cold brew, or one of their pour-over brews such as Xocomil from Guatemala or Cerro El Tigre from El Salvador. Order a coconut oolong tea, masala chai, or turmeric ginger tea. For a light lunch or dinner, try the chicken salad sandwich on a toasted croissant, an avocado bacon bagel, or a bowl of their seasonal soup with a slice of their sourdough bread.

When you need a sweet treat, consider ordering the Affogato, a scoop of French vanilla gelato with a double shot of hot espresso. You may also want to try the Liege Waffle, which is a Belgian-style waffle filled with sugar pearls and served warm.

Have you tried any of these local coffee shops? If not, which one do you think you’ll be visiting first? If there’s a favorite of yours that we missed, we’d love to hear about it. Simply contact us to let us know and we’ll be happy to add it to our list. We’re always looking for great recommendations for local shops and businesses in the Jacksonville area. 

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When you buy a new or used vehicle from Keith Pierson Toyota, it will run as smoothly and efficiently as the day it left the factory. But, to keep your car driving like new, it needs to have regular maintenance and servicing. An important element of servicing is having the filters cleaned or replaced. 

Dirty and clogged filters can affect your car’s performance, fuel economy, and even the air that you breathe in the cabin. In this article, we’ll take a look at the different types of filters, what they do, and why you need to have them replaced regularly.

Types of Car Filters

Every gasoline- or diesel-powered car has four main filters, or five if it has an automatic transmission. They are the engine oil filter, engine air filter, fuel filter, cabin air filter, and if applicable, a transmission filter. Your car’s filters all have the same basic purpose: to catch impurities and ensure the free flow of fluids and air. This includes capturing dirt and contaminants in the car’s fuel or oil and removing dust and impurities from the air. 

Your car needs to breathe as much as you do, and if you don’t have the filters replaced regularly when you drive the Jacksonville roads, they will become more and more clogged until they don’t work properly. Eventually, that will affect the engine’s efficiency and impact the air quality inside your vehicle. Your car will run better and use less fuel if your filters are changed regularly.

Oil Filter

Your car’s engine operates at very high temperatures as the various parts move together to make the vehicle run. Engine oil is essential to lubricate all the moving components to reduce friction and absorb heat from the engine. This ensures the car runs at its best and most efficient, and reduces wear to prolong the life of your engine.

As the oil circulates, it can pick up contaminants, such as dirt, metallic particles, and oxidized oil. The oil filter catches these impurities and cleans the oil, so it can continue to circulate efficiently. The filter has sufficient capacity to hold all the impurities while remaining completely functional until the car is due for an oil change.

If you wait too long to change your oil filter, it will eventually allow contaminants to pass through. That can result in poor performance, the premature wear of engine components, or even engine failure, meaning an expensive repair. Signs your filter is overdue for replacement include a sputtering or jerky engine, metallic engine noises, and a drop in oil pressure.

You should change your car’s oil filter (along with the oil) every 3,000 to 7,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and your vehicle’s age. The climate in Jacksonville, Florida, can be quite harsh on your engine, so more frequent changes would be preferable.

Fuel Filter

Fuel is clean when it leaves the refinery, but by the time it has passed through delivery trucks and gas station tanks, it can become contaminated before it even gets to your vehicle. Your car’s engine depends on the clean delivery of fuel via the fuel pump and injectors to run well. 

The fuel filter is a small cartridge that fits inside the fuel line and is designed to catch any impurities before it passes through to the injectors. It helps protect the fuel injectors and maintain the performance and life span of your engine. 

When the fuel filter becomes obstructed, the flow of fuel is reduced and the pump has to work much harder to draw fuel. You might have trouble starting up your car, notice poor acceleration, or experience misfiring and stalling. The abrasive nature of contaminants in the fuel can cause excessive wear, damage delicate parts, and cause the failure of the fuel pump and injectors.

It’s generally recommended to replace the fuel filter after 30,000 miles or two years. Check your car’s manual or visit our service department at Keith Pierson Toyota for advice.

Engine Air Filter

For an internal combustion engine to work, it needs a combination of fuel, oxygen, and sparks. The air flowing into the engine needs to be clean for the combustion process to work effectively and to give you efficient power delivery. Air comes into the air intake from the front of the car as you drive. 

The air filter is situated just behind the intake under the hood and is designed to keep out road grime, dust, sand, bugs, water, and anything else that comes in through the grille from the Jacksonville highways. A clogged air filter can lead to an incomplete combustion process, causing your engine to sputter, blow out black smoke, and use more fuel. This filter is one of the easiest components to remove to clean or replace. 

Transmission Filter

If your car has an automatic transmission, it will also have a transmission filter located just above the transmission fluid pan. The transmission filter prevents dirt, debris, and metal particles from getting into the transmission gears. Changing the transmission filter is a job for one of the expert technicians in our Keith Pierson Toyota service center. Signs that the filter needs to be replaced could be clunky gear changes, strange noises when shifting gear, or a burning smell from the transmission.

Cabin Air Filter

The cabin air filter is part of your car’s heating and ventilation system and prevents air pollutants such as dust and pollen from entering the cabin. If your vehicle has a carbon-activated cabin filter, it will also help keep out exhaust fumes and other odors. The cabin filter helps you breathe cleaner air and extends the life of your car’s HVAC system.

When you bring your car for a service at Keith Pierson Toyota, our technicians will check and replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. Contact us today to schedule a service or to ask our advice if you have any concerns about your car’s filters.

Tags: car filters, filters, guide to car filters, Toyota service
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If you’re looking for delicious family-friendly dining in the Jacksonville area, we have plenty of suggestions for you to check out. Our area has as many places to dine as it has things to do, ensuring that families here are never bored. Try these options when you need to find a satisfying bite for everyone, from kids to adults.

Harp’s American Pub & Grill

Harp’s caters to everyone in the family with an impressive beer and wine selection for parents and more than half a dozen dishes just for the kids. The Youngins’ section of the menu offers more than a few laughs with names like “I’m Not Hungry,” “I Don’t Know,” “I Don’t Care,” and “Blank Stare” for the dishes. It’s never been easier for kids to order for themselves. Even the stubborn “Nothing” translates to fried or grilled fish on this playful menu. Even picky eaters will enjoy the lineup of go-to options like grilled cheese, chicken fingers, marinara pasta, and hot dogs.

Meanwhile, the adults in the party can enjoy specialties like chicken-topped Tijuana nachos, fried shrimp, and Fettuccine Alfredo. The menu also includes paninis, wings, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and frankfurters. With options this diverse, you’re sure to find something for everyone.

The Local

If you’re looking for a welcoming atmosphere, thoughtfully crafted meals, and a beguiling kid’s menu, you’ve found it. The Local focuses on creating the same beloved environment you find when you’re home for dinner at Mama’s. Every menu includes a selection for kids. As you’re enjoying a gourmet taste of The Blue Goat for brunch with blueberry bread pudding, whipped goat cheese, and a fresh strawberry puree, your kids can dig into bacon, scrambled eggs, and home fries or strawberry-topped waffles. 

The lunch menu features half a grilled cheese, chicken nuggets, or half of a ham or turkey sandwich for kids. Meanwhile, the rest of your party can try the bistro burger on a grilled ciabatta bun or alluring Wonder Tacos topped with grilled chicken, red cabbage, sweet chili aioli, and WonderSauce. The dinner menu adds pasta with butter or marinara and grilled chicken and corn for kids while adults can get mouthwatering entrees like Argentinian salmon or Churrasco New York strip. Everyone is sure to leave happy from this spot.

Dockside Seafood Restaurant

Kids will enjoy Dockside Seafood Restaurant before they’ve even seen the menu. The atmosphere alone is enough to coax a friendly attitude from your little ones. This oceanfront restaurant offers engaging views of the marsh and boats, so you can chat about the watercraft as you wait for your food. The “First Mates” kid’s menu includes fried fish bites, fried shrimp, chicken strips, hot dogs, and grilled cheese. All kid’s baskets come with fries, hush puppies, and a drink, so no one will leave hungry.

Adults can enjoy seafood baskets featuring shrimp, scallops, clam strips, oysters, deviled crabs, calamari, haddock, crab cakes, and more. All come with fries, slaw, hush puppies, and your choice of sauce. This is the perfect stop when you’re craving satisfying seafood in a welcoming, homey restaurant.

Mama’s Pizza & Grill

Few things are as kid-friendly as pizza and pasta, which is what makes Mama’s Pizza & Grill such a winner. If you’re after a family pizza, you’ll find an abundance of options, including New York-style and Chicago-style pizzas. Combine all the kids’ favorites in one decadent dish with the baked mac and cheese pizza or keep it classic with a pepperoni pizza. If you have adventurous eaters, you might even try options like the fruit pizza with ham, pineapple, and a hint of coconut. 

Mama’s also has a kid’s menu that features chicken fingers, mac and cheese, sub sandwiches, spaghetti or ziti with marinara, and a giant meatball topped with marinara and a slice of mozzarella. Everyone in the family will love the dessert selection, which includes cannoli, chocolate cake, tres leches, zeppole, baklava cheesecake, tiramisu, and more. Fresh, delicious, and overflowing with flavor, all the food at Mama’s is made to please, bringing classic Italian hospitality to Florida.

Jerry’s Grille

At Jerry’s Grille, everything is made fresh, right down to the ice cream. This destination isn’t just kid-friendly, it’s pet-friendly too, so you can bring everyone in the family. High-definition TVs throughout the restaurant keep all the latest games on, so there’s something to entertain curious eyes as you wait for your food. 

Everything on the kid’s menu comes with a drink and your choice of slaw or fries. Kids can choose from a hot dog, grilled cheese, fried shrimp, chicken tenders, 5 oz. burger, or homemade mac and cheese. Adults will enjoy a selection of wings, quesadillas, wraps, sandwiches, burgers, seafood baskets, and more. 

Every meal just begs for a sweet finish here. Jerry’s specialty is the housemade banana nut bread with banana nut ice cream, topped with a butter pecan glaze, powdered sugar, and whipped cream. If you need enough for the family, this dessert is also sold by the loaf with a quart of housemade ice cream. Other options for your sweet tooth include an ice cream sundae, milkshake, housemade cobbler of the week, and warm brownie delight.

The Bearded Pig

The Bearded Pig is a mouthwatering BBQ joint that caters thoughtfully to everyone in the family. The flavorful meat selection includes brisket, pulled pork, turkey, sausage, chicken, beef rib, and spareribs. Pair these hearty picks with sides like mac and cheese, potato salad, slaw, baked beans, and collard greens for the essential Southern dining experience.

If your kids don’t like the regular menu, the kid’s menu offers chicken nuggets, hot dogs, and a BBQ sandwich with brisket, pulled pork, or turkey. All kid’s meals come with a drink and side. Dessert is a must-taste option with banana pudding, chocolate chip cookies, vanilla ice cream, and a Nutella brownie sundae on the menu.

Did we include your favorite family restaurant in Jacksonville? If we missed a great spot, contact our team at Keith Pierson Toyota and let us know so we can update our suggestions!

Tags: best restaurants, kid friendly restaurants, restaurants, things to do, things to do in jacksonville
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