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People flock to Jacksonville to enjoy the beautiful beaches and the long, hot summers. After a few hours in the sun, however, a little cooling down may be necessary. There's nothing more refreshing on a hot, summer day than cold ice cream. If you're in Jacksonville and looking for a refreshing treat, you've in the right spot. 1. Sweet Pete's Ice Cream This ice cream spot is magical. As their slogan says, this place is more than just a shop: it's an experience. The decor is whimsical and strives to cater to your childhood fantasies as much as it strives to cater to your sweet tooth. You'll definitely get “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” vibes when you walk in. You can even visit the shop's candy factory and watch as the candy is made. more 2. Kilwins in Jacksonville This shop was originally founded in 1947 and the owners have tried to keep the shop true to the era from which it sprung. So, if you visit, you're sure to see lots of nods to a time long passed, like boat-shaped paper hats, long counters offering lots of delicious treats and hand-spun milkshakes. In addition to offering their own brand of ice-cream, they also offer chocolates and other sweets as well. 3. Three FX Ice Cream and Waffles If you're looking for a unique experience, you'll definitely want to try Three FX Ice Cream and Waffles. At this shop, you can literally watch your ice cream being made. Before the ice cream makes it into your cone, or bowl, it is poured in its liquid form onto a cold plate where the ice cream artist coaxes it with a spatula into a solid, perfectly-textured scoop of ice cream. 4. MayDay Ice Cream MayDay is a contemporary ice cream shop, with a fun, hipster vibe. They make all of their delicious ice cream in-house and they offer really unique flavors like coffee and donuts, blueberry Earl Grey and bourbon pecan. For those who love ice cream but are lactose intolerant, they have several dairy-free flavors that are equally delicious. Fun fact: their name is a nod to our military men who fought in world war II. Pilots found out that the cold air at the high altitudes, at which they flew, provided for making great ice cream. The name of the shop is an acknowledgment that even in bad times, you can find a little joy. 5. Bruster's Real Ice Cream You can get a hint of what this ice cream shop is about from its name. This shop, located on Atlantic Blvd. is all about the ice cream. You'll get big scoops and big flavors but not many frills. If you're a fan of ice cream that probably sounds pretty good to you. They do have some unique creations like their five-cone ice cream cake, however. If you're in town, try one of these awesome ice shops. Afterward, visit Orange Park Chrysler for an awesome deal on a new car or truck.

The weather is always great in Jacksonville, Florida. So don't sit around like a bump on a log this winter. Check out one of these great romantic getaways in the area. Whether you're looking for the perfect place to propose, or simply want to impress a first date, there are dozens of options available to you. But, which romantic getaways are the best in Jacksonville? We've taken the time to highlight which destinations are sure to be a hit with you and that special someone. more Amelia Island Get in your car and head north on 95 for about an hour and you'll find yourself near Amelia Island. This Florida coastal island is oozing with romantic opportunity. We recommend spending a weekend here or more if you can. There's so much to do, or not do, while you're there. You'll find an assortment of nice small shops and quaint romantic restaurants. There's a local playhouse and community theater where you can catch a reproduction of a show you're familiar with or experience something new and spontaneous. You can also choose to simply relax while you're visiting. There are multiple stunning beach fronts to experience and hotels such as the Fairbanks House have spa packages for ultimate relaxation. One Ocean Remington Resort Spending a weekend at the One Ocean Remington Resort is another fabulous way to create some romance around Jacksonville, Florida. If you and your loved one are looking for a truly relaxing experience, this is the place to be. Free beach chairs and an umbrella are provided to you in addition to several in-room amenities. You can get to the Atlantic Ocean by simply stepping out of the hotel. If you're staying for a while and want to check out different beaches, there are over nine different beaches nearby for you to explore. Celebrate your partner in a spacious ocean-view room for a truly unforgettable experience. The Hotel's Azurea restaurant offers up incredible fine dining so you don't even need to leave the resort to find excellent food. There is also an on-site spa which will relieve any tension you have with services such as couples massages, warm stone massages, sea scrubs, and facials. Group multiple services with one of their packages for an added value. Riverdale Inn This mansion-sized house in the Jacksonville area is the perfect romantic getaway. It's a far cry from the larger resorts, but the romance factor is equal or even better. There are only 11 guest rooms at this quiet inn, so you can focus on each other rather than the grandeur and flair of a massive resort. The inn has many convenient amenities not found at larger resorts such as a 24/7 honor bar, free on-site parking, and a cooked-to-order breakfast Monday through Friday. On the weekends, the kitchen creates a stunning breakfast buffet that is not to be missed. The next time you're on the hunt for a romantic weekend in the Jacksonville area, look no further than these three wonderful resorts. Each offers a unique experience that is not to be left off the table. image via pixabay