Outdoors and Buick Encore

You’ve worked hard all week and you’re itching to do something relaxing at the end of the week. Whether that’s a romantic couple of days with your significant other or a family event with all the kiddos, take advantage of one of the many weekend getaways located in and near Jacksonville, TX. We’ve listed some of our favorites that we hope you’ll have a chance to check out for yourself.

3 Weekend Getaways in Driving Distance of Jacksonville, TX

1. Hotel Ritual + Wellness Center

Meditate, enjoy the spa, walk through the healing gardens, and soak in the healing waters here in an environment of soothing and total relaxation. Book the Ritual Super Human Aura Restore package, which is two and a half days of body and hair treatments, ceremonies by trained Reiki masters, all of your healthy meals, and much more. You’ll also love the beautiful amenities and the lovely and cozy rooms.

No matter which activities you indulge in, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and energized. Visit their website for details and prices as well as to see pictures. You’ll want to book your weekend immediately. The establishment is located at 540 El Paso St. in Jacksonville.

2. Elijah’s Retreat, Inc.

This is the place to take your whole family. The kids will love all the activities available, such as horseback riding, tractor rides, and hayrides from your cabin to feed the goats, horses, chickens, and ponies. You can also hike the trails, fish at the pond, pick vegetables and fruit in the garden, or even play in the 24-hour activity barn, which has foosball, ping pong, and a movie projector. At night, you can make s’mores at the bonfire area.

There’s always something to do here, and we haven’t even mentioned the cabins yet! Just go to their website and book your very own cabin for a reasonable price, which includes all activities. Elijah’s Retreat, Inc. can be found at Co. Rd. 3110 in Jacksonville.

3. Kiepersol Bed & Breakfast

Enjoy a romantic time here at this gorgeous venue, located on a wine farm, where you can select from more than a dozen rooms. We recommend the Champagne Room, which boasts a private porch and a hot tub, and it’s also the largest room here. But any room you choose is beautifully decorated and has plush bedding where you’ll get a great night’s sleep. You’ll love the breakfast here as well as the wine tours.

Kiepersol is located at 21508 Merlot Ln. in Tyler, less than a 20-minute drive from Jacksonville.

When you take your trip, why not do so in a new 2023 Chevrolet Equinox? Visit Bacon Auto Country today and ask about our specials. We are located at 5677 N. Jackson.

Drive on Over: 4 Favorite Kid-Friendly Activities Near Jacksonville, TX

Is there anything better than exploring the great outdoors on two wheels? If you love mountain biking, or you just want to bike somewhere other than your neighborhood, you might want to check out some of the best biking trails in Jacksonville, TX.  

Drive on Over: Five Favorite Biking Trails Near Jacksonville, TX

1. Nichols Green Park

Nichols Green Park at 1215 Heritage Drive is a great place to go if you want to enjoy paved bike trails. These trails take you through the entire 43-acre park, which includes various greenways and amenities like picnic tables, playgrounds, and pavilions. This park has a pond with a pier if you want to pause your time on the trail to dip your toes into some refreshing water.

2. Martin Creek Lake State Park

Martin Creek Lake State Park, located at 9515 Country Road, is a small state park with four miles of biking and hiking trails. The best trails for biking are the Old Henderson Road Loop and the Harmony Hill Loop, which are one and a half miles long. Along with biking, you can visit this park for photography, boating, fishing, camping, swimming, and much more.

3. Faulkner Park

At 410 West Cumberland Road, you will find Faulkner Park, one of the best places to go mountain biking in the area. The mountain bike trails take you through challenging inclines amid towering trees and low hill ranges. There are nine miles of bike trails, as well as five jump lines built by the Tyler Bicycle Club. All the bike trails are free for public use. 

4. Purtis Creek State Park

Purtis Creek State Park at 14223 FM 316 North in nearby Eustace is an excellent trail for a short biking trip. The Wolfpen Hike and Bike Trail are just over four miles long, while the Beaver Slide Nature Path is a lakeside trail just under two miles long. For an even faster trail, you can try the Solar Trail near the Purtis Creek dam. 

5. Mineola Nature Preserve

Right along the Sabine River is the Mineola Nature Preserve at 1869 Country Road 2724. The Greer Hill Mountain Bike Trails are great for mountain biking for new riders and experienced bikers alike. After biking through these scenic trails, you can camp at the preserve on Greer Hill. 

If you want to make your next trip to a biking trail easier, stop by Bacon Auto Country and ask the service center to install a genuine GM bike rack. Get in touch with the dealership today to learn more about how to order a bike rack accessory for your vehicle.

2022 Buick Encore Interior Jacksonville, TX

The 2023 Chevy Traverse is a rare find among SUVs, as it combines off-road capabilities and outstanding engine performance with a three-row cabin that accommodates up to eight passengers. It also provides innovative technology and decadent interior features throughout its cabin, and when test-driving it here at your local Chevy dealer, the following are some of the many things it offers that we’re sure you’ll love.

Your Guide to the 2023 Chevy Traverse at Your Chevy Dealer

Strength Meets Versatility

The 2023 Traverse’s engine lends the vehicle plenty of strength and exceptional acceleration, with 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission pairs with it and ensures that every drive is a smooth one as it seamlessly shifts between low and high gears.

Offering a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity, this edition makes recreational outings with a camper or hauling a trailer cross-country easy, while the Driver Mode Selector feature and available all-wheel drive give you all the traction needed to take on different driving conditions without breaking a sweat.

Comfortable and Spacious

Inside the Traverse, there’s enough room for up to eight passengers, and whether you’re sitting in traffic, driving off-road, or cruising highways, the Active Noise Cancellation feature provides blissful rides for everyone by reducing unwanted sounds from outside. The comfortable, perforated leather-appointed seats are also sure to be appreciated on long drives, especially in chilly weather with their heating function.

When it comes to cargo, you’ll find more than enough space for it, with up to 98.2 cubic feet available, an underfloor storage bin, and a 60/40 split-folding seat that folds both partially and fully down, depending on how many passengers you need to accommodate.

Sophisticated Technology

The vehicle’s tech and driver-assist features are also noteworthy, with the convenient Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus System delivering everything you need, from entertainment to navigation assistance, and with both an eight-inch diagonal touchscreen and a hands-free voice recognition function. Charging smartphones and other devices is made simple with multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad, and everyone can hop on the internet from virtually anywhere with the Wi-Fi hotspot.

If another vehicle is headed your way in the opposite direction at night, the IntelliBeam Auto High Beams can automatically switch to low beams until it passes, allowing you to stay focused on the road. Forward Collision Alert is also intuitive, as it can sense when you need to slow down to avoid front-end collisions with other vehicles, and if you’re not responsive, its Automatic Emergency Braking can then stop the vehicle automatically in emergency scenarios.

Contact us at Bacon Auto Country today to test-drive this unique SUV and get ready to fall in love with all of its other impressive features.

When you need a heavy-duty truck that offers exceptional towing strength, off-road capabilities, and tech features that can both entertain and help you get jobs done, look no further than the 2023 Chevy Silverado 2500. Along with all these impressive qualities comes a comfortable interior you’ll love spending time in, as well as a wide array of safety monitoring features that can help make every drive a safer one, whether you’re cruising highways or venturing off the beaten path.

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Looking for a fun way to spend a day? Then you want to find the best museums around Jacksonville, TX, and check them out. We’ve gathered up some of the best local museums, so you can get right to it without having to do the legwork beforehand.

4 of the Best Museums in Driving Distance of Jacksonville, TX

Vanishing Texana Museum

You’ll definitely want to check out our local museum, located at 302 S. Bolton St. At this museum, you can check out a large variety of historical items ranging from dinosaur teeth to their large antique coin collection.

You can also see the contents of a time capsule the city of Jacksonville buried at their centennial celebration in 1972. The capsule was dug up in 2022, and all articles are now on display. Some highlights from the capsule include radio recordings, newspapers published on the day of the capsule’s burial, and a variety of buttons worn during the centennial celebration.

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An impressively powerful truck suitable for the toughest jobs, the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 is an increasingly common sight all over the country. Offering drivers two powertrains, a versatile cabin, and plenty of space to carry just about anything, this GMC pickup truck is an excellent vehicle for all terrains and conditions. Here are some of the key features that will make you love this truck as soon as you get behind the wheel.

Read more: At a Glance: The 2023 GMC Sierra 2500

At a Glance: The 2023 GMC Sierra 2500

Two Powerful Engines to Choose From

The standard models of the 2023 Sierra 2500 are equipped with a 6.6-liter V8 powertrain that, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivers 401 horsepower. If you are planning on using this truck’s maximum towing capability of 20,000 pounds, you can opt for the 6.6-liter V-8 Duramax Diesel engine, which comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission and provides 910 lb.-ft of torque along with a whopping 445 horsepower.

Besides choosing the powertrain that best adapts to your needs, you can also specify whether you prefer a single or a dual-rear-wheel axle for greater traction, stability, and balance while on the road. When it comes to cargo and towing capacity, the diesel version of this GMC truck can carry more than 7,440 pounds in its cargo bed and pull up to 35,500 pounds 

A Customizable Interior That Adapts to Your Needs

Whether you are using your 2023 Sierra 2500 for a tough job or an offroad adventure with friends, its versatile and customizable interior can be adapted to any situation. Most models come with a split-folding front bench that can be easily replaced with a full center console and two bucket seats. Other available features include 10-way power seats, an 8-inch display with GMC’s premium infotainment system, and dual-zone automatic climate control.

With five trim levels to choose from, the 2023 Sierra 2500 offers a plethora of standard and available features for increased comfort, safety, and style. Some of the extra perks drivers can have include a Bose premium sound system, 120-volt power outlets, USB ports, Wi-Fi hotspots, wireless charging pads, head-up display, and tire pressure sensors.

The Latest Driver Assistance and Safety Features

Besides its power and versatility, another key factor that makes the 2023 Sierra 2500 an excellent truck for both work and leisure is its many safety and driver assistance features. All trim levels are equipped with a comprehensive camera system that features up to 15 different view modes, while other available components include lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.

If you are looking for the best local dealership to check out the 2023 Sierra 2500 in person and take it on a test drive, the search is over! Come visit us at Bacon Auto Country and we will tell you all about this and other models available for you.

The time has arrived for you to upgrade your pick-up truck, or even invest in one for the first time. If you need a powerful, reliable, and efficient lightweight truck, here’s what you need to know about the 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500.

What You Need To Know

This versatile, well-built half-ton truck is perfect for daily use, engineered to work hard while regularly carrying light loads.  Available since the end of 2022, this is a durable and resilient five-person truck with optimum power and increased efficiency that drives extremely well on challenging roads and can tackle off-road journeys with ease, too.

New Features 

This version of the Silverado has increased power with its reformed turbocharged 3.0 liter Duramax engine, increasing output to 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque. It also boasts a modified combustion bowl, updated fuel injectors, and different pistons, which aid strength and create a more dynamic truck altogether.

The interior has benefitted from a 10-way power driver’s seat and power lumbar control. It now has the option for a crew cab and an adult-length bed to provide optimum comfort for passengers and increased space for cargo. The new option of a 5.3-liter V-8 engine gives more speed and increased efficiency. If you pick this engine, you can then add the upgraded Z71 off-road package, which turns tough journeys into an absolute pleasure.

How Safe Is It?

Every model is fitted with several excellent driver-assistance features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Park Assist. The top-tier High Country model offers the addition of both GM hands-free driver technology and Super Cruise. Its safety is increased by the forward collision warnings and an automated emergency braking system.With this in mind, the technology can also monitor blind spots, alert you to traffic at the rear, and warn you if you drift lanes.

Engine and Performance

The Silverado is blessed with many engine/transmission combinations, the most impressive being the 6.2-liter, which can thrust the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds. Its 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque make it a real force to be reckoned with. Other engines available include two V-8s, the turbocharged four-cylinder, and the Duramax diesel 3-liter inline-six, allowing the powerful Silverado to provide an effortless, smooth ride.

Comfort

The soft padding and support maintain comfort even on long journeys and while driving off-road, plus you can barely feel any small impacts from uneven surfaces. Climate Control allows you to alter the temperature inside the cabin, with the addition of ventilated, split-headed front seats if you wish.

Any truck including the LT trim and upwards has a sleek, updated dashboard with a gigantic 12.3-inch, accessible touchscreen. The High-Country is especially attractive with its leather interior and wood trim. The crew cab is adorned with a spacious back seat and compact storage is scattered throughout the cabin. Bed lengths vary from 5.8-to-8.1 feet, providing comfortable rest when needed.

Be sure to call in at Jacksonville’s Bacon Auto Country in the near future to find out more and take one for a test drive.

If you’re looking for some of the best barbecue in Texas, you’ll find it in Jacksonville. When we’re craving bold, smoky flavors, we head to one of these four top BBQ spots in Jacksonville, TX.

1. JW’s Barbecue

This family-owned business was started by a 1996 graduate of Jacksonville High School, who learned the craft of barbecue when he lived in Arkansas and couldn’t get the dishes he remembered from growing up in Texas. JW’s Barbecue serves smoked meats by the pound, including pulled pork, turkey, brisket, house-made sausage, and pork ribs. It also has sandwiches, specialty plates, sides, and desserts.

JW’s is located at 1015 East Rusk Street in Jacksonville. It’s open from 11 a.m. until everything is sold out from Tuesday through Saturday.

2. Sadler’s Kitchen

If you’re looking for down-home Texas favorites including barbecue, Sadler’s is the spot. This family restaurant has been feeding the Jacksonville community since 1943. The menu features home style dishes like lasagna and creamy chicken spaghetti alongside your choice of kebabs, sliced pork or beef tenderloin, or bacon-wrapped chicken breasts. If you have room for dessert, don’t skip the famous pies.

Sadler’s Kitchen is located at 101 South Bonner Street in Jacksonville, in a restored historic building. It’s open from 4 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, and 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday.

3. Pop’s Country Store and Grill

You can find some of the best BBQ in the Jacksonville area at this family-owned fuel station, which offers groceries in addition to smoked meats and a small menu of sandwiches. We recommend the barbecue sandwich featuring Pop’s legendary pulled pork, along with a hot link or two if you’re in the mood for some spice.

Pop’s Country Store and Grill is located at 10940 FM 347 North in Jacksonville. It’s open from 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with breakfast sandwiches on the grill for the early risers.

4. Commerce Street Drafthouse

This Jacksonville staple has a widely varied menu that includes quite a few BBQ favorites. We love the loaded pulled pork baked potato for a fun twist on a classic Texas dish. Smoked chicken stars in Commerce Street’s chicken salad sandwich, or you can order bangers and mash with barbecue bratwurst.

Commerce Street Drafthouse is located at 401 East Commerce Street. It’s open from 4 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
The Chevy Silverado has the work features you want with a comfortable cabin that’s perfect for exploring Jacksonville’s local barbecue scene. Schedule your test drive at Bacon Auto Country today to experience this powerful pickup.

Image by Jacob Johnson from Pixabay

4 Local Attractions You Can Drive to Near Jacksonville, TX

When you’re living in or visiting the lovely city of Jacksonville, TX, you aren’t far from some of the most notable local attractions in East Texas. There are plenty of unique museums, parks, and historical sites to explore. These particular destinations promise to make anyone’s day!

4 Local Attractions You Can Drive to Near Jacksonville, TX

1. Vanishing Texana Museum 

Those who want to learn more about the history of East Texas will be doing themselves a favor by visiting Vanishing Texana on 302 S. Bolton Street. This humble museum looks small from the outside but boasts an impressive collection of regional artifacts, memorabilia, and curiosities that will keep visitors occupied for hours. Many items date back to the Civil War and earlier, including Confederate service rifles and a Roman coin collection.

If you’d like to know more about any particular exhibit, feel free to reach out to Vanishing Texana’s friendly and knowledgeable curator.

Read more: 4 Local Attractions You Can Drive to Near Jacksonville, TX

2. Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari

Want to take a trip to the zoo without having to leave the comfortable cabin of GMC Terrain? In that case, you’ll want to head over to Cherokee Trace on 1200 County Road 4405. It’s a verdant 300-acre wildlife preserve where you can go on a self-guided driving tour and encounter a wide variety of species from all over the world, from the zebras and wildebeests of Africa to capybaras and kangaroos. 

The park even provides visitors with feed bags so that they can get up close with the animals and feed them by hand!

3. Love’s Lookout

Located near the edge of town on 43822 US Highway 69, Love’s Lookout provides some of the most dramatic natural scenery in the region. The park sits at an elevation of over 700 feet above sea level, allowing for incredible eastward views out to 35 miles. There are picnicking spots to enjoy the view from and a 5,500-square-foot visitor center, which features additional information about the park, vending machines, and well-kept restrooms. 

4. American Freedom Museum

This fascinating military history museum on 1051 N. Houston Street in nearby Bullard chronicles many important events from the American Revolution to the Global War on Terrorism. Critical battles are illustrated through countless artifacts, photographs, and documents. You’ll even be able to inspect the actual weapons and vehicles that were used by American service members, including a Vietnam War-era UH-1 helicopter.

One of the American Freedom Museum’s newest exhibits is the Walk of Honor: a beautiful 36-panel tribute that has been dedicated to the fallen warriors who served the country in post-World War II operations.


You can count on having a good time when you visit any of these fine attractions! Reliable transportation is important for any outing, so be sure to stop by at Bacon Auto Country today and check out our extensive selection of new and pre-owned automobiles!

Image Via Pixabay