The Jacksonville Jaguars aren’t the only big cats in town! Residents can visit the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary and get up close and personal with resident lions, tigers, leopards and more. Open to the public since 2004, Catty Shack’s mission is to provide a safe, loving, forever home for endangered big cats and to educate the public about their plight in the wild and captivity.
Executive Director and Curator Curt LoGiudice’s love of animals is evident. He began his career training dogs in the law enforcement service. He then moved on to working with exotic animals, and in 1994, the Florida Panther Project asked him to represent the organization in Jacksonville, making educational presentations. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary was granted non-profit 501(c)(3) status in 2003 and a year later became accredited to welcome visitors.
LoGiudice believes that education is the best way to teach the public about the plight of large cats in the wild, as well as the dangers of private home ownership. Catty Shack is dedicated to providing these animals with a safe and comfortable home – they do not buy, sell, trade or breed any of their animals. The sanctuary rescues animals from serious situations and provides thorough medical care and a safe living space. Catty Shack’s residents include tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, caracal, bobcats, serval, coatimundis, foxes and horses.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary offers tours to the public as well as educational school tours. All tours begin with an introductory video that covers the sanctuary’s mission and history. The Day Tours are offered daily from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Guests can take a self-guided tour of the animal habitats while interacting with volunteers stationed throughout the sanctuary to answer questions. The Night Feeding is available on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy a self-guided walking tour. At 7 p.m., Executive Director Curt LoGiudice provides a guided tour full of fascinating facts and background on the animals as the animals enjoy their dinner – the cats can eat up to 600 pounds of meat! Enrichment tours are on every Sunday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Enrichment is when staff provides the animals with activities that stimulate them mentally and physically. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour and watch animals enjoy their enrichment activities. Tickets may be purchased online or at the gate (for the Day and Enrichment tours only).
Taking care of all these exotic animals takes a lot of resources. The Sanctuary is completely funded through visitation, concession stand sales, honorary adoptions and financial and material donations. Take a day trip that helps care for these magnificent animals!
The neighborhoods of World Golf Village aren’t just a paradise for adults. Kids have plenty of fun and exciting activities to keep them happy and engaged. World Golf Village (WGV) Gymnastics has been keeping kids flipping with joy since 2011!
With over 200 years of combined experience, the coaches at WGV Gymnastics offer fun for the entire family. Their professional staff come from various gymnastics backgrounds, offering a well-rounded breadth of experience. WGV Gymnastics has seven team coaches, 33 recreational coaches, two meet directors, one former judge, 14 previous competitive gymnasts and several competitive cheerleaders. Andrea Gavric’s daughters have thrived under their coaches. “We have been coming for a few months, and both of my daughters love it here! The coaches are great, very hands-on and super friendly. Great staff, a fun learning environment, great coaches, and very professional.”
Their 14,000-square-foot facility is a hotbed of activity. Children can practice recreational or competitive gymnastics in progressive classes. Preschool Gymnastics teaches the fundamentals in a fun and supportive atmosphere. Students can progress to Beginner Classes, where they will build up to testing for Intermediate Level. Gymnasts can then test for Pre-Team, those wishing to join a competitive team, or Advanced, those who aren’t interested in team competition but want to learn advanced skills.
WGV Gymnastics offers three competitive team programs. The Xcel program, designed by USA Gymnastics, features five levels of competition. The Women’s Developmental Program uses standard routines to build advanced skills through nationwide competition. Younger children can compete in pre-pre-elite experiences through the TOPS and HOPES programs.
Students can enjoy specialty classes like skills clinics, private lessons, homeschool and boys’ classes in gymnastics, tumbling and ninja. WGC Gymnastics Tumbling classes are the perfect supplement to other sports. Kids playing soccer, cheering, dancing and more can learn dynamic and powerful moves through mat work and tumbling trak practice.
Little ones can get in the action with the Parent & Tot classes, Preschool Open Gym and their very popular Preschool Gym-n-Learn. Designed for 3 to 5-year-olds, this preschool program focuses on learning the fundamentals of gymnastics and incorporates craft time, educational learning, creative music and movement.
Parent Theresa Conley says, “My 3-year-old started their Gym N Learn program and she did the full year and she has grown immensely. They teach everything from the ABCs to Writing their names, counting, etc., plus all things gymnastics and she loved every single minute of it. Coach Stacey and Coach Aliza, along with Coach Christina are truly amazing with the kids. My daughter became a strong, confident and brave little girl while she was there and I’m so grateful to them for it!”
Social events like camps, birthday parties, after-school programs and Parent’s Night Out provide parents with safe and fun options for kids. Make sure to check out this amazing local business that provides love and encouragement while inspiring kids to develop self-esteem and confidence through gymnastics. WGV Gymnastics is located at 135 Center Place Way. You can visit their website at wgvgymnastics.com or follow along on social @WGVGymnastics
World Golf Village truly has so much to offer its residents. The list of perks is lengthy from top-rated schools to the convenient location. Near the top of that list has to be the wonderful restaurant options nearby. Whether you are enjoying a night out with friends or picking up food on a busy night, you won’t want to miss these World Golf Village area staples.
2 Creeks
From sandwiches and flatbreads to tacos and seafood, there is something for everyone at 2 Creeks! Join 2 Creeks throughout the week for special events including Prime Rib Night on Mondays, Trivia Wednesday on Wednesdays, Live Music on Fridays, and all-you-can-eat shrimp on Saturday evenings. Be sure to check out their extensive drink menu while you are there, too!
Murray Bros. Caddyshack
A meal at Murray Bros. Caddyshack will not be one you soon forget. Throughout the restaurant, you will feel the Murray Brothers’ love of golf and movies all while enjoying a sports event on one of their many flatscreens. With food made from scratch, you truly can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Fan favorites include the nachos, reuben sandwich, and key lime pie!
Gator’s Dockside
Visit Gator’s Dockside for a family-friendly, sports-themed dining experience with fun and food for everyone. Known for their signature grilled wings flavored with tasty wing sauces, you’ll likely be making a returning trip to Gator’s. Whether you are watching a game and grabbing a drink with friends or enjoying a family dinner, Gator’s Dockside is a go-to in World Golf Village.
Simone’s Wood Fired Craft Kitchen
Simone’s Wood Fire Craft Kitchen is a local, family-owned establishment that delivers delicious, classic Italian dishes. All of the pizza dough, bread, and pasta at Simone’s are made from scratch in-house by hand daily. Every item on their menu is sure to impress…but we are definitely eyeing the margherita pizza!
From seafood to Italian, World Golf Village has the perfect restaurant for you and your family to enjoy!
It’s summertime and, oftentimes, the soaring high temperatures may make you feel as if you are melting away! Northeast Florida residents beat the heat with a little help from a popular treat: ice cream. “There is something for everyone in Northeast Florida and, while locals tend to choose favorite ice cream shops to frequent, you truly can’t go wrong,” shares Davidson Realty President, Sherry Davidson. We’re sharing four of World Golf Village residents’ favorite places to enjoy ice cream in Northeast Florida.
Dreamette
If you are looking for an ICONIC Jacksonville ice cream establishment, look no further than Dreamette. In 1948, the original Dreamette opened in Murray Hill and for more than seventy years, it’s been a local favorite. Don’t miss out on their legendary dipped cone, stop by today!
Mayday
Perhaps the most unique ice cream shop in town is Mayday. With locations in St. Augustine, Jacksonville Beach, and Brooklyn, no one is far from this eclectic and handcrafted ice cream joint. Try the s’more, ice box lemon, and parent trap flavors next time you visit.
Jeremiah’s
What’s better than ice cream? Ice cream AND Italian ice. Jeremiah’s offers creamy soft serve, more than forty flavors of Italian ice, and the perfect layering of both with their gelati. The combinations are seemingly endless. The mango and vanilla gelati is a fan favorite worth trying.
Whit’s
If you are looking for rich frozen custard, look no further than Whit’s! With locations all over town, you won’t be far from delicious, sweet treats at Whit’s. Their custard sandwiches, banana split, and dirt worm are standouts on the menu. You won’t regret these treats on a hot day.
This summer, take a trip to one of these World Golf Village resident favorite spots for a sweet treat. Which spot is your favorite?
St. Augustine, Florida is most famously known as the Ancient City, filled with an abundance of history. However, in more recent years, St. Augustine has become known for its restaurant scene. Foodies, you won’t want to miss these World Golf Village resident favorites!
Simone’s Wood Fired Craft Kitchen
Located near the World Golf Village area of St. Augustine, Simone’s Wood Fired Craft Kitchen is a local, family-owned establishment that delivers delicious classic Italian dishes. All of the pizza dough, bread, and pasta at Simone’s are made from scratch in-house by hand daily. Every item on their menu is sure to impress…but we are definitely eyeing the Margherita pizza!
Llama
When you walk through the doors at Llama you are instantly immersed in a fine dining Peruvian experience. Each item on the menu is carefully crafted using fresh, authentic ingredients to fill both your body and soul. You will be in awe of the Tallarine Con Chango (a pork belly pasta) and ceviches! Make a reservation soon because Llama will not disappoint.
Cap’s On the Water
From the sunset views to the local seafood, this classic waterfront restaurant is a go-to for St. Augustine locals. Both the indoor and outdoor seating options provide an incredible setting to enjoy their signature oysters, a drink, and a fun night with friends. Once you visit Cap’s On the Water you’ll be making plans to come back!
Harry’s Seafood, Bar & Grille
If you’re looking for a cozy courtyard date night spot, look no further than Harry’s Seafood, Bar & Grille. This St. Augustine gem has charm and something for everyone on the menu. With favorites like jambalaya, she crab soup, and fried green tomatoes this Creole-inspired restaurant will make your taste buds dance!
Libby’s Thai Bistro
Next time you’re in the mood for Thai food, give Libby’s Thai Bistro a try! Fans love their Thai tea, pad thai, and green curry! Their fresh, authentic Thai cuisine will leave you wanting more. Visit Libby’s soon… it could be your new favorite Thai restaurant.
If you live in Northeast Florida there is no doubt you’ve heard of all the wonderful, thriving neighborhood communities in St. Johns County, but if you’ve driven around the area, you’ve likely noticed a need for commercial property. Like most developments, residential precedes commercial growth, and St. Johns County is ready to flourish with new businesses. “St. Johns County is a fantastic place for businesses to call home. Not only is the residential population continuously growing, but the location is conveniently situated between Jacksonville and St. Augustine. With so many new developments coming soon to the area, the opportunities are really exciting,” shares Davidson Realty President, Sherry Davidson. We’re rounding up just a few of the exciting additions coming to St. Johns County.
World Commerce Center
At the intersection of Interstate 95 and International Golf Parkway, you’ll find World Commerce Center, a 996-acre property with approvals in place for residential, office, medical, retail, warehouse, and hotel developments. The popular “attraction” Buc-cee’s has already called World Commerce Center home since February 2021. Businesses, including GreenWise Market, 7-Eleven, and Panera Bread, are coming soon to the new development.
Grand Cypress
In late May 2021, Gatlin Development Co. Inc. purchased the land at 6256 and 6322 Race Track Road, the site of a former racetrack and poker room that closed in 2021, from Bayard Raceways Inc for more than $16.5 million. The site sits at southwest U.S. 1 and Race Track Road. Gatlin Development plans to build a $250 million mixed-use development called Grand Cypress. The more than one hundred acre property will include a grocery store-anchored shopping center, retail, restaurant space, 588-unit luxury multifamily community, and a 256-unit upscale boutique multifamily complex. The commercial space tenants will be announced soon.
Greenbriar Helow
Another massive development likely coming soon to northwest St. Johns County is Greenbriar Helow. Landowner, Joseph Helow, of Helow Properties Ltd., hopes to rezone the property from open rural land to a planned unit development. Located off Greenbriar Road, Longleaf Pine Parkway, and Veterans Parkway, this new development could include single-family, multifamily, and senior housing, natural preservation land, retail uses, and offices. If the rezoning is approved, the development would allow for up to 3,500 single-family homes and more than 2.5 million square feet of non-residential development.
Development in St. Johns County is showing no signs of slowing down. With an attractive location and a rapidly growing residential community, these new developments are sure to provide some much-needed commercial property to the area.
With its close proximity to both St. Augustine and Jacksonville, World Golf Village is a highly desired and attractive area. Over the past twenty-five years, the community surrounding World Golf Village has rapidly grown with further real estate development. The new WGV Office Park will be a welcomed addition to the area and provide businesses the opportunity to own prime office space.
The new WGV Office Park site is located at the entrance to The King & Bear Community at the corner of Pacetti Road and Registry Boulevard. “What makes the site perfect for this project is that it is centrally located for all the current and future development in the World Golf Village area,” shares Sam Davidson, Realtor® at Davidson Realty and Vice President of Special Operations for Davidson Development. “The new office park is conveniently located at a signalized intersection and has the added benefit of being adjacent to all the new retail development at the Publix anchored Shoppes at Murabella. The WGV Office Park is also right across the street from the new Flagler Center so it will be incredibly convenient for medical users.”
With such a perfect location, it is clear that the WGV Office Park is a wonderful investment for business owners especially as this area continues to grow. “The WGV Office Park will allow business owners that have been forced to rent due to the lack of office space in our area the opportunity to own and build equity,” shares Davidson. “With spaces starting at 1,120 square feet and the ability to purchase multiple spaces and combine them, it will allow both investors and companies to tailor their purchases to their budget.”
The project, with five buildings totaling 44,000 square feet, is expected to break ground in November 2021 and is scheduled to be completed in the Spring of 2022. “This project is an exciting opportunity. World Golf Village and all of St. Johns County will experience an incredible amount of growth in the coming years. With attractive communities like SilverLeaf, Trailmark, and Adler Creek adding more homes to the area, larger retailers will come to the area,” continues Davidson.
If you are interested in owning an office condo in the new WGV Office Park, contact Sam Davidson at (904) 502-2397 or jsdavidson@davidsonrealtyinc.com or Tim Nemethy at (904) 553-6194 or tnemethy@davidsonrealtyinc.com
Northeast Florida is thriving and ready to be enjoyed! “Residents of World Golf Village live in the perfect location to conveniently explore each neighborhood that makes Northeast Florida so special. In such a fruitful area, all the activities, restaurants, and sites provide a unique experience to make lasting memories with friends and family,” shares Davidson Realty President, Sherry Davidson. We’re sharing some MUST visit neighborhoods on the First Coast that you need to check out!
Ponte Vedra Beach
Known for its elegant shopping and fine dining, Ponte Vedra Beach is a luxury resort town with plenty to see and do! Ponte Vedra Beach is home of the pristine TPC Sawgrass, one of the most famous golf courses in the world, and the host course for The Players Championship. If you’re interested in a little outdoor adventure to take in the beauty of Northeast Florida, enjoy a hike at the GTM Reserve. Ponte Vedra Beach provides ample options for a night out with friends like Valley Smoke which offers classic Southern BBQ plus a variety of tasty cocktails.
Downtown St. Augustine
Even if you’ve visited historic Downtown St. Augustine before, you likely only scratched the surface of this charming city on Florida’s Historic Coast. Truly immerse yourself in the Old City by paying a visit to Villa Zorayda to see art from around the world, taking a stroll down St. George Street and having lunch at Columbia, and partaking in the #1 Whiskey Tour in North America at St. Augustine Distillery. There is always something new to find in Downtown St. Augustine.
New meets old in historic, eclectic Riverside and Avondale! While the area is most popularly known for being the home of the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, Riverside and Avondale have the wonderful ability of making everyone feel like a local. From the charming Riverside Arts Market under the Fuller Warren Bridge on Saturday to the multitude of breweries (Aardwolf and Brewz are excellent choices!), there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Amelia Island
Whether you are interested in a romantic getaway, a fun family vacation, or a day trip exploring, Amelia Island has it all! Amelia Island is a quiet piece of Northeast Florida paradise with a stunning beach and a quaint town. Enjoy a bite at Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro for a relaxed, island atmosphere and fresh seafood specialties. Visit the tranquil Amelia Island State Park – the only Florida state park that offers horseback riding on its beaches! Once you visit historic Amelia Island once, you’ll be longing for another visit.
It doesn’t matter where you live on the First Coast, you’re always just a short drive to something new to discover.
Spring has sprung and rain is inevitable. While the weather in Northeast Florida is envied by many with an average of 223 sunny days a year, St. Augustine also gets, on average, fifty-one inches of rainfall per year. Keep those rainy days interesting with a trip to one of these classic spots in St. Augustine that will be sure to entertain and educate you.
St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum
AHOY, MATEY! Spend the day at The Pirate Museum and explore owner Pat Croce’s impressive collection of pirate memorabilia. Hunt through more than 800 pirate artifacts and state-of-the-art displays created by the Disney Imagineers. The Pirate Museum is home to the only surviving treasure chest in the world AND one of the only remaining Jolly Roger flags. Before you leave, be sure to stop by the gift shop to purchase a little pirate booty of your own to take home. To plan your day at the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum, visit www.thepiratemuseum.com.
The Old Jail
In 1891, Henry Flagler commissioned the company that eventually built Alcatraz to construct a jail just north of downtown St. Augustine. To avoid instilling fear in the public and to encourage his friends to invest in the city, Henry Flagler disguised the jail to look like a hotel! The Old Jail provides guests a glimpse into the daily lives of St. Augustine’s most notorious prisoners. Enjoy an interactive experience as costumed actors tell stories of the jail and the prisoners behind bars. Visitors will also have a chance to view the large collection of weapons and artifacts on display. The Old Jail is truly a must-visit in St. Augustine!
St. Augustine Distillery
If a rainy day has you in a drinking mood, stop by St. Augustine Distillery. This family owned and operated establishment is committed to making world-class spirits using the best of Florida’s agriculture. St. Augustine Distillery offers free tours everyday so visitors can learn how they make their spirits from farm to bottle, the differences between each spirit, and, best of all, learn how to make St. Augustine Distillery’s FOUR signature cocktails! No reservation is required for these amazing tours and they are FREE – can’t get much better than that!
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum
If you haven’t already visited, you have to admit you’ve always been curious about Ripley’s Believe It or Not! From incredible artwork to shrunken heads, your eyes won’t know where to look next. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum was founded by Robert Leroy Ripley to display the amazing artifact collection from his extensive travels. He documented his adventures in his famous comic strip, “Believe It or Not!”. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit their website.
Contact each location for their latest COVID protocols and restrictions.
The attraction to World Golf Village is easy to see. From the vibrant communities and the exceptional school district to the golf courses and nearby shopping, there is something for everyone to enjoy. It seems as if new businesses are popping up every day, but most recently there have been a few notable additions to the St. Augustine community that you NEED to check out.
Pet Paradise:
Calling all dog and cat parents! Pet Paradise opened a new location on 291 Center Place Way, St Augustine, FL 32095. The Jacksonville based company recently opened five new locations in Northeast Florida. Pet Paradise is equipped to handle all your pet boarding, daycare, grooming or veterinary needs. With multiple boarding options, Pet Paradise has the perfect accommodation for every furry friend. Pet Paradise clients love having access to the live webcam. That’s right! Pet owners can check on their pet any time with their live pet cam. Pet Paradise offers a wide variety of pampering amenities for your pet to enjoy including a dog bone shaped swimming pool, misting stations, and full-service dog grooming spa. Next time your pet needs a vacation, take them to Pet Paradise!
Carnival Sweets:
Travel back in time at Carnival Sweets. This establishment has something to satisfy every kind of sweet tooth. Enjoy classic carnival favorites – without the carnival! You and your family will love exploring Carnival Sweets with their shelves of candy and delicious funnel cakes, gourmet popcorn, and shaved ice. This nostalgic candy shop takes these classics and gives them a modern twist. When you visit consider trying fan favorites: Cotton Candy Burrito, Banana Pudding Popcorn, or the Ice cream stuffed snow cone. A visit to Carnival Sweets is well worth the sugar rush!
And last, but certainly not least…
Buc-ee’s:
You won’t want to miss this first of its kind in Florida. With more than 52,000 square feet and more than 104 fueling stations, Buc-ee’s has opened its doors in St. Augustine on 200 World Commerce Parkway. The Texas-based travel stop has already created quite the buzz around town as hundreds waited in line for Buc-ee’s grand opening on February 22, 2021. The store is open twenty-four hours a day and offers an array of food, drink, and merchandise. Buc-ee’s has tasty treats ranging from traditional homemade fudge, kolaches, and jerky to snacks that are a little more unusual like pickled quail eggs. Buc-ee’s promises friendly service and the cleanest bathrooms in America.
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