Hotels in Jacksonville

Jacksonville: Where Rivers Embrace the Rhythm of Adventure

Jacksonville, Florida, is a vibrant coastal city where the St. Johns River meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Explore the stunning beaches of Jacksonville Beach and the serene landscapes of nearby parks, like the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Enjoy the thriving arts scene, with the Museum of Contemporary Art and lively festivals year-round. Savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants and take a sunset cruise on the river. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Jacksonville offers a delightful escape for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Jacksonville, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Jacksonville

Some of the best places to stay in Jacksonville are Southside, Downtown Jacksonville and Northside. Jacksonville offers diverse neighborhoods for travelers. Southside is known for its shopping and dining options, making it ideal for leisure seekers. Downtown Jacksonville features vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions, perfect for those wanting to explore the city’s history. Northside offers a more relaxed atmosphere with nature parks. Hotel accommodations vary in each area, ranging from budget-friendly motels to upscale hotels. For first-time visitors, Downtown Jacksonville is the best choice, providing easy access to attractions and activities. Here are some of the best hotels in Jacksonville that our travelers love:

1. SouthsideOpens in a new window: Southside is a family-friendly area in Jacksonville known for its vibrant shopping and entertainment options. Key attractions include the St. Johns Town Center, a popular shopping mall, and the University of North Florida. For accommodations, consider Sheraton Jacksonville HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel offering excellent business amenities and family-friendly services, making it perfect for both leisure and business travelers. Another option is Embassy Suites by Hilton Jacksonville BaymeadowsOpens in a new window, also rated 3.5-stars, which caters to families and pets while providing multiple meeting rooms and child amenities.
2. Downtown JacksonvilleOpens in a new window: Downtown Jacksonville is the heart of the city, bustling with activity and accessibility to various attractions like EverBank Stadium and the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. This area is ideal for those looking to mix business with pleasure. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville RiverfrontOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, offers modern business facilities and is centrally located, while Hyatt Regency JacksonvilleOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, features pet-friendly policies and amenities for families, making it a great choice for travelers of all kinds.
3. NorthsideOpens in a new window: Northside is known for its outdoor attractions and access to sports facilities like EverBank Stadium. This area is perfect for those who enjoy adventure and recreation. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia IslandOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star resort, provides direct beach access and a range of adventure sports nearby, while DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville AirportOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, is centrally located and offers family-friendly amenities. The Villas of Amelia IslandOpens in a new window, another 4.0-star resort, also features beach access with various outdoor activities, making it an appealing choice for adventure enthusiasts.

Things to do in Jacksonville for first time

Three days in Jacksonville offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and vibrant culture. Explore stunning beaches, lush parks, and serene waterways, while enjoying activities like boating, hiking, and sea diving. Immerse yourself in live music, thrilling sports events, and lively festivals for an unforgettable experience. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Jacksonville:

• Day 1: Begin your day at the Jacksonville Beach Pier, a perfect spot for sunrise views and a leisurely stroll along the shore. From there, make your way to Oceanfront Park, where you can relax on the sandy beach or enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful scenery. As the sun sets, explore the Northeast Florida Beaches, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps indulging in some local seafood at a nearby restaurant.
• Day 2: Start your adventure at Atlantic Beach, where the waves and golden sands invite you to unwind. After soaking up the sun, venture to Dutton Island Preserve, a serene spot perfect for hiking and birdwatching. Wrap up your day at Beaches Town Center, where you can browse local shops, enjoy delicious cuisine, and soak in the lively ambiance with entertainment options aplenty.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Huguenot Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature with trails and beach access, ideal for a refreshing walk. Next, head to the Rhoda Martin Cultural Heritage Center, where you can learn about the area's rich history and cultural roots. Finish your day at Modesky Park, a great place to relax, play, or simply enjoy the outdoors before heading back to your accommodation.

5 tips to find a great Jacksonville hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Jacksonville is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates are more affordable. For international travelers, booking your flight at least one month in advance can help you secure great value for money. To truly enjoy the main attractions, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days. While in Jacksonville, don’t miss out on the scenic river views, which are among the highlights of this vibrant city.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Jacksonville, Hotels.com can be a great resource. To explore options, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find reduced rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and unique last-minute offers, ensuring you have the best chances to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on various factors, including the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Jacksonville.
4. Consider your location: Think about your location when booking on Hotels.com for your vacation. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are less central while weighing the cost against the ease of getting to the sights you want to see.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Jacksonville and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Jacksonville

Here are a few top-recommended restaurants in Jacksonville, Florida, United States of America:

• P.F. Chang's China Bistro: A popular destination for Asian cuisine, this restaurant blends traditional Chinese dishes with modern culinary techniques, offering a creative menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients. Diners can enjoy signature dishes like Chang's Lettuce Wraps, which showcase a unique take on Chinese flavors.
• Junior's Seafood Restaurant & Grill: Celebrated for its authentic coastal cuisine, Junior's specializes in fresh seafood caught from local waters, serving up dishes that reflect Jacksonville's rich maritime heritage. Their creative seafood offerings, like the famous shrimp and grits, are a must-try for anyone seeking a true taste of the region.
• Chicken Salad Chick: This delightful eatery focuses on a variety of chicken salad recipes, each crafted with unique flavors and locally sourced ingredients. With its innovative spins on classic recipes, Chicken Salad Chick brings a fresh and flavorful dining experience that embodies Southern culinary traditions.

Best time to go to Jacksonville

Jacksonville experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 55.9°F (13.3°C), while July and August are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 82.4°F (28.0°C). August is usually the wettest month. March, August, and September are the peak travel months in Jacksonville, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.