Jax on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun!

Experience Jacksonville's charm without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Jacksonville, located in Florida, is an affordable destination for travelers on a tight budget. There are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as exploring the various parks, visiting the beach and strolling through the art and historical museums. With a little bit of planning, a trip to Jacksonville won't break the bank and can be a great opportunity to experience the culture and beauty of the southeastern United States.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Jax!

  • Check-in at the affordable, yet stylish, Hotel Indigo Jacksonville-Deerwood Park
  • Explore The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, featuring stunning artwork and lush scenery
  • Get a taste of Southern comfort food at Metro Diner, made famous by Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
  • Take a stroll on the Jacksonville Beach Pier and watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean
  • Catch a live show at the Florida Theatre, a historic venue dating back to 1927
Day 2

History and Nature

  • Start the day with breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company, serving up fluffy biscuits and homemade jams
  • Visit the Kingsley Plantation, a preserved 18th-century estate with a dark history of slavery
  • Go kayaking or canoeing on the St. Johns River with Kayak Amelia
  • Check out the animals at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, home to over 2,000 species
  • Enjoy dinner at Beach Road Chicken Dinners, a local staple since 1939 serving up finger-licking fried chicken
Day 3

Sports and Sunshine

  • Gear up in your favorite team colors and catch a Jacksonville Jaguars football game at TIAA Bank Field
  • Spend the afternoon at the iconic Jacksonville Beach, soaking up the sun and playing beach volleyball
  • Try the famous fish tacos at the Beachside Seafood Restaurant & Market, a laid-back seafood joint on Neptune Beach
  • See the city skyline from a different perspective with a sunset river cruise by River City Queen
  • End the night with drinks and live music at The Volstead, a speakeasy-style bar with a cozy atmosphere
Day 4

Art and Culture

  • Enjoy a brunch spread at Southern Roots Filling Station, a converted gas station with farm-to-table eats
  • Wander through the exhibits at MOCA Jacksonville, showcasing contemporary art from around the world
  • Take a stroll through the Riverside Arts Market, featuring local artisans, vendors, and live entertainment
  • Indulge in a slice of pizza at V Pizza, known for their wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies
  • Take a twilight walking tour of the historic San Marco neighborhood, where old-world charm meets modern art and culture.

Length of stay

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How to get there

Plane

The most convenient way to get to Jacksonville is by plane. You can fly into Jacksonville International Airport, which is located just north of downtown Jacksonville. There are numerous airlines that offer direct flights to Jacksonville from major cities across the country, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Miami, and New York.

Car

Driving is also a great option for getting to Jacksonville, especially if you're coming from nearby cities such as Orlando, Tampa, or Miami. Jacksonville is easily accessible by several major highways, including I-95, I-10, and I-295. If you're renting a car, you can pick it up at Jacksonville International Airport or at several locations throughout the city.

Train

While there is no direct train to Jacksonville, you can take an Amtrak train to nearby cities like Orlando, Tampa, or Savannah and then take a bus or rent a car to get to Jacksonville. The closest Amtrak station is in Palatka, which is about an hour's drive from Jacksonville.

Boat

Jacksonville is home to several marinas and is a popular stop for cruise ships traveling along the East Coast. If you have your own boat, you can dock at one of the many marinas in the area, such as the Jacksonville Landing Marina or the Sadler Point Marina. Alternatively, you can take a cruise to Jacksonville from other ports along the East Coast or the Bahamas.

Bus

Jacksonville is well-connected by bus, with several national and regional bus operators such as Greyhound, Megabus, and RedCoach offering direct services to Jacksonville from cities across the Southeast and beyond. The major bus station in Jacksonville is the Greyhound station, located in downtown Jacksonville.

Destination

Jacksonville

Welcome to the land of sunshine, warm beaches, and Jaguars...the football team, not the animal. Get ready for some southern charm, great food, and plenty of 'y'alls' in Jacksonville.

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More travel plans

The Ultimate 5-Day Jacksonville Adventure Guide

Jacksonville is a vibrant city located in Florida's northeast, offering visitors an abundance of attractions, including beautiful beaches, cultural experiences, adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, and delicious dining options. Adventure enthusiasts can explore the city's natural wonders through kayaking or hiking, while history buffs can get a glimpse of Jacksonville's past by visiting the museums and monuments. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and diverse offerings, Jacksonville is an ideal destination for any traveler seeking a memorable vacation.

Jacksonville on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

A trip to Jacksonville, United States on a limited budget can be an exciting experience. You can explore the city's riverside attractions, such as the Museum of Science and History, Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, and Friendship Fountain without spending too much money in entrance fees. To save even more, consider staying at budget-friendly hotels or accommodations in the suburbs, or opt for Airbnb or vacation rentals for a more affordable lodging option.

Romantic Five-Day Getaway to Jacksonville, USA

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