Experience Jacksonville, FL
A Vibrant Coastal Escape in Northeast Florida
Discover the perfect mix of sunshine, outdoor adventure and cultural charm in Jacksonville, Florida, affectionately known as Jax. Nestled along the northeast Florida coast, Jacksonville is where natural beauty meets urban excitement. With the country’s largest urban park system, 22 miles of beaches, charming neighborhoods and a thriving arts scene, Jacksonville offers a vacation that has something for everybody.
With nonstop Allegiant flights from MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) to Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), your River City adventure is just a short two-hour flight away.
Good to Know
Airport: Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
Average Flight Time: 2 Hours
Book a Trip: allegiantair.com
Discover the City of Jacksonville
The City of Jacksonville is defined by its rich character and diverse neighborhoods — each with its own unique flair. Whether you’re drawn to Southern charm, artistic energy or laid-back cool, there’s a corner of the city to match every taste and lifestyle.
San Marco offers a scenic, riverfront setting with historic architecture, upscale dining and independent boutiques. Known for its artistic spirit and walkable streets, it’s where elegance meets creativity.
Avondale and Riverside bring a more artsy experience, featuring tree-lined avenues filled with funky shops, cozy coffeehouses and vibrant live music venues. These neighborhoods offer a hip, chill vibe that’s perfect for leisurely exploring.
Murray Hill adds retro charm to the mix with its vintage stores, trendy restaurants and a strong sense of local community. It’s a neighborhood where nostalgia and modern trends blend seamlessly.
Downtown Jacksonville and the Southbank are cultural hotbeds, home to contemporary art galleries, museums and the iconic EverBank Stadium — home of National Football League (NFL) team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, as well as major concerts and events throughout the year. Nearby, the historic Alhambra Theatre also calls Jacksonville home, captivating audiences with world-class performances as one of the longest-running performing arts venues in the nation.
Jacksonville’s streets feature dozens of colorful public murals and sculptures that celebrate the city’s diversity and creative spirit. Throughout the year, festivals, street fairs, open-air markets and food truck rallies bring the community together, showcasing local culture, cuisine and pride in true Jacksonville style.
From craft breweries and farm-to-table restaurants to city hall art exhibits, Jacksonville is more than a vacation destination — it’s an experience and a community like no other.
Natural Wonders & Family Fun
If you’re eager to experience the outdoors, Jacksonville is a nature lover’s paradise. With over 80,000 acres of parkland — including seven state parks, two national parks and more than 400 city parks — the City of Jacksonville offers endless opportunities to explore. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy more than 35 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through lush forests, marshlands and scenic waterfronts.
Adventure seekers can paddleboard or kayak along the St. Johns River, go deep-sea fishing from Mayport or take a relaxing river cruise to soak in the views. For those interested in wildlife and natural beauty, the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve and Big Talbot Island State Park provide unforgettable experiences and breathtaking views as two of the best places for wildlife viewing, coastal hikes and incredible photo ops.
Eco-tourism is a big draw in Jacksonville. Guided boat tours along the St. Johns River, nature preserves across Duval County and abundant wildlife make the City of Jacksonville a perfect place to connect with nature. With so many outdoor spaces and family-friendly attractions, it’s easy to stay active while soaking in all the natural beauty.
Jacksonville is one of northeast Florida’s best places for families, offering a wide range of activities that both kids and adults will love. From beaches and parks to cultural attractions, the city is full of opportunities for play, learning and exploration.
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a must-visit, featuring hundreds of exotic animals, lush botanical gardens and fun experiences like giraffe feedings and a splash pad for kids.
Families can explore the scenic river city, bike the Southbank or try paddleboarding in the peaceful waters of Mandarin. For hands-on learning, the Museum of Science and History (MOSH) offers interactive exhibits and a planetarium — perfectly located on the riverfront for a fun and educational day out. The westside of Jacksonville also offers a mix of outdoor recreation, entertainment and historical attractions. You can enjoy parks like Tillie Fowler Park and Ringhaver Park, explore the Jacksonville Equestrian Center or visit the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary.
Jacksonville Beaches
There’s nothing quite like the sound of waves and the feeling of sand between your toes, and Jacksonville Beach (or Jax Beach) is the perfect place to find both. Known for its laid-back surf culture, oceanfront dining and scenic fishing pier, Jax Beach is ideal for thrill-seekers and sunbathers. Whether you’re catching waves or catching rays, it’s a spot that offers something for every kind of beachgoer.
For those who want something more secluded, Amelia Island is just a short drive north. Amelia Island offers a quieter, more natural beach experience with protected sand dunes, pristine shores and a charming historic downtown. Another great option is Ponte Vedra Beach, known for its luxurious resorts, world-class golf courses and quiet stretches of sand.
Whether you’re into surfing, shelling or simply soaking up the Florida sunshine, Jacksonville’s coastal communities offer the perfect beach experience for every style and pace.
Where to Stay in Jacksonville
Jacksonville features a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler. From beachside resorts to downtown real estate for rent, there are countless places to stay that are as diverse as the city itself.
While Jacksonville is located in Duval County, its influence and lodging options extend into nearby areas like St. Johns County, offering even more variety. Stay near the coast for early morning beach strolls or choose Southside or Ortega for a more easygoing, local vibe. For convenient access to shops, dining and entertainment, look into hotels in Downtown Jacksonville or near the Jacksonville International Airport (JAX).
Just a short drive south, St. Augustine — the nation’s oldest city — is perfect for a day trip filled with cobblestone streets, centuries-old landmarks and Spanish colonial charm.
Whether you’re traveling for relaxation, adventure or a little of both, visit Jacksonville and discover one of Florida’s most exciting cities. With stunning beaches, historic charm and a welcoming spirit, Jacksonville, Florida truly has it all.
Start your Jax adventure today — book your nonstop Allegiant flight from BLV to Jacksonville International Airport and get ready for an unforgettable getaway.
Interested in receiving the latest news about the destinations we fly into? Sign up for our periodic e-newsletter.
