Jacksonville, Florida, offers plenty of affordable attractions, beautiful beaches, and delicious food without requiring a big budget. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or planning an extended stay, there are many ways to enjoy the city without overspending. This guide covers affordable accommodations, free and low-cost activities, budget-friendly dining, and money-saving travel tips.
Affordable Ways to Get to Jacksonville
By Air
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) serves many budget airlines, making it possible to find low-cost flights. To save money:
- Book flights early for the best rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Use fare comparison websites like Google Flights or Skyscanner to find deals.
- Fly mid-week when airfare is typically cheaper.
By Car
If you live within driving distance, a road trip to Jacksonville can save you money on airfare. Major highways like Interstate 95 and Interstate 10 make the city easily accessible.
By Bus or Train
- Greyhound and Megabus offer affordable bus tickets to Jacksonville from nearby cities.
- Amtrak provides train service to Jacksonville with budget-friendly ticket options when booked in advance.
Budget-Friendly Places to Stay
Jacksonville offers a variety of affordable accommodations, from budget hotels to vacation rentals.
Best Budget Hotels
- Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville Beach – Affordable and close to the beach.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Jacksonville Butler Blvd – Convenient and offers free breakfast.
- Motel 6 Jacksonville, FL – South – One of the most budget-friendly options in the city.
Alternative Accommodations
- Airbnb and VRBO offer private rooms or shared spaces at lower rates than hotels.
- Camping at Hanna Park is an inexpensive way to stay near the beach while enjoying nature.
Free and Low-Cost Things to Do
Explore Jacksonville’s Beaches
Jacksonville has 22 miles of public beaches, and they are all free to visit. Bring your own snacks and beach gear to avoid rental costs.
Best free beaches include:
- Jacksonville Beach – The most popular spot with a pier and scenic views.
- Neptune Beach – A quieter beach with a small-town feel.
- Atlantic Beach – Great for shell hunting and morning walks.
Visit Free Parks and Outdoor Spaces
- Riverside Arts Market – A free Saturday market featuring local vendors, live music, and food trucks.
- Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve – Free hiking trails and historic sites.
- St. Johns Riverwalk – A scenic place for a stroll with views of the city skyline.
- Big Talbot Island State Park – Known for its driftwood-covered beaches and nature trails.
Free Museums and Cultural Attractions
- Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens – Free admission on the first Saturday of each month.
- Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville – Free entry on the first Wednesday of each month.
- Kingsley Plantation – A free historic site with self-guided tours.
Affordable Attractions
- Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens – Offers discounted admission on select days.
- Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Baseball Games – Tickets start at $5 for minor league baseball games.
- Florida Theatre – Occasionally hosts free or low-cost community events.
Eating on a Budget
Cheap Eats in Jacksonville
- Maple Street Biscuit Company – A great place for a filling breakfast at an affordable price.
- The Bearded Pig – One of the best barbecue spots in town with reasonably priced meals.
- Moon River Pizza – Serves large portions of handmade pizza at a low cost.
Food Trucks and Local Markets
- Riverside Arts Market – Offers affordable street food and snacks.
- Food Truck Fridays at Jax Beach – Features a variety of inexpensive meal options.
Money-Saving Tips for Dining
- Take advantage of happy hour specials at local bars and restaurants.
- Eat at food trucks and local markets instead of sit-down restaurants.
- Look for restaurants that offer large portions so you can save leftovers for another meal.
Getting Around Jacksonville on a Budget
Public Transportation
- Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) Buses – Fares start at $1.75 per ride, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Skyway Express – A free monorail that runs through downtown Jacksonville.
Rideshare and Bike Rentals
- Uber and Lyft offer rides at a lower cost than renting a car if you are staying downtown.
- Zencog Bike Rentals is an inexpensive way to explore neighborhoods like Riverside and San Marco.
Budget Travel Tips for Jacksonville
- Visit during off-peak seasons (September to November and January to March) for lower hotel rates.
- Use discount websites like Groupon for deals on attractions and dining.
- Look for free events happening in the city, such as outdoor concerts and festivals.
- Take advantage of hotel deals that offer free breakfast to save on meal costs.
Final Thoughts
Jacksonville is a great destination for budget travelers, with plenty of free and low-cost activities, affordable dining, and inexpensive accommodations. Whether you are spending time at the beach, exploring historic sites, or enjoying local food, Jacksonville offers a fun and memorable experience without breaking the bank.
