Jacksonville is a family-friendly city on the banks of the St. Johns River and a short drive from the Atlantic Ocean.
Jacksonville International Airport:
Jacksonville’s airport code is JAX, and it is located 15 miles from downtown Jacksonville. Rental cars are available at the airport as are shuttle services. Additional transportation options: CT3 AirJTA/Powers route: 30 minutes, $1; Taxi: 15-20 minutes, $35-40.
Getting Around Jacksonville:
Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the continental United States, and therefore it is not a walkable city. Renting a car is a good way to travel between downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority offers several travel options within the downtown area, including buses, trolleys and the JTA Skyway monorail. Hop a water taxi to cross the St. Johns River, or take a bike tour to explore neighborhoods up close.
Visiting Jacksonville:
Visitor Information Centers:
Jacksonville International Airport (Baggage Claim area)
904-741-3044
Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
208 North Laura Street, Suite 102, Jacksonville
904-421-9156
Hours: M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Jacksonville Landing (lower level)
2 Independent Drive, Jacksonville
904-791-4305
Hours: F-Sa. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Beaches Visitor Center
380 Pablo Avenue, Jacksonville Beach
904-242-0024
Hours: Tu.-Sa. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Geography and Climate: Jacksonville, located in North Florida, is bisected by the St. Johns River. The city has a population of 813,500 and an area of 848 square miles, making it the largest city by area in the continental United States. It has a temperate climate with 300 days of sunshine. The average temperature in the summer is 90 degrees. During the winter, the average temperature is 58 degrees. The city’s positioning along the Atlantic Ocean sends a cool ocean breeze across the city during the hottest months. Jacksonville is located in the Eastern Time zone.
In Case of Emergency: Jacksonville is a safe city with friendly residents. Incidents of crime against visitors are rare, but being aware of your surroundings is always advised. In the event of an emergency, “911” is the emergency telephone number. The city has 30 major medical facilities within its borders, and three main hospitals include:
Baptist Medical Center Downtown
800 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville
904-202-2000
Shands Jacksonville Medical Center
655 West Eighth Street, Jacksonville
904-244-0411
Memorial Hospital
3625 South University Boulevard, Jacksonville
904-399-6111