What is the best area to stay in Jacksonville?
By Elizabeth Lavis. January 19, 2024
Jacksonville is the jewel of the First Coast, with temperate weather, twenty-two miles of beaches, and a fabulous downtown with museums and attractions, including Catty Shack Ranch, a sanctuary for leopards, lions, and other large cats. Plus, there are natural areas to explore, like the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens and Talbot Island. Fancy a few rounds of golf? Jacksonville’s sunny courses are the ideal spot to practice your swing, and you can celebrate a great game with a cold craft brew at one of the city’s many watering holes. Plus, there are plenty of neighborhoods for every taste and budget.
In terms of where to stay in Jacksonville, it’s tough to beat the Downtown/Riverwalk neighborhood. This beating heart of the city sits right on the St. Johns River, offering residents spectacular sunset strolls. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might even catch a dolphin leaping among the currents. Additionally, the Downtown/Riverwalk area is where you’ll find the hottest live music in Jax and sports, including the pro football team Jacksonville Jaguars, and if you’re in the mood for more culture, the Riverside Arts Market offers a weekly array of homemade crafts, fresh fruits and vegetables, and food trucks.On the map, which shows the best area to stay in Jacksonville, Florida, you can see a selection of some of the best located hotels.
If you’re interested in finding out where to stay in Jacksonville, you may also want to know where to stay in Orlando or where to stay in Miami.
Downtown/Riverwalk, the best area to stay in Jacksonville
A wonderful spot for those who want to be in the center of it all
With over a dozen venues featuring sports, entertainment, and culture and excellent teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars, Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, and Jacksonville Icemen, you’ll never have a dull moment. Plus, it’s utterly convenient.
Most of Jacksonville’s industry is situated in the downtown core; there are three college campuses and plenty of historic spots, like Treaty Oak, within walking distance. Along with all of this proximity and convenience, you’ll also enjoy easy access to nature thanks to the St. John’s River.
This neighborhood is dotted with places to rent kayaks, and you can hop on the river taxi to enjoy the serene waters of the St. John’s for yourself. It’s also got a thriving nightlife scene, with venues like the Florida Theatre bringing in great local and national acts.
Other Areas to Stay in Jacksonville
Jacksonville Beach
An excellent place for sunbathers and those seeking a chill vibe
Enjoy one of the best beaches in the city when you make your home in Jacksonville Beach, which offers pristine views of the Atlantic Ocean and a laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect mixture of eclectic and higher-end. Jacksonville Beach is close to the Atlantic and Neptune Beaches, and you can get between the three by simply strolling on the golden shores.
Additionally, you’ll find some great dining options, plenty of cute cafes and coffee shops, and blissful beach bars where you can gaze over the waves while you enjoy your drink of choice.
Choose between more traditional Mission-style homes or stunning newer buildings with all of the amenities and big balconies that overlook the shore. Plus, these residences come in various price points, making the vibrant and refreshing vibe of Jacksonville Beach accessible to all.
Butler Blvd
Butler Blvd is a good choice for people who like lots of space and golfing
Butler Blvd is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something that offers you a residential feel but is still connected to all major parts of the city. This neighborhood has seen rapid development, with new, modern homes and apartments popping up all around the boulevard itself.
With all of this new home construction, you’ll find ample retail space, making it an utterly convenient place to live, too. Developments like Seven Pines are modern master developments with ample water features, so you’ll still get to enjoy a touch of wild Florida while you live there.
Plus, Butler Blvd is also very close to Lake Stanley, a good place for a restorative hike, and Kernan Golf Country Club. If you’re looking for a chill neighborhood next to one of Jacksonville’s major traffic arteries, give it a shot.
Baymeadows
An excellent option for people who want a quiet family neighborhood
Southeast Jacksonville’s Baymeadows has easy access to both Highway 202 and the 1-95, so you’re never far from the delights of downtown or the beaches that sit against the Atlantic. In fact, you can hop on a major road and be anywhere in Jacksonville within less than an hour. In addition to the convenience, you’ll love this neighborhood for its versatility and housing options.
No matter what you’re looking for, an apartment, home, or condo, you’re likely to find the right fit in Baymeadows. There is also everything you need for living in Baymeadows, including office space, shopping, and parks. Golf courses and attractions are also close by.
You’ll also find good schools in Baymeadows, including Twin Lakes Academy Middle and Elementary, and excellent family dining options, making it a great place for people to raise families.
St. Johns Town Center
Good for people who want convenience and beach access
St. Johns Town Center offers the best of all worlds, with easy access to the beach in less than 15 minutes, tons of shopping, and some exceptional dining options. More of a planned lifestyle community than a neighborhood, this area focuses heavily on offering its residents the ultimate in convenience and choice.
Plus, there are some other perks, too, including a dog park, beach access close by, and natural areas throughout the center itself. St. Johns Center has plenty of diverse housing, including student accommodations for the University of North Florida, and there are also sparkling new apartments and condos to choose from.
Despite being one of the top places in Jacksonville to enjoy the ultimate urban living, shopping, and dining experience, you’ll still be pretty close to Jacksonville’s hiking trails, golf courses, and, of course, beaches.
Hotels in St. Johns Town Center
Orange Park
Good for families and those looking for a little slice of natural heaven
Head to the western part of Jacksonville, and you’ll find Orange Park, a beautiful natural place with seaside access, lots of marinas, and plenty of natural land that’s perfect for hiking, biking, or trekking.
This neighborhood has more country vibes than the rest of the city, reflecting Jacksonville’s location south of Georgia, but you can still tap into a beachy mood by heading just a little bit south. Plus, there are ample schools and great shopping at the huge Orange Park Mall.
You can also take advantage of Orange Park’s other nearby shopping destinations, like Oakleaf Town Center and Argyle Village Shopping Center. While this neighborhood is truly one of the most unique in the city due to its placement and overall feel, you’re never too far away from anything you need from downtown.
Our recommended hotels in Jacksonville
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in JacksonvilleNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
