

Cheap Car Hire Jacksonville International Airport Florida






Jacksonville: The Sunshine State's Bustling ‘River City’
Welcome to the sunny city of Jacksonville, a vibrant thriving arts scene in north-eastern Florida, along the St. Johns River, dubbed ‘The River City’. Often referred to as ‘Jax’ in casual shorthand by the locals, the city has St. Johns River as its lifeblood. The River has shaped its history, culture, and identity and once served as a vital waterway for Native American tribes and early settlers historically, facilitating trade, transportation, and settlement. Its deep waters helped Jacksonville flourish as a port city, connecting it to national and international commerce. Culturally, the river has inspired art, music, and festivals, such as the Jacksonville River Jams and the Florida-Georgia football rivalry, held near its banks. Today, the St. Johns River remains central to the city’s economy, recreation, and beauty, offering boating, fishing, and scenic views that define Jacksonville’s unique charm. Vast beaches attracts tourists and a world-class educational hub that contains prestigious institutions like the University of North Florida and Jacksonville University is a many draw with young students. Just a short drive from downtown, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) serves as the primary gateway to this unique Floridian city, welcoming visitors from across the U.S. and beyond.
Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, and United connect Jacksonville to major cities like the bustling east coast metropolis of New York, the sizzling tropical allure of brightly-coloured Miami, the historic political hub of Washington, D.C., and the lively city of Atlanta. The airport offers convenient amenities such as dining options, shops, and lounges, allowing you to unwind before picking up your pre-booked hire car and beginning your Jacksonville adventure. Departing from Jacksonville International Airport begins with a scenic drive through a landscape rich in marshlands, towering pine trees, and winding rivers on an exploration of this charming coastal city. Jacksonville’s expansive layout makes it ideal for discovering by car, with wide highways connecting you to serene beaches, cultural landmarks, and lush parks. A short drive east brings you to the breath-taking shores of Jacksonville Beach, where soft white sands meet the Atlantic, creating a perfect retreat for sunbathing, surfing, and waterfront dining. Heading further south along the coast, you’ll find Ponte Vedra Beach, a luxurious area known for its golf courses, upscale resorts, and natural beauty, making it a popular stop for beach lovers and sports enthusiasts alike.
Jacksonville’s historic Riverside and Avondale neighbourhoods are a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the city’s past with their charming 19th-century architecture, art galleries, and locally-owned boutiques. The St. Johns River, which gracefully winds through the city, is home to the Riverwalk—a lively stretch ideal for an afternoon stroll or sunset views. Downtown Jacksonville, meanwhile, is a hub of modernity and culture, featuring attractions like the Jacksonville Museum of Contemporary Art and the bustling VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.
Driving Jacksonville
For those with a penchant for nature, Jacksonville’s natural landscape is hard to beat. Just a half-hour drive from the airport lies the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, one of the oldest nature preserves in the USA, where trails, kayak routes, and historical sites await. The preserve’s lush scenery and pristine marshes create a peaceful escape, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. It’s hard to believe that such a natural haven rich with diverse bird species and wildlife that embody Florida’s unique ecosystem is just a few hours from the busy arrivals hall in Orlando International Airport (MCO). Visitors exploring this region can look forward to spotting magnificent birds such as the iconic bald eagle, osprey, and roseate spoonbill, with its striking pink plumage. The area’s wetlands and estuaries are prime spots to observe wading birds, including herons, egrets, and ibises, which thrive along the tranquil waters of the St. Johns River and coastal marshes. Visitors may glimpse river otters playing along the banks or encounter manatees in the warmer months, slowly gliding through the brackish waters. White-tailed deer are frequently seen in the surrounding forests, and the area also hosts a variety of reptiles, including the famous American alligator. Sea turtles nest along the sandy shores nearby, while gopher tortoises and other terrestrial species add to the region’s unique biodiversity. Jacksonville is conveniently connected to other parts of Florida via the Interstate 95 (I-95), which runs along the U.S. East Coast, linking the city southward through major Florida cities, including the silver hard-packed sands of Daytona Beach, and connecting northward to cities up the eastern seaboard. Another significant route is Interstate 10 (I-10), which travels westward from Jacksonville. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 225 kilometres (140 miles) southwest of Jacksonville, while Tampa International Airport (TPA) approximately 322 kilometres (200 miles) to the southwest

If you're looking for a day trip, a drive south along Interstate 95 will take you to the charming city of St. Augustine, renowned as America’s oldest city. St. Augustine captivates visitors with its Spanish colonial architecture, historic fort, and enchanting cobblestone streets. The city’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park and the Castillo de San Marcos provide immersive glimpses into its rich history, while nearby beaches and local eateries offer relaxation and delicious Floridian regional cuisine. Jacksonville and the surrounding area boasts several excellent golf courses catering to all skill levels, including TPC Sawgrass (Ponte Vedra Beach) home to THE PLAYERS Championship with an iconic course that features the world-famous island green on the 17th hole. Designed by Pete and Alice Dye; the Blue Sky Golf Club, an affordable, family-friendly course with a relaxed atmosphere and a unique 12-hole layout, as well as traditional 9- and 18-hole options; Bent Creek Golf Course a public course known for its scenic beauty, challenging layout, natural wetlands and rolling fairways; historic Hyde Park Golf Club, a Donald Ross-designed course, with classic architecture and a charming ambiance, reflecting its early 20th-century origins, and Deerwood Country Club, one of Jacksonville’s premier private courses.
Jacksonville’s large area means driving can involve longer distances; plan your itinerary to make the most of your time. Interstate 95 and Interstate 10 provide quick access to nearby cities and natural attractions, with well-maintained roads throughout. Jacksonville offers ample parking, particularly around downtown and the beaches, with free and paid options available. Be Wildlife Aware! Drive carefully in rural areas, especially near nature preserves, where wildlife may cross the road.
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
Number of Terminals: 1
Location of Car Rental Desks: Ground Transportation Center, adjacent to the terminal
Distance to Nearest Fuel Station: Approximately 3 miles from the airport
Nearest City: Jacksonville
Major Roads: Interstate 95, Interstate 295

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