Jacksonville International Airport sits approximately 24 kilometres north of Downtown Jacksonville, Florida. The modern airport serves over six million passengers each year. Its easy access to state parks, shopping malls, beaches and central Jacksonville makes the surrounding area an ideal location in which to stay.
Although Jacksonville International Airport has its fair share of shops and restaurants within the terminal buildings, the best attractions are outside. Visitors staying in the area will be spoiled for choice with the River City Marketplace nearby. It’s the largest shopping complex in North Florida with cinemas, dining establishments and a variety of shops. On the northside of Jacksonville is the Budweiser Brewery. Take a tour to discover how this classic American beverage is produced. Alternatively, venture to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Timucuan Preserve or Talbot Islands State Parks. Little Talbot Island State Park is home to over eight kilometres of white sandy beaches, forests and an abundance of wildlife. Activities in the park include kayaking, surfing, hiking and picnicking. Visitors preferring to immerse themselves in culture rather than nature should head for Downtown Jacksonville. Its museums, riverside concert venues, shopping and dining, are second to none.
Jacksonville International Airport operates a direct public bus service into Downtown Jacksonville. It also connects with the Jacksonville Skyway monorail system and a variety of Greyhound bus services. Jacksonville railway station services other areas of Florida and northern U.S. states via the Amtrak network. The most popular mode of transport is undoubtedly by car. Visitors will discover the theme parks of Orlando just two hours’ drive away, and Gainesville is a 1.5-hour journey.
Construction began on Jacksonville International Airport in 1965. Initially, the airport was to handle traffic into nearby naval bases. The airfield is still home to a small air force base and the Air National Guard. Most flights arriving into the regional airport are from North America and Canada, and several cargo operators use it as their North Floridian hub. The airport has a prime location, close to the Georgia state line and a variety of natural wildlife parks, historic reserves, islands and beaches.