Cheap flights from New Orleans to Jacksonville, and what to do once you're there

Cheap flights from New Orleans to Jacksonville, and what to do once you're therePhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on June 19, 2019

Florida, full of sun and palm trees, is always a popular travel destination. If you’re looking for an alternative to the steamy hustle of Miami or the theme park energy of Orlando, Jacksonville remains a hidden gem.

The largest city by area in the U.S., Jacksonville enjoys wide-open spaces and operates the largest urban park system in the country. Centered on the St. Johns River, the city’s extensive waterways draw residents and visitors alike for a variety of water sports and leisure activities. And with modest prices and room to grow, Jacksonville is attracting a burgeoning arts scene. It hosts major music festivals and cultural events throughout the year.

Using travel site Skyscanner, we’ve sifted through the cheapest flights between New Orleans and Jacksonville in the next few months, including some popular hotel options and beloved local attractions. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)

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Flight deals to Jacksonville

The cheapest flights between New Orleans and Jacksonville are if you leave on Aug. 22 and return from Florida on Aug. 26. JetBlue currently has tickets for $173, roundtrip.

There are also deals to be had in September. If you fly out of New Orleans on Sept. 13 and return from Jacksonville on Sept. 17, JetBlue can get you there and back for $185 roundtrip.

Top Jacksonville hotels

Regarding where to stay, here are some of Jacksonville’s top-rated hotels that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price and customer satisfaction.

One Ocean Resort & Spa (1 Ocean Blvd.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking to splurge on top quality, consider One Ocean Resort & Spa. The hotel has a 4.8-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $179. It's right on the beach and within walking distance of restaurants and other attractions.

Casa Marina Hotel and Restaurant (691 First St. North)

There's also the four-star rated Casa Marina Hotel and Restaurant, which has rooms for $139/night.

The Casa Marina says it seeks to impart the atmosphere "of the classic, timeless glamour from the 1920s ... designed and restored to a contemporary sophisticated styling." It's also right on the beach, and its restaurant offers a buffet with seafood.

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront (225 E. Coast Line Drive)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

A third, in-town option is the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. The 4.6-star hotel has rooms for $139/night. It's close to the Jacksonville Landing festival marketplace.

Local restaurant picks

If you're looking for a popular spot to grab a bite, Jacksonville has plenty of excellent eateries to choose from. Here are a few from Skyscanner's listings to help you get started.

Fantastic Fudge (218 Centre St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First things first: dessert. For a popular option, check out Fantastic Fudge, which has an average of 4.8 stars out of 28 reviews on Skyscanner.

"This is a very popular downtown favorite," wrote visitor Tony. "It is very busy, so be patient. Neither of us enjoys fudge all that much. That being said, what we tried was great. We go to Fantastic Fudge for the ice cream. They have a variety of flavors, and a generous scoop on a waffle cone is well worth the wait!"

Ruth's Chris Steak House (814 A1A North, Suite 103)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking for a local favorite restaurant pick, head to Ruth's Chris Steak House, with five stars from 11 reviews.

"What’s not to love about Ruth’s Chris?" wrote reviewer Peggy. "The steak is to die for and the lobster is the ultimate luxury, with the waiter standing there cracking it for you. Sides are big enough to share, so try several. Never had bad food here."

Salt (4750 Amelia Island Parkway, Amelia Island)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Also worth considering is Salt.

One of five dining options at the Ritz-Carlton, Salt features simple and elegant flavors in a coastal setting.

"Salt is ... a wonderful special occasion restaurant," wrote Rita. "The food is spectacular as only the Ritz can do."

Espana Restaurant & Tapas (22 S. Fourth St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, there's Espana Restaurant & Tapas.

The restaurant is located in the Victorian-styled Fernandina Beach historic district.

"Fresh seafood with an authentic Spanish flair in the historic downtown area," wrote Louise. "You will quickly see why this is one of our very favorite restaurants. Their paella is phenomenal but the whole menu is just fabulous. Reservations encouraged."

Featured local attractions

Not sure what to do in Jacksonville, besides eat and drink? Here are a couple of recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.

Historic Fernandina (Fernandina Beach)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is Historic Fernandina, the business district of Fernandina Beach, about 20 minutes from Jacksonville.

"The history makes this area unique " wrote visitor Aimie. "Love the old streets. Not many know this, but 'Pippi Longstocking' was filmed here."

Amelia Island Trail (Fernandina Beach)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, consider checking out Amelia Island Trail.

"The Amelia Island Trail, on Florida's northeastern coast, runs from Peters Point Beachfront Park to Amelia Island State Park in the city of Fernandina Beach," wrote visitor Kay. "Much of the paved, tree-lined route parallels Highway A1A ... The connection to Amelia Island State Park will allow trail-goers access to the park's acres of soft, sandy beaches, salt marshes and maritime forests."


This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.