From Orlando to Jacksonville: 5 Best Ways to Get There
There's no shortage of fun attractions in Orlando—from theme parks to shops to museums, there's something for everyone. One thing Orlando is missing is a beach, and nothing says Florida vacation like a sandy shore. That's why so many tourists travel from Orlando to Jacksonville.
Bustling Jacksonville beckons worn out travelers looking for a break from roller coasters, enticing them to visit its pristine beaches, challenging golf courses, and stellar attractions.
Jacksonville is an easy place to travel for a day trip from Orlando. Tourists can drive the 143 miles in about two hours and 15 minutes. This is the easiest way to get to Jacksonville. Those who'd rather leave the driving to someone else can book a transfer from the airport or hop on a bus or train.
Use our list to choose the best way to get from Orlando to Jacksonville.
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1. From Orlando to Jacksonville by Car
The easiest way to get from Orlando to Jacksonville is by car. If you take a direct route, the 143-mile drive should take about two hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. If you aren't in a hurry, there are plenty of beautiful places to visit along the way.
Jacksonville is a vibrant city filled with fun attractions and beautiful, soft beaches. To get there, follow the I-4 E towards the ocean. Next, those who favor beach time can stop at Ormond Beach for some more water-based fun.
Or head straight to St. Augustine, a star city of Florida's east coast. There are so many fun things to do in this pretty spot that you'll be happy you visited.
The most scenic route to Jacksonville involves veering east to join the breathtaking A1A, an oceanside highway lined in parts with spectacular mansions. If you've chosen to stop at a beach, keep heading east, and you'll hit this famed road.
No matter which route you choose, you're likely to drive on a toll road or two, so you'll need a Sun Pass. If you've rented a car, contact the company to find out their policy on toll roads—some charge exorbitant fees. It may be more budget-friendly to get your own pass.
Speaking of renting cars, the easiest way to do this is by getting one from the airport. The most popular rental companies in Orlando include, Dollar, Hertz, Enterprise, and Sixt.
2. From Orlando to Jacksonville by Bus
Taking a bus is the cheapest way to get from Orlando to Jacksonville. With fares ranging from $24.99 to $79, tourists will save a ton on gas money by allowing someone else to foot the bill. Having a person to navigate and drive is another plus.
Greyhound is a popular Florida transportation company offering multiple daily buses on this route. Tickets start at $26 for economy and get as high as $79, depending on the day, time, and holiday schedule.
Greyhound buses leave from either the station at Orlando International Drive (4953 International Drive) or the Orlando Bus Station at 555 North John Young Parkway. They arrive at the downtown Jacksonville stop at 1111 West Forsyth Street.
Flixbus is one of the cheapest options when it comes to taking a bus. Tickets start at $26.99. The journey will take anywhere from two and a half hours to four hours, depending on the station, time, and day you choose.
Flix buses leave Orlando from either the Altamonte Springs station at 285 Douglas Avenue, the Kissimmee North station at 3086-3070 South Loins Court, or Orlando International Drive at 4953 International Drive. Their buses arrive at the Jacksonville Southpoint stop at 4680 Lenoir Avenue or the Jacksonville downtown stop at 1111 West Forsyth Street.
Megabus offers one bus a day for $24.99 per person. It leaves at 10:30am from The Florida Mall at 8001 South Orange Blossom Trail and arrives two hours and 45 minutes later at the JTA Intercity Bus Terminal at 1111 West Forsyth Street.
3. From Orlando to Jacksonville by Transfer
Another easy way to get from Orlando to Jacksonville is by booking a transfer. As quick as driving, a transfer cuts out the rental car middleman (or woman) and allows tourists to go straight from their plane to an air-conditioned car awaiting them in the arrivals hall. Guests are dropped off at various hotels and many other locations in Jacksonville.
Transfer cars can hold up to eight people, which makes this a great option for families. If you have a little one, the company will have a seat for you, just be sure to arrange this in advance. Prices begin at $392.83 per group of up to four people.
Good news if you're planning to return the same way: this transfer can be booked in the reverse direction, too.
4. From Orlando to Jacksonville by Train
Taking the train is an affordable way to get from Orlando to Jacksonville. Starting at $18 for a value coach seat on an Amtrak train, this route takes about three hours and 15 minutes to reach its destination. If you're looking for flexibility to cancel and refund your ticket, the price can increase to $78.
Those who'd like to upgrade to a room will have to shell out $294 or more. These include access to a private restroom and shower and complimentary meals.
The silver meteor train departs the Orlando Train Station at 1400 Sligh Boulevard and arrives at the Jacksonville Train Station on 3570 Clifford Lane in Jacksonville.
5. From Orlando to Jacksonville by Plane
Flying is the fastest way to get from Orlando to Jacksonville. It is also the most expensive way to travel. Private aviation chartering companies like EvoJets give wealthy travelers a comfortable and quick option for getting to their destination.
The cheapest plane to charter is an "executive turboprop." It seats up to nine passengers, takes 45 minutes to get to Jacksonville, and will cost between $5,800 to $7,800 per person for a one-way flight.
Those with extra deep pockets can opt for the higher end "heavy jet," which seats up to 16 people and takes about 29 minutes in the air. It will cost between $20,800 and $28,100 per person for a one-way flight.
If your heart is fluttering at that price, you may want to try the commercial route; but be warned, this could take over 13 hours and involve numerous stopovers. You could drive from Orlando to Jacksonville six times!
