When I think of Jacksonville, the first images that come to mind are its endless beaches, the wide St. Johns River cutting gracefully through the city, and its vibrant mix of Southern charm and coastal energy. But as any parent or family traveler knows, the hotel you choose can make or break your trip—especially when kids are involved. I’ve had my fair share of good, bad, and “never again” stays. On my most recent trip to Jacksonville, I decided to put together a guide not only for myself but also for fellow travelers searching for family-friendly hotels that balance comfort, convenience, and affordability.
I’ll take you through:
• My first-person experience at one hotel where I stayed with my family.
• Four additional highly recommended hotels I researched, visited, or spoke to friends about.
• A breakdown of location benefits, nearby attractions, services, amenities, prices, booking platforms, and discounts.
• My honest impressions—both the strengths and the areas where I think improvements could be made.
This isn’t a glossy magazine-style “listicle.” It’s my personal, boots-on-the-ground experience combined with practical tips for families like mine who love exploring Jacksonville but also want a place that feels like a home base at the end of the day.
🌟 My Stay: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
Booking and Arrival
When planning this trip, I knew I wanted a hotel that wasn’t just “kid-friendly” but also well located for adults who appreciate a little comfort. I booked the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront through Booking.com, where I found a deal for $179 per night (regular rates hover between $200–$240 depending on the season). Booking.com offered a “Kids Stay Free” option and a flexible cancellation policy, which was a huge plus.
First Impressions
The hotel is located 225 E Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202, right along the St. Johns River. From the moment I pulled up, I could feel the difference: valet staff greeted us warmly, check-in was quick, and the lobby felt airy and spacious with panoramic views of the water. My kids were given little coloring kits at check-in (a small gesture, but one that really set the tone for a family-friendly stay).
The Room
We stayed in a Double Queen Room with River View.
• Beds: Comfortable, with fresh linens and plenty of pillows.
• View: The highlight was watching boats sail down the river at sunset—it became a family ritual every evening.
• Amenities: A small fridge (perfect for storing snacks and milk for the kids), a coffee maker for me, and strong Wi-Fi for everyone.
• Space: With two young children, space is crucial. Thankfully, the room didn’t feel cramped. There was enough room to set up a portable crib without blocking walkways.
Family-Friendly Services
• Rooftop Pool: The kids adored the rooftop pool. It’s shallow on one end, making it safer for little ones, and the view of the river while swimming was incredible.
• On-Site Dining: The Shor Seafood Grill downstairs offered a kids’ menu with options like mac & cheese and grilled chicken, while I indulged in local seafood.
• Shuttle Service: They provide complimentary shuttle rides to nearby attractions like the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.
Location Benefits
The Hyatt’s downtown location was perfect. Within a 15-minute drive, we reached:
• Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens (a must for families!)
• Museum of Science and History (MOSH)
• Friendship Fountain—great for evening walks.
• Restaurants and cafes along the Jacksonville Landing area.
Pros
• Spacious rooms with family-friendly amenities.
• Rooftop pool with a safe section for kids.
• Incredible riverfront views.
• Shuttle service to local attractions.
Cons
• Parking is pricey at $25/day for self-parking or $32/day for valet.
• Downtown can be quiet in the evenings—if you’re looking for nightlife, you’ll need to drive elsewhere.
My Takeaway
For my family, the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront checked all the boxes: comfort, convenience, and enough little perks to keep the kids happy. It wasn’t just a place to sleep—it became part of our Jacksonville experience.
🏖️ Recommended Family-Friendly Hotels in Jacksonville
While I only stayed at the Hyatt, I researched and toured several other hotels (and cross-checked with other family travelers). Here are four top recommendations worth considering:
- Marriott Jacksonville
• Location: 4670 Salisbury Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32256. Situated in the Southpoint area, about 20 minutes from Jacksonville Beach and 15 minutes from downtown.
• Why It Works for Families: Rooms are large, modern, and include sofa beds, making it easier for families of four or five.
• Facilities:
o Outdoor pool with shaded seating.
o On-site restaurant (Bistro 202) with kid-friendly meals.
o Fitness center for parents who don’t want to miss a workout.
• Nearby Attractions: The hotel is close to St. Johns Town Center, a major shopping hub with stores and restaurants. Perfect for combining retail therapy with family dining.
• Pros: Spacious suites, attentive staff, modern feel.
• Cons: Located further from the beach—plan for extra drive time.
• Rates: Around $160/night. Discounts are often available on Expedia and Hotels.com.
- Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach/Oceanfront
• Location: 1515 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250. Right on the ocean!
• Why It Works for Families: The beachfront access is unbeatable. You can literally walk out the door and be on the sand.
• Facilities:
o Large outdoor pool with a waterfall feature.
o Complimentary hot breakfast with lots of kid-friendly options.
o Rooms with balconies overlooking the ocean.
• Nearby Attractions: Steps from Jacksonville Beach Pier and many casual seafood restaurants.
• Pros: Beachfront location, free breakfast, family atmosphere.
• Cons: Can be noisy on weekends due to beach crowds. Parking is limited.
• Rates: $200–$250/night. Book via Hilton.com to use rewards points.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville Airport
• Location: 1310 Airport Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218. Very close to Jacksonville International Airport.
• Why It Works for Families: Perfect if you’re flying in late or leaving early. Spacious suites with kitchens allow for home-cooked meals—a lifesaver for picky eaters.
• Facilities:
o Free airport shuttle.
o Complimentary breakfast.
o Outdoor sports court and pool.
• Nearby Attractions: Just a 20-minute drive to downtown Jacksonville and 25 minutes to the beach.
• Pros: Suites with full kitchens, airport convenience, friendly staff.
• Cons: Not ideal for long vacations if you want to be near the beach or downtown.
• Rates: $140–$180/night. Look for deals on Priceline.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Riverfront
• Location: 1201 Riverplace Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207. Located on the south bank of the St. Johns River.
• Why It Works for Families: Another riverfront property with great views. Spacious rooms and suites are ideal for larger families.
• Facilities:
o Outdoor pool.
o On-site dining (St. Johns Provisions) with kids’ options.
o Cookies at check-in (always a win with children!).
• Nearby Attractions: Walking distance to the Friendship Fountain, Riverwalk, and a short drive to MOSH.
• Pros: Great location, beautiful views, friendly staff.
• Cons: Older property compared to Hyatt—some areas could use renovation.
• Rates: $170–$210/night. Hilton Honors members often get discounted rates.
📝 Booking Tips and Discounts
• Use Multiple Platforms: I cross-check Booking.com, Expedia, and the hotel’s own website. Sometimes the official site offers better perks like free breakfast or parking.
• Travel Dates Matter: Prices in Jacksonville fluctuate depending on events like Jaguars NFL games or festivals. If possible, avoid booking during those peak weekends.
• Family Discounts: Many hotels (especially Marriott and Hilton chains) have promotions like “Kids Stay Free” or free meals for children under 12.
🌴 As I packed up after my stay in Jacksonville, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much a hotel truly shapes the overall experience of a family trip. The right hotel isn’t just a place to drop your bags—it becomes a backdrop for memories, the launching pad for adventures, and sometimes even the highlight itself. Watching the sunset over the St. Johns River from our Hyatt Regency balcony, I realized that those moments of peace and togetherness mattered as much as any museum or zoo visit we had scheduled.
What I really appreciated about Jacksonville’s hotel scene is that it offers something for every type of traveling family. If your kids are beach bums and you want to roll out of bed right onto the sand, Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach/Oceanfront is calling your name. If you’re more like me and love a blend of cultural exploration, good food, and riverside relaxation, the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront feels just right. For those who want modern convenience or shopping right next door, the Marriott near St. Johns Town Center is a smart pick. Families flying in and out on a tight schedule will find peace of mind at the Residence Inn by the airport, and if you’re after charm and a quieter riverside vibe, the DoubleTree adds that touch of old-school comfort.
Another thing worth mentioning is how family travel has evolved over the years. Ten years ago, I often found myself struggling to find hotels that went beyond just “allowing kids.” Now, I see hotels in Jacksonville really making the effort—offering kid-friendly menus, family packages, shuttle services to attractions, and rooms that make space for everyone without feeling cramped. It’s a small but meaningful shift, and it makes me excited to bring my children along on more adventures.
Tips for Families Considering Jacksonville
• Think Location First: Decide if your trip is going to revolve around beaches, downtown attractions, or airport convenience. That will narrow your choices dramatically.
• Book Early, Save Big: Jacksonville might not be as tourist-heavy as Miami or Orlando, but events like football games, festivals, and concerts can spike hotel prices quickly. Book at least 2–3 months in advance if you can.
• Use Rewards Programs: Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, and World of Hyatt all have excellent programs. I used Hyatt points to knock $50 off my total bill—points can go a long way with family stays.
• Don’t Skip the Perks: Complimentary breakfasts, free shuttles, or kids-eat-free promotions can save a surprising amount of money over a weeklong trip.
Every city I travel to with my family becomes a collection of little snapshots in my mind. In Jacksonville, it was the laughter of my kids splashing in the rooftop pool, the excitement on their faces feeding giraffes at the zoo, and the calm of walking along the river as the city lit up at night. Our hotel was the thread connecting all those moments—it gave us a comfortable, safe, and welcoming base from which we could explore without stress.
That, to me, is the essence of family-friendly travel. It’s not about luxury or cutting-edge design. It’s about finding a space where every member of the family feels considered, where convenience eases the logistics of travel, and where small touches—like a free cookie at check-in or a kid’s coloring kit—remind you that hospitality is about heart.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Jacksonville, my advice is this: don’t just book a hotel, choose a home base. Think about what will make your family happiest—whether it’s ocean breezes, riverfront sunsets, or the simplicity of an easy airport commute—and pick the hotel that aligns with that.
Jacksonville is a city that blends Southern charm, coastal relaxation, and family-friendly attractions seamlessly. With the right hotel, you’ll not only see the city but also experience it at its best. And who knows? Like me, you might just leave with not only souvenirs but also stories and memories that stay with you long after the trip ends.
