Tallahassee To Jacksonville- Best Routes & Stops to Make!

If you’re craving a road trip through the picturesque landscapes of northern Florida, Tallahassee to Jacksonville is the way to go. 

Tallahassee and Jacksonville are two of the most popular cities in Florida and at a 2.5 hour drive, it’s a fairly short distance and not a long road trip. 

Tallahassee is the powerhouse of Florida and is the state capital, while Jacksonville is the big dog of Florida cities.

This place is huge, it’s the largest city in the whole state! 

Get ready to explore charming towns and soak in the region’s rich history, and southern hospitality.  You will also discover hidden gems along the way.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable road trip experience, this Tallahassee to Jacksonville route has a full itinerary and fun options for all. 

In this blog post, we will guide you through the best way to drive the route and highlight some of the notable stops along the way that make your trip truly unforgettable.

 

 

Tallahassee To Jacksonville Driving Distance 

When driving from Tallahassee to Jacksonville, you’ll be covering a distance of approximately 164 miles. 

As mentioned, the drive time between Tallahassee and Jacksonville is approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes.

The journey primarily takes place on highways, making it a relatively straightforward and convenient drive.

Routes From Tallahassee To Jacksonville

To travel from Tallahassee to Jacksonville, the most common and direct route is via Interstate 10 (I-10) and Interstate 95 (I-95).

Regarding tolls, there are no tolls along this route. 

Route Via I-10 and I-295 (Fastest Route) 

This is the most common and direct route between the two cities.

You’ll start by taking Interstate 10 (I-10) eastbound from Tallahassee, which will take you through scenic parts of northern Florida. 

As you approach Jacksonville, you’ll then transition onto Interstate 295 (I-295), which forms a beltway around the city.

This route allows for a smooth drive, with convenient access to various parts of Jacksonville.

Is There A Shuttle From Tallahassee To Jacksonville?

If you’re interested in bus travel, there are a few shuttle services available that provide transportation from Tallahassee to Jacksonville. 

One prominent shuttle service is RedCoach, which offers scheduled bus services between various cities in Florida, including Tallahassee and Jacksonville.

RedCoach offers daily service from the Jacksonville Transportation Authority’s Intercity Bus Terminal at the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center in LaVilla. 

The other option is the bus service operated by Greyhound USA, which offers a bus route between Tallahassee Bus Station and Jacksonville. 

Is Flying From Tallahassee To Jacksonville An option?

If you’re looking for Tallahassee to Jacksonville flights, it is an option you can consider, but for such a short distance, it may not be the most practical choice.

The flight time between the two cities is typically around 49 minutes.

In terms of cost, the average round-trip flight from Tallahassee to Jacksonville can range from $300 to $600, but if you’re lucky, you may be able to find cheap flights. 

Also, when comparing the cost to driving, it’s important to note that driving is often a more economical option for this short distance.  It also depends on your preferred travel date and if you have specific dates in mind.   

You have a few airline options when it comes to flying between Tallahassee and Jacksonville, such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines.

However, keep in mind that there might not be direct flights.  There may be layovers depending on the airline and the specific flight schedule you choose.

It’s important to consider whether the potential layovers and airport procedures are worth the time saved compared to driving.

Although flying and traveling with one of the bus companies are options, taking this trip in a car will give you the best seat in the house! 

Scenic Stops To Make Between Tallahassee To Jacksonville

When traveling from Tallahassee to Jacksonville, there are several scenic stops along the way that offer a glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural heritage of northern Florida.

It’s a good idea to give yourself plenty of time to explore.  Here are several stops you can consider to have the best time on this short road trip:

St. Mark’s Lighthouse

This historic lighthouse stands tall and proud, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and marking the entrance to the St. Mark’s River. 

It has been guiding ships and boats since 1831, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in Florida.

Standing next to it, you can’t help but imagine the countless sailors and fishermen who have relied on its beacon throughout the years.

One of the best things about visiting St. Mark’s Lighthouse is the opportunity to climb to the top.

Yes, you heard that right!  You can actually climb the spiral staircase and reach the observation deck for a panoramic view. 

Just note that this stop is an hour away and will add about an hour and a half to your drive. 

Play With Lemurs At The North Florida Wildlife Center

The North Florida Wildlife Center (NFWC) is a non-profit organization with a strong commitment to wildlife conservation, education, and preservation. 

They offer tours and let you get hands-on with some incredible exotic animals.

And guess who’s in the spotlight?  Lemurs!

These little guys are from Madagascar, known for their distinctive characteristics and rich biodiversity. 

Unfortunately, their population is facing critical threats, making them one of the most critically endangered mammals on our planet.

That’s why places like NFWC are so crucial in raising awareness and working towards their protection.

So, when you visit NFWC, not only do you get to meet these amazing lemurs, but you also learn about their struggles and the importance of preserving their habitat.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Ichetucknee Springs State Park is a little off the beaten path when you’re driving from Tallahassee to Jacksonville, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth the detour. 

Ichetucknee Springs State Park is famous for its breathtakingly beautiful crystal-clear river, where you can swim and snorkel or tube and float along the gentle currents, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic trails.

The water is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some fish or turtles swimming alongside you!

The park also offers several nature trails for hiking and wildlife spotting.

As you explore the trails, you’ll come across various plant and animal species, including birds, butterflies, and maybe even a deer or two.

Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park 

Further along the route, you can visit Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park.

This park commemorates the Battle of Olustee, the largest engagement between Union and Confederate forces in Florida during the Civil War. 

As you walk through the park, you can almost feel the echoes of history reverberating in the air.

It’s a humbling experience to stand on the very ground where Union and Confederate forces clashed all those years ago.

One of the highlights of visiting Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park is the annual reenactment of the Battle of Olustee.

Every year, history enthusiasts gather to recreate the battle, complete with period costumes and authentic weaponry.

Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville Beach is renowned for its pristine shoreline, stretching for miles along the Atlantic Ocean. 

The beaches here are known for their soft sand, warm waters, and ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. 

Visitors can enjoy activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and fishing. 

The beachfront also features a bustling promenade known as Jacksonville Beach Boardwalk, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Tallahassee To Jacksonville FAQ

What Is The Halfway Point Between Jacksonville And Tallahassee? 

The halfway point between Jacksonville and Tallahassee is Live Oak, Florida.

Live Oak is a convenient stop for travelers looking to take a break during their journey.

It offers various amenities such as restaurants, gas stations, and accommodations, making it an ideal midpoint for a road trip between the two cities.

How Long Does It Take To Get To Tallahassee From Jacksonville? 

The drive from Tallahassee to Jacksonville usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, give or take, covering a distance of approximately 165 miles.

But keep in mind that’s just a rough estimate. The actual travel time can be affected by the route you choose, road conditions, and any scenic stops you make along the way! 

Wrap-Up: Tallahassee To Jacksonville 

A scenic road trip from Tallahassee to Jacksonville awaits you. It’s time to hit the road and embark on a memorable journey through the heart of Florida.

As you cruise along, you’ll witness the beauty of the Sunshine State unfold before your eyes.

From the small towns with their historic charm to the scenic highways that wind through the countryside, driving is a great way to see it all! 

Make sure to take advantage of the opportunities to explore along the way.

Whether it’s a quick stop in Monticello to play with Lemurs or a leisurely stroll through Historic Olustee Battlefield, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!