The Jacksonville Boat Show is a fun event for boaters, featuring a decent range of fishing boats, cruisers, pontoons, personal watercraft, and ski boats. It is the largest local boat show in Jacksonville, Florida.
Location
The show takes place at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, a large convention center located in downtown Jacksonville. With plenty of room, the convention center allows for a good number of boats to be viewed indoors.
Type: Indoor Show
Ticket Prices for Jacksonville Boat Show
Admission to the Jacksonville Boat Show is $15 per ticket, with parking available for $10. Kids’ tickets are priced at $5, making this an affordable family-friendly event.
Hotels Near Jacksonville Boat Show
Although the show can easily be experienced in one day, there are several nearby hotels if you’re planning to stay overnight:
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
Distance: 1 miles (approx. 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk)
Price: $200-$350 per night
Description: A modern hotel located along the St. Johns River, featuring spacious rooms, a pool, and on-site dining.
Marriott Jacksonville
Distance: .6 miles (approx. 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk)
Price: $180-$300 per night
Description: Offers comfortable accommodations with a restaurant, fitness center, and easy access to downtown attractions.
Hilton Garden Inn
Distance: 2 miles (approx. 5-minute drive across the river)
Price: $100-$180 per night
Description: A budget-friendly option with complimentary breakfast and a convenient location for attendees.
Transportation
Transportation around the show is primarily by walking, making it easy to access all exhibits without the need for shuttles or taxis.
Parking at Jacksonville Boat Show
Parking at the Jacksonville Boat Show is available at the convention center for $10 per day. There should be parking spots available though you can show up early to guarantee.
Exhibits and Attractions
The show includes more than just boats—there are also a variety of seminars, kids’ events, live music, and other attractions. It’s an enjoyable experience for the whole family, with something for everyone.
Best Boats at the Jacksonville Boat Show:
The show features a wide range of boats, but it’s especially focused on fishing boats in the 25-foot range, as well as cruisers and pontoons. All boats displayed are trailerable, making them convenient for local buyers.
Food Recommendations Near Jacksonville Boat Show
While the food vendor options at the show may be limited, here are some local dining spots to consider before or after the event:
1. BurgerFi
Distance: .6 miles (approx. 10-minute walk)
Price: $8-$12 per meal
Description: BurgerFi 100% Natural Angus Beef Burgers, Fresh-Cut Fries, Colossal Beer Battered Onion Rings, our award-winning VegeFi Burger & more. Highly recommend stopping by here if your in the mood for a burger.
2. Hawkers Asian Street Food
Distance: 1.6 miles (approx. 10-minute drive)
Price: $20-$30 per meal
Description: Very good Asian inspired restaurant, Chili Crisp Wontons are always a big hit!
3. Arepa Please
Distance: .9 miles (approx. 15-minute walk or 5-minute drive)
Price: $10-$16 per meal
Description: A casual eatery serving delicious Venezuelan arepas filled with fresh ingredients. It’s a must-try for those looking for something different.
4. V Pizza & Sidecar
Distance: 2.3 miles (approx. 10-minute drive)
Price: $12-$22 per meal
Description: A local favorite for pizza lovers, this restaurant serves delicious pizzas and features an amazing Italian beef sandwich that us coming back for more. If you have kids, choose seating inside the sidecar, makes a more fun dining experience.
Visitor Experience at Jacksonville Boat Show
Duration: The show can comfortably be experienced in one day, so take your time exploring all the different boats and exhibits.
Attendance: Expected to be under 10,000 over the course of the three-day event, offering a relaxed and intimate experience compared to larger international boat shows.
What to Wear to Jacksonville Boat Show
Clothing: While the event is held indoors, it can get chilly inside the convention center. A light sweatshirt or jacket is recommended.
Shoes: Bring comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking around the venue and may need to remove them to board some boats.
Sea Trials at Jacksonville Boat Show
Unlike larger shows, the Jacksonville Boat Show does not offer sea trials, as all boats are displayed out of the water. If you’re interested in testing a boat’s performance, you’ll need to arrange a separate water test with the dealer after the show.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Jacksonville Boat Show is very family-friendly, with a variety of kids’ activities and boating seminars to keep little ones entertained. It’s a great day out for families who love boating or are looking to purchase their first boat.
Conclusion
The Jacksonville Boat Show is a fun, full-day event where you can walk around and explore a variety of boats. It’s great for families, and the crowds are manageable, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.