JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A major name in hospitality could soon be checking in to downtown Jacksonville.
Hard Rock Hotels is reportedly considering the vacant Berkman II site along the riverfront, just down the road from the Four Seasons Hotel and Shipyards projects that are already in the works.
The Berkman II site, located on Bay Street, has sat empty since the city demolished the half-built tower in 2022. Now, developers are looking to transform the space into a destination that could bring new energy—and a bit of rock ‘n’ roll flair—to Jacksonville’s downtown.
If the deal moves forward, the new Hard Rock Hotel would join other major projects along the St. Johns River, including the Four Seasons Hotel being developed by Jaguars owner Shad Khan. The entertainment company already operates hotels in Daytona, Orlando, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale.
City officials confirmed that discussions are underway, with the mayor’s office sending the following statement to News4JAX:
We have spoken with several groups looking at downtown parcels. One of those groups is interested in the possibility of a hotel on the Berkman II site – and it potentially being a Hard Rock Hotel.
Spokesperson for Mayor Donna Deegan's office
When asked if the hotel would include a casino, officials said preliminary discussions have only been about the hotel.
The prospect of a Hard Rock Hotel has sparked conversation among Jacksonville residents, with many seeing it as a positive sign for the city’s growth.
“I think it’s a great idea. Jacksonville is growing. We need everything that we can get in order to have fun,” said one local resident. “This is a great idea. Bring it on right now.”
Another resident, originally from Louisiana, noted the economic benefits similar projects have brought to other cities. “There’s like three casinos there, and all it ever did was bring revenue to the place. People are gonna go find it where they can, so why not make money off of it?”
No final deal has been reached yet, but excitement is building. If plans come together, Downtown Jacksonville could soon welcome its most rockin’ headliner yet.