JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The use of AI for travel itinerary planning is on the rise, with 41% of travelers in the United States and Canada reportedly using generative AI for trip inspiration or itinerary planning.
To test its capabilities, we asked AI to create a perfect, budget-friendly day trip itinerary for Jacksonville, Florida, scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 18.
Here’s the AI-generated itinerary:
Morning: Sunrise and Serenity (Cost: $0–$5)
7:30 a.m. – Catch the Sunrise at Jacksonville Beach Start the day with a quintessential Florida experience: a sunrise at Jacksonville Beach. Visitors can pack a thermos with coffee or tea and enjoy the calming sound of waves as the sun paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. The beach is free, and the peaceful morning air is priceless.
8:30 a.m. – Explore Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park (Entry: $5/vehicle) A short drive north leads to Hanna Park, a beautiful coastal oasis. Guests can stroll along shaded trails, enjoy lake views, or relax on the park’s quieter stretch of beach. For those feeling energetic, renting a bike or bringing their own to cruise the park’s bike trails is an option.
Late Morning: Culture and History (Cost: $0)
10:30 a.m. – Riverside Arts Market The Riverside Arts Market, open every Saturday, is free to explore. Visitors will find local vendors selling handmade crafts, art, and unique goodies. Many vendors offer free samples of coffee, snacks, or honey. The market is a fun place to explore without spending a dime, unless something irresistible catches the eye. Live music adds to the chill atmosphere.
Lunch: Tasty and Affordable (Cost: ~$10)
12:30 p.m. – Lunch at The Happy Grilled Cheese This Jacksonville favorite serves up cheesy, gooey comfort food for under $10. Options like the Mac Melt or Classic Grilled Cheese, paired with a side of sweet potato fries, offer a taste of comfort food that feels expensive but isn’t. Locations in Downtown Jacksonville, Mandarin and Jacksonville Beach.
Afternoon: Nature and Exploration (Cost: Free)
1:30 p.m. – Stroll the Jacksonville Riverwalk A walk along the scenic St. Johns River on the Jacksonville Riverwalk offers stunning views of the water, city skyline, and iconic bridges. Visitors can stop for a photo at Friendship Fountain, which is Instagram-worthy. Benches are available for those who want to relax and people-watch.
3 p.m. – Explore the Historic Riverside/Avondale Neighborhood Visitors can window shop and explore this hip neighborhood’s historic architecture, funky boutiques, and quirky bookstores. While wandering is free, budget-friendly cafes offer a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Evening: Sunset and Budget-Friendly Fun (Cost: ~$5)
5:30 p.m. – Sunset Picnic at Memorial Park Snacks from a nearby grocery store, like Publix, can be picked up for a laid-back sunset at Memorial Park. This beautiful riverside spot is perfect for unwinding while the sun sets over the St. Johns River.
7 p.m. – Free Live Music at a Local Spot (Cost: $0–$5) Jacksonville offers free or cheap live music events in the evenings. Places like The Justice Pub in Five Points or Jack Rabbits Live in San Marco are known for hosting fun, low-cost performances, providing a taste of Jacksonville’s music scene.
Optional Nightcap: Affordable Dessert ($5–$8)
8:30 p.m. – Sweet Treats at Dreamette Dreamette, one of Jacksonville’s most beloved spots for soft-serve ice cream, offers affordable cones or sundaes, making it the perfect way to wrap up the day. Locations in San Marco, Springfield and Murray Hill.
Total Cost Breakdown:
- Morning: $5 (Hanna Park)
- Lunch: ~$10
- Evening: ~$5 (Live music/snacks)
- Dessert: ~$5
- Grand Total: ~$25, with plenty of free fun along the way!
Parts of this article have been AI-generated.