Jack in the Box Longwood has begun its soft opening in Central Florida, marking the brand’s long-awaited return to the area.

After more than three decades since the fast-food chain last had a presence in the Sunshine State, Jack in the Box has quietly kicked off a soft opening of its new restaurant in Longwood, Florida, ahead of an official grand opening later this month.

Locals reported that the drive-thru was active and employees were training on site in the days leading up to the Feb. 19 opening, with many in the community confirming soft service had begun even before signage appeared that employees were training on site in the days leading up to the Feb. 19 opening, with many in the community confirming that soft service had begun even before signage appeared onn online maps. Additionally, some of our colleagues went and dined at the Jack in the Box Longwood location.

Jack in the Box Longwood

Though the company has not yet issued a formal press release about the Longwood opening, social media posts and local enthusiasts suggest the restaurant, located on West State Road 434. began serving customers informally in mid-February, with the official ribbon-cutting slated for later in the week. The move marks a significant milestone for Jack in the Box’s expansion in Central Florida, a strategy first reported in 2025 when planning documents and city development maps indicated the restaurant would open in Longwood in early 2026. Of course, initial reports of this go back to March 2023.

According to earlier reports, franchisee Ed Zausch signed on to lead the Central Florida rollout. In an investor statement, Zausch said the company was “beyond excited to bring ten new Jack in the Box locations to the greater Orlando area,” citing strong relationships with Jack in the Box corporate, thorough training support, and the brand’s varied menu as key factors in his decision. Jack in the Box, founded in 1951 in San Diego, is known for its all-day breakfast, tacos, burgers, and shakes, as well as its distinctive clown-logo branding and drive-thru focus.

Where is Jack in the Box Longwood in Relation to Orlando Area Theme Parks?

Located in Seminole County, Longwood, Florida, offers a quieter residential vibe while remaining within striking distance of the world-famous Orlando theme parks. Depending on your specific destination and the notorious Interstate 4 traffic, your commute can range from a quick hop to a significant trek.

Proximity to Key Parks

The distance varies based on which “world” or “universe” you are visiting:

• Universal Orlando Resort: Approximately 21–23 miles away. In light traffic, this drive takes about 30–35 minutes.
• SeaWorld Orlando: Located about 25–27 miles from Longwood. Expect a 35–45 minute commute via I-4.
• Walt Disney World Resort: The furthest of the bunch, sitting roughly 34–37 miles away. Driving time typically starts at 45 minutes but can easily exceed an hour during peak times.

Navigating the Commute

The primary artery for this trip is I-4 West. While the distance is relatively short, Central Florida traffic is highly unpredictable. For a stress-free trip to the main Orlando parks, aim to leave before the 7:00 AM rush or after 9:30 AM.

What’s Next for Jack in the Box in Florida

While this Longwood location is one of the first to open in Florida, industry filings and reporting suggest more Central Florida locations are planned as part of a broader regional expansion. Permits filed in 2025 pointed to additional restaurants planned across the Orlando metro area.

As the Longwood store finishes its soft opening period, residents and visitors alike are expected to get a full grand opening celebration soon—bringing the West Coast-based fast food brand’s late-night eats and signature menu items back to Florida consumers after years of absence.

For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News. As always, eat like you mean it!

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