Historic Jacksonville
Jacksonville's many historic neighborhoods bring a variety of interesting historical homes and landmarks. These neighborhoods feature a number of homes listed in the National Trust Of Historic Preservation.
Over the last few years, many individuals and investors have been buying old homes within those historic districts. A large number have been restored and are now being occupied by individuals, couples and families. Some located on busy streets were converted to professional offices housing attorneys, doctors, dentists, real estate offices and architects.
San Marco
The San Marco area, located along the river and near downtown, was developed at the same time as Riverside/Avondale. Centered around the San Marco shopping district, homes in the area range from Mediterranean-style homes built in the 1920s to homes recently renovated or rebuilt. In addition to the shopping village featuring old-fashioned street lamps and an historic fountain and an array of unique and elegant shops, San Marco is home to Theatre Jacksonville, Southside Baptist Church and several beautiful parks. The neighborhood hosts a number of special activities and festivities during the year.
St. Nicholas
Located at the Northern point of the St. Johns River, St. Nicholas was so named by the Spanish around 1740. The Spanish built a fort at this southern shore after 1783 and made it a strategic battery for guarding the river crossing against the British, and as well an important northerly point of defense for St. Augustine.
One of the richest collections of Jacksonville's remaining century-old houses can be found on this crescent of land along the south bank of the St. Johns River from Palmer Terrace to Clifton.
Riverside
In close proximity to downtown, this area on the Westside was part of the original city of Jacksonville and offers a picturesque setting of stately oaks and scenic river views. Situated between the St. Johns River and Roosevelt Boulevard, this area provides cultural diversity, historic architecture and an urban feel.
Riverside has become an attractive neighborhood to young professionals who want a short commute to downtown and are interested in renovating an old home. There are many homes to choose from, including modest bungalows, small duplexes, apartments and condominiums, elegantly restored homes and waterfront estates
Avondale
Southward along the river is Avondale, part of the same National Historic District as Riverside. Avondale features even more stately mansions than its neighbor, many of these built in the prosperous 1920's reflecting the Mediterranean Revival style as well as Tudor, Norman and other European styles. Avondale has maintained a unique village atmosphere and family environment through the years.
The focal point of the neighborhood is the shops of Avondale featuring trendy gourmet restaurants and an array of specialty shops and boutiques. The lifestyle of its residents is enhanced with the presence of over a dozen parks, which provide tennis, softball fields, and plenty of paths for jogging, walking and hiking.
Residents of Avondale also enjoy close proximity to downtown Jacksonville. You'll find apartment buildings, condominiums, small bungalows,and large, stately homes in the area.
Ortega
Long considered home to "Old Jacksonville," Ortega is located on a peninsula between the Ortega and St. Johns Rivers, bordered on the west by Roosevelt Boulevard. The area is expericing an influx of young upper to middle-income professionals who are finding a wide selection of home styles and close proximity to boating and golfing as well as convenience to downtown offices. Stately oaks overhang the winding main thoroughfare, which still offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Jacksonville skyline the city has to offer.
Some larger estates have sold portions of real estate to make way for new homes; however, Ortega has been developed for many years. Families tend to stay in Ortega and as a result, fewer homes are sold on the open market than in newer areas.
Mandarin
Primarily rural until the end of the 1960s when developers discovered this area, Mandarin has grown steadily since. The Mandarin Community Club works diligently to maintain the community's architectural integrity. Mandarin is rich in history, and for years different preservation groups have sought to maintain that history either in family holdings, trunks, church and school archives or through Mandarin Community Club involvement. Mandarin homes range from estates on the St. Johns River to small country homes with stables.Ortega
Long considered home to "Old Jacksonville," Ortega is located on a peninsula between the Ortega and St. Johns Rivers, bordered on the west by Roosevelt Boulevard. The area is expericing an influx of young upper to middle-income professionals who are finding a wide selection of home styles and close proximity to boating and golfing as well as convenience to downtown offices. Stately oaks overhang the winding main thoroughfare, which still offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Jacksonville skyline the city has to offer.
Some larger estates have sold portions of real estate to make way for new homes; however, Ortega has been developed for many years. Families tend to stay in Ortega and as a result, fewer homes are sold on the open market than in newer areas.
Mandarin
Primarily rural until the end of the 1960s when developers discovered this area, Mandarin has grown steadily since. The Mandarin Community Club works diligently to maintain the community's architectural integrity. Mandarin is rich in history, and for years different preservation groups have sought to maintain that history either in family holdings, trunks, church and school archives or through Mandarin Community Club involvement. Mandarin homes range from estates on the St. Johns River to small country homes with stables.
