Riverside Avondale Historic District
A picturesque historic district in Jacksonville, FL, celebrated for its stunning architecture, vibrant community, and charming local businesses.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Riverside Arts Market buzz
Riverside Avondale Historic District
Best Time
Riverside Arts Market buzz

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque historic district in Jacksonville, FL, celebrated for its stunning architecture, vibrant community, and charming local businesses.
"One of the most beautiful historic places I have been, with super nice stores and great food."
🎟️ Get Garden Tour Tickets Early
Tickets for the annual Garden Tour sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to admire the architecture and explore shops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Gems
Throughout the district
Marvel at the stunning variety of historic homes, from Mediterranean Revival to Craftsman Bungalows. Each street tells a story.

Riverside Arts Market
Historic Riverside
A vibrant weekly market featuring local artists, artisans, and small businesses. A perfect Saturday outing.

St. Johns Avenue Boutiques
St. Johns Avenue
Discover unique boutiques, charming cafes, and excellent dining options along this bustling street.

Annual Garden Tour
Various private gardens
An exclusive look into some of the district's most beautiful private gardens, often held in spring.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore on Foot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Get Garden Tour Tickets Early
Tickets for the annual Garden Tour sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to admire the architecture and explore shops.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Look out for special events like the Home Tour or Garden Tour; they're highlights!
📍 Explore 5 Points & Murray Hill
These adjacent neighborhoods offer more unique shops and dining experiences.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Get Garden Tour Tickets Early
Tickets for the annual Garden Tour sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to admire the architecture and explore shops.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Look out for special events like the Home Tour or Garden Tour; they're highlights!
📍 Explore 5 Points & Murray Hill
These adjacent neighborhoods offer more unique shops and dining experiences.
🛍️ Support Local Artisans
The Riverside Arts Market is a great place to find unique crafts and support small businesses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Riverside Avondale Historic District for its stunning architectural beauty and charming atmosphere. The vibrant St. Johns Avenue, with its unique shops and eateries, is a major draw. While some find information about the district's history or organizations lacking, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the community's love for its neighborhood.
"One of the most beautiful Historic places I have been. Super nice stores on St John's Av.. The Brick great place for dinner. Bicottis the best cake in the world. Well my world anyway."
robert stephens
"Being new to area, we went there looking for information regarding the area. Unfortunately there was none to be had. The gal we met there was lovely and helpful in otherways."
Tyra Smude
"Not a bad place or ppl wasnt here long enough to say much else"
Gardening Technician n designer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The district is easily accessible by car, located near downtown Jacksonville. Public transportation options are available, but exploring on foot is recommended once you arrive. Parking can be found on streets and in designated lots, though it may be limited during events.
Yes, street parking is available throughout the district. During busy times, like the Riverside Arts Market, it can be more challenging to find a spot. Consider arriving early or using ride-sharing services.
Absolutely! These neighborhoods are very walkable and interconnected. Many visitors enjoy strolling between them to experience the unique character of each area.
Generally, the area is considered safe for walking, especially during daylight hours and around popular commercial areas. As with any urban exploration, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Walking is the most immersive way to experience the historic architecture and local charm. For longer distances or if you have mobility concerns, consider a short Uber or Lyft ride between key areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to the Riverside Avondale Historic District is free. However, specific events like the annual Home Tour or Garden Tour require tickets, which can be purchased online.
The Riverside Arts Market is free to attend. It's a weekly community event where you can browse and purchase goods directly from vendors.
Tickets for these special events are typically available for purchase online through the Riverside Avondale Preservation website or designated ticketing platforms like 904tix.com.
The Riverside Arts Market is held every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine.
There are no general admission fees to explore the streets, admire the architecture, and visit the shops and restaurants within the Riverside Avondale Historic District.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire district is a photographer's dream! Focus on the diverse architectural styles, tree-lined streets, and the vibrant atmosphere of St. Johns Avenue. The Riverside Arts Market also offers great candid shots.
While you can photograph the exteriors of homes from public streets, it's respectful to avoid intrusive photography of private residences. Special events like the Home Tour allow interior access.
For personal use, photography is generally welcomed. For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's advisable to check with Riverside Avondale Preservation or local authorities for any specific guidelines.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light for capturing the historic architecture. Midday can be harsh, but good for vibrant market scenes.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A prime lens can be excellent for low-light interiors during tours. Don't forget your phone for quick snaps!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
St. Johns Avenue is lined with great options, including The Brick for dinner and Bicottis for delicious cakes. You'll find a variety of cuisines to suit any taste.
Yes, the district has several charming cafes perfect for a coffee and a pastry. They offer a relaxed atmosphere to recharge while exploring.
The 5 Points area, adjacent to Avondale, offers a diverse culinary scene with many popular eateries and bars, often featured on food tours.
While some restaurants can be upscale, you can find more casual and budget-friendly options, especially at the Riverside Arts Market or by exploring smaller eateries off the main drag.
You'll find a mix of Southern comfort food and international flavors. Keep an eye out for local seafood options and classic American fare.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the historic streets on foot is a great way to teach children about architecture and history. Look for homes with interesting features like unique windows or colorful gardens. While the district is primarily residential, the abundance of local shops and cafes provides opportunities for family-friendly breaks. Consider visiting during a time when crowds are lower to ensure a more relaxed experience for younger children.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Explorers
Don't miss the chance to stroll along St. Johns Avenue, popping into boutiques and cafes. The interconnectedness of Riverside, Avondale, and 5 Points means you can easily spend hours discovering hidden gems. Consider downloading a local history guide or using a map app to identify notable homes and landmarks.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
The district's architectural beauty itself is a form of art. Take time to appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of the homes. Look for details like decorative trim, stained glass windows, and unique rooflines. The annual Home Tour and Garden Tour offer even deeper dives into the artistic and horticultural achievements within the community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Heritage
Key architectural firms like Marsh & Saxelbye contributed significantly to the district's aesthetic, designing many of its iconic residences. The Riverside Avondale Preservation organization plays a crucial role in safeguarding this heritage, organizing events like the annual Home Tour that offer a rare glimpse into these magnificent properties. Admiring the intricate details, from ornate doorways to charming porches, is a highlight for many visitors.
Beyond the residential architecture, the district also features beautiful public spaces and commercial buildings that reflect the era's design sensibilities. The tree canopy is a significant feature, providing shade and enhancing the picturesque quality of the neighborhoods. Walking or biking through the district allows for a deeper appreciation of its scale and beauty.
Community and Events
A major draw for locals and visitors alike is the Riverside Arts Market (RAM), held every Saturday. This vibrant market is a hub for local artists, artisans, and small businesses, offering a diverse range of handmade goods, food, and entertainment. It's a fantastic opportunity to support local talent and soak in the lively atmosphere of Historic Riverside.
Furthermore, the district is known for its walkability and the interconnectedness of its neighborhoods, including the adjacent 5 Points and Murray Hill areas. This makes it easy to explore a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, often highlighted on local food tours. The community spirit is palpable, making it a welcoming place for both residents and visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit