Jacksonville’s Most Walkable Neighborhoods [UPDATED]

For many people moving to Jacksonville, living in a walkable neighborhood is a high priority. Whether you’re taking your kids for a walk or just exploring your neighborhood on foot, there’s something to be said for being able to leave your home and get around with . From quiet tree-lined streets to a bustling main street, there are several Jacksonville neighborhoods that are perfect for those who love to have the convenience having most of what they need within walking distance.

Avondale

One of the most well-preserved historical neighborhoods in the Jacksonville area, Avondale is a quaint area with a dense suburban feel populated predominantly by families and young professionals. Many of Avondale’s streets are lined with Victorian homes replete with wraparound porches, and a walk through the 1920s art deco historic district feels like you’re walking through time. The Shoppes of Avondale, located on St. John’s Avenue, serve as the main hub for shopping and dining in the neighborhood and boast countless mom and pop shops and boutiques. Avondale is considered one of the best places to live in all of Florida, and with all of the charm that it has to offer, it isn’t hard to understand why.

Brooklyn

Though Jacksonville’s Brooklyn neighborhood was once a residential suburb, over the years it has come to be part of Jacksonville’s central business district and in more recent times, it’s become an ideal spot from brand new development. Brooklyn Station is the neighborhood’s main hub, and that’s where residents can walk around and explore restaurants, local shopping, and places to gather with friends and enjoy a drink or two. Because Brooklyn is a relatively small neighborhood, it’s easy for residents to walk from one end to another, taking in the cute modern streets as they go.

Fairfax

Rated one of the best neighborhoods in which to buy a home in Florida, Farifax is a small pocket of a sparse suburban landscape bordering the Ortega River. Herschel Street serves as the main drag, and that’s where Fairfax locals can go for a stroll and enjoy bars, restaurants, and shopping all within walking distance from their homes. Fairfax is also home to the Museum of Southern History, which helps keep the origins of the area alive within the community.

Riverside

Situated just beside the St. John’s River, Riverside is considered one of the best neighborhoods not only in the state of Florida, but in the whole of the United States, and also holds a sopt on the National Register of Historic Places. Highly walkable and rich with history, Riverside offers residents the experience of living in a neighborhood reminiscent of a movie set. On Saturdays, Riverside is is home to the Riverside Arts Market,

which is where local vendors come together to sell everything from locally grown produce to home decor. King Street serves as the main street of Riverside, and is flanked by antique shops and unique boutiques. Best of all, if residents tire of walking, the Riverside Trolley is free and ready to take you to the next stop.

San Marco

Located only a few minutes from Jacksonville’s robust Downtown, San Marco is a walkable neighborhood that is overflowing with one-of-a-kind boutiques and art galleries. If you’re looking for top-notch dining, San Marco may just be the place, with a full-scale dining district that offers culinary options galore as well as trendy bars and countless places to enjoy a sweet treat. San Marco is bordered by the St. Johns River and is subsequently known for all of it’s old riverfront mansions. 

Southbank

Situated on the St. Johns River just north of San Marco, Southbank is a highly walkable, quiet neighborhood that is home to countless restaurants, bars, and unique stores as well as various other attractions. A visit to Southbank begs for a walk along the Southbank Riverwalk, which offers a scenic view of the St. Johns River and bird watching opportunities in addition to an easy way to walk between Southbank’s major attractions, including the Friendship Fountain, Museum of Science and History, and the Riverplace Tower. Homes in Southbank are mainly apartment-style, though are some single-family homes available at a higher price point.