Riverside Park

Riverside Park is an 11.4-acre public green space located in the heart of the historic Riverside neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. Established in the early 1890s, it holds the distinction of being the city's second-oldest park.

The park's history dates back to 1869 when the original Riverside plat reserved fourteen acres for public use. After the land was donated to the city, development began in the 1890s. Workers created walking paths, a carriage lane, and two spring-fed lakes that were stocked with ducks. Ornamental stone bridges and camphor trees were added, contributing to its reputation as one of the South's most beautiful parks by 1907.

Over the years, Riverside Park has seen various additions and changes. It once featured amenities such as a bandstand and tennis courts. In 1967, the Men's Garden Club and the city collaborated to create a camellia garden on the grounds. However, the park faced a significant setback in 1997 when a severe storm caused extensive damage, uprooting 52 trees. The city and Riverside Avondale Preservation (RAP) worked together to restore the park following this event.

Today, Riverside Park continues to serve as a popular recreational space for local residents and visitors. The park's landscape includes large, old trees that provide ample shade, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and families. A central feature of the park is its duck pond, which attracts various waterfowl and adds to the park's serene atmosphere.

While Riverside Park offers numerous amenities for visitors, it's worth noting that the park does not have public restroom facilities, which some visitors find inconvenient. Additionally, parking can be challenging at times, particularly for those unfamiliar with the area. Despite these minor drawbacks, the park remains a valued green space in Jacksonville's urban landscape.