In close proximity to downtown, the area on the Westside was part of the original city of Jacksonville and offers a picturesque setting of stately oaks and south river views. Situated between the St. Johns River and Roosevelt Boulevard, the area provides cultural diversity, historical architecture and an urban feel.

The area features the Cummerland Museum, St. Vincent's Medical Center, and Memorial and Riverside Parks. Its parks are perfect Riverside settings for the art festivals and symphony pops concerts. Along with a mix of offices and homes, many physical and medically related businesses call Riverside home. Five Points, an eclectic shopping area, caters to the younger crowd.

Riverside was the city's earliest "suburban" neighborhood with most development predating World War I. It boasts many historically significant houses built by famous architects building in the styles of that period-Prairie style, Mediterranean Revival and Colonial Churches abound in this community and also reflect the beautiful architecture of early Jacksonville. Riverside is now part of the largest National Historic District in the Southeast and there is a concerted effort, through the Riverside/Avondale Preservation Society, to restore those homes to their original splendor. This trend has resulted in many of the big, older homes being restored and remodeled instead of being torn down.

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.