Southside Estates - Jacksonville, FL

Native American culture steeps the city of Jacksonville and its history. The city takes its name from its first provisional governor, Andrew Jackson, and was originally inhabited by the Timucuan tribe. Europeans settled the area early in the 1500s and established an infrastructure for trading valuable natural resources. Plantation farmers originally used the land, but other industries grew into the area as use of the St. John River increased.

The Museum of Contemporary Art sits in downtown Jacksonville, along with the Museum of Science and History. Residents enjoy numerous annual events, such as The Player's Championship Golf Tournament in Ponte Vedre, the St. Patrick's Day Festival and the Southeast Boat Show. Downtown Jacksonville holds fun runs and music festivals throughout the year, held near the St. Johns River.

When you desire a quick bite to eat or a night out on the town, head south to Route 90, better known as Beach Boulevard. Here local establishments serve up fresh seafood and perfectly seared steaks. The nightlife crowd maintains a young and upbeat feeling with modern bars serving up specialty cocktails and small plates to appease even the pickiest palate.

Monroe's Smokehouse Bar-B-Q serves up some of the juiciest, smoke-laden meat around. The sweet and spicy sauces complement the generous portions of pork, chicken and ribs. Try the fried pickles to start, then follow with a brisket platter. The charred outer layer soaks up spices, and the tender meat traps flavorful juices. Wash it all down with sweet tea.

Secret Garden Cafe blends traditional American cuisine with a twist of Cajun and Creole. The fried pickle burger engages the tastebuds with crisp, batter-dipped and fried pickles. For a more traditional plate, try the spicy Cajun fish served on a bed of Southern grits.

The nightlife scene of Southside Estates is most active near the southern end of the area. Most restaurants also serve as bars for the area, and a few turn up the activity level after the dinner hour. Club Aqua hosts a lively dance floor and drink specials all night long. For a less intense night out, enjoy a few games of pool with friends at Q-Ball Billiards.

Southside Estates residents enjoy several public transportation options. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority provides bus service in the area. A number of taxi companies serve the area, and you can use the Uber app to request a ride from nearly anywhere in Jacksonville. For those who use their own vehicle, most retailers and businesses in and around the neighborhood and city provide free public parking.

Major roads lack sidewalks and bike lanes, so residents use caution when walking, jogging or riding a bicycle in the area. However, the streets within the residential areas see much less traffic and allow for more outdoor activities along the roadways. The neighborhood has close proximity and easy access to nearby Interstate 295, making the area optimal for those who commute daily.

Southside Estates Park attracts visitors and residents with a host of outdoor activities. You need not pay to enter the park or use its facilities, which include a large picnic area and trails for walking and hiking. Its natural sanctuary for wildlife provides a serene setting against the backdrop of a large metropolis. The park hosts several annual events and recreational activities, and many locals use it for their family gatherings.

The cost of living in Southside Estates runs around 4 percent greater than the Jacksonville city average. Public buses grant you access to downtown Jacksonville for $1.50 one way, and cab or Uber service to downtown costs around $15. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment costs $710 per month.

A pint of beer sets you back $4 at local bars. However, many offer daily and nightly specials to attract the happy hour crowds. Gas prices in the area run about the same as the national average or within less than 1 percent.

Residents of Southside Estates enjoy ample shopping opportunities. Nearby Regency Square Mall houses several international department stores with shops like Home Depot, Best Buy and Burlington Coat Factory sitting in neighboring plazas. Find a more upscale shopping experience by venturing west into downtown Jacksonville along the St. Johns River at Jacksonville Landing.

Within the neighborhood, Petunia Patch Boutique and Maternity stocks unique fashions with dazzling accessories. The staff also alters clothing, and locals love that Petunia Patch hosts countless special events and activities throughout the year. In addition to selling new and used apparel, the store regularly hosts fashion shows and one-on-one shopping sessions with fashion advisers.

At The Tailor Shop on Southside Boulevard, master tailor Daniel Motorca creates and alters apparel for men and women. Motorca stocks his shop with imported silks and fabrics, and customers can choose from between 500 and 1,500 swatches for tuxedos, suits, gowns and other formal pieces.

Several grocery chains, including Publix and Winn-Dixie, serve the Southside Estates neighborhood, and many locally owned, ethnic grocery stores line Beach Boulevard. Two outstanding farmers markets sit just on the south end of Southside Estates. Along Beach Boulevard you find Beach Boulevard Flea and Farmers Market and Harry's Fresh Produce. The two farmers markets provide fresh produce and homemade goods.