In the January 2010 issue of Southern Living, Springfield was designated as one of the country's best "comeback" neighborhoods. Once home to the wealthy that rebuilt following the Great Fire of 1901, Springfield is home to some of the best historic architecture in Jacksonville. Bordered by Hogan's Creek on the South, Boulevard Street on the West, and the railroad tracks on the North and East, Springfield is just minutes from Downtown and the Springfield Historic District is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Highlights

If you're looking to make new of what's old, rent an apartment in Springfield. The blocks are lined with beautiful two and three story homes built in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Many homes have been divided into multi-family apartments. Most of the homes are wood framed, and are examples of 19th century revival and romantic styles. Large oak trees dominate and shade the neighborhood.

Commuting to and from your Springfield apartment is quick and easy. Because of its proximity to both Interstate 95 and Interstate 10, commutes from your place to most any other area of Jacksonville are between 15 and 30 minutes.

If you're looking to spend time outdoors, just walk around the corner from your apartment. Neighborhood parks are plentiful in Springfield, as is the Jacksonville park system. Take a walk along Hogan's Creek in Springfield Park on a Sunday afternoon or take a tour amongst historic monuments and cannons in Confederate Park, which can be seen from some Springfield apartments.

Heads Up

In a few blocks you can go from historic splendor to shantytown. Springfield is in the midst of a revival, but there are still many homes in need of repair and vacant businesses in the area, that being said more and more young professionals and investors are moving into the area buying property and giving Springfield a much-needed make over.

Area Attractions

The Historic District is home to a lot of new, trendy places geared toward young professionals who rent apartments in Springfield. Head over to East 6th Street and Walnut Street to Three Layers Coffee House for live music while you sip on an espresso and enjoy the owner's special three-layer cakes while watching a movie curled up on the comfy sofa. Looking for a happy hour close to home? The Cellar at Three Layers has an extensive wine list and beers on tap (and that comfy sofa!).

Want to hit the dance floor? Leave your apartment and head to 1st and Main Streets to The Pearl – a late-night affair with a full bar, dance floor and a patio out back so you can enjoy the fabulous Florida weather. Another popular bar is Shantytown. While it is very small inside, it has a large outdoor patio. Lots of local bands play there and it gets packed, so it sort of feels more like being at a friends house than at a bar!

For a look at history, visit the Jacksonville Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum. It's a hidden gem just around the corner from your place. The museum is home to manuscripts from authors, scientists, composers and so much more from all periods in world history.