The San Marco neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida, is home to several notable parks, each offering unique features and historical significance. These parks contribute to the community's quality of life and provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike [1].

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Landon Park, located at 1800 San Marco Blvd., is a prominent park in the San Marco section of Jacksonville, Florida.[2] [3] It is named after the John and Mary Landon family, who settled in the area in 1867. Their daughter, Julia Landon, was a dedicated teacher for 36 years, and Landon High School was later named in her honor [2]. The park was established on the 1925 plat of the San Marco subdivision and expanded in 1939 [2]. It features large magnolias and oaks, a rose garden, and a butterfly garden [2] [3]. In 2018, Landon Park underwent refurbishment to enhance accessibility, incorporating Kompan playground equipment designed to stimulate children's physical and mental development, alongside traditional playground equipment [3]. Amenities include a shell nest swing, spinning "supernova" ring, "spinner bowls," a climbing cube, a small picnic area, a water fountain, traditional and baby swings, and ample free street parking [3]. However, it does not have public restrooms [3].

Southside Park, originally known as Central Park, was established in 1925 in the San Marco section of South Jacksonville [4]. Between 1930 and 1955, the park doubled in size, and the Southside Branch Library relocated there in 1950 [4]. While a large swimming pool and teen center opened in 1956, the pool was demolished in 1991, and six additional tennis courts were added in 1996 [4]. Through the collaborative efforts of the San Marco Preservation Society and a significant bequest from Abla Balis, a new community center (connected to an expanded library) and a new outdoor park opened in 2003 and 2004, respectively [4]. Today, Southside Park offers pickleball facilities [4].

Riverfront Park is a smaller park in the San Marco area, situated at 901 Landon Avenue [5]. It is a popular spot for local fishermen due to its bulkhead, and manatees are often seen near the shore [5]. The park is known for its river views and cooling breezes, attracting visitors who enjoy the scenery, especially during winter evenings when sunsets are particularly beautiful [5].

Fletcher Park, located at 1652 Atlantic Blvd., is another significant park in the San Marco section of South Jacksonville [6]. It was designed by prominent architect Henry Klutho and named after Florida's U.S. Senator Duncan U. Fletcher [6]. Since the San Marco Preservation Society's formation in 1975, the park has seen numerous improvements, including the relocation of the old St. Paul's Episcopal Church building in 1994 and the Stockton Cottage in 2003 [6].

The San Marco Preservation Society actively contributes to the enhancement and maintenance of these local parks, recognizing their visual appeal and historical importance to the neighborhood [1].


Authoritative Sources

  1. Parks. [smpsjax.com/residents/]
  2. Landon Park. [jacksonville.gov]
  3. Landon Park San Marco. [jacksonvillebeachmoms.com]
  4. Southside Park. [jacksonville.gov]
  5. Riverfront Park. [visitjacksonville.com]
  6. Fletcher Park. [visitjacksonville.com]

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