Eastside
Jacksonville’s latest addition to the National Register of Historic Places is affectionately known to locals as OutEast.
Home to one of Jacksonville’s largest concentrations of historical buildings associated with the Gullah Geechee community, the Eastside neighborhood dates back to the late 1800s. Just north of the Sports Complex in Downtown Jacksonville, the Eastside is brimming with history and culture. It was once home to A. Philip Randolph, Zora Neale Hurston, Abraham Lincoln Lewis and Bob Hayes. Today, the neighborhood is home to the quarterly Melanin Market, many small businesses, beautiful public murals and local parks.
Step into The Avenue Grill, recognized by JaxBest for having the best burger, fried chicken and breakfast in Jacksonville, Russ-Doe’s Sandwich Shop or the other businesses in the neighborhood and you’ll immediately recognize the sense of community and pride those in the Eastside neighborhood have. Spend time exploring the many public art murals painted by local artists along A. Philip Randolph Blvd. or tour the Old City Cemetery to pay respects to those who shaped not only Jacksonville’s history, but that of the country as well. Mark your calendar to attend the quarterly Melanin Market, also along A. Philip Randolph Blvd., to shop and dine from dozens of local vendors.
As the neighborhood evolves and grows, it’s steadfast in holding its place in history. In 2024, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. In the summer of 2024, The Corner at Debs Store reopened after extensive restoration and expansion. This cherished market, the Eastside’s only grocery with a multi-generational legacy of serving the community, is run by Goodwill and offers nutritious, affordable food options. There is also a newly added second floor which includes employment services provided by Goodwill, along with financial services from VyStar Credit Union. Eastside will also be the future home of the Jacksonville Armada which is projected to be done in 2026.
Pictured above is Robert “Bullet Bob” Hayes, who grew up in the Eastside neighborhood in the 1940's. Mr. Hayes had an impressive athletic career including winning two gold medals in the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo for track and field as well as participating in two Super Bowls (winning one of them) with the Dallas Cowboys as a wide receiver. Mr. Hayes is the only athlete to win both an Olympic gold medal and a Super Bowl ring.