Each spring for the past thirty-nine years, residents of the Riverside Avondale Historic District have opened their homes to guests in an effort to raise money for the city’s premier grassroots historic preservation organization. This April 27th and 28th, doors will open once again for a two-day, self-guided tour. Ticket price is good for both Saturday and Sunday.

The Riverside Avondale Historic District has one of the most diverse collections of architectural styles of any neighborhood in the country. It's also one of the most beautiful and dynamic areas--in fact, Riverside Avondale was named one of America's 10 Great Neighborhoods by the American Planning Association. If you’re interested in history or architecture, or just want to pick up some great ideas on home improvement, interior design and landscaping, make sure you make plans to attend this popular event.

Ten beautifully restored homes, one historic church and a garden will be featured on this year's tour, which promises to be a very special one. Participants will have a rare opportunity to step inside several of the district's most significant homes. Here are a few of homes that will be open for the tour. 

3420 St. Johns Avenue: With its massive symmetrical front facade, tile roof and surrounding lush garden, this 1926 home is a perfect example of the Mediterranean Revival style that flourished in Florida during the 1920s and 1930s.  

You don't want to miss the impressive ballroom constructed around a brilliant 72-bulb chandelier from a New Orleans hotel or the impecably landscaped grounds of this stately Avondale home.

*Photo credits Ed Wackrow 

1102 Copeland: This 1917 beauty is a Queen Anne style home with a formal front entry that showcases an inviting wrap-around veranda with tapered wood columns set on rusticated block piers.  The colorful exterior and beautiful tree canopy invite visitors to enjoy the home.

The pristine exterior has decorative features that flow effortlessly into the interior of the home where the tapered wooden posts on the porch are repeated in the columns separating the parlor from the foyer.  

For a listing of all tour sites, information on the Art House, the Craftsman Showcase, Featured Restaurants, and the Bicycle Tour, visit RIVERSIDEAVONDALE.ORG

All tour sites will be open on Saturday, April 27th, from 10 am until 5 pm, and on Sunday, April 28th, from 12 pm until 5 pm.