It's the parks in Ansley Park that has won it national distinction.

The American Planning Association has named Ansley Park as one of America's ten best neighborhoods, citing it for its open spaces, among other notable features.

The APA singled out Ansley Park for its verdant open spaces, covering nearly a third of the neighborhood; compact design, allowing residents to shop, work and play close to home; array of architecturally distinguished dwellings; and citizens, who continuously strive to maintain the area's charm and diversity.

The association particularly noted the layout of the neighborhood, citing how Ansley Park is designed so that no home is more than a 10-minute walk from one of 14 parks.

"These parks are adorned with old-growth trees, hearty plants, and colorful flowers,” the APA noted. “Stone benches serve as contemplative stopping points. Large stepping stones lead to unique creek bridges."

The citation goes on to say, "The neighborhood's streets, with landscaped promenades, are flanked by sidewalks. Originally designed for the horse and carriage, these wide streets have become popular cut-thrus. A new streetscape program will enhance pedestrian safety, improve traffic flow, reduce impervious surface areas and storm water runoff, and add tree cover."

The nine other APA 2011 Great Neighborhoods are: Highland Park, Birmingham, AL; Northbrae, Berkeley, CA; The Pullman Neighborhood, Chicago, IL; Gold Coast & Hamburg Historic District, Davenport, IA; Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood, Hattiesburg, MS; Dundee-Memorial Park, Omaha, NE; German Village, Columbus, OH; Swan Lake, Tulsa, OK; and College Hill, Providence, RI.