North Central Florida is rich in history, outdoor fun, and stunning natural sights. These are all touched by the Southern’s region charm. It spans from the heart of Tallahassee to the unique Cedar Key and Steinhatchee, known for scallop-hunting. This area is filled with fun, whether you seek beautiful beaches, famous sites, or rare natural spots. The northern part of the Sunshine State welcomes all curious travelers.

At Amelia Island, try horseback riding on the beach for $125¹ or a kayak tour at $60¹. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has tickets from $30 for adults, $25 for kids¹. Visit Navarre Beach, free to the public, with 12 miles of white sand beaches¹. And for history buffs, Castillo San Marcos in St. Augustine awaits at an entry cost of $35¹.

Washington Oaks State Park is perfect for nature lovers, with a $5 vehicle fee¹. Ginnie Springs, starting at $15, offers tubing, paddle boarding, and more¹. The Pensacola Naval Museum is free for DoD ID card holders¹. Near Gainesville, Gilchrist Blue Springs charges $6 a car¹. St. Augustine has ghost tours at $35¹ for those seeking a thrill.

Things to do in Miami

Things to do in Orlando

Things to do in Key West

Things to do in Saint Augustine

Things to do in Tampa

Things to do in Kissimmee

Things to do in Fort Lauderdale

Things to do in Merritt Island

Key Takeaways

North Florida offers a diverse array of natural attractions, outdoor activities, and historical sites.
Admission prices for popular destinations range from free to $35, making them accessible to visitors on various budgets.
The region boasts unique experiences like horseback riding on the beach, kayaking, and haunted ghost tours.
North Florida’s natural springs, state parks, and wildlife preserves provide ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.
The area’s rich history is showcased through landmarks like Castillo San Marcos in St. Augustine.

Explore the Charming Towns of North Florida

North Florida boasts small towns that mix old charm with new appeal. Downtown Alachua’s shops and restaurants welcome visitors. Branford’s cave diving adds a unique adventure. These areas are a refreshing break from big city life. Let’s look at what makes these towns stand out.

Downtown Alachua

Downtown Alachua is a historic place on the National Register. Its buildings reflect the late 19th and early 20th centuries,² taking you back in time. Walking down Main Street, you’ll hear about the area’s past. From Timucuan settlements to the Newnansville ghost town, there’s much to see.

Branford

Branford’s above-ground charm is undeniable, with its antique stores and river activities. But below the surface lies adventure, with cave diving drawing many. Troy Spring State Park is a highlight, suitable for both experts and beginners.² The park hides a Civil War steamboat, adding to its history. This town’s rivers and springs are perfect for outdoor activities like camping and fishing.

Small towns in north florida are a peek into the area’s past, with its historic downtowns. They offer a special charm that makes branford florida and its neighbors a top pick for visitors. Looking for things to do in branford fl? You won’t be disappointed here.

Discover the Coastal Gems of Cedar Key

Cedar Key is a special place on the Gulf coast of North Florida. It mixes natural beauty, art, and sea history. This town feels like stepping into a historic, picturesque version of Key West. It has an artsy vibe, fresh seafood, and nature that’s untouched³.

Stroll down Cedar Key’s streets, lined with art galleries. Historic spots like the 1859 Island Hotel share stories of famous guests³. And for just $2, you can learn about the town’s past at places like the Cedar Key Museum and State Park³.

The Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge preserves a stunning natural area. It’s almost 800 acres of island paradise for birds. A few times a year, you can visit the old lighthouse and its cemetery, feeling part of something very special³.

During April’s Cedar Key Arts Festival, the town fills up with visitors. Its Seafood Festival in October then shows off delicious local dishes⁴. Don’t miss Steamers Clam Bar and Grill for a true local seafood experience³.

Cedar Key is more than just another beach spot in Florida. It’s a place for art lovers, foodies, and anyone wanting a break in serene nature. This unique corner of the Gulf Coast promises a memorable and charming visit⁵.

“Cedar Key is a place where time seems to stand still, where the rhythm of the tides and the calls of the seabirds set the pace. It’s a rare and precious gem on the Gulf Coast, a refuge for the soul.”

– Margot Boyd, travel writer

Gainesville: A Vibrant College Town

Gainesville is in North Florida and is known for its exciting atmosphere. This college town is full of life, history, and fun activities⁶. It’s home to the well-known University of Florida and Santa Fe College. Here, around 130,000 people live, with half being students⁶.

Walk through the downtown area. You’ll see old buildings like the Hippodrome State Theatre. It has grand columns and was made in 1911⁶. Visit the University of Florida too. There, you’ll find the incredible Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art and the Florida Museum of Natural History with huge skeletons found in the area⁶.

For those who love nature, Gainesville has a lot to offer. Check out the Butterfly Rainforest and the large Sweetwater Wetlands Park⁶. Or, visit the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and walk the LaChua Trail. You might see alligators there⁶.

Gainesville has over 2,000 rooms for visitors⁶. You can stay in historic inns or modern places. If you’re into art, food, or nature, this town is perfect. It combines a vibrant student feel with the beauty of North Florida⁷.

Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail is a 16-mile trail for biking, hiking, or walking.
UF’s Harn Museum of Art and Florida Museum of Natural History are both free and open to the public.
The bat houses on Museum Road have nightly bat releases after 15-20 minutes after sunset.
Morningside Nature Park spans 278 acres and features wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, and box turtles.
UF’s carillon consists of 61 bells and is one of three in Florida, located in Century Tower.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is the largest stadium in Florida and open to the public on most days.
High Springs is home to historic downtown with cobblestone streets and a Historical Museum.
The Gainesville murals can be explored on the 352 Mural Tour.
Downtown Gainesville offers free music every Friday night at the Free Friday Concert Series.
Various festivals include the Santa Fe College Spring Arts Festival and the Thornebrooke Arts Festival.
Alachua County hosts several farmers markets, including the GNV Market and Haile Farmers Market.
The Tom Petty Birthday Bash is a music festival celebrating Gainesville’s hometown hero.

⁸

Attraction	Average Rating	Number of Reviews
Devil’s Millhopper State Geological Site	4.0	64
Alfred A Ring Park	4.6	23
Florida Museum of Natural History	4.6	135
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park	4.5	52
Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo	4.2	29
Tom Petty Park	4.7	11
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens	4.6	77
Flip Factory Zone	4.2	31
Rooterville Animal Sanctuary	4.9	8
Waldo Farmers and Flea Market	3.3	41

Outdoor Adventures in Hawthorne and Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park

In North Florida, there’s a special place where nature shines. It’s in Hawthorne and the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park. The area is linked by the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. This 16-mile path is great for biking and walking. It takes you through lush areas like the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and the Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area⁹. On this trail, you can see different types of nature and wildlife. You can walk, bike, or ride a horse, enjoying the scenery. There’s a lot to discover along this old railway line².

About 15 minutes to the south of Hawthorne, you’ll find the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park. This place shares the life of a famous writer named Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. It’s on a 72-acre farm that has a special history¹⁰. This farm talks about Florida’s past and the life of the people who lived there. You can visit the house where Marjorie lived, see how a farm looked in the 1930s, and learn about early Florida life¹⁰.

The park is quiet and keeps its old-time charm very well. It gives you a feeling of the beauty that Marjorie loved. The cost to get in is just $3 for a car, $3 for an adult, and $2 for kids 6-12. This makes it a great place for a family visit¹⁰.

Looking for a calm bike ride, a step into Florida’s past, or just a nature escape? The Hawthorne and Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park area is perfect. The park is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, with a contact number of 352-466-3672¹⁰. This lets you plan and enjoy a day with great stories and beautiful views.

High Springs: Scuba and Cave Diving Mecca

In the northwest corner of Alachua County, you’ll find the lovely High Springs, Florida¹¹. It’s a top spot for scuba divers and cave fans. The town is known for its stunning springs. It mixes outdoor fun with history perfectly.

High Springs’ area is full of natural beauty¹¹. Places like Gilchrist Blue and Ichetucknee Springs State Parks are nearby, as well as O’Leno State Park. This park looks after a river that’s vanishing. Visitors love activities like paddling at Santa Fe River or tubing in Ichetucknee River. They can also enjoy hiking at the O’Leno Sink to Rise Trail¹¹. Poe Springs Park is a must-visit¹¹. There, a Nature Trail shows a landscape shaped by water on limestone.

High Springs’ underwater offerings are truly something special¹². Florida has the biggest group of freshwater springs in the world. The water at dive spots stays a pleasant 72 degrees Fahrenheit all year¹². Scuba fans can explore the Catfish Hotel and Hospital Hole. They can also visit major spots like Blue Grotto and Devil’s Den. High Springs has something for everyone, from beginners to experts.

If you prefer guided dives, there are many local shops and services¹². For example, Adventure Outfitters offers dives in Hospital Hole. Prices begin at $150 for one and go down to $100 each for groups of three or more¹². Another highlight is the Rainbow River, with a $5 entrance and dives guided from $38 to $75¹².

High Springs is well-loved for diving, but it also has a great antique scene and beautiful historic buildings¹³. Diving costs here are way less than a typical dive trip. It’s a budget-friendly adventure spot for both experienced divers and newcomers¹³. High Springs promises a memorable journey under the water and elsewhere¹¹¹²¹³.

things to do in north florida

North Florida is full of exciting spots, ready to be explored. It has over 170 miles of beautiful coastline and 19 amazing springs. There are also 25 state parks, making it a dream for nature lovers¹⁴. This region covers about 14,000 square miles, including 14 different counties¹⁴. You’ll find it from the north’s Big Bend to the Florida-Georgia border, offering a wide range of activities¹⁴.

This area welcomes travelers to its small towns and beautiful springs. You can take peaceful walks in its parks or dive deep into its history. North Florida is close to big cities like Jacksonville and Tampa, and has airports in Gainesville and Tallahassee¹⁴. It always has events happening, from art festivals to historic tours, ensuring a fun visit all year round¹⁴.

For nature lovers, there’s plenty to do in North Florida¹⁵. Ginnie Springs offers clear waters for various water activities, like swimming and kayaking¹⁵. Ichetucknee Springs State Park is perfect for tubing, floating down a gentle river¹⁵. For those who love the beach, Big Talbot Island and Anastasia State Park are ideal. They have not only stunning beaches but also unique natural areas¹⁵. History buffs will enjoy Fort Matanzas, an 18th-century defense fort exploring the area’s past¹⁵.

If you’re looking for a calm beach holiday, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural exploration, North Florida is perfect¹⁴. It’s a gem of a place, with lots to see and do¹⁴.

Top North Florida Attractions	Key Features
Ginnie Springs	Crystal-clear waters, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing
Ichetucknee Springs State Park	Natural lazy river, tubing, crystal-clear water, lush forests
Big Talbot Island State Park	Stunning beaches, dense maritime forests, unique saltwater marshes
Anastasia State Park	Beautiful beaches, great fishing opportunities, historic lighthouse
Fort Matanzas National Monument	18th-century historic fort, defensive structure against invaders

“North Florida is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, offering a diverse array of captivating attractions and activities for every traveler.”

North Florida is a gem, filled with stunning coasts and springs, ready to be explored¹⁴. It’s not just nature; the area is rich in history and culture, offering endless adventures¹⁴.

Lake City: Tranquil Springs and Craft Brews

In the heart of North Florida is Lake City, a special place with both nature and town charm. At Ichetucknee Springs State Park, dive into clear springs for activities like swimming, kayaking, and tubing¹⁶.

Look out for O’Leno State Park, one of Florida’s first parks. It’s home to sinkholes, forests, river areas, and sandhills to explore¹⁶.

After outdoor fun, visit Lake City‘s historic downtown. You’ll find many food spots including coffee shops, breweries, bistro restaurants, and a cupcake shop¹⁶.

Locally-sourced treats at XAPA Coffee & Bakery and hearty meals at the Marion Street Bistro and Brewhouse are some highlights. And don’t miss Frankie’s Place for its variety from Italian to seafood¹⁶.

Don’t forget Halpatter Brewing Company, the first craft brewery in town. It offers a range of beer styles like IPAs and stouts¹⁶.

For those who love sweets, Brittany’s Cupcake Shoppe has a range of delicious cupcakes¹⁶.

While in the downtown area, visit the historic The Blanche hotel. It’s well-known and serves as a special place for both locals and visitors¹⁶. With over 100 years of history, it reflects the town’s past¹⁷.

The Gateway Art Gallery is also worth a visit. It showcases local art like paintings and jewelry¹⁷.

Lake City fits everyone – from nature lovers to foodies. Enjoy the springs, try the local food, and discover the town’s art and history. It’s a true gem in North Florida¹⁶¹⁷.

Conclusion

North Florida is a great place for people who love adventure or exploring culture. It offers 19 interesting activities near NAS Whiting Field¹⁸. You can enjoy outdoor fun, visit small towns, and see amazing history and nature.

If you enjoy history, you might like exploring the 12 places near NAS Whiting Field¹⁸. There are also 2 museums close by¹⁸. For those who love the coast, you have 5 great spots to choose from around Pensacola and Gulf Breeze¹⁸. North Florida is full of things that will make your trip memorable, like the beautiful New Smyrna Beach¹⁹ or the exciting Hawthorne area.

Plan your North Florida trip well¹⁸²⁰¹⁹ to make the most of your visit. Use the helpful info from the Whiting Field MWR¹⁸ and Whiting Field ITT¹⁸. Many local places and businesses are ready to help you have a great time. There’s a lot to enjoy and explore in North Florida¹⁸²⁰¹⁹. Find out the amazing things waiting for you in this wonderful part of the Southeast.

FAQ

What are some of the top attractions in North Florida?

North Florida is packed with fun things to do and see. You can enjoy beautiful beaches, explore natural springs, visit historic sites, and check out lively college towns. There are also quaint small towns to visit, opportunities for scalloping in the Gulf, and chances to hike and cool off in the springs.

What are some of the charming towns to visit in North Florida?

In North Florida, you’ll find places like Downtown Alachua, Branford, and Cedar Key. These towns are full of history and charm, with their small shops and old buildings. You can discover natural treasures around Branford, too.

What is there to do in the coastal town of Cedar Key?

Cedar Key has a special feel, often compared to Key West. There’s an artsy vibe, great seafood, and beautiful scenery. Make sure to stroll around the town, visit the wildlife refuge, and see the historic lighthouse and cemetery.

What makes Gainesville a vibrant college town?

Gainesville shines thanks to the University of Florida. It’s lively and full of things to do. You can explore the campus, enjoy the museums, and dive into the city’s unique districts and activities.

What outdoor adventures can be found in Hawthorne and Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park?

The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail is a scenic path great for various activities. It’s perfect for biking, walking, or horseback riding, surrounded by natural beauty. Nearby, the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park has a farm to visit.

Why is High Springs a mecca for scuba and cave diving?

High Springs is a diving paradise, thanks to its many springs. Places like Ginnie Springs Outdoors and Blue Spring Park are fabulous for water activities. The waters offer supreme clarity for scuba, snorkeling, and kayaking.

What are some of the top things to do in North Florida?

In North Florida, you’ll find tons of thrilling adventures and interesting places. From enjoying the coast or going on historic tours to exploring natural springs, the area has something for everyone.

What can visitors do in Lake City?

Lake City is perfect for those who love the outdoors. Ichetucknee Springs State Park is a great spot for a swim, and O’Leno State Park offers trails and more. After a day outside, the downtown area is great for a visit, with Halpatter Brewing Co. being a must-stop.