As one of the last U.S. states to experience serious colonization by non-native peoples, Florida isn’t always a priority when thinking about small towns with interesting historic districts. Yet, go a little off the beaten path while traveling the Sunshine State and you’ll discover endless interesting old neighborhoods just waiting to be explored.
These generally well-preserved areas also exude plenty of that southern charm that Florida is famous for. From Victorian-era homes to ancient archaeological sites, those interested in history will have fun exploring the historic neighborhoods of these small Florida towns.
Mycanopia
Tiny Micanopy (population just 700), despite being just minutes from the ever-busy I-75 near Gainesville, has for years flown under the radar of most travelers. Nicknamed “The city that time forgot,” Micanopy exudes an atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. Its historic district, dotted with antique shops housed in period buildings that have remained largely unchanged since their construction, although small, is a treasure trove for history buffs.
Shady roads lined with moss-covered oak trees further enhance Micanopy’s timeless appeal, and each year the town celebrates its unique heritage with the Micanopy Fall Festival. If you can, book a stay at the majestic Herlong Mansion. Now a luxurious bed and breakfast, this former mansion was built in 1845 by early settlers and offers a taste of charming southern hospitality.
Cedar key
A quiet Gulf Coast town located on its own little island between the Florida Panhandle And Tampa, Cedar Key simply overflows with charm. Once a hub of the pencil industry in the 1860s due to its abundance of cedar trees, the town’s past is chronicled in landmarks such as the Cedar Key Museum. Now a state park, the museum is housed in a well-preserved old house and contains exhibits relating to the early Native Americans who lived here, as well as the early settlers.
You’ll also see the St. Clair Whitman House with its displays of relics from ancient maritime industries. Beyond history, Cedar Key also has plenty of pristine beaches, bird watching opportunities, and fresh seafood, especially clams. Try to time your visit for the annual Cedar Key Seafood Festival, which celebrates this bounty.
Apalachicola
Located 75 miles southwest of the state Capital of Tallahassee, ApalachicolaIts undeniably pretty riverside setting makes it a contender for one of the prettiest small towns in Florida. Located on a point of land where the Apalachicola River Meet him Gulf of Mexico, the city’s rich maritime heritage and its importance as a trading port are very evident here, particularly in its historic district. There you’ll find two of the city’s cotton warehouses, built of granite and brick in a Greek Revival style.
Other attractions include the Raney House Museum with its exhibits of artifacts from Apalachicola’s prosperous past; and the John Gorrie State Museum which pays homage to the inventor of refrigeration. Seafood, especially oysters, is a staple here and is celebrated each year with the Apalachicola Seafood Festival.
Fernandina Beach
Located on a beautiful Amélie Island on the Atlantic coast of northeast Florida, Fernandina Beach‘s old-world charm is evident throughout its 50-block historic district. Here you’ll see a number of grand Victorian-era houses dotting its leafy side streets, while the main street, Center Street, is home to a number of shops and galleries housed in charming old red brick buildings.
Be sure to visit historic Fernandina Plaza State Park, north of town, for its pleasant water views, as well as the famous Amelia Island Lighthouse. The oldest lighthouse in Florida, it was built in 1839 and is open for tours twice a month. The community’s annual Shrimp Festival celebrates the town’s deep ties to the sea and is another good excuse for a visit.
Mount Dora
Located on the banks of Lake Dora and just a 30-minute drive north of Orlando, Mount Dora offers a relaxing diversion from Florida’s bustling theme parks. Stroll around the city center and window shop among the city’s many antique shops. Keep an eye out for the iconic Donnelly House, an incredibly preserved Steam Gothic house from the Victorian era. Built in 1893, it is open to the public for tours, including special after-hours ghost tours.
Other notable historic landmarks include the Lakeside Inn, built in 1883 and Florida’s oldest operating hotel; and the Mount Dora Lighthouse, an aid to inland navigation. Do you consider yourself an art lover? Visit the Mount Dora Center for the Arts for a dose of culture.
Security Port
Safety Harbor is located on the west coast of Florida and is a blend of ancient history and spa luxury. A must-visit is the Safety Harbor site, an archaeological treasure with a burial mound that provides insight into the lives of the indigenous people who once lived here.
Next, stroll through the historic city center with its well-preserved period architecture. If you can make a weekend of it, book a stay at the famous Safety Harbor Resort and Spa, popular for its rejuvenating mineral springs. The city’s proximity to Tampa Bay also offers plenty of opportunities for water activities, from offshore fishing to sailing and jet skiing.
Madison
Drive an hour due east from Tallahassee and you’ll find yourself in Madison, a city brimming with Southern charm. Highlights of a visit for history buffs include visiting Madison’s many antebellum homes, some of which now serve as inns or bed and breakfasts.
Other notable landmarks include buildings like the Madison County Treasures, a premier local museum housed in the historic WT Davis Building; and in the city center, the Four Freedoms Monument commemorating President Franklin D. Rooseveltspeech of the 1940s. A number of structures in Madison, including Wardlaw-Smith House and St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
High springs
Well known for its freshwater springs, High Springs near Gainesville in northern Florida is a must-visit for those who enjoy exploring quieter travel destinations. The downtown area has a charming ambiance and is dotted with antique stores and historic landmarks such as the High Springs Museum, which details the community’s importance as a railroad and agricultural center.
Natural springs like Ginnie Springs and Poe Springs offer many recreational opportunities, from swimming to diving or just relaxing. You’ll also want to check out the Santa Fe River, which flows along the northern city limits. This gently flowing river is ideal for kayaking, swimming and fishing.
The last word
Florida is home to many small towns with rich histories and well-preserved historic districts. Fun to visit and explore, these charming communities offer a unique blend of old-world charm, well-preserved architecture, and historical significance not normally found in much larger urban areas. For ideas and inspiration, be sure to bookmark this list of small towns in Florida known for their cute historic districts.
