North Florida Tourism is your gateway to experiencing the Sunshine State beyond the beaches, offering a blend of history, nature, and unique attractions that cater to every traveler. With SIXT.VN, planning your North Florida adventure becomes seamless, providing expert advice and convenient services to make the most of your trip. Discover hidden gems, historical sites, and natural wonders as you explore this beautiful region, and let SIXT.VN handle the details, ensuring a memorable and stress-free vacation. Whether it’s transportation assistance, tailored travel itineraries, or unforgettable local experiences, North Florida Tourism has it all.
1. Exploring Alachua: A Step Back In Time
Alachua, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a charming glimpse into Florida’s past.
Downtown Alachua is a treasure trove of history, featuring quaint shops and restaurants housed in buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A stroll along Main Street reveals the stories of the area’s inhabitants, from the native Timucuan settlement to the ghost town of Newnansville, the first American community in Florida settled at the behest of Americans. Exploring Alachua is an immersive experience, perfect for history buffs and anyone looking to step back in time.
What makes Alachua a unique destination?
Alachua stands out due to its rich historical significance and well-preserved architecture, offering a tangible connection to Florida’s past. The blend of historical sites, local shops, and community events creates an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, preserving historic sites like Alachua can boost local economies and foster a sense of community pride.
How can visitors explore Alachua’s history?
Visitors can explore Alachua’s history by taking a walking tour of Downtown Alachua, visiting local museums, and participating in historical reenactments and events. The city also provides informational brochures and guided tours that delve into the history of the buildings and notable figures who shaped the community.
What are some must-visit sites in Alachua?
Some must-visit sites in Alachua include the Historic Main Street, the Alachua County Historical Society Museum, and the site of the former town of Newnansville. Each location offers a unique perspective on the area’s rich past and cultural heritage.
2. Branford: An Underground Adventure
Branford offers a unique blend of above-ground charm and underground excitement.
Above ground, you’ll find antiques, river outfitters and a homespun atmosphere (a duck race accompanies fireworks every fourth of July). But below ground is where the action is in Branford, a cave-diving playground. When the water levels cooperate, Troy Spring State Park applies to all levels of adventurers – certified divers can explore 70-foot depths while youngsters splash in the shallows. The spring run also conceals the wreckage of a Civil War-era steamboat, the Madison. Troy Spring leads to the Suwannee River, where you can launch a canoe or fish for mullet, bass or catfish (and watch for giant, jumping sturgeon). Rivers and springs define this town – tent and RV camping on and near area waters can help you recite the meaning in your sleep.
What makes Branford a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts?
Branford’s unique combination of cave diving, river activities, and natural beauty makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The presence of Troy Spring State Park, with its clear waters and historical artifacts, provides a diverse range of recreational opportunities for all ages. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, state parks like Troy Spring contribute significantly to the local economy through tourism and recreation.
What are the different levels of adventure available at Troy Spring State Park?
Troy Spring State Park caters to all levels of adventurers. Certified divers can explore depths of 70 feet, while youngsters can enjoy splashing in the shallows. The spring run also offers opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and wildlife observation, making it a versatile destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
What historical significance does the Civil War-era steamboat, the Madison, hold?
The wreckage of the Civil War-era steamboat, the Madison, concealed in Troy Spring, adds a layer of historical significance to the park. This artifact provides a glimpse into the area’s past and offers divers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of history beneath the water.
3. Cedar Key: Yesterday’s Key West
Cedar Key, often likened to yesterday’s Key West, offers a remote and tranquil escape in North Central Florida.
The quiet drive in should tip you off. You’re alone save for the surrounding cypress and wild flowers: this is remote North Central Florida. Some liken Cedar Key to yesterday’s Key West with an eclectic arts community, ultra-fresh seafood and natural surroundings. Wander around Dock and Second streets, with its galleries, restaurants, the 1859 Island Hotel and a new multi-million-dollar fishing pier. The population swells during annual arts and seafood festivals. Offshore, the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge captures the essence of the untouched. Accessible only by boat, most of its islands grow wild to accommodate nesting birds. A 19th-century lighthouse and cemetery are accessible to visitors six times a year. For an utterly unique experience, head an hour east to Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens to discover a 20-acre botanical garden that curves through the verdant forests and serene lakes of a century-old, abandoned limerock quarry.
What makes Cedar Key a unique destination?
Cedar Key’s charm lies in its remote location, eclectic arts community, and ultra-fresh seafood, reminiscent of Key West in its earlier days. Its natural surroundings and relaxed atmosphere provide a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, wildlife refuges like Cedar Keys play a critical role in conserving biodiversity and providing recreational opportunities.
What activities can visitors enjoy in Cedar Key?
Visitors can wander around Dock and Second streets, exploring galleries and restaurants, and visit the historic Island Hotel. Offshore, the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for bird watching and exploring untouched islands. The annual arts and seafood festivals are also popular attractions.
What can visitors expect at Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens?
Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens is a 20-acre botanical garden featuring verdant forests and serene lakes within a century-old, abandoned limerock quarry. This unique garden offers a tranquil and visually stunning experience, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
4. Gainesville: A City Lauded For Live-Ability
Gainesville, lauded by publications like “Smithsonian,” “National Geographic Adventure,” and “Forbes,” offers a vibrant blend of personality-packed districts, active pursuits, and the energy of the University of Florida.
“Smithsonian,” “National Geographic Adventure” and “Forbes” magazines have lauded Gainesville’s live-ability. Turns out it’s a great place to visit for many of the same reasons: personality-packed districts, plenty of active pursuits and an energy infusion from The University of Florida. Queen Anne-style homes and a smattering of revival styles create historic districts and bed-and-breakfast options. The Hippodrome State Theatre offers further architectural interests with Corinthian columns erected in 1911. Slip onto the UF campus to visit the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art and the Florida Museum of Natural History. Inside the Florida Museum of Natural History are Mammoth and Mastodon skeletons, both discovered in North Florida’s Aucilla Riverbed. When it’s time to head outside, take your pick of area parklands (descending into a 120-foot-deep sinkhole into a miniature rain forest makes Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park a must).
What makes Gainesville a great place to visit?
Gainesville’s appeal lies in its personality-packed districts, diverse range of activities, and the energetic atmosphere provided by the University of Florida. The city’s blend of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and historic charm makes it a versatile destination. According to the University of Florida’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research, Gainesville benefits from a strong local economy driven by education, healthcare, and tourism.
What cultural attractions does Gainesville offer?
Gainesville boasts a variety of cultural attractions, including the Hippodrome State Theatre with its stunning architecture, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, and the Florida Museum of Natural History. These venues offer a rich array of artistic and historical exhibits.
What outdoor activities are available in Gainesville?
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore numerous parklands, including Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, which features a unique 120-foot-deep sinkhole leading to a miniature rainforest. These natural areas provide opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying Florida’s diverse ecosystems.
5. Hawthorne: Trail Connections And Pioneer Heritage
Hawthorne offers a blend of outdoor recreation and historical charm, making it a unique stop in North Central Florida.
The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail ends here – or starts, depending on your orientation. Bike, walk, rollerblade or trot (segments of the trail allow horses) this 16-mile path that connects the two towns via Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and the Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area. Native plants decorate the former railway. About 15 minutes southwest of Hawthorne, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park echoes the area’s rustic, pioneering appeal. The author’s Cracker homestead and farm have been preserved for visitors, bringing to life the pages of her Pulitzer Prize-winning book “The Yearling,” a tale from the Florida scrub.
How does the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail enhance the visitor experience?
The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail provides a 16-mile path connecting the two towns, offering opportunities for biking, walking, rollerblading, and even horseback riding. The trail passes through Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and the Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area, showcasing native plants and diverse wildlife. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, state trails contribute to both recreational and economic benefits for local communities.
What can visitors learn at Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park?
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park preserves the author’s Cracker homestead and farm, offering visitors a glimpse into the rustic, pioneering life depicted in her Pulitzer Prize-winning book, “The Yearling.” The preserved homestead brings to life the stories of Florida’s scrub and provides a unique cultural experience.
What outdoor recreation opportunities are available near Hawthorne?
Near Hawthorne, visitors can enjoy biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing along the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. The Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and the Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area offer additional opportunities for outdoor exploration and nature appreciation.
6. High Springs: Springs And Antiques
High Springs is known for its impressive collection of antiques and its vibrant springs, making it a popular destination for both shoppers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The collection of antiques is impressive here. Not just the wares – the buildings, too. Homes and churches constructed in the 19th- and early 20th-centuries showcase details from gables to gothic. Town events include farmers markets held every Thursday and first Saturday of the month. Bed-and-breakfast inns match the mood. For all the happenings in town, it’s the springs that are really bubbling – with scuba and cave diving, snorkeling, tubing, kayaking and swimming. Try Ginnie Springs Outdoors or Blue Spring Park, where the waters are shockingly clear, blue and cool (near 72 degrees).
Why is High Springs a must-visit destination for antique lovers?
High Springs boasts an impressive collection of antiques, housed in buildings constructed in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The town’s historic architecture and regular farmers markets create a charming atmosphere for antique shopping. According to the Florida Antique Dealers Association, High Springs is recognized as a premier destination for antique collectors in the state.
What water activities can visitors enjoy in High Springs?
Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities in High Springs, including scuba diving, cave diving, snorkeling, tubing, kayaking, and swimming. The clear, blue waters of Ginnie Springs Outdoors and Gilchrist Blue Spring Park provide excellent conditions for these activities.
What makes the springs in High Springs unique?
The springs in High Springs are known for their shockingly clear, blue, and cool waters, typically near 72 degrees. These pristine conditions make them ideal for swimming, diving, and other water sports, offering a refreshing escape in a natural setting.
7. Jasper: A Blend of Outdoors and History
Jasper, located in North Central Florida, is a town where you can indulge in outdoor adventures and explore historical sites. It’s a place where everyone finds something to enjoy.
You dig the outdoors. Your partner harbors a love of history. Indulge them both in Jasper. Water (almost) all around ensures a good day fishing or boating or canoeing. Gibson Park offers access to the oak-shrouded banks of the Suwannee River, and provides rustic camping. The Withlacoochee and Alapaha Rivers also flow here. (Some trivia to put you on par with the locals: the Alapaha is nicknamed “the river of sand” because low water levels can expose its rocky bed for months at a time.) Your history buff companion will love to learn that, after nearly a century, the old Hamilton County Jail is now the county’s historical museum. Built in 1893, this Roman Revival brick two-story is in itself worth a look.
What makes Jasper a great destination for both outdoor and history enthusiasts?
Jasper offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and historical attractions. Water surrounds the town, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and canoeing. Additionally, the town’s historical museum, housed in the old Hamilton County Jail, offers a glimpse into the area’s past. According to the Hamilton County Historical Society, the museum plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing the county’s history.
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Jasper?
Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and canoeing in the rivers surrounding Jasper, including the Suwannee, Withlacoochee, and Alapaha Rivers. Gibson Park provides access to the Suwannee River and offers rustic camping facilities.
What historical significance does the Hamilton County Historical Museum hold?
The Hamilton County Historical Museum, located in the old Hamilton County Jail built in 1893, showcases the history of the county. The Roman Revival brick building itself is a historical landmark, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.
8. Lake City: Make A Splash
Lake City is the perfect place to make a splash on your vacation. Dive into tranquil springs or explore the historic downtown area.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to make a splash on your vacation, you’ll find it in Lake City. Dive into the tranquil springs of Ichetucknee Springs State Park, a wholesome playground perfect for swimming, kayaking, tubing, paddling, and scuba diving. O’Leno State Park, one of Florida’s first state parks, lets you explore sinkholes, hardwood hammocks, river swamps and sandhills in and around the Sante Fe River. After exploring the outdoors, head to the historic downtown area for a taste of the area’s small town charm. Grab a drink at Halpatter Brewing Co., Lake City’s first craft brewing company which brews a variety of specialty craft beers. Wrap up your night by staying at The Blanche, a downtown landmark and central hub of hospitality for over 100 years which has hosted the likes of Johnny Cash and Al Capone.
What makes Lake City an ideal destination for water lovers?
Lake City is a haven for water enthusiasts, offering access to the tranquil springs of Ichetucknee Springs State Park, perfect for swimming, kayaking, tubing, paddling, and scuba diving. The abundance of water activities makes it an ideal destination for a refreshing vacation. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, springs like those in Ichetucknee contribute significantly to the state’s tourism economy.
What can visitors explore at Ichetucknee Springs State Park?
At Ichetucknee Springs State Park, visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, tubing, paddling, and scuba diving in the clear, natural springs. The park’s pristine environment and diverse wildlife make it a popular destination for nature lovers.
What historical attractions does Lake City offer?
Lake City offers a historic downtown area with small-town charm, featuring attractions such as Halpatter Brewing Co., Lake City’s first craft brewing company, and The Blanche, a downtown landmark that has hosted notable figures like Johnny Cash and Al Capone.
9. Madison: Trails And Southern Charm
Madison, Florida, offers a charming blend of outdoor activities and Southern hospitality. Here, the trails take center stage, inviting visitors to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the region.
Forget the bridges of Madison County – here, it’s the trails. Stop and start where you wish and go as long (or as short) as you want along a 100-mile road biking loop; fishing and canoeing trails on the Aucilla, Suwannee and Withlacoochee Rivers; a back roads driving tour; or a walking tour of downtown. You’re likely to see the Wardlaw-Smith-Goza mansion used as a hospital during the Civil War, historic cemeteries and the Ladell Brothers Outdoor Environmental Center, where a black-gum red maple swamp hides. O’Toole’s Herb Farm grows and sells organic, fresh-cut herbs and invites the public into its display gardens and greenhouses. In season, all of Madison blooms with magnolias, camellias and dogwoods, accentuating its Southern charm.
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Madison?
Madison offers a variety of outdoor activities, including a 100-mile road biking loop, fishing and canoeing trails on the Aucilla, Suwannee, and Withlacoochee Rivers. The Ladell Brothers Outdoor Environmental Center provides opportunities to explore a black-gum red maple swamp.
What historical attractions does Madison offer?
Madison features historical attractions such as the Wardlaw-Smith-Goza mansion, which served as a hospital during the Civil War, and historic cemeteries. These sites offer a glimpse into the area’s rich past.
What can visitors experience at O’Toole’s Herb Farm?
O’Toole’s Herb Farm grows and sells organic, fresh-cut herbs, inviting the public into its display gardens and greenhouses. Visitors can enjoy the sensory experience of exploring the herb farm and purchasing fresh, organic products.
10. Micanopy: Antiques And Natural Beauty
Micanopy is a charming town known for its antique shops and the natural beauty of Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. It’s a perfect blend of cultural and outdoor attractions.
Any antiques aficionado worth his or her weight in collectibles has made the pilgrimage to Micanopy’s shop-heavy Cholokka Boulevard. The street is also the site of the town’s annual Fall Harvest Festival (think music and crafts). The scene is also heavy on greenery, making it a pleasant spot to while away an afternoon beneath the mossy oaks. Shop, then drop – into bed at the Herlong Mansion Historic Inn and Gardens. Built in 1845 as a Cracker-style farmhouse by one of Micanopy’s original families, it was made over as a Greek Revival mansion by one of the family’s daughters in 1910. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park allows you to spot bison (yes, bison!) and wild horses from a 50-foot-high observation tower.
What makes Micanopy a haven for antique lovers?
Micanopy’s Cholokka Boulevard is renowned for its numerous antique shops, making it a pilgrimage site for antique collectors. The town’s annual Fall Harvest Festival, featuring music and crafts, adds to the area’s cultural appeal.
What can visitors experience at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park?
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park offers visitors the opportunity to spot bison and wild horses from a 50-foot-high observation tower. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation.
What is the history behind Herlong Mansion Historic Inn and Gardens?
The Herlong Mansion Historic Inn and Gardens was built in 1845 as a Cracker-style farmhouse and later transformed into a Greek Revival mansion in 1910. This historic inn offers visitors a unique lodging experience with beautiful gardens and a rich history.
11. Perry: Forestry And Festivals
Perry is a town deeply rooted in forestry, which has evolved into a hub for festivals and cultural events.
One pass through Perry and its “roots” in forestry are evident. Today, that heritage has created a new reputation for the town as a festival hub. Forest Capital Museum State Park serves as the center. Thursday through Monday, you can tour its 1864 Cracker homestead decorated with antique furnishings. The museum educates visitors about the life cycles of the forest and its products, though a walk beneath the park’s mature longleaf pines and live oaks can be just as enlightening. Select times of the year, park grounds become festival grounds during the Annual Florida Forest Festival (complete with sawing competitions, parades, crafts and a free fish fry), the Florida State Bluegrass Festival, the Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass Festival and the Smoking in the Pines BBQ Festival.
What makes Perry a unique destination?
Perry’s uniqueness lies in its deep forestry roots and its evolution into a vibrant festival hub. The Forest Capital Museum State Park serves as the center, offering insights into the life cycles of the forest and hosting various annual festivals. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, forestry plays a significant role in Perry’s economy and cultural identity.
What can visitors learn at the Forest Capital Museum State Park?
Visitors can tour an 1864 Cracker homestead decorated with antique furnishings and learn about the life cycles of the forest and its products. The park also offers a serene walk beneath mature longleaf pines and live oaks.
What festivals does Perry host throughout the year?
Perry hosts a variety of festivals, including the Annual Florida Forest Festival, the Florida State Bluegrass Festival, the Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass Festival, and the Smoking in the Pines BBQ Festival. These events offer a range of entertainment, from sawing competitions and parades to live music and craft fairs.
12. Steinhatchee: Birds And Scallops
Steinhatchee is a charming coastal town where feathers and shells are the hottest accessories. Birds and scallops lure visitors to this scenic destination.
Feathers and shells are the hottest accessories in Steinhatchee, where birds and scallops lure so many visitors. Keaton Beach’s public park and an observation tower at Hagen’s Cove provide a view to wading and shore fowl, and both locations invite scalloping. Wade right into the shallows from their shores, or hire a guide to show you the hot spots. Bring your snorkel, mask, fins, mesh bag and a diver’s down flag; the required recreational saltwater fishing license is inexpensive and easy to obtain. Back at the docks, you can even hire help to clean your collection. The season typically runs from mid-summer to early September. Naturally, in a town just inland from the Gulf of America where the Steinhatchee River flows, you’ll find perfect places for North Central Florida fishing.
Why is Steinhatchee a popular destination for bird and scallop enthusiasts?
Steinhatchee attracts visitors with its abundant birdlife and scalloping opportunities. Keaton Beach’s public park and the observation tower at Hagen’s Cove offer excellent views of wading and shore fowl, while the shallow waters invite scalloping. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Steinhatchee is a prime location for recreational scalloping.
What equipment is needed for scalloping in Steinhatchee?
To go scalloping in Steinhatchee, you’ll need a snorkel, mask, fins, mesh bag, and a diver’s down flag. A recreational saltwater fishing license is also required and is easy to obtain.
When is the scalloping season in Steinhatchee?
The scalloping season in Steinhatchee typically runs from mid-summer to early September, making it a popular summer activity for both locals and tourists.
13. Tallahassee: Gentility And History
Tallahassee, the capital city of Florida, exudes gentility with its gradual hills, antebellum plantations, and canopied roads. It’s a place where history and culture blend seamlessly.
Gradual hills, antebellum plantations and canopied roads lend Tallahassee its gentility. Drive the Miccosukee Canopy Road Greenway for a six-mile immersion before stopping at Goodwood Museum and Gardens. The plantation’s circa-1840 main house functions as a museum with original collections and furnishings. Old and new coexist downtown, where the current and former capitol buildings contrast their streamlined and domed styles. A cultural and historic district fans out from here. Take a walking tour of Railroad Square Art Park, warehouses-turned-galleries, studios and shops. Just a short walk away, explore CollegeTown, a district on the edge of FSU’s campus. Fall weekends are for tailgating; the state capital is home to Florida State and Florida A&M universities.
What makes Tallahassee a unique capital city?
Tallahassee’s uniqueness stems from its blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. Its gradual hills, antebellum plantations, and canopied roads lend it a sense of gentility. As the state capital, it’s home to significant historical and cultural landmarks. According to the Florida Division of Historical Resources, Tallahassee’s historic sites offer valuable insights into the state’s past.
What are some must-visit historical sites in Tallahassee?
Must-visit historical sites in Tallahassee include the Goodwood Museum and Gardens, a plantation with a circa-1840 main house functioning as a museum, and the current and former capitol buildings, showcasing contrasting architectural styles.
What cultural attractions does Tallahassee offer?
Tallahassee offers cultural attractions such as the Railroad Square Art Park, a district of warehouses turned into galleries, studios, and shops, and CollegeTown, a vibrant area on the edge of Florida State University’s campus.
14. Wellborn: Blueberries And Community
Wellborn, Florida, is a charming town where you can enjoy fishing, hunting, and cycling, but it’s best known for its blueberries.
You can fish, hunt and cycle here (there’s a trove of rivers and trail possibilities here) – or simply gorge yourself on blueberries. In season, acres of farms will give you your fill. The u-pick season begins the last Saturday of May in advance of June’s annual blueberry festival, where the title fruit stars in a bake-off and pancake breakfast. Children’s activities, arts and crafts and an adult and children’s talent contest add to the fun. The town’s Scott Blueberry Farm offers eight acres and nine varieties of blues.
What makes Wellborn a unique destination?
Wellborn’s uniqueness lies in its focus on blueberries and community events. In season, visitors can pick their own blueberries at local farms and participate in the annual blueberry festival. According to the Wellborn Community Association, the blueberry festival is a highlight of the year, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage.
What activities can visitors enjoy at the annual blueberry festival?
Visitors can enjoy a bake-off, pancake breakfast, children’s activities, arts and crafts, and a talent contest at the annual blueberry festival. The festival celebrates the town’s blueberry harvest and brings the community together.
What can visitors experience at Scott Blueberry Farm?
Scott Blueberry Farm offers eight acres and nine varieties of blueberries for visitors to pick. The farm provides a fun and engaging experience for families and individuals looking to enjoy fresh, local produce.
15. White Springs: River Adventures And Folklife
White Springs is a town that celebrates river adventures and folklife. The Suwannee River cuts through the town, making it a haven for paddling enthusiasts and those interested in Florida’s cultural heritage.
En route from the Okefenokee Swamp to the Gulf of America, the Suwannee River cuts through White Springs. The town serves as the head of the 170-mile Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, which ensures you’ll find your share of paddling enthusiasts and outfitters here. Canoe or kayak to Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park. A 97-bell carillon sounds Foster’s music, including Florida’s state song. Annually, the park hosts festivals, like the Florida Folklife Festival every Memorial Day weekend, or Rural Folklife Days in the fall. The river also leads to Big Shoals State Park – when the water level’s right, the rapids rate a Class III. Get off-river to explore the town’s shops and B&Bs.
What makes White Springs a unique destination?
White Springs stands out due to its location on the Suwannee River and its rich cultural