Explore North Florida On This Exciting Road Trip To Must-See Places

Explore some of the best places to visit in North Florida through a comprehensive road trip itinerary.

A while ago, we brought you The Ultimate Central Florida Road Trip, and we promised that there would be future trips covering other regions of Florida. Since Florida is such a gargantuan state, it's only right that we break it up into regions so that you, the traveler, can get the most bang for your buck. Of course, it's impossible to include every amazing spot, however, we wanted to include as many places to visit in North Florida as possible, each with their own characteristics and history.

As you know, our state is pretty large, so this trip clocks in at around 8 hours, not including the time it takes to get back to point A, wherever it is you’re starting from. Luckily, there are plenty of state parks and historic towns along the way that would make perfect places to stop for the night. This trip has so many incredible sights, it would be best to give yourself as much time as possible to take it all in. Click here for the entire road trip itinerary.

Without further ado, we present some of the all-time best places to visit in North Florida all in one road trip.

Falling Waters State Park

We'll begin in the Panhandle, at Florida's most impressive natural waterfall, though it can vary from a trickle to a roar, depending on the amount of recent rainfall. The state park that houses this impressive waterfall offers plenty of other activities to enjoy, including hiking, fishing, picnicking and camping, This area has a rich history as well, as a home to Native Americans, a Civil War-era gristmill powered by the waterfall, and even the site of one of Florida's first oil wells. While you're in Chipley, check out the Seacrest Wolf Preserve, too.

Florida Caverns State Park

Next, we'll head over to Marianna for the only air-filled caves open for tours in Florida. Visitors will also enjoy hiking, biking, camping, and fishing on the Chipola River or Blue Hole Spring. This park is also often recognized for its well-kept campsites. Tours are offered Thursday through Monday only. The tours last 45 minutes and as far as difficulty, they can be moderately strenuous.

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Address: 1130 State Park Rd, Chipley, FL 32428

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Our next stop is Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, home to one of the biggest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. Not only does the beautiful park contain a natural landmark surrounded by unique Florida wildlife and old-growth forests it is also home to a 1937 lodge with a dining room that overlooks the spring. This park has something for everyone. The summer months are a popular time for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the river’s grassy shore. Visitors of all ages can enjoy The Wakulla Springs Lodge, boat tours, and nature trails. This would be a wonderful place to schedule a stay if you think you'll be ready to stop for the night.

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Address: 550 Wakulla Park Dr, Crawfordville, FL 32327

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Tubing down the Ichetucknee deserves a place on every Floridian's bucket list. Swimming, snorkeling, diving, canoeing, and kayaking are other popular pastimes. There's no camping at this park, and it's open every day of the year from 8:00 a.m. until sundown.

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Address: 12087 Southwest U.S. 27, Fort White, FL 32038

Devil's Den Spring

Next, we'll drive to one of Florida's natural wonders, Devil's Den. Devil’s Den, a karst window (an open cave over a river) is one of the most unique and ethereal places in Florida for scuba diving or snorkeling.

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Address: 5390 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL 32696

St. Augustine

Though it has become a popular tourist destination, America's oldest city has retained a lot of its historic authenticity and charm. Highlights include many museums, restaurants, spectacular architecture, and the oldest fort in the country. Pictured are the Castillo de San Marcos, Flagler College, The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, and a tour of San Sebastian Winery.

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Big Talbot Island and Little Talbot Island

Our next stop is to a couple of hidden gems near Jacksonville. Undeveloped barrier islands like these are very rare, and the unique coastal landscapes will blow you away. Visit one or both of the islands, depending on what you have time for and what you hope to find.

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Address: A1A North, Jacksonville, FL 32226

Amelia Island

Amelia Island is the epitome of Florida charm. Pristine beaches, historic buildings, and cute and quirky shops and restaurants make the town of Fernandina Beach a very popular destination. You can also travel back in time with a guided tour at Fort Clinch State Park. Bring food for a picnic and don't forget to check out the impressive fishing pier.

Click here for more information about this road trip stop!

So, if you're looking for places to visit in Florida, we've got you covered. This trip should provide you with plenty of amazing photographs and stories to last a lifetime.

What stops would you add to this trip? What’s your favorite Florida road trip? Make sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments section! Or if you have more places to visit in North Florida that didn't make the list, make sure to let us know.

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