Posted in Florida
January 13, 2017
12 Places Where You Can Still Experience Old Florida
While most outsiders know Florida for its theme parks and popular beaches, there’s a whole other side of our state that most visitors never see. If you ask most native Floridians, they’ll tell you this is the best part. The parts of our state that predate all of the big attractions that draw the tourists are often referred to as Old Florida. Here’s a list of small towns, parks, restaurants and landmarks that will open your eyes to the beauty and charm of Old Florida:
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
This town near North Central Florida is a delightful slice of Old Florida. Visitors love the natural beauty and slower pace of this town. Cedar Key is famous for its clams, so make sure to try out a few local restaurants.
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, located 14 miles south of Tallahassee, is a treasured piece of Florida’s history and a natural oasis. It's also home to this stunning hotel, built in 1937.
This scenic spot, with its crystal-clear water and historic millhouse, is one of the oldest and most popular campsites in the region.
The Pioneer Florida Museum & Village sits on 16 acres and takes an in-depth look at Florida history, with living history exhibits and an annual festival with Civil War reenactments.
This historic fishing village on Sarasota Bay is as authentic as it gets. You'll love the unique charm of this coastal community.
We couldn't write this list without including St. Augustine, which is not only the oldest city in the state, but the whole country. This town has over 450 years of history, with plenty of fun shopping and dining experiences, too.
The Freezer is a hidden gem in Homosassa with a real Old Florida feel. Meals ares served in to-go boxes with plastic forks, but no one complains. Probably because this is some of the best seafood in town. Bring cash and a big appetite.
Although its popularity peaked in the '60s, we love the unique way this park celebrates the natural beauty of Florida’s springs.
Cap's Place is a longstanding landmark in South Florida and basically a time machine back to Old Florida. Broward County's oldest restaurant was a speakeasy and casino in the 1920s, which explains why it sits on a little island. You have to take Cap's motor launch from their dock to reach the restaurant, which only adds to its unique charm.
This fishing village in Northwest Florida is famous for some of the best seafood in the country, especially oysters. You'll fall in love with its rustic charm.
The Yearling specializes in "Cracker Cuisine" (like frog legs and alligator), but the unique atmosphere is what has kept visitors coming out to this countryside gem since 1952. If you love Old Florida, you absolutely must visit this restaurant.
Have you visited any of these places? Where are your favorite places to go to experience Old Florida?
