Palatka Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat, and practical travel tips in Palatka, North Central Florida.


Introduction to Palatka

Located in North Central Florida, Palatka is a small town known for its rich history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. It is situated on the St. Johns River and surrounded by lush forests and swamps. The town’s name comes from the Seminole word “pilotaikita,” which means “crossing over the river.”

Palatka is a great destination for travelers interested in exploring Florida’s nature and history. The town’s historic district features many well-preserved buildings and landmarks that reflect its past as a major shipping and commerce center in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and boating, in the nearby parks and waterways.

List of Places to Visit in Palatka

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Palatka has a rich history that is reflected in its diverse collection of museums and historical landmarks. Here are some of the top cultural attractions in the town:

Bronson-Mulholland House

The Bronson-Mulholland House is a beautifully restored Victorian-era mansion that serves as a museum of local history. The house was built in 1854 and features exhibits that tell the story of the town’s development and its role in the South’s antebellum culture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and its gardens.

Ravine Gardens State Park

Ravine Gardens State Park is a natural oasis in the heart of Palatka. It features a deep ravine, which was formed by underground springs, and is surrounded by lush gardens and forests. The park has several hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks, as well as a historic suspension bridge that spans the ravine.

Palatka Railroad Preservation Society

The Palatka Railroad Preservation Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the town’s railroad history. Visitors can tour a collection of antique trains and rail equipment, as well as a small museum that tells the story of Palatka’s role in the railroad industry. The society also hosts special events, such as train rides and model train shows.

Natural Attractions of Palatka: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Palatka is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including vast forests, pristine waterways, and state parks. Here are some of the top outdoor attractions in the town:

St. Johns River

The St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida and one of the few in the world that flows north. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and sightseeing, with many scenic spots along its shores. Visitors can take a riverboat tour, rent a boat or kayak, or go on a guided fishing trip.

Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail

The Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail is a 47-mile trail that follows a former railroad corridor. It passes through several rural communities and natural areas, including the Etoniah Creek State Forest and the historic town of Worthington Springs. The trail is open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Rice Creek Conservation Area

The Rice Creek Conservation Area is a 5,000-acre preserve that features a diverse range of habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and upland forests. It has several hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and hunting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Palatka

Palatka offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking in its scenic parks and trails. Here are some of the best routes in and around the town:

Ravine Gardens State Park

The Ravine Gardens State Park has several hiking trails that wind through the deep ravine and surrounding gardens. The trails range from easy to moderate and offer stunning views of the park’s natural beauty.

Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail

The Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail is a popular route for cycling enthusiasts. It provides a scenic and challenging ride through rolling hills, forests, and wetlands. Cyclists can also explore the small rural towns and communities along the way.

Rice Creek Conservation Area

The Rice Creek Conservation Area has several hiking and biking trails that lead through its vast wetlands and forests. The trails range from easy to moderate and offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.

Best Things to Do in Palatka: Activities and Tours

Palatka offers a range of activities and tours that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the best things to do in the town:

Fishing

Palatka is a renowned destination for fishing, thanks to its location on the St. Johns River and its abundance of lakes and creeks. Visitors can go on guided fishing trips or rent a boat and fish on their own.

Kayaking/Canoeing

Palatka’s waterways, including the St. Johns River, offer a great opportunity for kayaking and canoeing. Visitors can rent equipment or join a guided tour to explore the wetlands, swamps, and wildlife of the area.

Ghost Tours

Palatka has a rich history, including tales of haunted houses, ghostly apparitions, and unsolved mysteries. Visitors can join a guided ghost tour to learn about the town’s spooky past and see some of its most haunted locations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Palatka

Palatka offers a variety of attractions and activities, which makes it a great destination for a week-long vacation. Here is a sample itinerary that covers some of the town’s highlights:

Day 1: Explore the Historic District

Start your trip by exploring Palatka’s historic district, which features many well-preserved buildings and landmarks from the town’s past. Stops include the Bronson-Mulholland House, the Larimer Arts Center, and the Putnam County Museum.

Day 2: Explore the Outdoors

Spend a day exploring Palatka’s outdoor attractions. Start with a tour of the St. Johns River on a riverboat or kayak. Then, head to the Ravine Gardens State Park for a hike or picnic. End the day with a visit to the Palatka Railroad Preservation Society

Day 3: Hiking and Biking

Take a hike or bike ride in one of Palatka’s scenic parks or trails. The Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail and the Rice Creek Conservation Area both offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Day 4: Fishing and Water Activities

Spend a day fishing and enjoying the town’s waterways. Rent a boat and explore the St. Johns River or one of Palatka’s many lakes and creeks.

Day 5: Visit Cultural Attractions

Take a day to explore Palatka’s museums and other cultural attractions. Don’t miss the Ravine Gardens State Park historic suspension bridge, the Larimer Arts Center, and the Palatka Railroad Preservation Society.

Day 6: Ghost Tour and Nightlife

Spend an evening on a guided ghost tour of Palatka’s haunted locations. Afterward, explore the town’s nightlife scene, which includes several bars and restaurants.

Day 7: Nearby Excursions

Take a day trip to one of the nearby attractions, such as the Ocala National Forest or the historic town of St. Augustine.

Food and Drink Scene of Palatka

Palatka offers a delicious and diverse food and drink scene, with options that range from classic American fare to international cuisine. Here are some of the best culinary experiences in the town:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Southern-style fried chicken and waffles
  • Fresh seafood, including catfish, shrimp, and oysters
  • Barbecue, especially pulled pork and beef brisket
  • Gator tail, a local delicacy that is often fried or grilled

Local Beverages

  • Sweet tea, a classic Southern drink
  • Orange juice, which is produced locally in Florida’s citrus groves
  • Microbrews from local breweries, such as the M.A.D.E. Brewery

Where to Stay in Palatka: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Palatka offers a range of accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:

Budget-Friendly

  • Sleep Inn & Suites
  • Quality Inn
  • Budget Inn

Mid-Range

  • Holiday Inn Express
  • Best Western
  • Crystal Cove Riverfront Resort

Luxury

  • The River Lily Inn Bed and Breakfast
  • The Old Powder House Inn
  • The Graham Inn

What to Buy in Palatka: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Palatka offers several unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best options:

  • Citrus fruits and products, such as orange juice and marmalade
  • Souvenirs from the Palatka Railroad Preservation Society, such as model trains and rail equipment
  • Local arts and crafts, including handmade pottery, paintings, and jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Palatka

Palatka has a rich Southern culture, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Visitors can expect a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with plenty of hospitality and warmth from the locals.

Best Time to Visit Palatka

The best time to visit Palatka is during the fall and winter months (October to February), when the weather is mild and dry, and the town’s festivals and events are in full swing. However, Palatka is a year-round destination, with plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy in every season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Palatka

Do:

  • Take a riverboat tour of the St. Johns River
  • Explore the town’s historic district
  • Try the local cuisine, especially the seafood and barbecue
  • Visit the Rice Creek Conservation Area for hiking and biking

Don’t:

  • Swim in the St. Johns River (due to alligators and other wildlife)
  • Litter or damage the natural areas
  • Disturb the historic artifacts or landmarks
  • Travel alone in remote areas, especially at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in Palatka

Palatka is a safe destination, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should always take standard precautions when traveling, such as avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas, locking their valuables in their cars, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Palatka

Visitors to Palatka should be aware of the risks associated with Florida’s hot and humid climate, including heat stroke, dehydration, and insect bites. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, wear breathable clothing, and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses. In case of a medical emergency, the Putnam Community Medical Center is the closest hospital in Palatka.

Getting to Palatka: Transportation Options and Logistics

Palatka is located in North Central Florida, about 25 miles west of St. Augustine and 60 miles south of Jacksonville. Here are some transportation options for getting to Palatka:

Airports Near Palatka

  • Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): 60 miles north of Palatka
  • Orlando International Airport (MCO): 128 miles southwest of Palatka

Bus Stations Near Palatka

  • Greyhound Bus Station: located in Palatka, with routes to Jacksonville, Orlando, and other Florida destinations.
  • Amtrak Station: located in Palatka, with rail connections to other cities across the US.

Other Options

  • Rent a car or take a taxi from the nearest airport or bus station.
  • Use a ridesharing app, such as Uber or Lyft, to get around town.

How to Get Around in Palatka

The best way to get around Palatka is by car, as the town is spread out and many attractions are located outside of the town center. However, there are also options for public transportation and walking/biking.

Car Rental

Several car rental companies operate in Palatka, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Visitors can also rent a car from the nearby airports or bus stations.

Public Transportation

Palatka operates a local bus service that connects the town center with nearby communities and attractions. The bus service is operated by the Putnam County Transit and has several routes throughout the town.

Walking/Biking

Palatka’s historic district is walkable, and several parks and trails are bike-friendly. Visitors can also rent a bike from a local company, such as St. Johns River Eco Tours.

Where to Go Next from Palatka: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Palatka is a great starting point for exploring Florida’s diverse landscapes and attractions. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • St. Augustine: the historic town is just 25 miles east of Palatka, and it offers a wealth of attractions, such as the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park.
  • Ocala National Forest: located 45 miles southwest of Palatka, the national forest offers hiking, fishing, and camping in a pristine natural setting.
  • Daytona Beach: the popular beach town is only 50 miles south of Palatka and features a wide array of activities, such as sunbathing, surfing, and motorsports.

Conclusion

Palatka is a hidden gem in North Central Florida, offering a unique blend of nature, history, and culture. From its scenic parks and waterways to its well-preserved historic buildings and museums, there is something for every traveler to enjoy in the town. Whether it’s a day trip or a week-long vacation, visitors will find that Palatka is a welcoming and memorable destination.

Bronson-Mulholland House Bronson-Mulholland House Larimer Arts Center Larimer Arts Center Downtown Palatka Downtown Palatka