North Florida Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, local culture and customs, safety tips, transportation options, and more in this complete travel guide to North Florida.


Introduction to North Florida

North Florida is a hidden gem in the Sunshine State, offering visitors a unique blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and Southern hospitality. Located in the northern part of the state, North Florida boasts many attractions, including white sandy beaches, historic sites and museums, outdoor adventures, and a thriving food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in North Florida

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, North Florida offers plenty of exciting destinations to explore:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum: A fascinating museum that showcases the history of pirates and their treasures.
  • Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: A historic fort that offers spectacular views of the Matanzas Bay.
  • The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens: A beautiful museum and garden that features art from around the world.
  • Florida Historic Capitol Museum: The historical building housed the Florida legislature from 1902 till 1977. Discover its history and architecture on a visit here.

Natural Attractions of North Florida: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • St. George Island: A stunning island with white sandy beaches that offer plenty of opportunities for water sports and fishing.
  • Ginnie Springs: A group of crystal-clear springs that offer swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
  • Ichetucknee Springs State Park: A beautiful park that features a crystal-clear river and excellent kayaking and tubing opportunities.
  • Amelia Island: Known for its golden sand beach, historic architecture, and natural beauty. It is perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Florida

North Florida is a paradise for hiking and biking enthusiasts, offering miles of scenic trails to explore.

  • Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail: A 16-mile scenic trail that is ideal for hiking or biking along the St. Marks River.
  • The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail: A 16-mile trail that passes through a scenic countryside, across creeks and lush forests.
  • The Sinks Trail: A 3.2-mile scenic hike that passes through a diverse landscape with sinkholes, streams, and hardwood hammocks.

Best Things to Do in North Florida: Activities and Tours

  • Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride in St. Augustine.
  • Go kayaking or paddleboarding with manatees in Crystal River.
  • Enjoy a scenic sunset sailboat ride in Pensacola Beach.
  • Go fishing in Lake Seminole - a freshwater lake located in the northwest Florida panhandle.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Florida

Day 1: Arrive in Tallahassee, visit Florida Historic Capitol Museum, and explore the city’s food scene.

Day 2: Hike at Wakulla Springs State Park, and visit the Tallahassee Museum, followed by dinner at the best seafood restaurant in the city.

Day 3: Drive to St. George Island, enjoy the beach, and indulge in a seafood lunch before heading back to Tallahassee for the night.

Day 4: Drive towards Jacksonville and stop at Big Talbot Island State Park to see the boneyard, before lunch at the famous Johnny’s BBQ. Continue to St. Augustine to explore the city’s historic sites.

Day 5: Visit the Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, go on a ghost tour of St. Augustine and dine at a locally owned restaurant.

Day 6: Explore the Ichetucknee Springs State Park before heading towards Panama City Beach.

Day 7: Relax on the Panama City Beach and go for some water sports activities.

Food and Drink Scene of North Florida

North Florida’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes, reflecting the region’s rich history and culture. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried green tomatoes: A southern classic, fried crispy slices of tangy green tomatoes.
  • Gumbo: A hearty seafood stew with a spicy kick, traditionally served with rice.
  • Pecan Pie: A sweet, Southern pie, made with fresh pecans and a gooey filling.

Local Beverages

  • Orlando Brewing: A local brewery that offers various beer options
  • Quincy Grapes: A winery that offers a variety of local wines.

Where to Stay in North Florida: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Florida offers a broad range of accommodations to suit different budgets and travel styles.

  • For a touch of luxury and beachfront location, the Shores Resort and Spa, Daytona Beach is a perfect choice.
  • For a mid-range option, the charming Island Inn on Santa Rosa Beach offers affordable rooms with great views.
  • For a budget option, try the Hostelling International in Tallahassee.

What to Buy in North Florida: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of North Florida home with you by buying these locally made products:

  • Hot sauce from Lulu’s Hot Sauce in Destin.
  • Tupelo Honey from the Savannah Bee Company Stores.
  • Photos of the boneyard in Big Talbot Island State Park.

Local Culture and Customs of North Florida

North Florida’s culture is heavily influenced by its history, with elements of Southern hospitality and African American heritage prominent in the region. Visitors should try to respect local customs and traditions, such as avoiding loud noise and maintaining a low profile to not disturb the peaceful atmosphere of historic sites.

Best Time to Visit North Florida

North Florida is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between March and May or from September to November when the temperatures are moderate, and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Florida

Do:

  • Do try the local seafood & barbecue dishes; North Florida is famous for its culinary scene.
  • Do visit the historic sites and museums, to learn about the region’s rich history.
  • Do try outdoor activities- hiking, biking, kayaking- and enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, as the sun can be strong in North Florida.
  • Don’t litter, keep the beaches and parks clean.
  • Don’t talk loudly or behave inappropriately at the cultural and historical sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in North Florida

North Florida is a relatively safe region, but visitors should take precautions when exploring natural areas and hiking trails. Be alert for wildlife such as alligators and snakes and follow the park rules and guidelines.

Health in North Florida

Medical facilities are easily accessible in North Florida, with many hospitals and clinics located in major cities and towns.

Getting to North Florida: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North Florida

  • Tallahassee International Airport (TLH)
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS)
  • Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)

Bus Stations Near North Florida

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Megabus

Other Options

  • Renting a car: A popular option for exploring North Florida is to rent a car at one of the airports and drive around.

How to Get Around in North Florida

Public transportation options in North Florida are not extensive; renting a car is the best way to get around. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in most cities and towns.

Where to Go Next from North Florida: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time and want to explore more of the Southern United States, you can consider visiting:

  • New Orleans, Louisiana: Known for its vibrant culture, history, and music.
  • Memphis, Tennessee: Birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, home to Graceland and a mecca for music lovers.
  • Savannah, Georgia: A charming, romantic city known for its historic architecture, gardens, and Southern cuisine.

Conclusion

North Florida is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and Southern charm. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, or delicious cuisine, North Florida has something for everyone. This comprehensive tour guide has covered all aspects of this beautiful region, and we hope it will help you plan your perfect trip to North Florida.

Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine St. Augustine Lighthouse St. Augustine Lighthouse