When I say Florida, people automatically associate it with ripped beach bodies, eternal sunshine, crystal waters, and a night out to remember. Younger generations think – Mickey Mouse! We’re doing something different today; we’re here to experience a 180-degree shift in perspective and admire its historical premise. (don’t get me wrong, I, too, indulge in god-given, 100% natural amenities the Sunshine State has to offer.) The history of Florida began unfolding in 1513 (historic enough?) when Juan Ponce de León, a Spanish explorer, embarked on a journey to find the mythical spring – The Fountain of Youth. Although Florida officially became a state in 1845, its historical heritage has already been accumulating for a decent number of centuries. And now we are in 2023. How exciting is that?! The juxtaposition between new and old makes Florida so unique and inviting. It simply has it all. From a healthy food delivery in South Florida to spellbinding museums and cafes. Without further ado, let’s get familiar with ten historic towns in Florida to visit in 2024.
St. Augustine
Oldies, but goldies, as they say. St. Augustine is believed to be the oldest town in the U.S., founded in 1565 by the Spanish. The epitome of historic charm, this relic is home to the narrowest street in the country, the oldest wax museum, and the oldest wooden schoolhouse. Its old cathedral and haunted lighthouse attract numerous visitors throughout the year. My favorite ghost story – The Casablanca Inn. As much as I have enjoyed Cocoa Beach and touring the Kennedy Space Center, St. Augustine offers a different take on American history.
Apalachicola
Dating back to the 1500s, this quaint little town was once known for being the third busiest port on the Gulf of Mexico! The name Apalachicola comes from the Hitchiti words apalahchi, meaning “on the other side”, and okli, meaning “people”. The area was first called Cottonton because of a trading post that handled cotton, one of the agricultural staples of the area before the Civil War. In 1849, Apalachicola physician Dr. John Gorrie discovered the cold-air process of refrigeration and patented an ice-making machine in 1850. His experiments to lower the temperatures of fever patients laid the groundwork for modern refrigeration and air-conditioning. Today, with just a little over 2,500 residents, this tight-knit community takes pride in preserving its low-key charm. Oh, and oysters. This Florida gem is the place where most world-class Florida oysters are harvested. My favorite spot? Cape San Blas, or as the locals call it, “The Cape,” has 17 miles of pristine white-sand beaches. Uncrowded! You can’t beat that.
Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island
Not that long ago, I indulged in a romantic getaway in North Carolina, and let me tell you – there’s only room for one in this heart of mine – and her name is Amelia. It was originally home to the Timucua Indians before being settled by the Spanish in the 17th century. The Spanish built a fort and mission and named the island Isla de Santa Maria. In 1702, the fort was destroyed by Governor James Moore of Carolina when the British occupied the island and renamed it Amelia Island after King George II’s daughter. With over 400 years of history under its picturesque belt, this town has it all: historic downtown with 19th-century architecture, natural wildlife, immaculate beaches, and luxury resorts. Take a horse-carriage ride, and see the nation’s oldest masonry fort. Enjoy the easy living philosophy to the fullest.
Mount Dora
Founded in 1880, this mesmerizing lakefront town made a name for itself in the 1920s as a winter retreat in Central Florida for fishermen and hunters. The lake was named after Dora Drawdy, a settler who homesteaded in the mid-1800s and befriended federal surveyors with her warm hospitality. Ross C. Tremain was the town’s first postmaster and a major real-estate developer. Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, President Coolidge, and Eisenhower all enjoyed the famous Lakeside Inn (still open and still renowned). Why go? The historic district and downtown have been immaculately restored, preserving the heritage of the small-town southern charm. It is also home to one of the three freshwater lighthouses in the entire U.S. Go visit.
Micanopy
Also known as “Little Town That Time Forgot,” Micanopy is believed to be the oldest inland town in Florida and is named for Chief Micanopy of the Seminole Nation. The town was founded in 1821 when a faction of Miccosukee Indians lived in the immediate area1. The historian C. S. Monaco has suggested that the town was named after Micanopy “to appease the chief and acknowledge his original authority over the land. What is Micanopy famous for? Oh, I don’t know; it’s only Florida’s antique capital. This eclectic micro-community inherently gets the importance of history. And with Paynes Prairie Preserve being one of Florida’s finest state parks, what more can a visitor ask for? Only after witnessing this inland gem’s existence are you free to explore Florida’s coastal jewels. Beaches, bars, museums, concerts, shopping, you name it – myriad great ways to spend the day in a place like West Palm Beach alone. But you are only allowed to do so once you have experienced the magic that Micanopy is.
Sanibel
Sanibel is definitely one of the must-see historic towns in Florida to visit in 2023. I call it Sunny Bell. A short drive from Fort Myers, this 7,000+ resident town is a mixed bag of goodies. Shell beaches? Check. Wildlife refuge? Check. History? Check! This little-known spot will soothe your neurons and benefit your well-being if you’re into a low-key vacation. It’s quaint; it’s quiet; it’s paradise. There may not be many adrenaline-inducing activities on Sanibel’s menu, but I assure you, any nature enthusiast will find it to be an unforgettable experience. Furthermore, the Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is a delightful village museum that recounts the island’s history through photographs, exhibits, and live presentations.
Dunnellon
My personal favorite go-to town when it comes to water sports. Located on the Withlacoochee and Rainbow rivers, this authentic old-charm town is there to color your leisure time with picturesque boat rides, kayaking, tubing, and fishing. Swim – all day long. If you’re an “earthy” type, I suggest you spend your weekend strolling the Historic District or go out for a hike in The Halpata Tastanaki Preserve.
Havana
The Friendliest Small Town in Florida (the town’s official nickname). It literally rose from the ashes after a devastating fire in 1916. Just minutes away from Tallahassee, Havana (just like its Cuban sibling) had a passion for the tobacco business. Today, this unique village on the outskirts of Tallahassee specializes in antique shops and art galleries. For all my fellow art lovers, check out Gadsden Arts Center & Museum in Quincy, a short ride away.
Cedar Key
Finest Old Florida glory, in my opinion. Visiting New Orleans was breathtaking, but Cedar Key is where one finds their much-needed quiet. This rustic little beauty is quite a marauder—a marauder of hearts. With precious natural preserves, museums, and quaint restaurants, Cedar Key is that off-the-beaten-path destination any overwhelmed urbanite should experience.
Port St. Joe
This “small town with a big heart” is your go-to destination if you’re looking for the perfect off-shore fishing expedition. Historically speaking, Port St. Joe is the birthplace of the state’s constitution, making it pretty iconic. Stroll down to the marina, enjoy the local antique shops, and after you’ve feasted your eyes on all the beauty and history, find yourself a booth in one of its famous Southern diners and indulge in some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in Florida.
Final thoughts
Your itinerary possibilities are endless when it comes to historic towns in Florida to visit in 2023. It’s not an easy pick. Best solution – one at a time.
About the author:
Nicolas Britt is a content writer currently working under the City Movers wing. He can’t help but call himself a nomad, a globetrotter. Natural preserves and endangered species are his weak spot. His ultimate passion has proved to be kitesurfing.
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