Sun-soaked beaches, theme parks, and bustling cities are the first things that might come to your mind when “Florida” is mentioned. However, the Sunshine State has much more to offer other than tourist attractions. Florida is actually home to lots of charming historic small towns that offer a glimpse into its lesser-known past. The state is known for its diverse heritage and vibrant history. It boasts a rich tapestry of quaint communities that have preserved their unique cultures and stories. The ten historic towns in Florida we’re listing below should definitely be on your bucket list.
1. Briny Breezes
This small coastal town in Florida is a treasure trove for you history lovers. Founded in the 1920s, Briny Breezes was actually a dairy farm before it was transformed into a seasonal retreat and then became an incorporated town in 1963. What makes this beautiful town a living piece of history is its unique blend of community spirit and mobile homes.
Some of the major historical sites that you need to visit in this Florida town include the Briny Breezes Historical Society. The latter preserves the town’s heritage. As for the Briny Breezes Chapel, which was built in the 1940s, it showcases the community’s dedication to faith and fellowship.
Make sure to also visit the town hall, which was originally a modest space in a mobile home park. This place reflects grassroots governance, with the first mayor, Hugh David, serving for 34 years and shaping the town’s development.
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2. Cortez
This historic Florida fishing village will offer you a glimpse into the Gulf Coast’s maritime culture. Families from North Carolina founded Cortez in the 1880s, and the town is one of the last remaining authentic fishing communities in Florida. As a history enthusiast, you will definitely be amazed by the rich heritage preserved in several historical sites across Cortez.
The Florida Maritime Museum should be first on your list when visiting this town. The museum is housed in a restored 1912 schoolhouse, and it showcases the village’s fishing industry and boat-building heritage.
As for the Cortez Cultural Center, it serves as a community hub and hosts events that celebrate local art and history. When in Cortez, you’ll also enjoy exploring the Bratton/Burton Store. This is the first commercial building in the village. It played a vital role in connecting the Florida town with the outside world. Don’t forget to visit in time for the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, which celebrates the village’s fishing heritage with music, food, and activities.
3. Sopchoppy
Established in 1894 when the Carrabelle, Tallahassee, and Georgia Railroad was built through the area, Sopchoppy is situated along the Sopchoppy River at the edge of the Apalachicola National Forest. The charming, historic, small town was officially chartered as a city in 1905.
Obviously, it’s an intriguing destination for history lovers, as the town is rich in history and natural beauty. One of the key historical sites you need to visit is the Sopchoppy Depot, which was built in 1891. It served as a crucial transportation hub for the community and has been restored as a museum.
As for the Sopchoppy High School, it was constructed in 1924. This is another significant landmark which now functions as the Sopchoppy Education Center. Add also to your bucket list the Sopchoppy Gymnasium, which is made entirely of native limestone. This one is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is available for community events.
It’s worth noting that Sopchoppy is also known as the “Worm Gruntin’ Capital of the World,” hosting an annual festival that celebrates this unique local tradition. With rich natural resources in the area, you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, fishing, and much more.
4. Waldo
The rich history of this small Florida town dates back to the mid-19th century when it was established. It was originally called “Walden” and became a hub for the growing citrus industry in the 1880s. It attracted settlers and tourists alike. What further spurred the development of Waldo was the arrival of the Carrabelle, Tallahassee, and Georgia Railroad in 1894, which allowed for the shipment of local produce and goods.
The Waldo Historic District is the first place to see for history lovers, as this iconic site encompasses approximately 560 acres and features around 60 historic buildings. It includes homes that showcase 19th and 20th-century architectural styles. In 2001, this district made it to the National Register of Historic Places. One of the notable sites in the historic district is the Waldo Depot, a former railroad station built in 1894. It now serves as a museum.
Many resort hotels, theaters, and industries existed in Waldo. This includes an ice factory and a cigar factory. This reflects the town’s bustling past. Visitors can also enjoy the local charm at the Waldo Antique Village. The latter is known for its iconic shops and vibrant community.
5. Micanopy
This one is celebrated as the oldest inland town in Florida. It has a rich history that dates back to when it was founded in 1821. It’s located just out of Gainesville, in Alachua County, and was originally home to the Timucua and Seminole peoples. Micanopy later became a significant settlement for American pioneers. The name of the town derives from a Seminole chief and translates to “head chief.”
The Micanopy Historic District is the first key historical site you need to visit in town. This landmark encompasses around 470 acres and is home to several well-preserved buildings that date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. All of these sites reflect the architectural heritage of Micanopy. The Micanopy Historic District made it to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
Some of the other notable landmarks in Micanopy include the Herlong Mansion, which is a stunning Greek Revival structure completed in 1845. As for the Micanopy Historical Society Museum, it highlights the diverse history of the town, including Native American culture and the impacts of the Seminole Wars.
6. Steinhatchee
The rich history of this charming Gulf coastal community dates back to prehistoric times. Steinhatchee has been inhabited since at least 12,000 BC, with evidence of Native American presence, such as the Timucua and Seminole tribes. The name of the area, Steinhatchee, is derived from the Native American term “Esteen Hatchee,” or “River of Man.”
Since early European exploration, both the Deadman Bay and the Steinhatchee River have been really significant. Spanish conquistadors, including Pánfilo de Narváez and Hernando de Soto, traversed the region in the early 1500s. During the 19th century, the area became a hub for timber and sponge fishing, which were vital to the local economy. In 1931, the community was officially renamed Steinhatchee, moving away from its previous name, Deadman Bay, which was reportedly linked to historical incidents involving early settlers.
When visiting this coastal community in Florida, the first place you’d want to explore is the remnants of salt works from the Civil War era. These have provided essential resources to the Confederacy. Another place to see is the 1838-built Fort Frank Brooke, which served to protect settlers during the Second Seminole War.
Steinhatchee is also often referred to as the “Scallop Capital of the World,” thanks to its vibrant fishing community, which makes it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Cedar Key
This hidden Floridian gem was once a bustling port in the 19th century. Back then, it played a major role in the cotton trade as well as the development of the Gulf Coast. The first landmark to explore in Cedar Key is the Cedar Key Museum State Park, which features artifacts from the rich history of the area. These include collections by local naturalist St. Clair Whitman. The park also highlights John Muir’s visit in 1867.
As for the Cedar Key Historical Society Museum, it’s housed in a historic building and showcases the town’s history, including Native American artifacts and the area’s maritime past.
It’s also worth exploring the Cedar Key Historic District, where you can see preserved buildings from the boomtown era of Cedar Key, such as the Island Hotel, which dates back to the 1850s.
Other historical landmarks to visit in Cedar Key include the Seahorse Key Lighthouse, which was built in 1854, as well as the Atsena Otie Key, which contains ruins from the pencil factory.
8. Eatonville
This town holds a significant place in American history as it is the first incorporated African American municipality in the US, and it was established in 1887. Eatonville was founded by 27 Black voters in the wake of emancipation, and because of that, it symbolizes Black self-determination and autonomy.
The Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts is a key historical site to visit in Eatonville, and it’s dedicated to the renowned author and folklorist who grew up in town. Hurston’s works, such as Their Eyes Were Watching God, celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the community.
History lovers can also explore the Hungerford School which was once a premier educational institution for Black students, as well as the Eatonville Historic District, which highlights the legacy of the town.
Lovers of art, literature, and culture will enjoy attending Eatonville’s annual ZORA! Festival where they will learn more about African American history.
9. Port St. Joe
This treasure trove of history is known as the site of the first Constitutional Convention in Florida. This coastal boomtown was established in 1835 as St. Joseph and quickly became a hub for trade and politics.
One of the main historical attractions in Port St. Joe is the Constitutional Convention Museum State Park, where visitors can explore exhibits detailing the drafting of Florida’s first constitution. The museum features artifacts from the lost city of St. Joseph, a life-sized animated reconstruction of the convention, and a replica of the state’s first railroad locomotive.
The Cape San Blas Lighthouse is another key site to explore. This is where you can see stunning views and learn about the area’s maritime heritage. As for the Old St. Joseph Cemetery, it preserves the graves of early residents and connects visitors to Port St. Joe’s vibrant past.
You will enjoy witnessing the beautiful coastline and charming atmosphere of Port St. Joe. It is indeed a must-visit destination for all history enthusiasts.
10. DeFuniak Springs
Rich cultural heritage and well-preserved Victorian architecture are what DeFuniak Springs is known for. The town was originally founded as a railroad stop in the 1880s and became a prominent writer retreat for the Chautauqua movement. It attracted thousands for educational and cultural programs from 1885 to 1927.
One of the main historical sites you need to visit when in DeFuniak Springs is the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood. The latter was built in 1909 as a centerpiece for the assembly. Despite the fact that the original auditorium was lost to a hurricane, the hall remains a significant landmark up to this day.
Another key historical site in this Floridian gem is the Walton-DeFuniak Library, which was established in 1887. This one claims to be the oldest library in Florida still operating in its original building.
You can also explore the DeFuniak Springs Historic District, which features plenty of historic homes, of which many are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. All of this makes DeFuniak Springs a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
