Florida may not be the first place that would come to one’s mind when one thinks about historic places to visit. However, you would be surprised to know that the sunshine state is home to several historic places. So, if your budget does not allow you to take the big family vacation to Europe, maybe it’s time to head to Florida and allow yourself to be wowed by the rich history.
Floricua, a Florida-based news outlet by Courier Newsroom, published an article that discusses five historic cities in Florida that are a must-visit.
Marianna
Riding the border with Alabama, Marianna is a small city known as the “The City of Southern Charm”. Robert Beveridge, a Scottish entrepreneur founded this city back in 1827. Visitors are recommended to take a walk through the city’s historic quarters and little streets. Prominent sites include an obelisk commemorating the Civil War Battle of Marianna and the triangular courthouse park.
Outdoorsy tourists can also explore the Chipola River on paddle boards, canoes, or kayaks. And while you are there, be sure to check out the only dry caverns at the Florida Caverns State Park. If you are lucky, you may even catch the spirit of Elizabeth Jane Bellamy roaming the swamps near the Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trails.
Tallahassee
Inhabited by the Apalachee tribe before the Spaniards, Tallahassee has been the capital of Florida since 1824.
Tallahassee has a diverse set of offerings, with something for everyone. The Downtown Industrial Park is a good spot for art lovers, as it hosts many old warehouses that have been converted into studios. The 10-block historic district is lined with famous inns and bars, while the Museum of Florida History will wow history buffs. And if you are looking for outdoor activity, then it is recommended that you go to the Alfred B. Maclay State Gardens Park, with its enchanting gardens, floral architecture, and a floral pool.
Key West
Key West is the southernmost point in the United States. Located only 90 miles from Cuba, it was claimed for the US, in 1822, by Lt. Commander Matthew C. Perry. This town is also home to Sloppy Joe’s bar, which was a favorite of the famed novelist, Ernest Hemingway. At his residence, visitors will also find almost 30 six-toed cats, that are the descendants of the original six-toed cat, Snow White, which Hemingway was gifted by a sea captain.
According to the Courier Newsroom’s publication, walking is the best way to explore this island. And if you want to learn more about the town’s history, be sure to head over to Fort East Martello and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.
Pensacola
This place has earned a reputation as the first settlement in the United States. It was established 48 years before Jamestown, Virginia, but the Spanish soon left the place after it was deemed to be too unsafe. They returned in 1698 and established an outpost that has since evolved into the modern city.
Downtown Pensacola is full of Spanish and British forts, which offer guided and self-guided tours. The most famous of the 28 properties is Fort Barrancas. Visitors are also recommended to visit the Maritime Museum and the Pensacola Lighthouse.
St. Augustine
Juan Ponce de Leon, the Spanish explorer, and conquistador who discovered Florida, first landed at St. Augustine in 1513. The city of St. Augustine as we know it today was established in 1565 and became a part of the United States in 1821.
Today, the historic city offers a multitude of well-preserved sites, including Gilded Age hotels, stately castles, and a lighthouse, all set against the beautiful backdrop of nature trails and beaches.
If you are planning a trip to St. Augustine, the Courier Newsroom publication recommends paying a visit to the Colonial Quarter, for a history refresher. For those of you interested in some rejuvenation, consider going to Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth, for a refreshing drink from the natural springs.
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