destinations / north america / united states / florida

15 Iconic Small Towns in Florida

Steve Jennifer
Updated: Sep 5, 2023

When it comes to exploring the Sunshine State, most travelers flock to its renowned cities and famous attractions. But Florida has a secret – a collection of charming small towns that are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. In this article, we unveil the top 18 small towns in Florida that offer a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and tranquility.

01. Mount Dora

Absorb the quaint allure of Mount Dora, a charming town situated in the heart of Florida. This delightful destination showcases a blend of historic architecture, lush greenery, and a serene lakeside setting. Strolling through its picturesque streets, you'll encounter an array of unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and vibrant art galleries. The town's tranquil ambiance and scenic beauty create a captivating atmosphere that beckons visitors to unwind and savor the simple pleasures of life.

02. Fernandina Beach

Fernandina Beach, a coastal haven on Amelia Island, Florida, beckons with its relaxed coastal charm. This picturesque town boasts a blend of historic architecture, pristine beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. As you wander through its scenic streets, you'll encounter a myriad of unique shops, charming cafes, and artistic expressions. The town's tranquil atmosphere and coastal beauty provide an inviting backdrop for leisurely strolls and relaxation by the sea.

03. Safety Harbor

Safety Harbor, a serene town along Florida's Gulf Coast, offers a tranquil retreat characterized by its picturesque charm. With a blend of historic architecture, lush natural surroundings, and a welcoming community, this coastal gem invites visitors to unwind and appreciate the simple pleasures of life. Meandering through its inviting streets, you'll encounter a range of unique shops, cozy cafes, and opportunities for artistic exploration.

04. Apalachicola

Nestled along the picturesque Gulf Coast, Apalachicola is a quintessential Southern town that beckons visitors with its timeless allure. Steeped in history, this charming gem boasts well-preserved historic buildings, oak-lined streets, and a pace of life that harkens back to a simpler era. But what truly sets Apalachicola apart is its reputation as the oyster capital of the South.

05. Cedar Key

Tucked away on the Florida Gulf Coast, Cedar Key is a remote coastal haven that invites weary souls to discover the true meaning of island serenity. This hidden gem, with its laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty, is a sanctuary for both nature enthusiasts and artists seeking inspiration.

Surrounded by the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Cedar Key is a paradise for birdwatchers, kayakers, and anyone yearning to reconnect with the rhythms of nature. Its unspoiled landscapes, sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant hues, and a quaint artistic community create an atmosphere of pure tranquility.

06. Dunedin: "Scottish Spirit and Artistic Flair"

Dunedin, a town with Scottish roots and a vibrant artistic community, embodies a unique blend of heritage and creativity. This charming destination on Florida's Gulf Coast showcases a rich cultural tapestry, with historic Scottish influences evident in its architecture and traditions. Strolling through its inviting streets, you'll encounter a diverse array of boutiques, cozy cafes, and artistic expressions that reflect the town's creative spirit.

07. DeLand

DeLand, a vibrant town in Central Florida, is a captivating blend of history and culture. This charming destination boasts a rich heritage and a thriving community, with a range of architectural treasures and a bustling downtown area. Wandering through its welcoming streets, you'll find an array of unique shops, cozy eateries, and artistic expressions that reflect the town's creative spirit.

08. Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island, nestled in the tranquil embrace of the Gulf of Mexico, is a place where the world of seashells comes alive in all its exquisite diversity. This picturesque island is renowned among shell enthusiasts as a true paradise. Its sandy shores are adorned with an astounding variety of seashells, making beachcombing a cherished pastime.

09. Winter Park

Winter Park, a picturesque town in Central Florida, exudes timeless charm and cultural vitality. This delightful destination is known for its rich history and a thriving community, featuring an array of architectural gems and a vibrant downtown scene. While strolling through its inviting streets, you'll encounter a diverse range of boutiques, cozy cafes, and artistic expressions that reflect the town's creative spirit.

10. Mount Plymouth

Mount Plymouth, a charming community in Central Florida, embodies a serene blend of nature and suburban life. This idyllic destination features a peaceful ambiance and a close-knit neighborhood, surrounded by natural beauty and a serene environment. As you meander through its inviting streets, you'll encounter a mix of cozy homes, friendly faces, and glimpses of the natural world that characterize the area's charm.

11. Gulfport

Gulfport, a coastal gem in Florida, embodies a vibrant blend of culture and seaside living. This charming destination boasts a relaxed atmosphere and a welcoming community, with a backdrop of sandy shores and picturesque waterways. As you wander through its inviting streets, you'll encounter an array of unique shops, friendly faces, and artistic expressions that reflect the town's creative spirit.

12. Micanopy

Steeped in history and draped in timeless charm, Micanopy is a small town that invites visitors to take a leisurely stroll through the pages of Florida's past. Its preserved historic district, with moss-draped oak trees and antique shops lining the streets, exudes an enchanting ambiance reminiscent of a bygone era.

13. Seaside

Seaside, Florida, is a coastal masterpiece that beckons visitors to embark on an unforgettable journey through its idyllic streets. As a meticulously planned community, Seaside's whimsical pastel-colored cottages create a visual symphony that ignites the senses. This pedestrian paradise invites leisurely exploration, with charming boutiques, art galleries, and local markets that celebrate creativity and local craftsmanship.

14. St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Beach, the serene neighbor to the historic city of St. Augustine, offers a coastal haven that is the epitome of relaxation. Here, you can escape the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist destinations and immerse yourself in a tranquil beach town atmosphere. Miles of pristine, sandy shores invite you to unwind, bask in the sun, or take leisurely strolls along the coast.

15. Matlacha

Matlacha Island, nestled amidst the waters of Southwest Florida, is a place where time slows down, and creativity takes center stage. This charming island is renowned for its artistic spirit, evident in every brushstroke of color that adorns its buildings and galleries. Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene, where local artists' works spill onto the streets, celebrating the eclectic and the eccentric.

TAGS: destinations north america united states florida

15 Iconic Small Towns in Florida

01. Mount Dora

02. Fernandina Beach

03. Safety Harbor

04. Apalachicola

05. Cedar Key

06. Dunedin: "Scottish Spirit and Artistic Flair"

07. DeLand

08. Sanibel Island

09. Winter Park

10. Mount Plymouth

11. Gulfport

12. Micanopy

13. Seaside

14. St. Augustine Beach

15. Matlacha

Recommended

14 Free Things You Can Get at Airports

11 Celebrity Homes You Can Stay at Through AirBnB

Go to Bar Harbor For Outdoorsy Fun

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox

About

EXPLORE

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox

Advertisement

15 Iconic Small Towns in Florida

Advertisement

Advertisement

01. Mount Dora

Advertisement

02. Fernandina Beach

Advertisement

03. Safety Harbor

Advertisement

04. Apalachicola

Advertisement

05. Cedar Key

Advertisement

06. Dunedin: "Scottish Spirit and Artistic Flair"

Advertisement

07. DeLand

Advertisement

08. Sanibel Island

Advertisement

09. Winter Park

Advertisement

10. Mount Plymouth

Advertisement

11. Gulfport

Advertisement

12. Micanopy

Advertisement

13. Seaside

Advertisement

14. St. Augustine Beach

Advertisement

15. Matlacha

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Recommended

14 Free Things You Can Get at Airports

11 Celebrity Homes You Can Stay at Through AirBnB

Go to Bar Harbor For Outdoorsy Fun

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox

About

EXPLORE

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox