11 Small Towns in Florida to Visit for a Weekend Getaway
Florida is a perfect location for a weekend getaway. The historically significant state has something for everyone, from world reknowned beaches, islands, unspoiled nature preserves, and of course, a world famous mouse at the center of it all. However, if you are looking for a remote weekend away from the crowds, there are small towns that hold their own in terms of activities and history.
Saint Augustine
When talking about charming small towns in Florida, St. Augustine is a must-mention. As the oldest incorporated place in the country, it boasts rich history and distinctive attractions. The historic district's core is St. George Street, which serves as the main hub for important historical sites.
Among the famous sites are the country's oldest schoolhouse, the oldest jail, and the Fountain of Youth. Though the town is perfect for a weekend getaway, it takes multiple trips to experience all that St. Augustine has to offer. The best way to absorb all you can on a weekend is to plan out the trip ahead of time. To really get the feel of the town, staying in a historic bed and breakfast like the St. Francis Inn is the way to go.
Islamorada
The small village of Islamorada encompasses six of the Florida Keys and is a world-class sport fishing destination. Islamorada has the best coral reefs and shipwrecks in the US, and is a scuba diver's paradise. There is also ample snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
On land, visitors can experience attractions like the Theatre of the Sea and a unique diving museum that highlights the connection between underwater exploration and the charming village. For a luxurious weekend, consider staying at Cheeca. This upscale beachfront hotel and spa offers rooms, suites, and villas, along with the fine dining restaurant, La Casita.
Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is a barrier island on Florida's west coast, famous for its stunning beaches. inland is a resort town with upscale shopping and historic buildings. The Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum features a cottage built in 1920. A wooden pier from 1911 is nearby, serving as a reminder of the area's history blending with modern shops and boutiques.
The best time to visit is between January and March, when the weather is cooler and there are less tourists. Though all of the lodging options are a popular choice, the Anna Maria Island Inn is a no-fuss, quaint yet luxurious hotel that is highly recommended.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a charming town in Central Florida known for its antique stores and annual festivals. The town revolves around Lake Dora, which features a lighthouse surrounded by picnic tables. In addition to historic homes, the Mount Dora History Museum is housed in a 1923 firehouse, and the Museum of Speed is located inside a 1940s gas station.
This is a fun town to visit for a weekend. Perhaps it's the fact that it is not mainstream Florida like the bigger metropolis' and it offers a different view of Florida that some may not know exists. Staying at the Lakeside Inn, Florida's oldest hotel, completes the historic experience. Staying here is like traveling back in time and exudes the charm of Mount Dora like no other hotel does.
Captiva Island
Captiva Island is a charming island just west of Fort Myers and is generally considered with its neighboring island, Sanibel. Traveling over the causeway to get to the island is a firsthand experience in authentic Florida. The two and a half miles of pristine beaches are covered in seashells and the beach is considered the seashell capital of the US.
Captiva maintains its small beach community vibe by preventing any commercial buildings from being taller than the tallest tree on the island. This allows visitors and locals to enjoy the natural beauty of this special place. The South Seas Resort is new and has received high reviews because of their private beaches and amenities.
Winter Park
Winter Park is in the center of the state and, much like Mount Dora, gives visitors a unique look at another side of Florida. The small town is set against Lake Osceola, renowned for its premier bass fishing, and boasts a number of museums. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art has a Tiffany Collection while the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens showcases works by eponymous artists.
The charming downtown features cobblestone streets, shops, and boutiques housed in vintage and antique brick buildings. The open parks and majestic trees highlight Winter Park's upscale character. The Alfond Inn is a luxurious hotel close to downtown's restaurants and shops, offering upscale amenities such as a conservatory.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach is an island on the East Coast of Florida and home to mansions, historic landmarks, and museums. One of the more famous residents was Henry Flagler and there is a museum dedicated to him here. The atmosphere here is pure south Florida, replete with colorful buildings and luxurious shopping on the famous Worth Avenue.
While shopping is one of the main attractions in Palm Beach, visitors also shouldn't miss the Caribbean-influenced beach. Clematis Street offers some of the best nightlife in the area and is conveniently situated between the beach and Lake Worth. The pink Colony Hotel, rated four stars, captures the true atmosphere and charming kitsch of Palm Beach and makes for a perfect weekend getaway.
Stuart
The Atlantic Coast town of Stuart, known as the "Sailfish Capital of the World" is a quaint town rich in history. In fact, the House of Refuge at Gilbert's Bar was once a safe haven for shipwrecked sailors and is a popular visitor attraction. The Stuart Heritage Museum contains historical pieces and furniture from the original pioneers.
Along with its picturesque streets and rich history, Stuart also offers fantastic outdoor activities. Seabranch Preserve State Park has hiking and nature trails, and the offshore fishing is exceptional. The Old Colorado Inn is a historic boutique hotel downtown, making it convenient for a short weekend getaway.
Naples
Naples is a luxurious community in southwest Florida. The town's symbol is the wooden pier, built in 1888 but modern Naples is known for its high end shopping and golfing. It is the perfect mix of sophisticated living and classic Florida outdoor attractions like deep sea fishing and kayaking.
The sugar sand beaches are perfect for sunset viewing, and with 230 days of summer annually, there is no bad time to soak in the sun. However, October-March are highly populated because the "snowbirds" flock here from the colder, northern temperatures. There is almost no limit on lodging but La Playa Beachfront Resort and Golf Club exemplifies the best that Naples has to offer.
Weeki Wachee
Weeki Wachee, with a population of eight, is a family friendly adventure. The Weeki Wachee State Park is the biggest draw and here is where you find live mermaids, glass bottom boats, and natural springs. There are river boat cruises or you can take a swim in Buccaneer Bay.
Built in 1947 as a way to teach people about Florida, the State Park hosts several annual events including classic car shows and Breakfast with Santa. Neptune's Grotto is a fun retreat in Weeki Wachee with uniquely themed rooms that will round out your adventurous weekend.
Pompano Beach
Pompano Beach is a small town north of Fort Lauderdale on the Atlantic Coast. It attracts a lot of scuba divers because of the coral reef, multiple diving sites, and the beaches. On shore, there is excellent dining, an antique mall, and even a Harrah's Hotel and Casino.
The beach town is a cultural arts hub, and unique exhibits are on display at the Ali Cultural Arts Building and the Bailey Contemporary Arts building. The Festival Marketplace is a quarter mile long shopping district with over 250 kiosks and boutiques, along with restaurants. The town is also convenient to get to, with the Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport only eight miles south of the beach.
Florida is home to quirky attractions, history, and pristine beaches. Whether you are looking for fun family adventures in Weeki Wachee or more grown up fun Harrah's, Florida has it all. And, although the beaches are well written about, if you spend a weekend inland of the beaches, you will discover true Florida gems like Mount Dora and Winter Park, offering a glimpse of a different side of Florida.
