12 Small Towns In Florida To Visit For A Weekend Getaway
Over 140 million tourists visited Florida in 2024, drawn by its unbeatable blend of soothing seaside scenery, tropical-like weather, and world-class amusement parks. But beyond the bustling beaches and adrenaline-pumping attractions in the major cities lies a quieter, more charming side of the Sunshine State. Florida's small towns are its best-kept secret, offering the perfect escape from the crowds, where cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and locally owned cafés invite you to slow down and savor the moment.
Whether craving a romantic weekend retreat, a cozy family getaway, or a solo recharge, these overlooked destinations deliver a delightful mix of natural beauty, Southern hospitality, and cultural richness. From chilling along the stunning Emerald Coast in Destin to fishing for bass in Mount Dora, here are some of the best small towns in Florida to visit for a weekend getaway.
Key West
Sand-swept beaches, intriguing historical lore, and idyllic green spaces await vacationers in this beautiful destination on the southern tip of Florida. Part of the Florida Keys archipelago, Key West is renowned for its world-class beaches, with tourists lured by the fine white sands and palm-lined shores of Smathers Beach. This expansive public beach presents a fine escape for lounging and unwinding. The town is steeped in maritime heritage and harbors a string of related landmarks to show for it. At the Key West Shipwreck Museum, recovered relics, artifacts, and vintage films chronicle centuries of shipwreck salvage around the Florida Keys.
Meanwhile, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory invites environmentalists to explore a serene climate-controlled habitat with lush vegetation, housing up to 60 species of immaculate butterflies. When you need a spot to spend the night, Hilton Garden Inn Key West is one of the best options available in town.
Jacksonville Beach
This coastal resort town in northeast Florida offers a fun-filled weekend retreat, complete with beach adventures, historical experiences, and live performances. The Jacksonville Beach Pier is one of the town's most popular attractions. This 1,300-foot wooden promenade presents a laid-back walkway where you can catch the magical sunrises and sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean, as well as fishing opportunities. Historians can learn about the region's captivating history at the Beaches Museum, where permanent archives and temporary exhibits bring it back to life.
Jacksonville Beach entertains visitors with adorable stage productions at Players by the Sea. This intimate community venue often hosts excited audiences for a blend of contemporary and classic play performances. A short walk from the town's pier, guests can find accommodation at the Margaritaville Beach Hotel.
Cedar Key
Cedar Key is a paradise for environmental enthusiasts, home to a collection of protected sanctuaries with picturesque nature trails and unmissable birdwatching opportunities. The Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge provides a haven for recreation and wildlife. It provides a habitat for pelicans, herons, and other shorebird species, and provides access to an isolated beach on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Those craving an adventure on the vast waters surrounding the town can charter a canoe or kayak from Cedar Key Paddling for remarkable sightseeing tours and fishing trips.
The Cedar Key Museum State Park invites tourists on a unique journey into the past. This 18-acre property features a restored 20th-century dwelling, complete with archives, vintage photographs, and Native American memorabilia, which document the past. For accommodation, you sleep at the cozy yet straightforward Salinity at Cedar Key.
Monticello
This small-town escape in Jefferson County has a charming downtown district with a string of historic buildings and a vibrant art scene. Townsfolk constantly gather at the iconic Monticello Opera House for various performance art productions. The 19th-century venue hosts an entertaining lineup of concerts, musicals, and plays, curated for both young and old audiences. Nature lovers can escape to Monticello Ecological Park, a 28-acre ecodiverse reserve featuring a mix of wetlands and old-growth forests, as well as at least 30 species of birds.
Monticello guarantees vacationers a continuous supply of fine-tasting wines to get them in the mood from Monticello Vineyards & Winery. Elsewhere, the historic Denham Inn offers rustic accommodations within a 1872 bed and breakfast listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Venice
Venice is a hidden gem on Florida's Gulf Coast, boasting 14 miles of sandy shoreline with pristine beaches, guaranteeing ultimate relaxation. The town is riddled with beautiful beaches where everybody goes to lounge, beachcomb, and sunbathe. Caspersen Beach is particularly unique for its prehistoric shark teeth, which draw large numbers of speculators. Downtown Venice is a vibrant district with an eclectic mix of restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. Tourists can anticipate exciting shopping opportunities every Saturday at the Venice, Florida Farmers Market, where a variety of baked goods, handcrafted items, seafood, and farm produce are laid out for sale.
Additionally, you can gain insight into local history at the Venice Museum, which showcases a collection of archaeological relics, historical artifacts, and vintage photographs that capture the community's heritage within the walls of a 1920s inn. The historic downtown harbors numerous lodging venues, and you can stay the night at Island Sun Inn & Suites.
Micanopy
This small town in the heart of Florida is recognized as the oldest continuously occupied village in the state. Hence, vacationers can expect a fascinating history lesson while discovering the Micanopy Historic District. Riddled with dozens of vintage buildings, this rustic neighborhood offers a glimpse of the past at venues like the Herlong Mansion. This stately mansion, constructed in 1845, currently serves as a bed and breakfast for guests planning a stay.
The inn is within walking distance of the Micanopy Historical Society Museum. This resourceful location reveals the town's dynamic evolution since the days of Native American inhabitance. Souvenir lovers can shop for adorable treasures at the Antique City Mall. Meanwhile, Outdoorsy guests can take advantage of camping, hunting, and hiking activities across the over 20,000-acre Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
Destin
Destin is a popular destination on the Emerald Coast and one of the go-to towns in Florida for a weekend getaway. Known for its emerald-green waters and sand-swept beaches, it draws thousands of vacationers looking to savor its scenic shoreline atmosphere at Henderson Beach State Park. This expansive public beach offers sandy nature trails and water access, attracting campers, picnickers, swimmers, and anglers alike. The Destin History & Fishing Museum explains the community's past, dating back to the pioneer years of the 19th century, with a focus on both human and maritime history.
Also, social animals will fancy discovering the various businesses along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Besides stunning water views, the corridor features a variety of stores, pubs, and restaurants, making it a significant gathering spot. Finally, booking a room at Destin Inn & Suites assures guests of incredible ocean views every morning.
Tarpon Springs
Beautiful beaches, Greek dishes, and quirky museums are some of the fun things to look forward to in this waterfront town on the Gulf Coast. Tarpon Springs was established by Greek immigrants who left a lasting influence, which is reflected in the sumptuous Greek cuisine served at local establishments like Hellas Restaurant & Bakery. Tourists often flock to Fred Howard Park for an array of recreational activities. This 155-acre public beach attracts swimmers, windsurfers, picnickers, beachcombers, and more.
Tarpon Springs is also home to the Replay Museum, a nostalgic facility featuring a collection of over 100 classic pinball and arcade game machines. When you want to retire for the night, consider booking a room at Quality Inn & Suites Tarpon Springs South for a 3-star lodging experience.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a charming lakefront town in central Florida, boasting a vibrant downtown atmosphere where guests can discover historical experiences, shopping opportunities, and cultural encounters. The Mount Dora History Museum documents the community's storied heritage with an extensive collection of local artifacts dating back to the 1880s. Meanwhile, the IceHouse Theatre is where everybody comes to watch engaging art performances by homegrown talent. This intimate community theater presents a diverse range of theatrical productions, including musicals, comedies, plays, and other performances throughout the year.
Meanwhile, outdoor lovers feel at home with hikes through Palm Island Park. This wooded nature preserve, featuring mature trees, offers a boardwalk and a fishing pier overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Dora. Finally, Hampton Inn Mount Dora is a lovely place to sleep, conveniently situated near the downtown square.
DeLand
DeLand is an adorable college community in Volusia County, boasting a lively arts scene, a fascinating history, and an overall upbeat atmosphere. It has a noteworthy historic district with several old-world mansions, including the DeLand House Museum. Built in 1886, it is one of the city's earliest structures, offering a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. Art lovers can expect to find visual and performance art attractions throughout downtown, with the opportunity to browse a fine art collection at the Museum of Art-DeLand or watch a thought-provoking play at the Athens Theatre.
However, nature enthusiasts will opt for a visit to Hontoon Island State Park. Spanning over 1,600 acres, this nature center along the St. Johns River is a recreational hub for anglers, kayakers, campers, hikers, picnickers, and wildlife viewers. For lodging, consider the Comfort Inn & Suites DeLand, located near the university.
St. Augustine
St. Augustine is Florida's oldest town and an excellent weekend getaway for travelers curious about its rich history, Spanish heritage, and stunning outdoors. Monuments and markers line the cobblestone streets through its historic district, led by the Lightner Museum. This Spanish Renaissance Revival-style building was constructed in 1887 and features a remarkable collection of American Gilded Age artifacts. Meanwhile, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a must-visit in town. Dating back to the 17th century, this rustic Spanish fortress preserves St. Augustine's military heritage with original period relics.
Tourists can also seek isolation at Anastasia State Park, where 1,600 acres of dunes, beaches, and tidal marshes provide a tranquil outdoor escape with access to the salty waters of the Atlantic Ocean. St. Augustine is home to numerous historic hotels offering rustic accommodations, including the Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront.
Naples
Naples is a beautiful vacation destination in southern Florida, known for its Gulf Coast Beaches, world-class waterfront resorts, and modern shopping opportunities. Exploring the downtown commercial district, you'll come across a collection of restaurants, boutiques, and galleries, welcoming shopaholics for a remarkable experience at the Village Shops on Venetian Bay. The Naples Botanical Garden is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. It spreads over 170 acres and conserves a tropical oasis with a diverse collection of native plant species.
Elsewhere, visiting families can have fun at the Golisano Children's Museum of Naples, which provides a 38,000-square-foot facility with interactive puzzles, toys, and exhibits designed to educate and entertain. Lastly, remember to stay at Hilton Naples when you need a cozy night's rest.
From the high-end shopping experience awaiting in Naples to the endless fun by the water provided by Jacksonville Beach, these small towns in Florida offer a weekend getaway for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, culture, or history, each escape brings its own unique flavor to the United States. Skip the crowds and discover the heart of Florida in its coziest corners, perfect for your next memorable escape from the bustling city.
