9 Most Unconventional Towns In Florida
Florida is packed with quirky and interesting towns. Some are along the famed coastlines, while others are inland. They have a charming vibe that is rare outside of the Sunshine State. A primary reason is that Florida has been under many governments in its lifetime. Fernandina Beach is a good example, known as the "Isle of Eight Flags" for each government that has ruled the laidback beach town.
These unconventional towns are fun to discover and offer many fascinating historical, cultural, and entertaining points. Each city has a unique history, and the modern-day landscape is a melting pot of cultural influences dating back hundreds of years, similar to Louisiana. The smaller locales are often the best to visit because of their old Florida mystique and less crowded attractions.
Cedar Key
Cedar Key is unconventional in a state driven by tourism. The barrier island has remained true to its "old Florida" roots, with no retail chains or high-rises. Because of its traditional feel, kayakers flock here, primarily to paddle through the Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge.
The refuge consists of a chain of 13 smaller islands, formed thousands of years ago and accessible only by boat. Similar to the Cedar Key Museum State Park, the main island features historic landmarks. The 1920s house spans 18 acres and displays exhibits related to the island's rich shipping history. It also hosts mid-20th-century exhibits created by University of Florida students. The Whitman Home highlights the life of Esland resident St. Clair Whitman, whose collection of Native American artifacts and seashells is showcased at the museum.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is known on Florida's Space Coast for its access to Kennedy Space Center and its surf breaks. It is also the hometown of one of the world's greatest surfers, hometown hero Kelly Slater. The world's largest surf shop, Ron Jon Surf Shop, is near the breaks, and Cocoa Beach is a shopping epicenter.
The renowned surf town serves as the gateway to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex at Cape Canaveral, offering numerous exhibits, tours, and shows about America's space exploration. Inside Ron Jon's, visit the Florida Surf Museum for more local attractions. This museum aims to preserve Florida's surf culture and features rotating exhibits that highlight surfers and memorabilia that have put the Sunshine State on the map.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora, in central Florida, stands out for being a quaint "old Florida" town close to the tourist mecca of Orlando. The landscape and attractions could not be any different, which is one of the many excellent reasons to visit. The charming town is located on Mount Dora, also home to the iconic Mount Dora Lighthouse. The 35-foot red lighthouse in Grantham Point Park is a short walk from the downtown district.
Mount Dora's downtown offers a variety of dining options, unique shops, and art galleries like Artisans and Mount Dora Center for the Arts. A notable restaurant is 1921, a historic landmark housed in a restored 1921 home. It combines sustainable practices with an elegant setting that reflects the town's charm.
Fernandina Beach
Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island is an eclectic town called the "Isle of Eight Flags." The moniker denotes the number of colonial powers that ruled this coastal town, such as the French and the Spanish. The city, especially the downtown district, carries on cultural aspects in its architecture, design, and eclectic eateries like Hola Cafe.
Walkable Main Street serves as the heart of the entertainment district, lined with Victorian storefronts, historic inns such as Hoyt House Bed and Breakfast, and Florida's oldest bar. The 1878 Palace Saloon on Centre Street holds the distinction of being the state's oldest bar and was the last American bar to shut during Prohibition. Visiting during Christmas is especially enjoyable, as the community celebrates Dickens on Centre when the town turns into a festive Christmas wonderland.
Cassadaga
Cassadaga is a small community near Daytona, considered the "Psychic Capital of the World." The mediums and psychics that call the small town home are surrounded by historic homes like Brigham House and Harmony Hall and many tales of paranormal activity. No visit is complete without a tour of the Cassadage Spirituality Camp.
Founded in 1894, the camp is the Southeast's oldest continuously active religious community. Hotel Cassadaga, built in 1927, is a historic establishment that captures the grace and charm of the past. It features a psychic center, antique furniture, as well as lectures and classes in astrology, numerology, and palmistry.
Key West
Key West is a tiny island in the United States's southernmost point but big on eclectic festivals and events. The festivals remember the people and events that give the island its diverse history. Hemingway Days in the Summer is an Ernest Hemingway look-alike contest commemorating the community's most famous residents.
The Hemingway Home and Museum is open for tours and remains one of the most popular attractions on the island. Descendants of his polydactyl cat, Snow White, still roam the grounds. No event in Key West is more lively than Fantasy Fest. The Fall Festival began in 1979 to draw visitors during the off-season. Held at the end of October, this 10-day adult street party is an event you have to see to believe.
Melbourne Beach
Melbourne Beach in South Florida is famous for its stunning beaches, water sports, and manatee sightings. The Space Coast town is on the Indian River Lagoon that stretches to the Kennedy Space Center. Another landmark is Historic Downtown, a wonderful place for a summer stroll.
The downtown area is hip and eclectic, with a quaint Florida charm that is hard to find anywhere else. Along with the craft eateries and boutiques, Main Stree has several public murals named for the local artists who painted them, such as Sarah Painter, Cosby Hayes, Christopher Maslow, and Mike McCloskey. The artistic themes range from underwater landscapes to classic beach rides like the VW Microbus.
Micanopy
Micanopy is just over one square mile in size but is one of the best small towns to visit in Florida. It is the oldest inland town in the state and is known for its Native American history, historic buildings, and walkable downtown area. "The Town That Time Forgot" is a thumb for antique lovers, primarily at the Antique City Mall, Wren Wood Antiques, and Dakota Mercantile.
The Micanopy Outpost has an eclectic art collection, including the highly sought-after Florida Highwaymen. The Micanopy Historic Cemetary is a tangible way to witness Micanopy's 200-year history. If you're staying more than an afternoon, booking a room at the 1845 Herlong Mansion Bed and Breakfast will complete the ambiance that makes Micanopy so unique.
Venice
Venice, located on the southwestern Gulf Coast, is famous as the shark's tooth capital of the world. The most sought-after teeth are primarily found on Caspersan Beach, although some can also be discovered on Venice Beach. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities along the many winding trails by the Intracoastal Waterway, as well as at Venetian Waterway Park and Centennial Park, which is well-known for its interactive fountain.
Historic Downtown Venice is unique, even in Florida. Banyan trees and shady oaks frame over 100 independently owned boutiques and restaurants. Embark on a wine and chocolate guided tour on your way to The Venice Art Center, which has ten rotating exhibits throughout the year. The district is on the National Register of Historic Places and has several walking trails, such as the Legacy Trail.
Florida has a unique history unlike any other state. These nine unconventional towns, more than other cities, embrace the independent and quirky Florida spirit. These are the places to go to learn authentic regional history and explore the sites that make Florida so special.
Fernandina Beach has old-world charm and a laidback atmosphere, while many overlook the treasure chest that is Mount Dora for more touristy cities. Small outposts like Cedar Key hold a fascination all their own and are among the best destinations in the state. Whether you're looking for a relaxed beach weekend or a weekend exploring bustling downtown areas, these are the nine most unconventional towns in Florida.
