5 Staycation Ideas for Floridians
Ravine Gardens State Park
Florida Local? Check out 5 Day Trip Ideas
It’s no secret, the Sunshine State is home to a wide variety of beautiful beaches, extraordinary history, and astonishing architecture. Whether you’re a “true” Floridian or a visitor, these five unique experiences are perfect for anyone who’s seeking a quick escape from home.
1. Experience History in Deland
Most commonly known as the home of Florida’s oldest college, Stetson University, Deland was originally called Persimmon Hollow, but renamed in 1876 to honor early benefactor Henry Addison Deland. The city, located approximately halfway between Daytona Beach and Orlando, is recognized for its historic downtown area, vibrant arts scene and easy access to outdoor activities.
For history enthusiasts, Deland offers a plethora of options to explore, including the Stetson Mansion, a stunning Victorian-era mansion built in 1886, and the Deland House Museum, a restored 19th century home that now serves as a museum. You can spend the day exploring at your own pace, thanks to the Florida Stories app, where you will visit 12 historical buildings and parks.
Are food and shopping more your thing? Don’t miss the excellent restaurants and craft brew houses that dot the downtown streets. There are a variety of boutique shops and galleries, making Deland a perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening. Visitors can also catch a show at the Athens Theatre, a beautifully restored 1920s theater that offers performances throughout the year.
Outdoor enthusiasts will feel at home in Deland, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking at nearby state parks and natural areas. The city is also home to the St. Johns River, one of Florida’s most scenic waterways, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing boat tour or fishing excursion.
2. Explore Amelia Island
Amelia Island is located in the northeastern part of Florida, about 30 miles northeast of Jacksonville. With its pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and natural beauty, Amelia Island is a perfect getaway for tourists looking for a relaxing and peaceful vacation. Some Timoti’s Seafood Shak regulars might even call this charming barrier island home!
History buffs will appreciate Amelia Island’s rich history, which dates back to the early 16th century when French and Spanish explorers first arrived. The island was once a popular spot for pirates, and visitors can still see the remnants of the island’s pirate past.
Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the island’s lush natural beauty, including its parks, nature trails and wildlife reserves. Amelia Island State Park offers hiking trails, fishing and beachcombing opportunities, while the Amelia Island Trail is a scenic bike trail that runs through the island’s coastal areas.
For those seeking a luxurious vacation experience, Amelia Island also offers world-class resorts, spas and golf courses. The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island and Omni Amelia Island Resort are two of the island’s most popular luxury resorts, featuring beautiful ocean views, fine dining and a range of recreational activities.
3. Visit a Psychic in Cassadaga
Fans of the paranormal and unexplained will want to visit the Cassadaga Spiritualist Community. The unincorporated community north of Orlando is known as the “Psychic Capital of the World” due to its large population of spiritualists and mediums.
The community was founded in the late 1800s as a winter retreat for Spiritualists from the northeastern United States. Visitors to Cassadaga can take a guided tour of the community and learn about its history, which includes the founding of the Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp Meeting Association.
One of the main attractions in Cassadaga is the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp Bookstore. The shop features a wide range of books, crystals and other spiritual items. This is also the place to schedule readings with one of the many local mediums.
Make sure to save time for a stroll through the peaceful and serene streets, lined with historic homes and buildings. You can experience the supreme natural beauty of Lake Colby, which offers a prime chance to enjoy the area’s flora and fauna.
4. Awe at Architecture in St. Augustine
If you’re passionate about awe-striking architecture, visiting St. Augustine will be a life-affirming experience. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, it is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States.
St. Augustine’s historic district, which includes a mix of Spanish colonial, British and Victorian architecture, is home to many landmarks, including the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century Spanish fortress that has been remarkably preserved, and the Lightner Museum, a former grand hotel built by Henry Flagler that now houses a collection of eclectic objets d’art. One of the most popular architectural sights is the Hotel Ponce de Leon, also founded by Henry Flagler in 1888, and now the home of Flagler College. Thanks to its impressive collection of Tiffany glass and Maynard murals, it is a must-see.
The city’s narrow, brick-lined streets are perfect for exploring on foot, and visitors can take a walking tour to learn more about the city’s history. St. George Street is a popular destination for shopping and dining, featuring a variety of unique boutiques, restaurants and cafes.
St. Augustine’s rich cultural heritage is celebrated throughout the year with a variety of festivals and events. The city’s annual Nights of Lights festival, held during the holiday season, features millions of twinkling lights illuminating the historic district, making it a magical destination for visitors.
5. Hike the Ravine Gardens in Palatka
Tourists looking for a slice of old Florida should make their way to Palatka, a charming small town situated on the banks of the St. Johns River.
One of the main attractions in Palatka is the historic downtown district, which features many well-preserved historic buildings and landmarks, including the Bronson-Mulholland House, an 1800s mansion that now serves as a museum. Visitors can also explore the Palatka Mural Trail, a series of colorful murals painted on the walls of downtown buildings that depict the town’s history and culture.
The St. Johns River, which flows through the center of town, is popular for boating, fishing and wildlife viewing. The nearby Ravine Gardens State Park offers hiking trails, picnic areas and a beautiful botanical garden that features over 100,000 azaleas in bloom during the spring.
Palatka is also a hub for cultural events and festivals. The annual Blue Crab Festival, held over Memorial Day weekend, is a popular event that features live music, food vendors and carnival rides. The Florida Azalea Festival, held in March, celebrates the town’s natural beauty with a variety of outdoor activities and entertainment.
Worked Up an Appetite?
Take a break from your jam-packed adventure day and check out Timoti’s locations in Fernandina Beach and Nocatee for wild-caught seafood, nutritious sides and hand-crafted cocktails.