Have you ever heard someone say that they could never live in a small town because they would get bored with nothing to do? A lot of people don’t realize small towns can have the best attractions, restaurants and shops, with real charm and character you won’t find in big chains.
One perfect example of this is High Springs, a tiny town of around 5,300 people in Alachua County. This town has beautiful natural attractions, excellent restaurants and dessert shops, and plenty of antiques to take home.
The town of High Springs was officially incorporated in 1892, but settlement of the area goes all the way back to the 1830s.
Flickr/Katy Warner
The town really started to take off with the establishment of phosphate mines and a railroad, and you can learn all about local history at the High Springs Museum.
Flickr/CANDID1PHOTO
The High Springs Museum preserves the town’s railroad history with an impressive model train village and railroad artifacts.
Facebook/High Springs Museum
The museum also owns this adorable “Little Red Caboose” that was made in 1937.
Flickr/CANDID1PHOTO
Other artifacts on display give a glimpse into the past, from everyday household tools to this 1924 fire truck.
Facebook/High Springs Museum
High Spring offers endless outdoor opportunities, on the Santa Fe River or one of the gorgeous crystal-clear springs, including the popular Ginnie Springs, Blue Springs, and nearby Ichetucknee Springs.
Flickr/anoldent
O’Leno State Park, pictured here, is one of the oldest state parks in Florida.
Flickr/Katy Warner
Many of the park’s structures, including this stunning suspension footbridge over the Santa Fe River, were constructed in the 1930s by members of the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Flickr/Katy Warner
You’ll probably work up an appetite with all of those activities, but luckily, High Springs has some delicious grub. Great Outdoors Restaurant, pictured here, is perfect for a fun evening out. The Great Outdoors serves American fare, with just about anything you could want. The live music, outdoor seating on the patio and a full bar enhance the experience.
TripAdvisor/rogersober
If you’re looking for a quick, casual bite to eat, try the True Blue Cafe or Bev’s Burgers, and Secret Garden Bakery for the perfect dessert.
Flickr/CANDID1PHOTO
The Antiques Center
TripAdvisor/BentleyBoy When you’ve finished your culinary tour of the town, head to the Antiques Center to find the perfect memento or gift to take home.
If you need a place to stay in town, the Grady House Bed & Breakfast has beauty and Southern hospitality in equal measure.
Facebook/Grady House Bed & Breakfast
Pictured is the adorable Peach Room. There are several other rooms in different color schemes, and even an entire two-bedroom Victorian home available for your stay.
gradyhouse.com
Well, we planned out an awesome trip for you, so what are you waiting for? Come check out everything beautiful High Springs has to offer. Looking for more adorable Florida towns? Check out our list of the 8 Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Florida.
Flickr/Katy Warner
Flickr/CANDID1PHOTO
Facebook/High Springs Museum
Flickr/anoldent
TripAdvisor/rogersober
TripAdvisor/BentleyBoy
When you’ve finished your culinary tour of the town, head to the Antiques Center to find the perfect memento or gift to take home.
Facebook/Grady House Bed & Breakfast
gradyhouse.com
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