The 25 Best Small Towns to Visit in Florida: Hidden Gems Beyond the Tourist Hotspots
Florida’s enchanting small towns offer a refreshing escape from crowded tourist destinations and busy city life. These hidden gems showcase the state’s authentic charm through historic districts, pristine beaches, and cultural attractions.
From quaint fishing villages along the Gulf Coast to historic settlements in North Florida, these 25 small towns provide visitors with unique experiences, local flavors, and genuine hospitality that bring the Sunshine State’s diverse heritage to life.
Here are 25 of the best small towns to visit in Florida.
1. Mount Dora
Located in central Florida, Mount Dora stands out as a charming lakeside town just 30 miles northwest of Orlando. The town’s elevation of 184 feet above sea level makes it one of Florida’s highest points.
The historic downtown district features antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques housed in Victorian-era buildings. Visitors can explore more than 100 unique stores and restaurants along the brick-paved streets.
Lake Dora provides opportunities for boating and fishing, while the Mount Dora Lighthouse serves as a beloved local landmark. The 35-foot lighthouse, built in 1988, is one of only three freshwater lighthouses in Florida.
The town hosts several popular annual events, including the Mount Dora Arts Festival in February and the Mount Dora Craft Fair in October. These festivals attract thousands of visitors and showcase local artists and craftspeople.
Mount Dora’s scenic boat tours offer glimpses of wildlife and luxurious waterfront homes while navigating through the Harris Chain of Lakes.
2. Fernandina Beach
Fernandina Beach sits on Amelia Island’s northern tip, showcasing 13 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches and a rich history dating back to 1562. The town holds the distinction of being Florida’s northernmost city on the Atlantic coast.
The Victorian-era downtown features more than 400 historic buildings, earning its place on the National Register of Historic Places. Local shops and restaurants line Centre Street, the main thoroughfare, housed in beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings.
The area’s shrimping heritage remains evident at the working waterfront, where visitors can watch boats bring in their daily catch. The annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival celebrates this maritime tradition each spring.
Fort Clinch State Park offers visitors a glimpse into Civil War history through its well-preserved fortress. The park’s 1,400 acres provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing along maritime hammocks and sandy shores.
The Amelia Island Museum of History, housed in the former Nassau County jail, tells the story of the eight different flags that have flown over this historic town.
3. Key West
Key West stands as Florida’s southernmost point, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and coastal charm. The island town spans just 4.2 square miles yet packs remarkable character into its compact size.
Duval Street serves as the heart of Key West’s entertainment district, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops in historic buildings. The street comes alive each evening with music spilling from venues and visitors exploring its many attractions.
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum preserves the residence where the famous author lived and wrote for over a decade. Six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway’s pets, still roam the grounds.
Mallory Square draws crowds for its nightly sunset celebration, featuring street performers and local artisans against a backdrop of orange and pink skies. Fresh seafood restaurants and key lime pie shops dot the historic seaport area.
Crystal-clear waters surround the island, perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures at the nearby coral reefs. The town’s Victorian architecture and tropical gardens create an atmosphere distinct from mainland Florida.
4. St. Augustine
St. Augustine stands as America’s oldest city, founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers. The historic district showcases centuries-old Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets that transport visitors back in time.
The iconic Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress built from coquina shells, dominates the waterfront. This National Monument offers daily tours and cannon firing demonstrations.
Visitors can explore the Old City’s numerous museums, including the Lightner Museum housed in the former Alcazar Hotel. The St. Augustine Lighthouse provides panoramic views of the Atlantic coast and surrounding area.
Flagler College’s stunning architecture draws photographers and history enthusiasts to its Spanish Renaissance-style buildings. The former Hotel Ponce de Leon now serves as the college’s centerpiece.
St. George Street offers a pedestrian-friendly experience with unique shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings. Local vendors and street performers add to the lively atmosphere of this historic thoroughfare.
5. Apalachicola
Located on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, Apalachicola is a charming fishing village with a rich maritime heritage. The historic downtown features beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings housing local shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants.
Apalachicola is famous for its oyster industry, supplying 90% of Florida’s oysters and 10% of the nation’s supply. Local seafood markets and waterfront restaurants serve fresh catches daily.
The town’s waterfront parks and working harbor offer visitors glimpses of shrimp boats and oyster skiffs bringing in their daily harvests. The Maritime Museum preserves the area’s seafaring history through artifacts and exhibits.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Apalachicola National Forest or take boat tours through the river delta. The Gibson Inn, a restored Victorian hotel from 1907, stands as one of the town’s most distinctive landmarks.
6. Dunedin
Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Dunedin charms visitors with its Scottish heritage and small-town atmosphere. The city’s name comes from Dùn Èideann, the Scottish Gaelic name for Edinburgh.
This coastal gem features the longest pedestrian trail in Florida, the Pinellas Trail, which runs through the heart of downtown. The trail attracts cyclists, joggers, and walkers year-round.
Dunedin’s historic downtown district offers boutique shopping, craft breweries, and local restaurants. The area maintains its old Florida character with independent businesses and Mediterranean-style architecture.
The city serves as the gateway to Honeymoon Island State Park and Caladesi Island State Park. These natural attractions provide pristine beaches, nature trails, and opportunities for swimming and kayaking.
Baseball fans flock to Dunedin during spring training to watch the Toronto Blue Jays at TD Ballpark. The stadium has been the team’s winter home since 1977.
7. Micanopy
Micanopy, Florida’s oldest inland town, sits beneath a canopy of centuries-old oak trees draped with Spanish moss. Located just 15 minutes south of Gainesville, this historic small town preserves its 19th-century charm through well-maintained antebellum architecture.
The town’s main street features antique shops, art galleries, and local cafes housed in historic buildings dating back to the 1800s. Visitors can explore these establishments while admiring the preserved storefronts and original brick facades.
Nature enthusiasts appreciate Micanopy’s proximity to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, where hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities abound. The park offers chances to spot wild horses, bison, and numerous bird species.
Film buffs recognize Micanopy as the filming location for the 1991 movie “Doc Hollywood.” The town’s authentic Southern atmosphere and preserved architecture made it an ideal backdrop for the film.
8. Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Springs sits along Florida’s Gulf Coast, renowned as the “Sponge Capital of the World” due to its historic sponge diving industry established by Greek immigrants in the early 1900s.
The historic Sponge Docks area features authentic Greek restaurants, bakeries, and shops selling natural sponges and local crafts. Visitors can watch sponge diving demonstrations and learn about the town’s maritime heritage at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum.
The charming downtown district showcases preserved Victorian-era architecture, with buildings dating back to the late 1800s. The area includes art galleries, antique stores, and the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center.
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral stands as a testament to the town’s Greek heritage, featuring stunning Byzantine architecture and intricate religious artwork. The cathedral hosts the annual Epiphany celebration, where young men dive into Spring Bayou to retrieve a cross.
Spring Bayou offers peaceful waterfront views and serves as a popular spot for manatee watching during winter months.
9. Cedar Key
Cedar Key sits on the Gulf Coast, offering a peaceful escape from Florida’s busier tourist destinations. This historic fishing village of fewer than 1,000 residents maintains its authentic Old Florida charm with Victorian-era buildings and quiet streets.
The town’s pristine beaches and surrounding waters attract kayakers, fishermen, and birdwatchers. Cedar Key’s shallow waters create ideal conditions for clam farming, making it one of Florida’s top shellfish producers.
Local art galleries and seafood restaurants line the downtown district. Visitors can explore the Cedar Key Historical Museum or take boat tours to nearby islands within the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge.
The Cedar Key Pier provides excellent sunset views and fishing opportunities. The annual Seafood Festival in October celebrates the town’s maritime heritage and draws visitors from across the state.
Nature enthusiasts can spot diverse wildlife, including herons, egrets, and osprey along the shores. The Cedar Key Museum State Park preserves the area’s natural and cultural history through exhibits and nature trails.
10. Matlacha
Located between Pine Island and Cape Coral, Matlacha is a vibrant fishing village known for its colorful art galleries and Old Florida charm. The tiny island community spans just over one square mile.
The streets showcase brightly painted buildings housing local art studios, seafood restaurants, and unique gift shops. Visitors can explore these eclectic establishments while enjoying views of the surrounding waterways.
Fishing remains central to Matlacha’s identity, with multiple fishing piers and charter services available. The waters teem with snook, redfish, and tarpon, making it a prime spot for anglers.
The Matlacha Pass Bridge offers scenic views and serves as a popular spot for watching dolphins and manatees. Local kayak rentals provide opportunities to explore the mangrove-lined waterways and abundant wildlife.
The island’s authentic fish markets sell fresh catches daily, supplied by local fishermen who maintain the area’s traditional way of life.
11. Amelia Island
Located in northeast Florida, Amelia Island combines historic charm with pristine beaches and natural beauty. The island spans 13 miles of coastline and features Victorian-era architecture throughout its downtown district.
The town of Fernandina Beach serves as the island’s main hub, offering visitors a collection of boutique shops, local restaurants, and bed-and-breakfast accommodations in restored 19th-century buildings.
Amelia Island State Park protects 200 acres of coastal wilderness and provides opportunities for horseback riding on the beach, fishing, and hiking along nature trails.
The area’s maritime history comes alive at the Amelia Island Museum of History, housed in the former Nassau County jail. Fort Clinch State Park features a well-preserved Civil War-era fortress with daily living history demonstrations.
Visitors can enjoy water activities like kayaking through marsh creeks or taking sunset sailing cruises along the coast. The island hosts several annual events, including the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance classic car show and the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival.
12. Winter Park
Winter Park sits just north of Orlando, offering a sophisticated escape from the bustling theme parks. The charming downtown area features brick-lined streets and upscale boutiques along Park Avenue.
The town’s cultural scene shines through the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, home to the world’s largest collection of Tiffany glass. Visitors can explore the scenic Winter Park Chain of Lakes by boat tour.
Rollins College adds a collegiate atmosphere to the town, with its Spanish Mediterranean architecture and lakeside campus. The Winter Park Farmers’ Market draws locals and tourists alike every Saturday morning.
The town’s dining scene features sidewalk cafes and award-winning restaurants. Scenic Central Park serves as a gathering spot with its peaceful fountain and regular outdoor events.
Nature enthusiasts appreciate the Mead Botanical Garden, a 47-acre urban oasis with walking trails and native Florida plants.
13. Anna Maria Island
Located along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Anna Maria Island stands as a pristine barrier island spanning seven miles of white sandy beaches. The island encompasses three distinct municipalities: Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach.
This charming destination maintains strict building height restrictions, preserving its Old Florida atmosphere and preventing the development of high-rise condominiums that characterize many coastal areas.
Pine Avenue serves as the island’s main street, featuring local boutiques, art galleries, and seafood restaurants housed in colorful beach cottages.
Visitors can explore the island via the free trolley service that runs from early morning to late evening. The clear waters attract dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles, making wildlife viewing a popular activity.
The historic Anna Maria City Pier and Rod & Reel Pier offer excellent spots for fishing or watching spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
14. Marathon
Marathon sits in the heart of the Florida Keys, stretching across several islands between Key Largo and Key West. The town’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters attract visitors seeking a laid-back coastal experience.
The Turtle Hospital stands as Marathon’s signature attraction, rescuing and rehabilitating sea turtles while offering educational tours to visitors. Sombrero Beach provides a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking with its white sand and palm trees.
Marathon’s waters offer exceptional fishing opportunities, with numerous charter boats available for deep-sea adventures. The Seven Mile Bridge, an engineering marvel connecting the Middle and Lower Keys, offers stunning ocean views.
Local restaurants serve fresh seafood caught daily by Marathon’s fishing fleet. The Florida Keys Marathon International Airport makes the town easily accessible for travelers seeking a Keys getaway without Key West’s crowds.
15. Vero Beach
Vero Beach sits on Florida’s Treasure Coast, offering pristine beaches and a charming small-town atmosphere. The city spans both the mainland and a barrier island, providing diverse coastal experiences.
McKee Botanical Garden stands as a highlight with its 18 acres of tropical plants and historic structures. The garden’s winding paths showcase native Florida vegetation and spectacular water lily displays.
The Vero Beach Museum of Art enriches the cultural scene with its contemporary collections and rotating exhibitions. Nearby, Ocean Drive features boutique shops and local restaurants with ocean views.
Riverside Park hosts regular community events and farmers markets. The adjacent Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary provides a peaceful spot for reflection.
The Indian River Lagoon borders the western edge of the city, creating excellent opportunities for kayaking and spotting manatees. Local boat tours offer chances to view dolphins and explore the area’s rich marine ecosystem.
16. Seaside
Located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, Seaside stands as a picturesque New Urbanist community known for its pastel-colored beach cottages and white picket fences. The town gained international recognition after serving as the filming location for “The Truman Show” in 1998.
The heart of Seaside features a charming central square surrounded by boutique shops, art galleries, and local restaurants. Its streets are designed for walking and cycling, with paths leading directly to the pristine beaches.
Seaside’s architectural style showcases classic Florida beach homes with metal roofs, wraparound porches, and tower rooms. Each house follows strict design codes that create a cohesive coastal appearance throughout the community.
The town’s pristine beaches feature sugar-white sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the Gulf of Mexico.
Seaside hosts regular events at the amphitheater, including outdoor concerts, movies, and farmers markets. The community’s thoughtful design has made it a model for sustainable town planning.
17. Crystal River
Crystal River sits along Florida’s Nature Coast, offering a unique blend of natural wonders and small-town charm. The city’s population of around 3,500 people maintains a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere.
The crystal-clear springs and waterways make Crystal River the self-proclaimed “Manatee Capital of the World.” Visitors can swim with these gentle giants at Three Sisters Springs during winter months when hundreds of manatees gather in the warm waters.
Kings Bay and Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge provide excellent opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing. The area’s clear springs maintain a constant 72-degree temperature year-round.
The historic downtown district features local restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries. Crystal River Archaeological State Park preserves Native American history with ceremonial mounds dating back 2,500 years.
The surrounding waters provide excellent fishing opportunities, with guides available for both inshore and offshore excursions. Scalloping season draws visitors between July and September.
18. Madison
Madison sits in north Florida’s historic heartland, just an hour east of Tallahassee. This charming small town features well-preserved antebellum homes and a picturesque downtown district listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Four Freedoms Park serves as the town’s central gathering place, hosting community events and farmers markets throughout the year. The park commemorates President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s famous Four Freedoms speech.
Visitors can explore the 1883 courthouse, which now houses the Madison County Historical Museum. The building showcases local artifacts and exhibits about the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Nature enthusiasts appreciate Madison’s proximity to outdoor recreation spots. The Withlacoochee River offers fishing and kayaking opportunities, while the nearby Madison Blue Spring State Park provides crystal-clear swimming waters.
The town’s historic district features locally-owned shops and restaurants in restored Victorian-era buildings. These establishments maintain Madison’s small-town character while serving both residents and tourists.
19. Port St. Joe
Port St. Joe sits along Florida’s Forgotten Coast, offering pristine beaches and small-town charm. This hidden gem in Gulf County maintains a laid-back atmosphere with fewer tourists than many Florida coastal destinations.
The city’s St. Joseph Bay provides excellent opportunities for scalloping during the summer season. Local charter companies offer fishing trips year-round in the clear waters known for abundant redfish and trout.
Constitution Convention Museum State Park showcases the town’s historical significance as the site where Florida’s first constitution was drafted in 1838. The Cape San Blas Lighthouse, relocated to Port St. Joe in 2014, stands as a preserved maritime landmark.
Frank Pate Park offers public boat ramps and picnic facilities, serving as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors. The Port St. Joe Marina welcomes boaters while providing scenic views of the bay.
The downtown area features local seafood restaurants and unique shops along Reid Avenue, housed in historic buildings that reflect the town’s rich past.
20. Inverness
Inverness sits along the Withlacoochee State Trail in Citrus County, offering small-town charm with outdoor adventures. The historic downtown features unique shops and local restaurants housed in well-preserved buildings from the early 1900s.
The city centers around picturesque Lake Henderson, where visitors can spot manatees and enjoy waterfront activities. Cooter Pond Park provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and peaceful walking paths.
The Valerie Theatre Cultural Center, built in 1927, hosts films and performances while celebrating the town’s rich heritage. Inverness also serves as a gateway to the Withlacoochee State Forest, where hiking and biking trails attract nature enthusiasts.
Fort Cooper State Park preserves a piece of Second Seminole War history and offers swimming, fishing, and hiking experiences. The annual Cooter Festival celebrates the town’s connection to these freshwater turtles with family-friendly entertainment and local food vendors.
21. New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach sits along Florida’s central Atlantic coast, known for its 13 miles of pristine white-sand beaches and excellent surfing conditions. The charming coastal town attracts surf enthusiasts from across the state to its consistent breaks.
The historic Flagler Avenue offers a vibrant downtown district with local boutiques, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. Visitors can explore unique shops or enjoy fresh catches at waterfront eateries.
Nature lovers appreciate the town’s proximity to Canaveral National Seashore, where they can spot native wildlife and birds in their natural habitat. The area provides opportunities for kayaking through mangrove-lined waterways and fishing in Mosquito Lagoon.
The Marine Discovery Center educates visitors about local ecosystems through hands-on experiences and guided tours. Guests can learn about marine life while exploring the Indian River Lagoon.
The town’s rich history dates back to 1768, making it the second-oldest city in Florida. Historic sites and preserved architecture showcase the area’s colonial past.
22. Venice
Venice sits along Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering visitors pristine beaches and a charming historic downtown district. The city earned its nickname “Shark Tooth Capital of the World” due to the abundance of fossilized shark teeth found on its shores.
Venice Beach and Caspersen Beach draw beachcombers searching for these prehistoric treasures, with many collectors discovering dozens of specimens during a single visit. The beaches also provide excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities.
The Venice Historic District features Italian Renaissance architecture, reflecting the city’s Mediterranean inspiration. Visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along Venice Avenue while admiring the carefully preserved 1920s buildings.
The Venice Theatre, one of the largest community theaters in the United States, presents year-round performances in its historic building. Just steps away, the Venice Fishing Pier extends 700 feet into the Gulf, offering spectacular sunset views and prime fishing spots.
23. Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda stands as a charming waterfront town nestled along Florida’s southwestern coast. The historic downtown district features Mediterranean-style architecture and palm-lined streets dotted with boutiques and restaurants.
Fishermen’s Village attracts visitors with its waterfront shopping, dining, and marina facilities. The complex offers scenic views of Charlotte Harbor and serves as a departure point for fishing charters and boat tours.
The Peace River Wildlife Center provides a sanctuary for injured native Florida wildlife, offering educational experiences for visitors. The center houses rehabilitated birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
Punta Gorda’s network of bicycle trails includes the scenic 18-mile Punta Gorda Pathways. These well-maintained paths connect parks, historic sites, and waterfront areas throughout the town.
The Military Heritage Museum showcases military artifacts and exhibits spanning multiple conflicts. Interactive displays and veteran-led tours provide insights into American military history.
24. Havana
Located just 14 miles north of Tallahassee, Havana stands as a charming historic town known for its antique shops and art galleries. The town got its name from the Cuban cigar-making industry that once thrived there.
Main Street features beautifully preserved buildings from the early 1900s, housing an array of antique stores and local boutiques. The historic downtown district attracts collectors and casual browsers alike.
Visitors can explore the Planters Exchange, a restored 1920s warehouse that now serves as a premier shopping destination for antiques and vintage items. The town’s quiet streets are lined with shade trees and historic homes.
Local restaurants serve Southern comfort food in cozy settings. The Havana Garden Club maintains several public gardens throughout the town, adding splashes of color to the historic district.
Annual events include the Havana PumpkinFest in October and the Holiday Festival in December, drawing visitors from across North Florida and South Georgia.
25. Delray Beach
Delray Beach combines small-town charm with upscale amenities along Florida’s southeastern coast. The vibrant downtown area features art galleries, boutique shops, and diverse restaurants along Atlantic Avenue.
The city’s pristine beaches stretch for two miles, offering swimming, sunbathing, and water sports opportunities. Beach conditions remain favorable year-round with average temperatures between 75-85°F.
The Pineapple Grove Arts District showcases local artists through public murals and regular art walks. Visitors can explore the Japanese gardens at Morikami Museum or play a round at one of several championship golf courses.
Delray Beach hosts popular annual events like the Delray Affair arts festival and the Delray Beach Open tennis tournament. The town’s population of 70,000 maintains its intimate atmosphere while providing modern amenities and entertainment options.
History and Culture of Florida’s Small Towns
Florida’s small towns preserve remarkable stories of early settlements, indigenous peoples, and cultural traditions that span centuries. These communities showcase unique architectural heritage and celebrate diverse customs through festivals, art, and local traditions.
Historical Significance
Spanish explorers established many of Florida’s small towns in the 1500s, creating some of America’s earliest European settlements. St. Augustine stands as the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in North America, founded in 1565.
Native American tribes, including the Timucua and Calusa, left lasting influences on these communities through archaeological sites and place names that remain today.
The railroad boom of the late 1800s transformed many fishing villages into thriving small towns. Henry Flagler’s railways connected isolated coastal communities, spurring growth in places like Stuart and Mount Dora.
Military forts evolved into permanent settlements during the Seminole Wars, with towns like Fort Pierce and Fort Myers growing around these early defensive positions.
Cultural Highlights
Art colonies flourish in towns like Cedar Key and Matlacha, where galleries showcase local painters, sculptors, and craftspeople. These creative communities host monthly art walks and annual festivals.
Historic main streets feature preserved cracker-style architecture and antique shops, particularly in towns like DeFuniak Springs and Micanopy.
Local museums in small towns display artifacts from Florida’s pioneer days, Spanish colonial period, and maritime history. Many communities maintain restored train depots and historic homes.
Traditional fishing villages like Apalachicola preserve their working waterfront culture through oyster harvesting and annual seafood festivals that draw visitors from across the Southeast.
Small-town theaters and music venues, such as the Athens Theatre in DeLand, showcase local performing arts and maintain historic entertainment traditions.
Natural Attractions
Florida’s small towns showcase pristine landscapes with diverse ecosystems, from crystal-clear springs to lush forests. Natural wonders provide visitors with opportunities to explore untouched wilderness and encounter native wildlife in their natural habitats.
Parks and Reserves
Crystal River Preserve State Park spans 27,500 acres of pristine coastal wetlands, offering hiking trails and kayaking routes through mangrove forests.
Torreya State Park near Bristol features rare Torreya trees and limestone bluffs along the Apalachicola River, with 12 miles of challenging hiking trails.
Cedar Key’s Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge protects 53,000 acres of saltwater marshes and coastal forests. Visitors can explore by foot, boat, or bicycle.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park maintains one of Florida’s deepest naturally formed caves, with crystal-clear waters reaching depths of 407 feet.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge near Titusville hosts over 500 species of birds, including roseate spoonbills and wood storks.
St. Marks Wildlife Refuge provides prime spots for viewing monarch butterfly migrations in fall and alligators year-round.
Best times for wildlife viewing:
- Dawn and dusk for most animals
- Winter months for migratory birds
- Spring for nesting shorebirds
Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River serves as a vital winter refuge for manatees, with peak viewing from November through March.
