When you ask people what they know about the state of Florida, most will say something about their theme parks, like Busch Gardens, Universal, and, of course, Disney World, but there is so much more to Florida than these hot spots. There is a wonderful wildlife presence and historical background in Florida. One of the most historic places here is Dixie County, which holds the unincorporated community of Old Town. Settled by colonists in 1820 and the site of a battle with the indigenous Seminole people, there is a lot to learn about Old Town. If you’re wondering what to do in the area, then read on to learn about the top things to do in and near Old Town, Florida.
1. Grande Ridge Winery
One of the best Old Town activities for wine connoisseurs includes visiting this local winery. Head down to Grande Ridge Winery, a family-owned winery where you can enjoy tasting five varieties of locally produced muscadine wines. They have an outdoor space where visitors can relax and enjoy a glass of wine while learning about the process. This winery is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays, so if you want to sample local wines while you’re here, be sure to drop by.
Grande Ridge Winery
Address: 7028 NE Highway 349 Old Town, Florida, FL 32680
Website: Grande Ridge Winery
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Near Old Town
2. Manatee Springs State Park
If you’re looking for a refreshing place to cool off near Old Town, Florida, then you have to drop by Manatee Springs State Park. Home to one of the campgrounds near Old Town Florida, this gorgeous state park offers plenty of recreational activities for nature lovers. There are trails for hiking and biking, a playground for children, and picnic areas. If you’re lucky or come at the right time, you’ll be able to catch sight of manatees.
Manatee Springs State Park
Address: 11650 NW 115 St, Chiefland, FL 32626, USA
Website: Manatee Springs State Park
3. Ichetucknee Head Springs State Park
Ichetucknee Head Springs State Park is a great place to enjoy water activities near Old Town. A spring run inside this park is so pristine that it has been designated as a U.S. National Natural Landmark. The predominant activity here is tubing down the river, but you can also enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, canoeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Ichetucknee River runs for 6 miles (9.6 kilometers) before joining the Santa Fe River.
Ichetucknee Head Springs State Park
Address: 12087 Southwest, US-27, Fort White, FL 32038
Website: Ichetucknee Head Springs State Park
4. Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve
Come to Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve, one of the scenic attractions near Old Town Florida, to enjoy recreational activities such as boating, fishing, bird watching, and hiking. Established in 1985, this marine protected area spans almost 1 million acres (404,685 hectares). An area of the Suwannee River region houses a viable population of Gulf sturgeon, a threatened species of large fish.
Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve
Address: 3266 North Sailboat Avenue Crystal River, FL 34428
Website: Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve
5. Horseshoe Beach Marina
Horseshoe Beach Marina is one of the best fishing spots in Florida. Horseshoe Beach is a small fishing and boating community on the Gulf of Mexico. From Old Town, it’s approximately 28 miles (45 kilometers) away. If you want to spend a day catching sand trout or flounder, this small town is the place to be. Head down to Horseshoe Beach and get fishing!
Horseshoe Beach Marina
Address: 262 3rd St. Horseshoe Beach, Florida, 32648
Website: Horseshoe Beach Marina
6. Nature Coast State Trail
Nature Coast State Trail is a part of Florida’s Greenways and Trails System and has also been designated as a National Recreation Trail. When traveling down this trail, you’ll see the historic Suwannee River trestle bridge. This trail is one of the abandoned railroad tracks built when trains started taking over steamships. The trail is ideal for runners, riders, and skaters. Even horseback riders can enjoy this trail on the unpaved path that runs parallel to the paved path.
Nature Coast State Trail
Address: 17441 N.W. Old Fanning Road, Fanning Springs, FL 32693
Website: Nature Coast State Trail
7. Capt. Ron's Awesome Suwanee Adventures
“Way down upon the Swanee River, far, far away. That’s where my heart is yearning ever, home where the old folks stay.” This minstrel song is taught in elementary schools across the state of Florida. Everyone who grew up in Florida knows how beautiful the Suwanee River is, and you should too. Take a Waverunner ride with Capt. Ron’s Awesome Suwanee Adventures and explore the river - you might even get to see some dolphins along the way. This service offers great pricing with no hidden costs or fees.
Capt. Ron's Awesome Suwanee Adventures
Address: 909A Collier Court, Caxambas Park, Marco Island, FL 34145-6514
Facebook: Capt. Ron’s Awesome Suwanee Adventures
8. Ginnie Springs Outdoors
Ginnie Springs Outdoors offers a wide array of activities near Old Town Florida. Connected to the Santa Fe River, this park offers opportunities for picnics and overnight camping. There are campsites with or without electricity, or you can come to the park simply to enjoy water activities such as swimming, tubing, kayaking, and more. There is no need to worry about bringing water sports equipment, as they can be rented on-site.
Ginnie Springs Outdoors
Address: 5000 NE 60th Avenue High Springs, Florida 32643
Website: Ginnie Springs Outdoors
9. Fanning Springs State Park
Fanning Springs State Park is renowned for its crystal-clear spring, which maintains a temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius) year-round. The spring’s inviting blue waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Dive beneath the surface and discover an underwater world teeming with vibrant marine life and limestone formations.
Surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cypress trees, the park offers ample opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Follow the nature trails that wind through the park, watching for deer, turtles, and various bird species. The park also features amenities such as picnic pavilions, a playground, and a kayak launch, catering to visitors of all ages. Enjoy a leisurely picnic, embark on a kayak adventure along the river, or relax and soak in the serene atmosphere.
10. Levy County Quilt Museum
Nestled in a charming historic building, the Levy County Quilt Museum showcases a captivating collection of quilts reflecting local artisans’ creativity and craftsmanship. Admire the intricate designs, vibrant colors, and meticulous stitching that adorn each quilt on display. From traditional patterns to contemporary masterpieces, the museum celebrates the diversity and evolution of quilting as an art form.
The exhibits at the museum offer insights into the history of quilting and its significance within the community. Learn about the stories and traditions woven into the fabric of each quilt, highlighting the personal narratives and cultural heritage they represent. The museum also provides opportunities for hands-on experiences and educational workshops, allowing visitors to delve deeper into quilting. From quilt-making demonstrations to classes on various techniques, these interactive activities foster a deeper appreciation for this timeless craft.
Levy County Quilt Museum
Address: 11050 NW 10 Ave, Chiefland, FL 32626, United States
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 3pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
11. Blue Springs State Park (from USD 65.0)
Blue Springs State Park is a designated manatee refuge as this is the spring where manatees shelter during the winter. This park gets extremely busy and often reaches maximum capacity during the day, so if you are planning on visiting this park, plan to get there early or book a tour ahead of time. This 3.5-hour-long guided kayaking tour is a great way to encounter manatees up close. Learn about these gentle giants on your Florida trip when you book this Viator tour.
Blue Spring Park Small-Group Guided Manatee Kayak Tour
Duration 3 hours 30 minutes
No better place
Florida is a great place to enjoy activities under the sun. The various state parks and recreational areas near Old Town make it a great spot to enjoy water sports, especially if you want to encounter a manatee, which is Florida state’s marine mammal. Come down to Old Town, Florida, for a glimpse of the historic USA.
If you’re looking to extend your time in Florida, you’ll be thrilled to know that the neighboring destinations of Old Town are just as pleasing. You can have a tropical escapade at the Vrbo vacation rentals in Horseshoe Beach, one of the closest beaches to Old Town, Florida. But if you’re looking to enjoy some more outdoor adventures, you can take refuge in one of the Airbnb vacation rentals in Chiefland.