Fall in Florida looks a little different from the rest of the country. We don’t get leaf-peeping or apple picking; here, autumn means less oppressive humidity, quieter waterfronts and the chance to explore some of the state’s sweetest small towns sans the sweltering heat of summertime.
From old-school fishing villages to a little slice of Greece on the Gulf Coast, these five Florida towns are especially worth a weekend visit in the fall.
Apalachicola
This historic Panhandle fishing town is made for wandering. Visitors can browse historic buildings and independent shops along its brick-lined downtown streets, explore its maritime heritage along the working waterfront, then settle in for fresh seafood on the Apalachicola River; the area is famous for locally harvested oysters, shrimp, fish and crab.
Everglades City
Old Florida doesn’t get much more authentic than Everglades City. I once attended a fly-in family reunion here, and its appeal is precisely how undeveloped it feels. The small town is an entry point into Ten Thousand Islands, where you can explore mangrove-lined waterways by guided airboat tour, spot dolphins and birds and dine in no-frills local seafood shacks on local stone crabs, when in season.
Cedar Key
Growing up in Florida, my dad and I used to fly into Cedar Key just for lunch; this tiny island, with its waterfront seafood restaurants, art galleries and famous farm-raised clams, has long been a favorite of in-the-know Floridians.
Tucked away on Florida’s Nature Coast, Cedar Key feels worlds away from the state’s busy beaches. Plus, it is finding its footing again after devastating hurricanes in recent years, making a visit especially meaningful.
Fernandina Beach
Amelia Island’s historic downtown combines Victorian architecture, independent boutiques and waterfront restaurants. Stroll along Centre Street, then head to the beach or nearby Fort Clinch State Park.
Tarpon Springs
Come hungry! The Greek sponge-diving heritage of this Gulf Coast town lives on along the historic Sponge Docks, where you’ll see sponge boats, Greek bakeries, and restaurants dishing up specialties including gyros, saganaki and baklava. It’s a little slice of Greece in the Sunshine State, no passport required.