Havana
Situated 14 miles north of Tallahassee, Havana is known as “Florida’s Friendliest Small Town,” offering a low-key escape from urban life with its unhurried pace, quaint shops and antique stores, unique restaurants, and art galleries.
Once home to a thriving shade-tobacco industry, Havana was named after the Cuban city that produced the same kind of fine, hand-wrapped cigars. Today, the town is better known for its many antique stores, but visitors can still see remnants of Havana’s past at the Shade Tobacco Museum.
Part of the Florida Antique Trail, Havana’s picturesque downtown is brimming with antique stores and charming eateries, drawing treasure hunters from near and far. The town’s artistic side can be seen in the colorful murals that grace the buildings on Main Street as well as local galleries including AHA Gallery and D. Arthur McBride Portrait Studio and Gallery.
Among the area’s kid-friendly things to see and do are Eugene Lamb Jr. Community Park at Rich Bay, stopping for ice cream and unique desserts at Heroes & Villains Sweets & Treats, and annual activities that include the pumpkin patch and petting zoo at Pumpkinfest in October and seeing the snow at WinterFest in December.
In nearby Quincy, art lovers can check out Gadsden Arts Center & Museum, and 12 miles south of Havana, visitors can see ancient Native American temple mounds at Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park.
Plan your trip at Havana Main Street.
FAMILY FUN
Spend time outdoors and check out kid-friendly seasonal celebrations.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Learn about Havana’s tobacco-farming heritage and see colorful murals in town.
- Shade Tobacco Museum
- AHA Gallery
- D. Arthur McBride Portrait Studio and Gallery
- Havana History & Heritage Society
- Murals
- Arts and Crafts Bazaar
- More special events
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Explore the outdoors in Havana and the surrounding areas.
DINING
Enjoy Southern favorites, pub fare, Italian cuisine, and frozen treats.
- Ma’ Dukes Grab n Go
- Off the Rails Irish Pub
- Oscar’s in Havana
- Heroes & Villains Sweets & Treats
- Roosters Roasters
- Gocki’s
SHOPPING
Shop for unique items, antiques, and locally grown and made goods.
- Florida Antique Trail
- The Planters Exchange Inc
- Traditions Antiques & Gifts
- The Antique & Design Center
- The Painted Pineapple
- Havana Market
- Ele Merchant Boutique
- Wanderings
- More places to shop
PLACES TO STAY
The area offers a variety of accommodation types.
- Millhouse Inn
- Hampton Inn Quincy
- Quality Inn Quincy - Tallahassee
- The McFarlin House Bed and Breakfast
WEDDINGS
Havana is home to picturesque wedding venues.
Gadsden County in 60 Seconds
Quick Facts
Antiques, gift shopping near Tallahassee
Nearest Airport
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT HAVANA
Q. Where is Havana, Fla.?
A. Havana is a small town in Gadsden County, located in the Florida Panhandle. It sits just north of Tallahassee, approximately a 20–25 minute drive from Florida’s state capital. Its location makes it an easy stop for visitors exploring North Florida. Here’s where you can see it on Google Maps.
Q. What is Havana known for?
A. Havana is best known for its historic downtown, antique shops, and small-town charm. The town has a long history tied to tobacco farming and agriculture, and today it is popular with visitors who enjoy vintage shopping, local history, and quiet weekend getaways.
Q. Is Havana a good place to visit for a day trip?
A. Yes. Havana is well-suited for a half-day or full-day visit, especially for travelers staying in the Tallahassee area. Visitors often spend time browsing antique stores, walking through downtown, visiting local cafes, and attending seasonal events or festivals.
Q. What are the top things to do in Havana, Florida?
A. Popular activities include shopping at downtown antique and specialty stores, visiting the Havana History & Heritage Museum (open limited hours), and exploring nearby parks and scenic countryside. Havana offers a slower pace that appeals to travelers looking for a relaxed experience.
Q. Does Havana have historic attractions?
A. Yes. Havana has a strong historic identity, particularly in its downtown area, which features early 20th-century buildings. The Havana History & Heritage Museum provides insight into the town’s agricultural roots, tobacco industry, and community development.
Q. Are there outdoor activities near Havana?
A. Several outdoor options are available nearby. Visitors can enjoy nature parks, fishing spots, and walking trails within a short drive. Lake Talquin State Park, located about a half an hour west of Havana, is popular for boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Q. What is the best time of year to visit Havana?
A. The best time to visit is typically fall through spring, when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are more comfortable. Summer months can be hot and humid, but they also coincide with local events and a quieter downtown atmosphere.
Q. Are there places to eat in Havana?
A. Yes. Havana has a small but growing selection of locally owned restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. Dining options range from casual Southern-style meals to light lunches and coffee stops that pair well with antique shopping.
Q. Is Havana family-friendly?
A. Havana is family-friendly, especially for visitors interested in history, relaxed sightseeing, and outdoor activities. Its walkable downtown and nearby parks make it suitable for families looking for a calm, small-town experience.