An hour north of Gainesville in North Central Florida, Lake City offers easy access to beautiful parks, lakes, and crystal-clear freshwater springs, earning it the nickname “Florida’s Springlands.”
The town’s proximity to some of the state’s most sought-after dive spots, nature preserves, and state parks means Lake City is the perfect place to stage North Florida outdoor adventures on land and water. Cave divers from across the world seek out the approximately 33,000 feet of surveyed underwater passages at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park. Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, which hosts programs and events throughout the year that include the longstanding Florida Folk Festival and Antique Tractor and Engine Show, is a popular park for paddling the famed Suwannee River, as well as hiking, camping, and biking. Ichetucknee Springs State Park in Fort White, just 16 miles south of Lake City, is where families can tube and paddle the clear waters of the serene Ichetucknee River and splash in some of Florida’s favorite springs.
In-town adventures center on Lake City’s quaint downtown of boutique stores, restaurants, local attractions, and the Lake Isabella Historic Residential District, which showcases the community’s past with homes from the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Growers and Makers Market on the second and fourth Saturday of the month brings local artisans and food vendors downtown to sell their goods, and Food Truck Wednesday brings a different food truck each week to Olustee Park near the downtown courtyard.
The Lake City area’s wide variety of accommodations range from chain hotels to state park cabins and campsites to vacation rentals. The 14 chic rooms of The Blanche offer visitors the opportunity to stay downtown at a stunning local landmark recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.
Plan your trip to Lake City FL and Natural North Florida.
WATERWAYS
Explore the area’s scenic waterways.
FAMILY FUN
Splash in the springs, paddle the river, and check out local attractions and family-friendly activities.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Check out fun annual events, live music, fine art, and historic landmarks.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Lake City and the surrounding areas are an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Take your four-legged family member along to dog-friendly trails, state parks, and attractions.
ACCESSIBILITY
Visit the state parks and other accessible attractions.
DINING
Enjoy traditional Southern cooking, seafood, and craft beer.
SHOPPING
Hunt for treasures in the area’s antique shops and find clothing and more at the national chain stores of the Lake City Mall.
PLACES TO STAY
Add to your springs adventure by camping close to the water, enjoy a stay at a historic hotel, or choose from a variety of chain hotels and vacation rentals.
