Looking to explore the rich history near Gainesville, Florida? There are plenty of historic spots within a 1.5-hour drive that offer glimpses into Florida’s past. From old forts to preserved homes, these sites are perfect for history lovers. Here are eight historic places near Gainesville that are worth visiting.
Historic Places Near Gainesville
1. Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park
Step into the world of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings at her restored home in Cross Creek. This historic state park showcases her life in rural Florida during the 1930s and 1940s. The house is well-preserved and tours are available.
Address: 18700 S. County Road 325, Cross Creek, FL 32640
Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Website: floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/marjorie-kinnan-rawlings-historic-state-park
2. Fort King National Historic Landmark
Located in Ocala, Fort King was a key site during the Second Seminole War. The reconstructed fort and visitor center provide fascinating insights into the conflicts between the U.S. Army and the Seminoles.
Address: 3925 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34470
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Website: fortkingocala.com
3. Micanopy Historical Society Museum
Micanopy, the oldest inland town in Florida, offers a peek into early 19th-century life through this local museum. It’s filled with artifacts and exhibits that highlight the town’s history as a trading post and settlement.
Address: 607 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy, FL 32667
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Website: micanopyhistoricalsociety.com
4. Dudley Farm Historic State Park
This historic farm in Newberry brings you back to the late 1800s, showcasing a working farm with original buildings. Dudley Farm is a living history site with crops, livestock and demonstrations of farm life.
Address: 18730 W. Newberry Rd., Newberry, FL 32669
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Website: floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/dudley-farm-historic-state-park
5. Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs has been a famous Florida attraction for centuries due to its crystal-clear springs and glass-bottom boat tours. The park also has a museum that explores the history of the area and its role in early film production.
Address: 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs, FL 34488
Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. to sunset
Website: floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/silver-springs-state-park
6. St. Augustine’s Fort Matanzas National Monument
Fort Matanzas, about an hour and a half from Gainesville, is a historic Spanish fort built in 1742 to protect St. Augustine from British invasions. The site offers boat tours and an exploration of the small but significant fort.
Address: 8635 A1A S., St. Augustine, FL 32080
Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Website: nps.gov/foma/index.htm
7. Haile Homestead
The Historic Haile Homestead in Gainesville is known for its unique “Talking Walls.” Built in the 1850s, the home features writings on its walls that reveal the history of the Haile family and life on their cotton plantation.
Address: 8500 SW Archer Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608
Hours: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday, Noon to 4 p.m.
Website: hailehomestead.org
8. Herlong Mansion Historic Inn
Located in Micanopy, this bed-and-breakfast is also a historic site. Built in 1845, the Herlong Mansion offers Southern charm and is a perfect blend of history and hospitality. You can book a stay at the mansion.
Address: 402 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy, FL 32667
Hours: Varies
Website: herlong.com
These eight historic places near Gainesville offer diverse experiences, from exploring military forts to walking through 19th-century farms and homes. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique day trip, these sites provide a perfect opportunity to step back in time.
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