White Springs sits on the Suwannee River between two state parks. It started as a mineral-springs resort in the 1800s, and visitors still come year-round for paddling, fishing, hiking, cycling and festivals. That keeps the town busy and gives a business here a steady stream of people.
Out the front doorThe city parkDirectly across the street: open green space, mature trees, and everyday neighborhood life.
State parkStephen Foster Folk Culture CenterAbout 800 acres on the Suwannee, with a museum, gardens, craft demonstrations, camping, and carillon music from a 200-foot bell tower.
State parkBig Shoals80-foot limestone bluffs over what's billed as Florida's largest whitewater rapids, plus more than 28 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding.
Every MayFlorida Folk FestivalHeld at Stephen Foster since the 1950s and one of the oldest continuous folk festivals in the country. Music, dance and traditional arts, and a big crowd in town.
Every MarchWild Azalea FestivalA spring festival in town on the third Saturday of March.
On the waterSuwannee River Wilderness TrailA paddling trail that starts in White Springs and runs more than 150 river miles toward the Gulf, with river camps along the way.
On footFlorida National Scenic TrailThe statewide hiking trail passes right through the area, along with Foster's Hammock and other local loops.
DowntownA historic districtAround 110 historic structures, a walking tour of old hotels, homes and churches, murals, antique shops, and the 1903 spring house where it all started.
Local spotsSmall-town staplesBarbecue at Fat Belly's, the historic Suwannee Hardware & Feed, and a bed and breakfast in a 1905 boarding house.
~15 minLake City shopping and dining
MinutesI-75, with I-10 close by
~1 hr+Jacksonville and JAX airport
~1.5 hrTallahassee
Drive times are approximate. Event dates vary by year; check with the host before planning a visit.