15 Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle (2023)

Are you thinking of visiting the Florida Panhandle but not sure what things to do to make this a trip to remember?

Well, I don’t want your beach plans to flip-flop! 

Let The Florida Hipster Blog seas the day!

I’ve got 15 of the most amazing things to do in the Florida Panhandle so all you have to do is decide which will be first!

The Florida Panhandle is located in the northwest part of the Sunshine State running from Pensacola’s southeast all along to the gorgeous Cedar Key.

Famous for its miles of sugar white sand beaches and paradise emerald waters, it’s a playground of beach towns, natural beauty, history, and fun. 

Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle. Destin, Florida with white sands and hotels at sunrise

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Why We Love The Florida Panhandle

There are so many hidden gems within the Florida Panhandle! But some of my favorite things to do in Florida and places to visit for that much-needed escape are: 

  • Cape San Blas
  • Tallahassee
  • Fort Walton Beach
  • Marianna
  • Pensacola
  • Panama City Beach
  • Destin
  • Wakulla Springs
  • St. George’s Island
  • Apalachicola

It’s bad manners to keep a vacation waiting, so let’s turn that vacation mode on!

1. Cape San Blas

Cape San Blas is located out on Florida’s Forgotten Coast and is the perfect destination to forget about the stresses of life.  

Pontoon Rental at Scallop Cove Too in Cape San Blas, Florida. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.

It’s all about serenity and peace here with laid-back beach vibes and quiet nature.

St. Joseph State Park in Cape San Blas, Florida. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.

Rent a bike and explore the Loggerhead Bike trail, wade out into the bay and catch some scallops, or have fun crabbing at night. 

Why Cape San Blas is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

Take advantage of Cape San Blas being one of the few places where you can ride horses right on the beach. 

Horseback riding on the beach in Cape San Blas, Florida. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.

Riding out on the white sand beaches with the unreal blue waters beside you is by far one of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle. Especially if you head out at sunrise or sunset.

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2. Tallahassee 

Home to Florida State University (FSU) and Florida’s State Capital, Tallahassee is a city bursting with passion and pride. 

Tallahassee Florida capitol building downtown. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.

You can’t possibly visit Tallahassee and not catch a game at FSU. The energy and spirit are contagious.

Florida State University in Tallahassee. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

And if you’re there during the week then find out if you have what it takes to be a Rattler (our Editor’s Alumni) and get a tour of the FAMU campus

Florida A and M University Entrance also known as FAMU in Tallahassee, Florida. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.
Photo Courtesy of Flickr: 2C2K Photography

Why Tallahassee is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

Rolling hills, parks, and gardens, it isn’t just an urban getaway. Tour the 24 acres of Cascades Park. 

Cascades Park Map in Tallahassee, Florida. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.
Photo Courtesy of the City of Tallahassee

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is a place to soak up Florida’s natural beauty especially from January to April when the flowers are in full bloom.

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park in Tallahassee, Florida. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

You can also explore the John G. Riley Center & Museum for African American History & Culture.

Kayaking, miles of trails, perfect lakes for paddle-boarding, beautiful winding paths, it’s an oasis! 

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3. Fort Walton Beach

The emerald green and teal waters of Fort Walton Beach remind you exactly why it’s called Florida’s Emerald Coast. It is truly breathtaking!

Fort Walton Beach. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Why Fort Walton Beach is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

Famous for its perfect sandy beach, there’s more to Fort Walton Beach than sunny days at the shore especially if you love a little history. 

Fort Walton Beach Shoreline Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

The Airforce Armament Museum is full of historic plane after plane, exhibits, missiles, and rockets, and it’s free! You will find it just a few miles outside of town. 

Check out the Air Force Museum or Do some axe throwing in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

The interactive Emerald Coast Science Center is where you can feel like a kid again or try your hand at some Ratchet Hatchet Axe Throwing

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4. Marianna 

Known as The City of Southern Charm, Mariana is home to the Florida Cavern State Park and its labyrinth of underground rooms.

Cave in Florida Cavern State Park in Marianna, Florida. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

It’s one of the top things to do in Florida as it’s the only state park of this kind in all of Florida!

Cavern tours aren’t available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays but there is still plenty to do.

Cave in Florida Cavern State Park in Marianna, Florida. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

From astronomy nights, canoe rentals, swimming, biking, and hiking you can still enjoy the great Florida outdoors!

Why Marianna is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

The town lives up to its name with its quaint and charming vibes. Stop into Southern Craft Creamy for some southern hospitality.

Southern Craft Creamery in Marianna, Florida. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Stay chill with a scoop of Tupelo Honey or if the season’s right a scoop of candied bacon!

Batch of Watermelon Festival in Chipley, Florida near Marianna. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

If you are heading here in June then it’s time for The Panhandle Watermelon Festival in nearby Chipley, where everyone is losing their rind for the free music festival.

And of course, all things melons!

5. Pensacola

Make your way to the westernmost city in Florida’s Panhandle and visit the city coined the “Festival City of the South”. 

Downtown Pensacola. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Why Pensacola is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

One of the most loved things to do in Florida is the Blue Angels Air Shows when epic performances take place up in the sky above their home turf. 

Blue Angels Airshow in Pensacola. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Not once but twice, with two different shows in the year.

Blue Angels Airshow in Pensacola in the sky. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

July brings the Pensacola Beach Airshow and November hosts the Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show.

Blue Angels Airshow in Pensacola Image of the Exhaust. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Needless to say, set up your home base for the show early everyone loves to see the Blue Angels take to the skies. 

Pensacola Beach, Florida. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Best Things to Do in Pensacola, Florida

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6. Havana

Welcome to “Florida’s friendliest small town just northwest of Tallahassee.

Havana, Florida clock downtown. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.
Photo Courtesy of The Town of Havana, Florida

This one is pronounced a little bit differently than the Havana you are thinking of, it’s Hay-vana here. 

Perfect for antique lovers and those with a spark for history, Havana is full of charming old homes, boutiques, and shops. 

Why Havana is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

The Planters Exchange is an absolute must. An antique mall within a designated National Historic Landmark, even if you aren’t looking to shop it’s a fun outing through time. 

Havana, Florida Pumpkin Festival and Winter festival. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle
Photo Courtesy of Havana Main Street

Havana is known as “a very different Florida”.

A place to stroll down Main Street and unwind in the quaint vibes of small-town Florida with a little retail therapy and cozy café treats. 

Heroes & Villains Sweets & Treats is a fun-themed sweets shop with cotton candy burritos, root beer floats, and tonnes of delish treats. 

7. DeFuniak Springs

DeFuniak Springs is a small town but with big character taking you back to the feels of Old Florida. 

Sunset on Lake DeFuniak Springs. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Why DeFuniak is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

Chautauqua Vineyards & Winery is the ultimate place to wine down your days with their wine tastings and vineyard. And the best part is the free wine samples daily!

As they say…it’s wine o’clock somewhere!

Sunset on Lake DeFuniak Springs and old clock tower. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

There’s also a little oasis of peace amongst the village at Lake Stanley Park and a great place to picnic and cool off in the clear waters. 

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8. Panama City Beach

If you are looking for picture-perfect days at the beach, then Panama City Beach it is! 

Panama City Beach, Florida tourist area. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Why Panama City Beach is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

This resort vacation town is centered around the water and all things fun to keep your spirit young.

Panama City Beach, Florida Colorful Homes. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Be sure to get plenty of sleep before this trip because Panama City Beach has some of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle!

Panama City Beach, Florida Russell Fields Pier. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Best Things to Do in Panama City Beach, Florida

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9. Quincy

Turn back time and fall back into the days of yesteryear in Quincy. If you love the North Florida Arts Trail, then add Quincy to your list of things to do in Florida. 

Why Quincy is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

Victorian homes make you feel like you are in a different era in the Florida Panhandle. And downtown square and the olden drugstore add just the right touch!

Gadsden Arts Center & Museum has traveling exhibits and is full of Southern Vernacular Art. Feeling creative? Then drop into the free art zone, and discover your inner artist within their studio.

10. Destin

Don’t worry beach happy are the vibes in Destin. 

Destin, Florida Henderson Beach State Park. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.

Henderson Beach State Park is a must with its sand dunes and clear waters. But get there early it is one of the favorite and famous beaches of Destin.  

Why Destin is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

How often can you go for something to eat and go gator-watching?

Well, if you eat at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill, you can for free. Gator Beach is part of the restaurant!

Fudpucker's Beachside Bar & Grill Gator Beach in Destin, Florida. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.

Want to up your beach skills, try your hand at some sandcastle-building lessons. But some of the best fun is off the beach, and on the water…on a tiki bar.

Destin, Florida with white sands and hotels at sunrise. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.

It’s party time on this tiki sunset cruise and you may even get to see some dolphins. 

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11. Wakulla Springs

South of Tallahassee about 14 miles is Wakulla Springs, with unspoiled land it’s a great place for those wanting to get away and into nature. 

Wakulla Springs, Florida. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Why Wakulla Springs is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

The freshwater springs of Wakulla Springs State Park are known to be some of the deepest and largest and full of wildlife.

Lighthouse and manatee in Wakulla Springs, Florida. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Glass bottom boat tours are one of the best ways to get up close and personal with the beauty of it all. 

The film they were making was "Tarzan's Secret Treasure" (1941) produced by MGM, directed by Richard Thorpe, and starring Johnny Weissmuller and Margaret O'Sullivan. Partly filmed at Wakulla Springs (although O'Sullivan never came to Florida). Some of that footgage was also used in "Tarzan's New York Adventure" (1942) Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.
The film they were making was “Tarzan’s Secret Treasure” (1941) produced by MGM, directed by Richard Thorpe, and starring Johnny Weissmuller and Margaret O’Sullivan. Partly filmed at Wakulla Springs (although O’Sullivan never came to Florida). Some of that footgage was also used in “Tarzan’s New York Adventure” (1942)(State Archives of Florida)

If you are a fan of the early Tarzan movies, then you may just recognize the place. Some of the filming took place right here!

12. Port Saint Joe

Quoted as the “small town with a big heart” out on the Forgotten Coast, Port Saint Joe is a retreat for some relaxation. 

Port St Joe near Cape San Blas, Florida aerial shot of the small town. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Why Port Saint Joe is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

Port Saint Joe lets you unplug from the hustle and bustle and is a break from the busy beach towns.  

Kayaking into the bay or out paddle-boarding, biking the trails, and bonfires at the beach. Kick back and unwind with some beer and oysters at Indian Pass Raw Bar or catch some karaoke and live music.  

Book your perfect beach house TODAY with VRBO!

13. St. George’s Island

For those that love quiet beaches and retreating into nature, St. George’s Island is the getaway for you. 

St. George's Island Marsh and Bay Area. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

With sea breezes and serenity, it is a Florida Panhandle hidden secret that is worth the trip! Bring all your besties and your pets, they are invited too! 

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Entrance, Florida. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Why St. George’s Island is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

Set aside time for St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, there are thousands of acres to explore in its untouched sanctuary of birds and wildlife.

Lighthouse and Beach Access on St. George's Island. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

If you still have energy, then make your way to the top of the lighthouse for some epic 360 views. 

St. George's Island. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park is another unspoiled escape to recharge in nature and find your Zen.

14. St. Marks

This tiny town is one of Florida’s most historic towns so if you love history make your way to the end of Woodville Highway.

St. Marks Wildlife Refuge Lighthouse on the Gulf of Mexico coastline. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

Why St. Marks is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

The second oldest lighthouse station in Florida is here in St. Marks and is picture-perfect to capture some amazing waterfront photos. 

St. Marks Wildlife Refuge Lighthouse on the Gulf of Mexico coastline. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park museum is great for history buffs where you can see some ancient archeological finds.

The park has no entrance free and the museum is only $2 to enter!

15. Apalachicola 

An enchanting town with historic charm, Apalachicola is in scenic Franklin County. A mecca for seafood and oysters they host Florida Seafood Festival every year!

Boat in the middle of bay area of Apalachicola, Florida One of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.

Why Apalachicola is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

I love the waterfront restaurants with freshly caught seafood and all the sweet treats at Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company.

White church in downtown Apalachicola, Florida One of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.

Especially the popping chocolate!Vintage treasure hunting in the antique shop and traveling back through time at John Gorrie Museum.

Apalachicola Gulf of Mexico Coastline. Keep reading to get the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle

It is a getaway fit for those that want to take things a bit slower and fall in love with the simple things in life again.

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My Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

Wow! What a list!!!

Winter Fest Tallahassee Florida. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle.
Tallahassee, Florida

There you have it. You officially know some of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle for every type of visitor. Now it’s your turn…

15 BEST Things to do in the Florida Panhandle
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What’s one of your favorite things to do in this historic Florida town? Let me know on my Instagram Page!

Until next time, Happy Florida Travels!

Some Photos Courtesy of Canva.com

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