Palatka Florida - Things To Do & Attractions In Palatka FL - Visit Florida

Nestled alongside the St. Johns River 30 miles west of St. Augustine, Palatka is a Northeast Florida trail town full of history, culture, and an abundance of parks and nature preserves for hiking, biking, and paddling.

As the Putnam County seat, Palatka boasts 25 colorful murals depicting the area’s history and culture, a host of city parks and historic landmarks, and independent shops and restaurants, including Angel’s Dining Car, Florida’s oldest diner. At the picturesque Riverfront Park, visitors can fish from the pier, launch a kayak, stroll the waterfront walking trail, and see the city’s clock tower.

Outdoor enthusiasts travel to Palatka for its plentiful parks and trails, which include Palatka to St. Augustine State Trail, the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, the St. Johns River Blueway, and the Bartram Trail. At the St. Johns River Center, visitors can learn about the wetlands within the St. Johns River system, pick up maps, and catch special events. The Rice Creek Conservation Area, which protects Rice Creek Swamp, offers opportunities for hiking on the Florida National Scenic Trail, camping, biking, and wildlife viewing.

At Ravine Gardens State Park, visitors can see a unique geological feature of the area: two natural ravines as deep as 120 feet with a spring-fed creek that runs to the St. Johns River. The park bursts with color when hundreds of azaleas bloom between late December and early March, making this an ideal time to visit. During the first weekend in March, the community celebrates the beauty of the season with the Florida Azalea Festival, which takes place downtown. The area is also home to other popular events and festivals, including the Palatka Blue Crab Festival and Bostwick Blueberry Festival.

Plan your trip at Palatka Downtown and Putnam County Chamber.

 

WATERWAYS

Paddle and fish Florida’s longest river.

• St. Johns River
• Ocklawaha River
• St. Johns Paddling Trail

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Hike and bike the trails and explore the water.

• City parks
• Kayak tours
• Skydive Palatka
• Ravine Gardens State Park
• Putnam blueways and trails
• Rice Creek Conservation Area
• Palatka to St. Augustine State Trail
• Bartram Trail

FAMILY FUN

Spend time at the parks and playgrounds.

• Project P.L.A.Y. Park
• Riverfront Park
• St. Johns River Center

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

See the town’s colorful murals and historic sites and check out local events.

• Bronson-Mulholland House
• Palatka Water Works
• Art and history
• Mural tours
• Attractions
• Events

BEACHES

Palatka is less than a 45-minute drive from picturesque Atlantic beaches.

• Anastasia State Park
• Crescent Beach
• St. Augustine Beach

ACCESSIBILITY

Visit Palatka’s accessible parks and trails.

• Ravine Gardens State Park
• Palatka to St. Augustine State Trail
• Riverfront Park

DINING

Grab a bite at Florida’s oldest diner or relax with a craft beer or glass of wine.

• Steamboat Willies Gastro Pub & Bar
• Uncork & Unwind Craft Beer and Wine Lounge
• Angel’s Dining Car
• Dining and nightlife
• More places to eat and drink

SHOPPING

Browse Palatka’s antique stores and specialty shops.

• Antiques and thrift stores
• Clothing and accessories
• Art, gift, and specialty shops
• More places to shop

GOLF

Hit the links at Palatka’s historic golf course.

• Palatka Golf Club
• The Oaks Golf Club

PLACES TO STAY

Choose from hotels, motels, campgrounds, fish camps, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts.

• Crystal Cove Riverfront Resort
• Grand Gables Inn
• Hampton Inn Palatka
• More places to stay