Lake City Travel Guide

Known as “the Gateway to Florida”, Lake City’s outdoor activities and natural beauty attract thousands of tourists from surrounding cities each year. Tucked between Tallahassee and Jacksonville, Lake City is the perfect place for a day trip, a weekend away, or a long term stay in a rapidly expanding Florida city.

Things to Do in Lake City

The Lake City Columbia County Historical Museum gives visitors the ultime Lake City education, offering two stories of Civil War history, and historic photographs and artifacts, all housed within an authentic old-fashioned house. After learning about the city, guests can take some time to unwind at Falling Creek Falls, or the Osceola National Forest where the day can be spent boating, hiking, wildlife viewing, and practicing photography as the forest boast an abundance of dense woods and great views. Guests can also spend their free time at the Southern Oaks Golf Club, at Lake City Bowl, or Gateway Art Gallery, where those with a passion for art and creativity can take a class and draw inspiration from the facility’s extensive art collection.

Best Places to Stay in Lake City

One of the best part of of renting a suburban home for a Lake City vacation is the views of the Suwannee River that homes on the outskirts offer. However, regardless of location and whether rentals offer these views, each one is equipped with high speed internet and modern decor, and many are also pet friendly.

Best Time to Visit Lake City

The best time to visit Lake City is May through early September, as this is the “hot season” in the city. This period of time also sees a high influx of tourists, however.

Best Events in Lake City

When it comes to annual events and festivals, Lake City is abundant. Hosting the Alligator Lake Spring Festival, the Helicopter Egg Drop Eggstravaganza, the Olustee Battle Festival and Reenactment, and the Spring Bluegrass Festival, the city has something fun brewing virtually every month of the year. The Alligator Warrior Festival, however, is something special. It celebrates the culture of the local Native Americans through music, dance, traditional food, and storytelling.

Things to Do for Families in Lake City

Many families who visit Lake City will end up at Skate Palace which is a popular rollerblading facility that offers themed event nights, adult only nights, and allows guests to book birthday parties. Another popular family destination within the city limits is TnT Mini Golf & Games, where families with members of all ages can go for a day of mini golf, video games, basketball, good music, and so much more.