DINING NORTH CENTRA L Start with Daft Cow Brewery in Alachua’s San Felasco Tech Center. The spot is known for its inventive brews and relaxed atmosphere. (Pro tip: The Sippin’ Seven Alachua County Ale Trail maps a tantalizing tour through additional local breweries.) The 4th Avenue Food Park in Gainesville rounds up mobile restaurants serving a variety of eats. Kathi’s Krab Shack in Steinhatchee tempts diners with fresh-off-the-boat seafood, riverside views, and a you-catch-it-we-cook-it option. In historic downtown Monticello, stop by The Social Monticello , acclaimed for Southern-meets-global flavors and libations, making it a favorite among locals and visitors. Old-school Olean’s Cafe in Tallahassee is celebrated for its cozy ambiance and Creole dishes that capture the essence of New Orleans. THE SOCIAL MONTICELLO, MONTICELLO The Social Monticello OUTDOORS The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail features wheelchair-accessible paths and rest stops. With marsh, lake, and forest trails, hike, run, or fat-tire bike at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park in Micanopy (you might even spot Spanish horses or American bison on your adventure!). Enjoy Ginnie Springs Outdoors in High Springs, with its seven pristine springs, diving opportunities, and camping. In Live Oak, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park & Campground hosts traditional and contemporary music festivals and events along with outdoor activities such as bicycling, fishing, and swimming. From Monticello, paddle the Wacissa River , spring-fed and gem-colored. Around Lamont, merge with the Aucilla River , flowing through live oak canopies to the Gulf of Mexico. SANTA FE SPRING ART FESTIVAL, GAINESVILLE Visit Gainesville GINNIE SPRINGS OUTDOORS, HIGH SPRINGS Forrest Mankin EVENTS Enjoy a diverse visual and performing arts lineup at the annual Santa Fe Spring Arts Festival in Gainesville. Appreciate bluegrass culture through live music and workshops—with a side of food vendors and crafts—at Perry’s Florida State Bluegrass Festival. Scan the QR code for a current list of some major events: VISITFLORIDA.com/things-to-do/events 42 • VISITFLORIDA.COM
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