Greenville FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Greenville, Florida.
1. Ray Charles Childhood Home
MUSICAL LEGEND'S BIRTHPLACE
The restored boyhood home of Ray Charles has been converted into a museum honoring the famous musician who won 17 Grammy awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Visitors can explore the humble beginnings of this musical genius who overcame tremendous obstacles to become one of America's most beloved performers. The museum offers a glimpse into the early life of Ray Charles before he rose to international stardom.
2. Haffye Hays Park
HOME OF RAY CHARLES PLAZA
Haffye Hays Park features the Ray Charles Plaza, a memorial celebrating the life and music of Greenville's most famous son. The centerpiece of the plaza is a life-sized bronze statue of Charles playing a piano, carved and donated by local residents Bradley Cooley and Brad Cooper Jr. This peaceful park serves as a tribute to Ray Charles' incredible journey from humble beginnings in Greenville to international music legend.
3. Treasures Of Madison County
HISTORICAL MUSEUM COLLECTION
Treasures Of Madison County is a highly-rated history and specialty museum showcasing the rich heritage of the region. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and stories that bring the local history to life. The museum provides valuable insights into the development of Madison County and its significance in Florida's history.
4. Grace Manor Bed and Breakfast
HISTORIC VICTORIAN LODGING
Grace Manor Bed and Breakfast is located in the historic Bishop-Andrews Hotel, a charming Queen Anne Victorian building that is the centerpiece of downtown Greenville. The inn offers several nicely furnished rooms and suites as well as a fully furnished two-bedroom guest cottage. This historic accommodation provides visitors with a glimpse into the town's past while offering comfortable lodging for those exploring the area.
5. Charlie's Kitchen
LOCAL CULINARY GEM
Charlie's Kitchen is a well-regarded local restaurant located on the main highway through Greenville. This eatery offers visitors a taste of authentic North Florida cuisine in a charming small-town setting. The restaurant serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, providing a genuine glimpse into the community's culture.
6. Madison Blue Spring State Park
CRYSTAL CLEAR NATURAL SPRING
Madison Blue Spring State Park features a first magnitude spring that flows into the Withlacoochee River, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The park's limestone basin creates a stunning blue swimming area surrounded by hardwood forests and lush vegetation. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the underwater caves that make this spring a popular destination for cave divers.
7. Suwannee River State Park
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE RECREATION
Suwannee River State Park sits where the Suwannee and Withlacoochee rivers meet, offering visitors hiking trails that wind through woodlands and along limestone bluffs. The park features historic sites including earthworks built during the Civil War and remnants of the once-thriving town of Columbus. Visitors can enjoy camping, canoeing, wildlife observation, and exploring the area's rich natural and cultural history.
8. Four Freedoms Monument
HISTORIC WAR MEMORIAL
The Four Freedoms Monument stands in the center of Madison as a tribute to the four freedoms outlined by President Franklin D. Roosevelt: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. This impressive monument features a towering obelisk surrounded by commemorative plaques and landscaped grounds. The memorial serves as a gathering place for community events and a reminder of American values and sacrifices.
9. Barrio's Garden & Gifts
UNIQUE LOCAL SHOPPING
Barrio's Garden & Gifts offers visitors a delightful shopping experience featuring local crafts, plants, and unique gift items in a charming setting. The shop showcases handmade products from local artisans alongside a variety of garden supplies and decorative items. Visitors can find memorable souvenirs while supporting the local economy and creative community.
10. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park
FAMILY CAMPING RESORT
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park is a family-friendly camping resort offering cabins, RV sites, and tent camping alongside numerous recreational activities. The park features swimming pools, mini-golf, fishing ponds, and organized activities for children throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy character appearances by Yogi Bear and friends, making this a memorable destination for families exploring North Florida.
11. Wardlaw-Smith-Goza Conference Center
HISTORIC ANTEBELLUM MANSION
The Wardlaw-Smith-Goza Conference Center is a beautifully preserved antebellum mansion dating back to 1860 that now serves as a conference center and historic site. The mansion features period furnishings and architectural details that showcase the elegance of pre-Civil War Southern design. Visitors can tour the property to learn about its history, including its role as a temporary Confederate hospital during the Civil War.
12. O'Toole's Herb Farm
NATURAL GARDEN EXPERIENCE
O'Toole's Herb Farm is a unique destination offering a wide variety of organic herbs, native plants, and educational experiences focused on sustainable gardening. Visitors can explore the demonstration gardens, attend workshops, and purchase plants grown on-site using natural methods. The farm provides a peaceful retreat where visitors can learn about medicinal herbs, butterfly gardens, and environmentally friendly gardening techniques.
13. Madison County Courthouse
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Madison County Courthouse stands as an impressive example of historic architecture in downtown Madison, featuring distinctive design elements that reflect its importance as a center of local government. Built in the early 20th century, the courthouse includes notable architectural details and continues to serve as a functioning government building. Visitors can appreciate the exterior design and surrounding courthouse square, which forms the heart of Madison's historic district.
14. North Florida Livestock Market
AUTHENTIC RURAL EXPERIENCE
The North Florida Livestock Market offers visitors a genuine glimpse into rural Florida life with regular livestock auctions that have been a cornerstone of the agricultural community for generations. Visitors can observe the lively bidding process as cattle, goats, and other livestock are bought and sold by local farmers and ranchers. This authentic agricultural experience showcases the continuing importance of farming and ranching in Madison County's economy and culture.
15. Honey Lake Plantation
LUXURY WILDERNESS RESORT
Honey Lake Plantation is an upscale resort and sporting estate set on 4,700 acres of pristine wilderness featuring a private 80-acre lake and diverse ecosystems. The property offers luxury accommodations, fine dining, and outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of North Florida while enjoying world-class amenities and Southern hospitality in this unique destination.