Perry FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Perry, Florida.
1. Keaton Beach
GULF COAST ESCAPE
Keaton Beach is a beloved coastal spot known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The public beach area provides easy access to the water, and the nearby pier is a perfect place to cast a line or watch the sun dip below the horizon.
2. Forest Capital Museum State Park
TIMBER HERITAGE SITE
Forest Capital Museum State Park celebrates Perry's forestry history with exhibits detailing the region's timber industry. The park features a museum, historic Cracker Homestead, and scenic picnic areas under sprawling oak trees. It's a favorite spot for history buffs and nature lovers, with walking trails and interpretive displays to explore.
3. Iron Horse Mud Ranch
OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE CENTER
Iron Horse Mud Ranch offers thrilling off-road experiences with challenging mud bogs and obstacle courses for trucks and ATVs. The ranch hosts seasonal events that draw crowds of motorsports enthusiasts, making it one of the premier mudding destinations in Florida. Spectators and participants alike enjoy the high-energy, family-friendly atmosphere.
4. Taylor County Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Taylor County Historical Society preserves and showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of the region's past. Housed in a historic building, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into daily life, industry, and culture in Taylor County through engaging displays. Guided tours and special events provide deeper insight into Perry's unique heritage.
5. Perry Train Depot
VINTAGE RAILROAD LANDMARK
The Perry Train Depot is a beautifully preserved structure that harkens back to the golden age of rail travel. As a local historical landmark, it offers educational displays and serves as a venue for community events. Its quaint charm and railroad memorabilia attract both history enthusiasts and photographers.
6. Taylor County Sports Complex
RECREATION HUB
Taylor County Sports Complex is a sprawling 74-acre facility featuring baseball and soccer fields, tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds, and picnic pavilions. Locals and visitors use the complex for sporting events, walking the scenic trail, or enjoying family outings in its spacious setting. It's a popular spot for active travelers looking for outdoor recreation.
7. Dark Island
SECLUDED NATURE RETREAT
Dark Island offers visitors a peaceful escape into undeveloped nature, where coastal marshes and tidal creeks provide a haven for wildlife. The remote location makes it ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and fishing. It's a lesser-known destination that rewards explorers with tranquility and natural beauty.
8. Spring Warrior Creek Conservation Area
WILDLIFE VIEWING SPOT
Spring Warrior Creek Conservation Area invites nature lovers to hike, birdwatch, and enjoy serene waterscapes in Taylor County's woodlands. The conservation area is celebrated for its diversity of plant and animal life and quiet trails through forested habitats. Fishing and kayaking are also popular activities along the creek's winding course.
9. Perry Golf and Country Club
CLASSIC GOLF VENUE
Perry Golf and Country Club is a well-maintained public golf course offering nine or eighteen holes of play amid picturesque scenery. The club features a relaxed atmosphere perfect for both seasoned golfers and beginners. Visitors enjoy the welcoming clubhouse and opportunities for tournaments or casual rounds.
10. Florida State Bluegrass Festival
ANNUAL MUSIC EVENT
The Florida State Bluegrass Festival draws music lovers from across the Southeast each spring for performances by top bluegrass artists. Hosted at Forest Capital Museum State Park, the festival offers live music, arts and crafts, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. It's a highlight of the local cultural calendar and a must-visit for fans of traditional music.
11. Keaton Beach Coastal Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHORELINE
Keaton Beach Coastal Park features a sandy beach, swimming area, playground, and picnic facilities perfect for a day by the water. The park is popular for scalloping during the summer season and provides easy access for fishing and boating. Shaded pavilions and ample parking make it a convenient stop for coastal relaxation.
12. Lake Frances Recreation Area
SCENIC URBAN OASIS
Lake Frances Recreation Area is a picturesque city park surrounding a peaceful lake with walking trails, picnic tables, and playgrounds. It's a favorite gathering spot for local families and visitors to enjoy fishing, feeding ducks, or relaxing in the shade. Seasonal events and festivals sometimes take place in this central green space.
13. Big Bend Brewfest
CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL
Big Bend Brewfest is an annual event in Perry showcasing regional craft breweries and food vendors. Attendees sample a wide variety of beers while enjoying live music and mingling with brewers in a festive atmosphere. The event draws both locals and tourists for a lively celebration of North Florida's brewing culture.
14. Steinhatchee Falls
NATURAL WATERFALL LANDMARK
Steinhatchee Falls is a scenic natural attraction just south of Perry, where the river cascades over limestone ledges in a tranquil forest setting. Visitors can picnic, hike, and swim in the shallow waters, making it a favorite destination for families and nature photographers. The falls are accessible via a short walk through lush woodlands and offer a serene escape from city life.
15. Hagen Cove
COASTAL WILDLIFE AREA
Hagen Cove is a peaceful coastal area within the Big Bend Wildlife Management Area, popular for birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking. Boardwalks allow visitors to stroll above salt marshes and observe native wildlife, including wading birds and dolphins offshore. It's a haven for those seeking natural beauty and solitude along the Gulf Coast.