While most tourists end up visiting the big cities and the more heavily populated areas, it’s the small towns that really are the heart and soul of Florida. Nothing beats wandering the downtown areas of Florida’s small towns, enjoying the mom-and-pop shops, the local life, and the centerpieces of each community. From the best downtown shopping in Florida to one-of-a-kind attractions and historic sites, check out these seven small towns in the beautiful Sunshine State!

1. Micanopy, Florida
Micanopy, FL, USA
Flickr Calmuziclover
Micanopy, Florida represents some of the best Old Florida energy. This charming, southern town is filled with antique shops, cafes, bakeries, restaurants, and galleries galore. Meander your way around this delightful downtown area and see for yourself why Micanopy is dubbed one of Florida’s best small towns.
2. Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora, Mt Dora, FL 32757, USA
Flickr Steven Martin
It’s easy to get lost in the charm of Mount Dora, especially when you explore the downtown area. Enjoy popping in and out of the quaint mom-and-pop shops, dining at the local hotspots, and visiting the local parks. Or if you want to visit during one of the local events, then check out the Mount Dora Spring Festival.
3. Sanford, Florida
Sanford, FL, USA
Facebook Historic Downtown Sanford
The main drag through Sanford, Florida, is filled with boutiques, galleries, shops, and fun things to do. But there also is a ton of history, too, that is worth checking out. Explore the old train depot in town, the breweries and restaurants, and really get a feel for what this small town has to offer.

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4. Stuart, Florida
Stuart, FL, USA
Facebook Downtown Stuart, Florida
Stuart, Florida is jam-packed with local history, from the shipwrecked sailors seeking refuge in the 1900s to the early pioneer homes. But what really makes visiting this coastal gem worth it is the downtown area. With delightful dining, live events, the grand Lyric Theatre, and more, there is never a dull moment in Downtown Stuart.
5. Apalachicola, Florida
Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA
Wikipedia Thomsonmg2000
The Oyster Capital of the World, Apalachicola, Florida, is a pearl of a town (see what we did there?!) up in the panhandle of Florida on the shore of Apalachicola Bay. The history dates back hundreds of years, making this small town a true gem. The downtown area of this coastal spot is filled with charm, including the historic Dixie Theater. Come walk the streets and absorb all of the beauty and character of Apalachicola.
6. DeLand, Florida
DeLand, FL, USA
Flickr Kelly Verdeck
Downtown DeLand is not only a beautiful area of Florida, but it also is award-winning. Dedicated businesses and restaurants pepper the charming streets of this historic area, which makes for the perfect evening stroll. Visit on the weekends for outdoor events, festivals, and markets that really bring DeLand to life.
7. Sebring, Florida
Sebring, FL, USA
TripAdvisor Ambassador616224
Sebring, Florida, earned the nickname of "The City on the Circle" which references the famed Circle Drive. Right in the heart of Sebring is Circle Drive, where you can find the Downtown Historic District. The Historic District contains 22 historic buildings, each retaining Old Florida charm, and character. Do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, and pop in for some vintage pop at Sebring Soda.

Have you ever visited these seven downtown areas in Florida? Which one would you say was your favorite? Make sure to sound off in the comments section! Or if you have more small-town downtown areas or main streets that you think we should know about, make sure to let us know, too.

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More to Explore

Best Downtown Shopping in Florida

Sarah M. | September 18, 2022

What city has the best downtown in Florida?

St. Augustine often gets overshadowed by Florida's big names like Miami and Orlando, but this town really does deserve your attention. The epitome of Old Florida charm, St. Augustine is a place of fascinating history and culture. Dating back 450 years, St. Augustine is one of the country's oldest and most historic cities, and places like Castillo de San Marcos National Monument celebrate its legacy. But the town is more than just historical sites and museums; its downtown district along Aviles Street -- the oldest street in the country, in fact -- has amazing local shops, incredible restaurants, and top-rated distilleries, making for a wholly delightful experience.

If you’re looking a place with the most unique downtown Florida, The City on a Circle, also known as Sebring, Florida, is impossibly charming. Founded in the early 1900s, this is a place where history meets scenic beauty. During your visit, enjoy the variety of boutique shops and galleries dotting the historic downtown scene, plus the parks and lakes which allow for natural recreation. True to its nickname, all streets connect to the town's center, which makes exploring easy and lots of fun!

Finally, when discussing the best downtown shopping in Florida, we'd be remiss not to mention Sanford. For starters, Downtown Sanford is brimming with entertainment -- from local antique shops to restaurants and community events. Within a two-block radius known as Magnolia Square, there are a bevy of shops, stores, restaurants, and art galleries worth checking out. In fact, over the past few years the artwork with Sanford, Florida has trickled out from the galleries and into pockets of the cityscape, making this Florida town a must-visit for art lovers!

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