People always think of Florida whenever they desire to view the sandy shores of Miami, magical theme parks of Orlando, or historic streets of St. Augustine. Little did they know that there is an out-of-the-way quiet little town tucked away north in the state. It’s in Perry, Florida. Although not a very busy tourist destination, Perry has its own special kind of charm and offers a lot to those who do wish to avoid the crowds and instead lead a more leisurely lifestyle.
The Simple Life
Located in Taylor County, 50 miles southeast of the Florida capital, Tallahassee, Perry is a close-knit community with a population of nearly 7,000. In this community, everyone is well-known to one another, and life moves at a significantly slower pace compared to other places, which is precisely what attracts those seeking a tranquil lifestyle. Perry provides a taste of simplicity in life, whether stopping over for a day or a longer period.
Nature Lover’s Paradise
One of the attractive aspects of Perry is the town’s closeness to nature. This town is directly associated with Florida’s Nature Coast; the neighborhood provides a lot of opportunities for outdoor activities. This city is ideal for those who enjoy hunting, fishing, or hiking.
Keaton Beach: A mile or two outside of Perry is Keaton Beach, a tranquil the Gulf of Mexico. Some visitors come here to fish, sail, or even scallop. The sunsets are simply spectacular. It’s the ideal spot to relax after a thrilling and exhausting day.
Hunting and Wildlife: Taylor County has a variety of wildlife management areas. The city of Perry boasts areas were deer and turkeys, among other animals, roam freely in the woods. Despite not being a hunter, you could still enjoy the area due to its abundant wildlife and serene environment.
Forest Capital State Museum: If you enjoy local history, Forest Capital State Museum is a must-stop-by place. It emphasizes Perry’s centuries-long history as a forestry town, which has played a significant role in the town’s development profile. In fact, Perry was originally the center for the timber industry and still maintains close ties to the sector.
Small-town festivals and events
Despite its small size, the town takes great pleasure in hosting parties. Throughout the year, there are numerous community events held in town that really bond locals and visitors.
The Florida Forest Festival is one of Perry’s most important annual events. The town used to be a timber industry base. The festival comprises a parade, lumberjack competitions, arts and crafts, and live music. It usually takes place late October and draws in huge crowds from all over Florida.
Scallop Season: From June to September, Perry becomes a popular destination for those seeking to collect bay scallops from the Gulf Coast. Because locals and tourists went to the waters to get hold of the small treasures, the season picked up around town.
A Perfect Getaway
Sure, Perry offers the hustle and bustle of many cities, which many people enjoy. However, for those seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle, a chance to breathe fresh air, and an authentic small-town charm, Perry, Florida, offers an ideal escape. It captures the other side of Florida—full of nature, history, and southern hospitality—and tastes of life.
You must have come across some quiet streets while wandering, the nearby beaches, or learning about its forestry and thought that Perry is one of those places you never expected. Therefore, if you are traveling through Northern Florida or planning a road trip and happen to stumble upon this small town, you may be in for a pleasant surprise.
