Category: History

Looking for a rich cultural escape just south of Tallahassee?

Nestled along Florida’s scenic Gulf Coast, Wakulla County is more than just natural springs and wildlife — it’s a place steeped in rich history and fascinating stories that date back centuries. From Spanish explorers to Native American heritage and Old Florida charm, a journey through Wakulla’s historical landmarks offers a unique glimpse into the past.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a meaningful adventure, here are some must-visit historical sites in Wakulla County.

Explore San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park

One of the most significant historical sites in Wakulla County, San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park sits at the confluence of the Wakulla and St. Marks Rivers. This site tells the story of Spanish, British, American, and Confederate occupation over more than 400 years. Visitors can explore the remnants of the old stone fort, stroll through the peaceful grounds, and visit the on-site museum, which houses fascinating artifacts from the area’s long and varied history.

Discover the St. Marks Lighthouse

Dating back to 1831, the St. Marks Lighthouse is one of Florida’s oldest and most iconic beacons. Located within the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, it has guided mariners for nearly two centuries and witnessed the changing tides of Florida’s coastal history.

Visitors can walk the trails surrounding the lighthouse, enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of America, and imagine what life was like for the keepers who once called this area home.

Don’t Miss the Sopchoppy Depot Museum

Take a step into the golden age of railroads with a visit to the Sopchoppy Depot. This restored train depot is the only remaining structure of its kind from the historic Georgia, Florida & Alabama Railroad line. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing the history of rail in the region and the development of the charming town of Sopchoppy.

Pro tip: Time your visit with the annual Sopchoppy Depot Days festival to experience local history come alive with live music, classic cars, and community spirit.

Visit the Historic Wakulla Springs Lodge

Built in 1937, the Wakulla Springs Lodge is a breathtaking showcase of Mediterranean Revival architecture and timeless Old Florida charm. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Lodge offers more than just a place to stay — it’s a step back in time and an unforgettable experience.

Guests are greeted by a grand lobby with hand-painted ceilings, vintage décor, and panoramic views of Wakulla Springs — one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. Whether you savor a fine dining experience in the Edward Ball Dining Room or cool off with a sweet treat at the world’s longest marble soda fountain, the Lodge seamlessly blends history, nature, and comfort.

Tips for the History-Loving Traveler

• ✅ Start at the Wakulla Welcome Center for brochures and maps.
• ✅ Bring a picnic—many sites have scenic spots perfect for lunch.
• ✅ Wear comfy shoes for walking trails at San Marcos and the Sopchoppy Depot.

Plan Your Historical Adventure

Wakulla County offers a truly unique opportunity to connect with Florida’s past while enjoying its natural beauty and warm hospitality. Whether you’re touring centuries-old forts, strolling through charming small towns, or relaxing at a historic lodge, there’s something here for everyone who appreciates history and culture.

Ready to explore the history of Wakulla County? Plan your trip today and step into the stories that shaped this unforgettable destination.

Being surrounded by a rich, lustrous history in such a beautiful place is the essence of Wakulla County. In 1843, Wakulla was founded and established by Florida legislation making Wakulla the 23rd county in the state. With fun being in our nature, Wakulla was founded.

From our rivers and forest to our unique festivals and events, Wakulla has so much to offer. In honor of Wakulla’s birthday celebration this month, let’s continue to make memories with family and friends while taking a look back at the past along our trails and at our gatherings.

Trails Full of History

If you’re enjoying the illustrious trails, you’ve officially arrived with miles to explore during your time in Wakulla County. Our hiking, paddling, and biking trails have much more to offer. The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail was the first paved rail-trail in the state, following a 16-mile^[1] stretch along a former railroad route that was used to transport goods to waiting ships in Port Leon (now St. Marks). You can drop into the trail at the Wakulla Station Trailhead on Woodville Highway, where there’s water, shelter, and restrooms. Don’t forget to stop off the trails and enjoy the scenic nature, bird watching, and delicious food we have to offer.

St. Mark’s Lighthouse

Let us shine some light on the beautiful St. Marks Lighthouse. In the year 1830, the St. Marks Lighthouse was placed in service, by the U.S. Government^[2] this 82-foot beauty is covered in limestone that was quarried by the Spanish during the early 1800s. Legend has it, the limestone was sourced from the ruins of Fort San Marcos de Apalachee^[3]. The St. Marks Lighthouse is now situated within the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, where there are more than 83,000^[4] acres of public land to explore. Although the Lighthouse no longer guides sailors of the Apalachee Bay, it does serve as a beautiful historic landmark with a history that dates back hundreds of years. So, the next time you look out, remember this lighthouse has a very unique story to tell.

Wakulla Springs Lodge

Take a step back in time to the 1930’s and stay at the Wakulla Springs Lodge. Much of the architecture at the Lodge has been restored to showcase its original early 1900’s condition. The Lodge is home to the world’s largest marble soda fountain and an original art deco style elevator. You can enjoy delicious meals at the Edward Ball Dining Room and one of a kind Root Beer Floats from the marble soda fountain bar. All while enjoying a view of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world!

Our Historic Courthouse

The Old Wakulla County Courthouse was constructed in 1894 in Crawfordville, Florida. This building served as the primary Courthouse for Wakulla County until 1948, when the current Courthouse was constructed. This wooden building served as the Wakulla County Courthouse, Wakulla County Public Library, and now serves as the Chamber of Commerce office building. When you visit the Historic Courthouse, one of the first things you will notice is a mullet weathervane. Court records show that in the late 1800’s Wakulla County Judge R. Don McLeod ruled a mullet is not a fish, but rather a bird due to having a gizzard^[5]. In addition to the unique weathervane, this is one of the only wooden courthouse structures remaining in the State of Florida. Visiting the Wakulla County Historic Courthouse will take you back in time to the early years of Wakulla County and Florida History.

It’s easy to get lost in the beauty and awe of Wakulla, but with so much rich history to explore, why not seek out the gloriousness of what Wakulla County has to offer? When you’re here, you’ll find a close-knit community and endless options for exploration. With so many places to stay, things to do, and places to eat, you’ll leave already planning your next trip back.

[1] Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail. Florida State Parks. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/tallahassee-st-marks-historic-railroad-state-trail

[2] US Fish & Wildlife. (n.d.). Historic St. Marks Lighthouse: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. FWS.gov. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://www.fws.gov/refuge/st-marks/historic-st-marks-lighthouse.

[3] Friends of St. Marks Wildlife Refuge. (n.d.). The St. Marks Lighthouse A National Historic Landmark. Friends of St. Marks Wildlife Refuge. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://www.stmarksrefuge.org/lh-icon

[4] US Fish & Wildlife. (n.d.). Historic St. Marks Lighthouse: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. FWS.gov. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://www.fws.gov/refuge/st-marks/historic-st-marks-lighthouse.

[5] Arkad. (2015, February 5). J. Harold Thurmond & Judge Mike Carter Share Wakulla County’s Rich History. Wakulla County Historical Society. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://wakullahistoricalsociety.wordpress.com/2015/02/05/j-harold-thurmond-judge-mike-carter-share-wakulla-countys-rich-history/

Wakulla County is rightly celebrated for its natural experiences, but its plethora of historical places may be just as impressive. Learn about some of the most notable places where you can explore Wakulla history.

Explore the distant and not so distant past of the Florida panhandle at Fort San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park

Wakulla County has played a crucial role in every phase of North American history, and it’s all on display here at Fort San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park. Browse the American Indian artifacts that were discovered on this very site. Walkthrough the original fort structure that was constructed by Spanish colonists during the age of exploration. And, learn about the strategic importance of the fort during the Civil War. Once you leave, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the many people who have called Wakulla County home.

Learn about the importance of transportation on the Tallahassee—St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail

During the golden age of the railroad, Wakulla County was a vital transportation corridor for the country, as cotton and other agricultural products from the south made their long journey to the industrial north. The Tallahassee—St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail is a section of the former rail line that has now been converted to a 16-mile mixed-use biking and walking path through the dense forest of northern Florida. Enjoy a leisurely trip through this beautiful area, and stop to read the plaques that detail some of the history of the railroad lines in the region.

See Wakulla County’s impact on pop culture at Wakulla Springs State Park

Wakulla Springs State Park is known as a haven for wildlife watchers, but it also has its own historical significance to discover. Here, you can paddle a canoe down the same waters where American Indians once explored the wondrous natural world around them. For more recent history, you can see the spots where some classic movies were filmed, including Tarzan’s Secret Treasure and Creature from the Black Lagoon. Also, don’t forget to visit the Wakulla Springs Lodge, which still showcases much of its original 1930s architecture and furnishings.

Take in the historic beauty of the St. Marks Lighthouse

The St. Makes Lighthouse has been standing on the shores of the Apalachee Bay since 1831, and its beauty still radiates on the horizon to this day. Seeing the lighthouse up close and in person is the perfect way to connect yourself to Wakulla County’s rich and varied history.

There is so much history to explore in Wakulla County that you’ll definitely want to take your time to get to everything. Visit our accommodations page today to learn how you can start planning your ultimate Wakulla historical vacation, and get ready to immerse yourself in a place where history and nature are uniquely tied together.

As back-to-school season approaches, learning opportunities are on everyone’s mind. When you visit Wakulla County, you’ll be immersed in a wide range of historical sites that tie into the history of America. Whether you’re an elementary school student or a PhD in history, you’ll love exploring all of the amazing sites and hearing the stories of those who made this country what it is today.

Walk in the shoes of many different types of Americans at Fort San Marcos de Apalache

The towns, fields, rivers, and coasts of Wakulla County have been home to a diverse collection of different Americans over the years. From American Indians of various tribes, to immigrants from England and Spain, to southern colonists and beyond, this area is rich with the histories of many differing cultures.

Nowhere is this more apparent than at Fort San Marcos de Apalache, which sheltered members of all of these groups at one point or another. Now, visitors can explore the fort was first built on this land in 1679, by taking a self-guided tour through the grounds, watching a video that depicts many moments of historical significance, and visiting the museum that houses artifacts that have been recovered from the area.

Explore the significance of the railroads on a beautiful recreational trail

In many ways, the history of the railroads are intertwined with the history of the United States itself. The construction of the railroad tells the stories of expansion, capitalism, and America’s ascension to a world power. Florida’s first operating railroad was built in parts of Wakulla County in 1836, and it is now home to the Tallahassee to St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail.

This 16-mile paved recreational trail is fit for walkers of all fitness levels, and it winds through the lush forests of the Florida panhandle. Along the way, be sure to check the plaques for information about the railroad’s role in transporting crucial goods such as cotton throughout the southeastern U.S.

Go back in time in a coastal lighthouse

Many people don’t stop to think about the historical importance of lighthouses, but they played a critical role in the times before electricity was available and ships were the dominant form of transportation. The St. Marks Lighthouse is the second oldest lighthouse in Florida, and first shone a light for incoming ships in 1831. This beautiful structure has withstood over 100 hurricanes throughout its lifespan, and it remains the only lighthouse in the state with wooden stairs.

Explore more of the incredible history that makes up the fabric of Wakulla County

These historical attractions only scratch the surface when it comes to all of the educational opportunities in Wakulla County. Whether you want to stand on an actual Civil War battlefield or explore the remnants of the earliest settled towns in the area, there is still so much to see and do. With our numerous options for convenient accommodations, Wakulla County is the perfect location for a back-to-school historical adventure.

There’s just something about lighthouses that inspire us to dream big and consider all of life’s possibilities. Perhaps it’s because they are located where the land meets the sea, standing as a beacon for those who are willing to traverse the globe. Whatever the case may be, one of the most historic and beautiful lighthouses in Florida, the St. Marks Lighthouse, is located right here in Wakulla County.

The St. Marks Lighthouse is located at the mouth of the St. Marks river, and looks out over the stunning Apalachee Bay. Its lamps were first lit in 1831, and it continues to play an important role in the region both in a historical sense, and as an active navigational aid for marine vessels on the bay.

The genesis of the lighthouse

The history of the St. Marks Lighthouse begins before Florida even became a state in the union. By 1828, the Apalachee Bay had become an important shipping corridor for the southeastern United States and territories, and the St. Marks river was a crucial thoroughfare for agricultural products coming into Florida and southern Georgia. Due to the shallowness of the surrounding delta, many ships were having difficulty navigating the transition, and some were ending up grounded.

It was at this time the Governor of the Florida territory called for a lighthouse commission, and an act was soon passed by the U.S. House of Representatives which established funds for a lighthouse to be built at the mouth of the river. Despite cost overruns and disagreements between the builders and local officials over the structural integrity of the lighthouse, it was eventually completed and authorized in 1831.

Standing the test of time

The St. Marks lighthouse has faced many dangers throughout the decades that have threatened its survival. In 1842, only a few years after it began operating, the tower was moved inland due to erosion concerns (a new tower was constructed, but the original lantern was moved intact).

Hurricanes have also posed a problem for the legacy of the lighthouse, as several unusually strong storms battered the Gulf coast in the 1840s and 1850s. One particular hurricane in September of 1843 seriously damaged the nearby town of St. Marks, yet the lighthouse was left standing.

But the lighthouse saw its most significant challenge with the outbreak of the Civil War. As the war neared its end, Confederate Troops were ordered to guard the lighthouse, but the area was eventually attacked by a fleet of Union ships in the Apalachee Bay. The Confederates attempted to destroy the structure to prevent it from falling into Union hands, but they were unable to bring it to the ground. It was restored shortly after the conclusion of the war.

What’s in store for the future

The St. Marks Lighthouse is now under the watch of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and has been added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It is set to undergo a $550,000 renovation soon, ensuring its elegance and history can be appreciated by generations to come.

When visiting the Gulf Coast this year, be sure to include Fort San Marcos de Apalache State Park on their travel itineraries – especially if you are a history buff!

Come for the History at Fort San Marcos de Apalache

Fort San Marcos de Apalache is situated at Tucker’s Point on the banks of the St. Mark’s River where it joins the Wakulla River just north of Apalachee Bay. From this vantage point, the Spanish established a wooden stockade to oversee their expansion in Northwestern Florida as early as 1679.

Today, Spanish, English, American, and Confederate flags fly over the park to celebrate the area’s rich history. Guests to the park can visit the site’s museum which was built upon the fort’s original Marine hospital. The museum houses archaeological treasures unearthed near the original fort site.

As visitors explore the grounds, they walk the same grounds as soldiers from America’s past including colonial occupiers and American heroes. Visitors can see firsthand the evidence of the park’s rich history including gravesites of American soldiers from General Andrew Jackson’s occupation of the site during the Seminole Wars remains of Confederate earthworks and powder magazine from the Civil War archaeological ruins dating back to the colonial Spanish era including a military bombproof and bastion.

Stay for the Nature at Fort San Marcos de Apalache

Because of the Fort’s location within the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, nature enthusiasts can appreciate their park experience as well. The park offers numerous hiking trails and tranquil fishing spots. Freshwater and salty seawater mix at the estuary at Tucker’s Point. Unique species that thrive in that environment include speckled trout, redfish, and sheepshead. Barbeque grills and picnic tables are provided throughout the park to facilitate your visit.

It’s about time to plan a visit to Wakulla County! Fort San Marcos de Apalache offers free admission to the park and is open Thursday through Monday, year-round, and is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Whether you are in need of lodging or attraction information, visit us at www.visitwakulla.com to help plan your trip to Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast.