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About the Community
The descendants of one of the first settlers in High Springs still live here after 130 years. This charming little town is a perfect destination for a relaxing vacation with plenty to do and enjoy at your own pace. High Springs is located in Alachua County in beautiful north Florida. It is just northwest of Gainesville. This lovely town of less than six thousand multicultural people covers an area of more than twenty-two square miles and is home to some picturesque springs. Voted the “Friendliest Small Town” in Florida, High Springs has something for seekers of history, adventure, good food, recreation, and family fun. It is a major agricultural center for the surrounding area growing tobacco and peanuts.
The main attractions of the area are of course the numerous freshwater springs and eco-tourism destinations of International fame. Many of these are accessed only by boats while others offer the recreation facilities such as hiking, biking, and camping in the parks that surround them. Enjoy the beauty of nature at its very best when you canoe in the pristine rivers or dive or splash into the crispness of crystal clear springs. Popular spots include the Ichetucknee Springs Park and Poe Springs County Park. Ginnie Springs with its seven springs offers a host of facilities and water sports including snorkeling, swimming, and diving. There are camping and dining arrangements too.
Vicinity of High Springs
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High Springs has a lot to offer to the lovers of history. The first town to develop here was in the latter part of the nineteenth century. It was originally known as Orion and when the Savannah, Florida, and Western Railroad was extended from Live Oak to Gainesville in 1884, the post office and station was named Stantaffey, for the nearby Santa Fe River. High Springs boomed with the phosphate mining in the area. The town was incorporated in 1892 and was soon connected by railroad to Port Tampa. High Springs became an important railroad center by the beginning of the twentieth century, with a large yard and maintenance shops. Today High Springs houses a railroad museum. It is popularly known as the “Antique Capital” of North Central Florida.
A leisurely vacation in High Springs would have you shop for unique items you never thought you would find. Admire turn of the century buildings and homes as you stroll through the tree-lined streets of this historic railroad town. Browse through antique, specialty, and gift shops, art galleries, and artisan studios. Dine-in one of the many delightful cafes and tearooms or enjoy an evening out at one of the three theatres or a live music show. You can relax at one of the Spas and then turn in at one of the cozy Bed & Breakfast or Country Inns. High Springs captures all the charm of a small southern town to make for a relaxing and enjoyable break.