A Small, Quiet Town On Florida's Nature Coast Features Vintage Diners And Scenic River Trails

Planning a Florida getaway but want to avoid the typical tourist traps of Miami, Orlando, and the like? If you're a fan of the great outdoors, the is definitely a great place to start. This part of the Sunshine State stretches for more than along the Gulf of Mexico, now known as the Gulf of America. Encompassing all of eight counties and nearly a million acres, this  section snakes up the western side of the state from Pasco County, just north of Tampa, all the way up to Wakulla County in the Panhandle. Lying somewhere in the  is , a remote region known for its  and down-home  such as the  town of Cross City.

Straddling about  west of Gainesville, Cross City may be considered Dixie County's community, but it's still your quintessential small town, with vintage diners and miles upon miles of scenic river trails to boot. The area takes up only about  of real estate, serving as home to a little over 1,600 people. 

Dating back to the late 1890s, Cross City has deep roots as a logging hub, thanks to its surrounding . The Putnam Lumber Company was among the early logger giants, helping to in Cross City's development. The lumber distributor set up shop in the area in the 1920s, founding a company town called Shamrock on the of Cross City, which was then called Crossroads — a nod to its founding near the junction of two major trade routes, the and the Old Salt Road.

To explore the wilds of Florida and immerse yourself in Cross City's fascinating history, get out on the  The historic route follows the old rail lines of the Atlantic Coastline Railroad. Cutting through the  for about 32 miles, the path begins at the Cross City Trailhead, located  U.S. Route 19/98. There, you'll find a  as well as if you want to have a snack before starting your trek. 

The trail connects Cross City with several nearby towns, including Fanning Springs, Trenton, and Chiefland. The lattermost city, known as the "Gem of the Suwannee Valley," is a hidden corner of west Florida that serves as the gateway to Manatee Springs State Park. The wilderness space the Suwannee River, offering about of trails to roam through lush . There's also an 800-foot boardwalk, not to mention opportunities for scuba diving, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. Fanning Springs State Park and its great views of Suwannee River's rushing waters is also . state parks charge a  fee per vehicle to enter, at the time of writing. 

A handful of other wildlife parks can also be found nearby, including the , , and Wildlife Management Areas, which are all less than a 45-minute drive away. Looking for more places to visit in the area? The laidback river town of Steinhatchee, just of Cross City, is one of the best-kept secrets on Florida's Gulf Coast.

Whether you're just staying the night or planning an extended vacation, Cross City offers several great lodging options for every budget. The historic at the aforementioned crossroads of the Old Spanish Trail and the Old Salt Road, offering guests a special blend of history and contemporary amenities. As one former guest shared on Tripadvisor: "What a great old spot lovingly restored ... [Wonderful] hospitality and very nice room. If you're looking for [an] old Florida experience, we recommend this gem." 

Built in 1927 by the Putnam Lumber Company, the restored hotel has and an on-site . The only downside is that the chophouse is only open for supper from Thursday to Saturday. The good news is that the Cypress Inn Restaurant, which serves up savory  staples, is located  to the lodge if you get hungry. If you're traveling with an , the Putnam Lodge does offer campsites for rent, with rates ranging between $40 and $55 per night, at the time of writing.

The  is another good choice for a stay. Standing from the Nature Coast State Trail, standard room rates at the two-story European-style property currently start at $69.95 per night, while larger family rooms go for $89.95. In addition to a pool, the motel also has a restaurant on hand, called the Taste of Dixie Diner. "All of the food was prepared fresh and was delicious," a prior patron wrote on Tripadvisor. "Best iced tea I've ever had. The prices were unbeatable."