Location: Palatka
Top Things to do in Palatka
What to do and see in Palatka, United States: The Best Places and Tips
Palatka (pronounced puh-lat-kuh) is a city in Putnam County, Florida, United States. The population was 10,558 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Putnam County. Palatka is the principal city of the Palatka Micropolitan Statistical Area, which is home to 72,893 residents. The city is also home to St. Johns River State College, St. Johns River Water Management District Headquarters, and Ravine Gardens State Park. The area is well known for its local festivals, most notably the Florida Azalea Festival and the Blue Crab Festival.
Restaurants in Palatka
1. Ravine Gardens State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 246 reviews
The park has two ravines up to 120 feet deep with steep banks at 45 degree angles. Unlike common gullies, trenches or sinkholes caused by temporary flooding, the steephead ravine is a permanent feature with a spring-fed creek that never dries up, called Whitewater Branch. The underground water bubbling up cuts into the bank and carries the sand and soil downstream to the St. Johns River. Over thousands of years the ravine has widened and deepened to what you see today. In 1933, this ravine was transformed into a dramatic garden by the federal Works Progress Administration. Much of the original landscaping still exists as formal gardens and an extensive trail system. A 1.8-mile paved road winds around the ravine, offering motorists and bicyclists a view of the gardens. The Ravine Loop is closed to vehicle traffic one hour before sunset, but remains open for pedestrians, bicycles, and wheelchairs. The garden's peak flowering period is azalea season, late January to April. Numerous picnic sites, equipped with tables and grills, are available to visitors. The Roy E. Campbell Civic Center complex features a large covered pavilion, auditorium, and meeting rooms that are available for rent. Located in Palatka at 1600 Twigg Street.
Reviewed By George E - Gainesville, Florida
The time to visit Ravine Gardens is in the Spring, when the azaleas are in bloom. It is a pretty walk at other times, but the azaleas are the big attraction. Geologically interesting, as well
2. Riverfront Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 59 reviews
Reviewed By X6071TYmarkh - Palatka, Florida
Very nice sense it's been redone.Nice place to sit and relax looking out over the water and then the walk way that go's under the bridge is very nice on the water.
3. City of Murals
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 52 reviews
Reviewed By Mary M - Tulsa, Oklahoma
Visited Palatka for the first time to attend the Blue Crab Festival. Nice, quaint small town with beautiful murals painted on the sides of many of the buildings. Worth taking the time to stroll through and take in the artistic beauty!
4. Uncork & Unwind Beer & Wine Lounge
Overall Ratings
5 based on 16 reviews
Reviewed By John C - Crescent City, Florida
Friendly beer and wine bar near the river. They have a great selection of wines and craft beers. They don't serve food but you can bring your own or order sushi or pizza delivery. They also have a Cuban food truck there sometimes that is very good.
5. Bronson-Mulholland House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 19 reviews
Built in 1854, The Bronson-Mulholland House stands today as a testament to the City of Palatka's rich history. It is fully furnished with period appropriate decor. Free, guided tours are available Thursday-Monday Noon till Five (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). It is also available for weddings and other events.
Reviewed By FloridaTraveler32177 - Palatka
The old southern mansion has been kept at its best. Well kept by the local area and is well worth a stop over. Of course certain hours for visiting, so recommend finding out those times so you can visit the inside area.
6. St. Johns River Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 16 reviews
Reviewed By Mamadea - Palatka, Florida
I attended only one time for a children's birthday party. I love the fact that the party was combined with learning about the St John's River and its flora and fauna. The children were free to roam about and explore the exhibits. Some of these were hands on. There were staff members available to answer questions and help the children make the most of the fun learning experience.
7. Rice Creek Conservation Area
Overall Ratings
5 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By usbrowns - Middleburg, FL
The Rice Creek Conservation Area was once a rice plantation. Now the conservation area is a public property with miles of trails and boardwalks. The property boasts one of the oldest cypress trees in the state and host part of the Florida Trail. When you want a walk through the woods that really gets you away head on over to Rice Creek Conservation Area and get away for a bit.
8. Skydive Palatka
Overall Ratings
5 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By adiamondc2 - Jacksonville, Florida
You haven't really lived UNTIL you've jumped. It is an amazingly invigorating experience that words cannot describe - Being 2 - 2.5 miles above the planet with nothing but clouds and space between you and heaven....Totally awesome and so surprisingly serene.
The team is awesome in helping you to know what to expect, ensuring your safety and easing your anxiety.
I went with a group of thirteen. We all tandem jumped; and we all have a new, greater appreciation each other and for life.
I recommend paying the additional fee for a video and pictures for your first jump; you will probably never ever have that same set of emotions as you have on your very first jump.
Another check on my "Bucket List".
9. Palatka Golf Club
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Just over the expansive waters of the St. Johns River and through the quaint downtown of Palatka, you’ll find a vintage course that offers an authentic experience at a reasonable cost. Palatka Golf Club was designed by Donald Ross in 1925. In a natural, clutter-free environment, the holes gently tumble over the sandy ridges and wrap the tranquil woods of Ravine Gardens State Park. The experience at Palatka Golf Club revolves around the game’s traditional cornerstones: a reasonable price, interesting holes, and a pleasant staff that loves golf as much as you do. The course can be played quickly and enjoyably, offering golfers the best thrills of the game without taking up the day. So if you’re looking for a course that is big on fun and light on your wallet, find your way to the great golf at Palatka Golf Club!
Reviewed By DQPH - Pinehurst, North Carolina
I love fancy resort courses like most people - but this Hidden gem municipal election course delivers ! It's has a fancy pedigree as a historic Donald Ross 1925 layout and a fun attitude with $20 golf - the best of both worlds!
10. Lifted Spirits Vape & More (Craft Beer, Mead, & Vape Lounge)
Overall Ratings
5 based on 2 reviews
Putnam County's #1 Premiere Vape, Craft Beer, & Artisan Mead Lounge. Providing the Largest selection of E-liquids and Vape Gear in the County. Featuring a 1500sq ft lounge, pool table, TV's, PS4, Golden Tee, Music, Craft Beers and Meads.
Reviewed By Jessie S
Lifted Spirits is a warm friendly environment with a very knowledgeable staff, not only with e-juice but with craft beer as well. Their e-juices are delicious and a priced great. They have a wide variety of craft beer and meads, imo the best in North Florida. If you're in the area it's definitely worth a visit.
TAGS
