Florida County Seats Map - CCCarto

Florida boasts several picturesque county seats that are both tourist-friendly and rich in historic charm. These places often feature beautiful courthouses, vibrant public spaces, and scenic waterways.

1. St. Augustine - St. Johns County: As the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine is renowned for its historic architecture and photogenic landscapes. The St. Johns County Courthouse, an elegant building with a red-tiled roof and distinctive clock tower, complements the city's Spanish colonial charm. The historic district is home to beautiful parks like the Plaza de la Constitución, which hosts bandstands and frequent events. The city is also graced by scenic waterways, including the Matanzas River, which adds to its picturesque appeal.

2. Sarasota - Sarasota County: Sarasota is celebrated for its cultural and architectural beauty. The Sarasota County Courthouse, designed by architect Dwight James Baum, is a stunning example of Mediterranean Revival style. The city’s downtown area is vibrant, featuring the iconic Sarasota Bandstand at Selby Five Points Park. The nearby Sarasota Bay and the numerous parks and public spaces make it a pleasant destination for tourists.

3. Tallahassee - Leon County: The state capital, Tallahassee, boasts a historic courthouse and a lively downtown area. The Old Capitol, with its distinctive dome and classical architecture, serves as a centerpiece for the city’s historical charm. The city also has beautiful parks like Cascades Park, which includes a bandstand and a scenic water feature, the Capital City’s diverse public spaces enhancing its appeal.

4. Gainesville - Alachua County: Gainesville is known for its vibrant cultural scene and beautiful public spaces. The Alachua County Courthouse, a historic building with charming architecture, stands in the heart of the city. The surrounding parks, such as Depot Park and the scenic Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, provide lush green spaces and walking paths that are perfect for tourists. The city is also intersected by several small streams and rivers that add to its natural beauty.

5. Winter Park - Orange County: Winter Park is renowned for its picturesque charm and is home to the historic Winter Park Courthouse. The city is known for its beautiful parks, including Central Park, which features a lovely bandstand and picturesque surroundings. The city’s scenic lakes and waterways, such as Lake Virginia, add to its allure, making it a favorite among visitors looking for a blend of history and natural beauty.

6. Mount Dora - Lake County: Mount Dora is a quaint, historic town known for its charming courthouse and picturesque streets. The Lake County Courthouse is a focal point in this small town, with its classical design complementing the historic ambiance of the area. Mount Dora’s waterfront parks, like Donnelly Park, offer scenic views of Lake Dora, and the town’s various festivals and events make it a lively destination for tourists.

7. Apalachicola - Franklin County: This small, historic town on the Gulf Coast is known for its well-preserved architecture and scenic beauty. The Franklin County Courthouse, with its classic design, stands in the heart of Apalachicola’s historic district. The town’s waterfront parks, such as Battery Park, offer stunning views of the Apalachicola River and provide a serene atmosphere for visitors.

In terms of population size, Miami-Dade County is the largest in Florida, with a population of over 2.8 million people. On the other end of the spectrum, Liberty County is one of the smallest, with a population of around 8,000 residents.

For county seats, Jacksonville, which serves as the seat of Duval County, is the most populous with over 900,000 residents. Crawfordville, the seat of Wakulla County, is one of the smallest with a population of about 4,000 people.

These county seats not only offer stunning architecture and public spaces but also provide a snapshot of Florida's diverse and vibrant character, making them ideal destinations for those seeking both historical charm and natural beauty.