Last Updated on April 9, 2025 by JJ
Florida is known for its pristine beaches, theme parks, and vibrant cities, but tucked away in its historic districts and quiet coastal towns are some of the most charming and historic inns in the country. These centuries-old lodgings offer guests a glimpse into Florida’s past, featuring Victorian mansions, Spanish colonial homes, and grand Southern estates that have been meticulously restored. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a ghostly adventure, or a refined retreat, Florida’s historic inns provide an unforgettable experience.
This guide will take you through the best historic inns in Florida, including their fascinating histories, nearby attractions, and must-visit restaurants for an immersive Old Florida getaway.
1. The Don CeSar – St. Pete Beach
???? 3400 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL
???? The Don CeSar
Nicknamed the “Pink Palace,” The Don CeSar has been an iconic beachfront destination since 1928. This Gatsby-era resort once hosted F. Scott Fitzgerald, Al Capone, and U.S. presidents, and remains a luxurious spot for travelers looking for historic charm with modern elegance. Originally built as a Roaring Twenties retreat, the hotel survived World War II as a military hospital before being restored to its former grandeur.
What to Do Nearby:
- Fort De Soto Park – Explore historic forts, pristine beaches, and scenic trails. Website
- The Dali Museum – A surreal experience dedicated to Salvador Dalí’s masterpieces. Website
Best Nearby Dining:
- Maritana at The Don CeSar – A fine-dining seafood experience within the hotel. Website
- Sea Critters Café – A laid-back waterfront eatery with fresh local seafood. Website
2. Casa Monica Resort & Spa – St. Augustine
???? 95 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL
???? Casa Monica Resort
Located in America’s oldest city, Casa Monica dates back to 1888, when it was built by Franklin W. Smith, a visionary who helped shape St. Augustine’s architecture. Later owned by Henry Flagler, the hotel became a favorite among Gilded Age socialites. Its Moorish Revival architecture, lavish décor, and hand-painted ceilings transport guests to another era.
What to Do Nearby:
- Castillo de San Marcos – The oldest masonry fort in the U.S. Website
- Flagler College – A breathtaking historic campus with Spanish Renaissance architecture. Website
Best Nearby Dining:
- Columbia Restaurant – A century-old Cuban-Spanish restaurant. Website
- Ice Plant Bar – A Prohibition-era cocktail bar with farm-to-table fare. Website
3. The Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast – Micanopy
???? 402 NE Cholokka Blvd, Micanopy, FL
???? The Herlong Mansion
This elegant Greek Revival mansion, built in 1845, is one of Florida’s most romantic and mysterious historic inns. Located in Micanopy, Florida’s “Town that Time Forgot,” the Herlong Mansion is known for its antique-filled rooms, beautiful oak trees, and eerie ghost stories. Guests can relax in the columned veranda or cozy fireplaces while soaking in the charm of Old Florida’s hidden gem.
What to Do Nearby:
- Paynes Prairie Preserve – Spot wild bison and wild horses in Florida’s most unique state park. Website
- Micanopy Antique District – Browse through antique shops and vintage finds in Florida’s oldest inland town.
Best Nearby Dining:
- Blue Highway Pizzeria – A locals’ favorite for artisan pizzas. Website
- Pearl Country Store & Barbecue – Some of Florida’s best BBQ in an unassuming gas station. Website
4. Island Hotel & Restaurant – Cedar Key
???? 373 2nd St, Cedar Key, FL
???? Island Hotel
Built in 1859, the Island Hotel is one of Florida’s oldest operating inns, retaining its rustic charm and ghostly legends. Originally a general store and post office, it later became a hotel that hosted soldiers, fishermen, and writers. Today, guests can enjoy old-world hospitality in Cedar Key, an unspoiled fishing village on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
What to Do Nearby:
- Cedar Key Museum State Park – Explore artifacts from early settlers and Native Americans. Website
- Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge – A birdwatcher’s paradise with trails and boardwalks. Website
Best Nearby Dining:
- Tony’s Seafood Restaurant – Famous for award-winning clam chowder. Website
- 83 West – A waterfront restaurant with fresh seafood. Website
5. The Gibson Inn – Apalachicola
???? 51 Avenue C, Apalachicola, FL
???? The Gibson Inn
Dating back to 1907, The Gibson Inn is a stunning coastal retreat that reflects Florida’s maritime history. Nestled in Apalachicola, the heart of Florida’s Forgotten Coast, this elegant inn was a favorite for seafarers and traders. Today, it offers charming verandas, antique furnishings, and an on-site bar with craft cocktails.
What to Do Nearby:
- Apalachicola Maritime Museum – Learn about Florida’s rich maritime history. Website
- St. George Island State Park – A secluded beach paradise just a short drive away. Website
Best Nearby Dining:
- Owl Café – A classic Southern-style restaurant with fresh seafood. Website
- Up the Creek Raw Bar – A laid-back oyster bar with views of the bay. Website
Plan Your Historic Florida Stay
Florida’s historic inns provide timeless elegance, fascinating stories, and unforgettable hospitality. Whether you prefer a seaside retreat, a Victorian mansion, or a rustic fishing lodge, these inns offer a glimpse into Florida’s past while providing modern comforts.
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