One-of-a-kind shops, historic sites, a classic Southern playhouse, cat lounge and wolf preserve welcome visitors
WASHINGTON COUNTY, FLORIDA–AUGUST 2024–Washington County, Florida, is a diverse destination known for its many outdoor activities, including some of Northwest Florida’s most popular paddling runs. But at its heart are thriving downtowns filled with personality and a growing number of shopping and dining venues and activities for the whole family. Historic districts, farm markets, performing arts and street parties are all a part of the appeal here, just an hour’s drive north of Panama City in Northwest Florida.
There’s no better primer for exploring the county’s culture and heritage than to embark on one of the area’s intriguing online historical tours. Details of downtown Chipley’s establishment and growth, along with accounts of historic events throughout the county are relayed through stories, photos and audio. Next, a visit to the Washington County Historical Society Museum (685 7th Avenue, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-638-0358), located at the Chipley Farmer’s Market Complex, is a must. The museum is a great introduction to Chipley’s South Third Street Historic District. Designated a US historic district in 1989, the area includes 13 historic homes. Nearby, the Vernon Historical Society Museum (2808 Yellow Jacket Drive, Vernon, Florida 32462; 860-875-4326) offers a fascinating overview of the rich heritage of the region through engaging exhibits, artifacts and displays that showcase the unique history of Vernon.
Today, these towns are more vibrant than ever. That is no more evident than on the third Thursday of each month when businesses, residents and visitors celebrate Downtown Chipley Thursday Night Lights (Main Street and Railroad Avenue, Chipley, Florida 32428). In this celebration of community, shops stay open late, food trucks and downtown eateries offer a variety of fare, and live entertainment, children’s activities and games dot the downtown streets. Each month offers a different theme.
Any day of the month visitors can find a variety of shops to explore in downtown Chipley. Main Street Market (1251 Jackson Avenue, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-638-7755) is a charming fresh market offering local produce, homemade canned goods, Amish products and Southern Craft Creamery ice cream. Those looking for a souvenir find or a special piece for their home can find it at Louis and Nash Mercantile (829 Main Street, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-730-2996), with its charming selection of home decor and unique gifts.
The perfect escape for animal lovers, Purradise City (1333 South Railroad Avenue, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-486-1065) is a new addition to downtown Chipley. This “cat lounge” is a place patrons can hang out with (and even adopt) rescued felines while enjoying video, board and card games. They even offer childcare services.
Wild Roots Apothecary (831 Main Street, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-420-6150) specializes in herbs and remedies in addition to their welcoming tea room. Sage Brand Studio (1367 S. Railroad Avenue, Suite C, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-326-8906), is a full-service day spa and wellness boutique. The curated team of a cosmetologist, nail technician and permanent makeup artist are committed to providing customized, holistic services. Southern Roots & Co. (1067 Main Street, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-258-9157) is filled with trendy and chic clothing, accessories and decor items with a variety that creates the perfect blend of bohemian and modern styles.
Of course, shoppers need sustenance and 1901 On Main (803 Main Street, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-676-4122) is the place to find it. Open for lunch and dinner, this new addition to downtown invites wine enthusiasts to explore its curated selection in a welcoming atmosphere, along with wonderful tapas, unique craft beers and live entertainment daily.
Shoppers will find variety in downtown Vernon, too. Celebrating the area’s excellent diving, S.E.A. Divers Scuba (3005 Main Street, Vernon, Florida 32462; 334-406-4556) is a local dive shop that offers certification, dive trips to Cypress Spring and also night dives for experienced divers. Just down the street is Somsri’s Thrift & Treasures (3240 Main Street, Vernon, Florida 32462-2223; 850-326-2201), a one-of-a-kind combination of thrift store and food market. After checking out the thrift store shelves, visitors can choose from specialties including Cuban sandwiches and banana splits. More sweets can be found at Cafe au L.A. (3027 Main Street, Vernon, Florida 32462; 850-676-0358), which serves up coffee (regular and fancy) as well as protein shakes and Fancy Fizz! Snack items include a changing menu of cookies, muffins and other sweet tooth savories. Vernon’s newest dining spot is Effie’s Table (3005 Main Street, Vernon, Florida 32462; 850-658-3258), a Southern bistro that features salads, wraps and a variety of teas, and has the perfect space for local events.
Festivals and events are highlights of the annual calendar here as are the slate of productions at the historic Spanish Trail Playhouse (680 2nd Street, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-638-9113). Performances, which began at the playhouse in 1962, resumed in 2008 following revitalization by a committed arts community.
If you go
Beyond the streets of its quaint downtowns, Washington County has amazing attractions that bring visitors back year after year:
Paddling the more than 16,000 acres of freshwater treasures, including Holmes Creek, Choctawhatchee River and Econfina Creek is one of the most popular pastimes in Washington County.
- Cypress Springs Adventures (3324 Highway 277 Vernon, Florida 32462; 850-535-2004) offers kayak rentals on Holmes Creek, with a run to beautiful Cypress Springs, only accessible by water.
- Coldwater Excursions (23000 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach, Florida 32413; 850-358-8343) provides guided kayak tours.
- Econfina Kaku Rentals (850-354-3159) provides Kakus at designated sites for an Econfina Creek adventure.
- These businesses provide rental and shuttle service: Holmes Creek Canoe Livery (2899 A Highway 79, Vernon, Florida 32462; 850-210-7001) and Canoe Adventures (3342 Roche Avenue, Vernon, Florida 32462 ; 850-658-2816) and Econfina Creek Canoe Rentals (5641 Porter Pond Road, Youngstown, Florida 32466).
Seacrest Wolf Preserve (3449 Bonnett Pond Road, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-773-2897), one of only a few of its kind in the world, is home to 22 wolves and gives visitors an opportunity to interact with them in hands-on experiences. Seacrest’s mission is to provide a safe and humane sanctuary for these beautiful animals and to educate the public about this magnificent keystone species. The preserve offers Saturday group tours and VIP tours are offered by appointment.