Bicentennial festivities and museum exhibits celebrate area history and accomplishments
WASHINGTON COUNTY, FLORIDA–MARCH 2025–Throughout 2025, Washington County, Florida, is inviting visitors to join locals in a Bicentennial celebration that honors its past and celebrates all this county and its vibrant communities have to offer today. Festivities throughout the year will incorporate a nod to the anniversary. They include the official bicentennial kickoff celebration at the Vernon Heritage Festival in April, monument dedications, a time capsule burial, programs at public libraries and many more events.
Located just an hour north of Panama City in the center of Northwest Florida, Washington County spans Interstate 10, midway between Pensacola and Tallahassee.
The history and culture of Washington County are always a point of interest and are a major lure for many who visit the area. The celebration of the county’s 200th anniversary gives visitors even more reason to explore its past while enjoying the attractions and amenities of today. An online headquarters for the celebration includes a timeline that details events and activities which played a role in shaping Washington County since it was declared Florida’s 12th county by the Florida Territorial Council in 1825. The saw mill community of Caryville, Ebro’s logging history and its connection to the Choctawhatchee, the stories of Wausau as an evolving center of commerce, Chipley’s historic ties to the railroad and the resilience of Vernon, the center of the region’s water commerce, are all being celebrated online and through community events this year. And the county invites visitors to come explore these communities and enjoy all they have to offer today.
A visit to the Washington County Historical Society Museum (685 7th Avenue, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-638-0358) is an excellent way to begin any exploration of the area’s history. The museum’s exhibits include an introduction to Chipley’s South Third Street Historic District. Designated a U.S. 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. From the everyday appeal of the variety of downtown shops and restaurants to themed monthly activities like Downtown Chipley Thursday Night Lights (Main Street and Railroad Avenue, Chipley, Florida 32428), these classic downtowns have a contemporary atmosphere that welcomes visitors to stay and explore.
Washington County is always a popular area for visitors to enjoy paddling the county’s sparkling clear waterways through some of the most scenic areas of Northwest Florida. It is also known for outstanding attractions. In downtown Chipley, the historic Spanish Trail Playhouse (680 2nd Street, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-638-9113) which began performances in 1962, resumed them in 2008 following revitalization by a committed arts community. Nearby, the renowned Seacrest Wolf Preserve (3449 Bonnett Pond Road, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-773-2897) is one of only a few of its kind in the world and gives visitors an opportunity to interact with wolves in hands-on experiences.
Where to stay
Lodging options offer both comfort and convenience and a variety that meets the needs of any travelers. There are hotels and motels conveniently located near Intrastate 10. In the heart of Chipley, 1920s-era Sullivan House Bed & Breakfast (1305 West Church Avenue, Chipley, Florida 32428; 850-900-7464) offers one-of-a-kind lodging within walking distance of restaurants, shopping and other downtown attractions. For those who prefer to camp, Falling Waters State Park (1130 State Park Road, Chipley, FL 32428) and Holmes Creek Camping & RV Resort (3486 Highway 79, Vernon, Florida 32462; 850-535-0777) each have full hook-up sites in beautiful settings.