A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach
Image courtesy of Meerkat Media Group
Explore Fernandina Beach’s Most Walkable Historic Attractions
Fernandina Beach is filled with colorful Victorian architecture, waterfront views, and lots of history. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or going on a relaxing afternoon stroll, this walking tour through downtown Fernandina Beach highlights the best sights and local restaurants along the way.
Learn More about Architectural History
Fernandina Beach has one of the most unique Florida historic destinations, with Victorian homes and buildings from the late 1800s. The community has preserved the beautiful homes for hundreds of years to maintain their historic character.
One notable example is the Tabby House, situated on the corner of Ash and 7th Street. The Tabby House got its name from the rare mixture of cement and oyster shells, known as tabby, which covers the facade. It was built in Fernandina’s Golden Age, standing out from the other Victorian Houses in downtown and is the only tabby house left standing.
Another architectural treasure is the Prescott House located a street over from the Tabby House. After the Civil War, Lieutenant Josiah Prescott built this elegant white, two story home featuring beautiful bay windows. Mr. Prescott was very involved in Fernandina’s community and his house became a model for many homes in town.
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Lastly, Fernandina Beach’s Historic Post Office is central to the city. The building’s impressive Italian Renaissance design has stood since 1912, serving as a lasting reminder of the community’s rich history and heritage.
Visit Popular Shops and Bars
After taking in the beautiful architecture, continuing your walk you will come across Centre Street. Browse Fernandina's fashionable boutiques like Twisted Sisters which is the number one boutique on the street. This shop has amazing Florida-inspired clothing, accessories, and home decor. Another fun stop is Trailer Park Collectibles, a popular antique store filled with lots of affordable treasures from handcrafted furniture to vintage vinyls. Visitors also love Salty Local, where you can find gifts like jewelry, clothing, and even cocktail mixers.
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Speaking of cocktails, the next stop on the walking tour is The Palace Saloon, the oldest continuously operating bar in Florida. Its stained wooden swinging doors and hand-carved mahogany bar transport visitors back to the early 1900s. Guests can enjoy a whiskey on the rocks before heading to the area's new waterfront park.
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Walk Across the Beautiful Harbor
Sitting at The Palace Saloon is wonderful to see, but no walking tour is complete without a stop at the harbor. The all new two million dollar Waterfront Park connects residents and visitors to the Amelia River. You and your family can enjoy live music, the sea breeze, while learning about the city’s maritime history.
Finish Your Tour with Wild-Caught Seafood
On this walking tour, the last stop is a must see. Come join us at Timoti’s Seafood Shak right near the Waterfront Park. We are a casual seafood restaurant known for fresh wild caught seafood and a laid back atmosphere.