Between Jacksonville toward the east and Tallahassee to the west, inside the north-central region of Florida, is where you’ll find Lake City. The community of Lake City was just over 12,000 there at the time of the most recent census. Despite the fact that the region was first settled in the 1820s, it took almost three decades for the city to be formally incorporated.
State parks, ancient sites, celebrations, and even an amount of artistic and cultural attractions are just a few of the recreational options available to visitors to Lake City.
Table of Contents
Where is lake City Florida?
In northern Florida, United States, Lake City is a city as well as the county courthouse of Columbia County. It is situated 46 miles to the north of Gainesville and 60 miles northwest of Jacksonville. “The Gateway to Florida” is how the city is known. It was resolved in 1821 and fully integrated in 1859. Lake City Gateway Airport is located to the east of the town center.
The Florida Access College is located in the city. The city is served by Interstates 10 and 75. The city’s attractions include Lake City Bowl, Alligator Lake Park, Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park, Located south Sports Centre, and Columbia County Learning Center. Small lakes like Alligator Body of water and Lake De Soto can be found in the city.
The settlement grew as a hub for mixed farming. Tourism, phosphorous mining, forest products, industrial production (including the production of mobile homes), and equipment for aircraft repair are additional economic drivers.
How safe is Florida to travel?
With just over 12,000 residents, Lake City is a small town, but due to the volume of traffic that passes through it, up to six million people could be present in the city at any particular time.
It’s a momentary town with such a high crime rate, especially close to the interstate highways. Due to the small number of inhabitants, any change in the number of crimes could significantly alter the percentage. Because of this and the large number of travelers who pass through the area, some of the statistics may be skewed, according to the police.
Dangers & Alerts for Lake City
Total Risk: MODERATE
Overall, the risk is moderate. Although there is a high rate of crime here, the percentages are somewhat skewed because of the small population, and the risk decreases when you take into account the number of travelers. Unless you are visiting family or for business, it is a very “in and out” town.
Taxi & Transportation Risk
RISK OF TRANSPORT AND TAXES: SMALL
Let’s be sincere. You most likely have a car if you reside in Lake City. Since there isn’t an airport nearby, you’d need to drive there, and the area isn’t a major tourist attraction with lots of shuttle options. It’s fortunate that you have a vehicle.
RISK OF PICKPOCKETS: LOW
In 2020, there were only two pickpocket reports. Given this and the fact that only 157 thefts in total have been reported, the likelihood is low.
Risk of Natural Disasters
RISK OF NATURAL CATASTROPHES: MEDIUM
Here, a serious thunderstorm with a tornado’s potential poses the biggest threat. A tornado struck a neighborhood in February 2021, causing damage. By the time they reach this region of the state, hurricanes are typically just tropical storms or bouts of depression, that can still cause flood damage.
Things to do in lake City Florida
If you are planning to visit this city then you must know some of the best places. Along with the best activities to do there. We have given all the important information below about the things and places in the city.
1. Osceola National Forest is one.
In north-central Florida, on some more than 200,000 hectares of pristine land, is the Osceola National Forest, which bears the name of a renowned Seminole warrior. It provides visitors with a wide range of activity options, which include fishing, hiking, bike riding, and backpacking. It is one of the biggest attractions in the area for outdoorsy types and sportsmen.
A vast network of inter trails connects the majority of the forest’s river systems, lakes, marshes, and pine forests. Make sure you have everything you need before you leave because campsites may fill up quickly during busy times and some seasonal actions, like catching fish, may call for special permits.
2. Historic Columbia County Museum
Lake City’s downtown is situated on SE Hernando Avenue. The 1870s-era house that serves as the Columbia County Historical Museum is filled with fascinating facts about the history, culture, and financial system of the area.
The old house has a distinctive architectural design that was usual in the region in the nineteenth century. Along with its exhibits, it also has antique furniture, artwork, and household items that give visitors a fascinating glimpse into life nearly 150 years ago.
Check the museum’s schedule prior to planning a special trip as it is only accessible from 10 AM to 1 PM just a few times a week.
3. Olustee Festival
The Olustee Festival in Lake City honors the region’s lengthy past, which goes all the way back to pre-Civil War times. The festival, which typically occurs in February each year, is very well for the protest march and Civil War fight reenactments.
It’s a totally special spectacle for antiquity and military enthusiasts, featuring hundreds of soldiers, police, and cavalry military units dressed in period-appropriate uniforms and equipment for a memorable and immersive experience. Plan to arrive a little early if you can because chair areas all along the caravan route are scarce.
4. The Gateway Gallery of Art
Florida has long served as a source of inspiration for artists due to its pleasant climate and abundance of natural beauty. The Gateway Art Gallery, which is in Lake City on North Marion Main road, is the ideal location to find a wide range of locally made items that are unique.
Gateway showcases everything from artwork to stained bottles, carvings, and photographers. Along with the exhibits, the gallery offers a variety of special events, courses, and programs all year long that are targeted at art lovers, collectibles, and aspiring as well as established artists who travel from near and far.
5. Webb’s Antique Mall
Florida experiences near-perfect weather for most of the year, but during the sweltering summer months, the heat and humidity frequently make outdoor activities uncomfortable. It’s smart to have a few backup indoor exercise options for when that occurs.
One of Lake City’s most distinctive retail locations, Webb’s Antique Mall offers a wide variety of goods. Every day Webb’s is open, as well as for those with patience and persistence, there’s always a chance of finding one or two valuable gems. It’s a fantastic spot to get a souvenir to keep as a memento of your journey.
6. State Park at Olustee Battlefield
This same largest Civil War fight in the state took place in Olustee in February 1864 when more than 10,000 Union and Confederate soldiers met just on the battlefield there. There were thousands of casualties in the battle, which involved troops from everywhere in the nation. There is no prime spot to visit than Olustee Battlefield State Park for those who are curious to learn more about this amazing event.
The park encompasses a museum and visitor’s center that are rich in historical artifacts. Visitors can easily explore the grounds using the well-marked paths that are peppered with plaques and offer fascinating insights about how the battle unfolded.
7. Lake City’s Country Club
The Country Club at Lake City, another of the area’s top destinations for recognizing golfers, has an 18-hole national title course. The par-72 course is suitable for players of most ages and abilities and is renowned for its picturesque natural setting and immaculate greens and lawns.
The course’s numerous treed areas, as well as its abundance of sand and sandbars, add to its pleasant difficulty. Even though it’s not the cheapest choice within the area, it’s the ideal option for those seeking a distinctive experience. Make a tee time reservation in advance, especially if you’re going to play during a busy period.
8. Halpatter Brewing Company
Even though Halpatter Brewery is one of the town’s latest contributions to the craft beer scene, it has quickly developed a devoted following. There is no better way to unwind after a strenuous day of walking than with a cold beer, and Halpatter is sure to have something to whet your appetite no matter what kind you prefer.
In Lake City, on NE Hernando Avenue, they have a selection of beers, ranging from stouts to IPAs. Additionally, they offer a wide selection of delectable food that have both interior and exterior seating areas. There are frequent musical performances on Saturdays and Sundays as well.
9. Falls at Falling Creek
Florida has one of the shallowest states in the nation, so waterfalls are definitely not its claim to fame. On the other hand, a visit to Falling Creek Falls will be a fantastic way to pass the time for anyone who finds themself in Lake City with some downtime.
Interstate 10 is only a short distance from the falls. The deep golden waters spiraling over the sandstone terrace are especially picturesque and a favorite photo opportunity for passersby, despite only being about 10 feet tall.
You can get close to the drops without getting dirty and wet thanks to the parking area that is located right off the road and the boardwalk that connects the lot to the falls.
10. Recreation at Alligator Lake
Alligator Lake Recreation Area offers visitors a variety of alternate activity options that have been known to keep many visitors occupied for days even though swimming isn’t advised in a recreation area known for its plentiful alligators.
Recreational activities like mountain biking, hiking, and canoeing are very popular at the 1,000-acre lake and park in Lake City. In addition to being a well-liked fishing location, Alligator Lake is also known for being home to largemouth bass that regularly weighs more than 10 pounds.
There are many developed and undeveloped areas in the leisure center, as well as many covered picnic tables and hygienic restrooms.
FAQs
What is lake city Florida known for?
For outdoorsy types, festival goers, music fans, or those who just want to spend some time in a peaceful, serene environment, this pristine region of Florida is like a natural amusement park.
Does there any beach in lake city Florida?
No there is no beach in lake city Florida. The closest beach is Miami Beach which is 33 miles far from the city.
Is lake city Florida good place to live?
Yes, lake city Florida is a very happy and peaceful place to live. However, there may be a slight danger just like in every other city.
Conclusion
Because it has something for everyone and has lovely places to visit, Lake City is a great place to go on that friends and family vacation you have been planning for a while.
In the Californian city of Lake City, you can find parks for recreation, bars, golf courses, gardening and playroom games, malls and shops, jewelry, accessories, good food, farmers markets, great beverages, studios, artworks, and art galleries, among other things.
Therefore, since you are certain to have a wonderful and unforgettable trip, why don’t you start planning your fun vacation to the fun-filled city right away?
