Exploring Palatka: Top Things to Do in Putnam’s County Seat

Welcome back to Putnam Pathways, the blog from Coldwell Banker Ben Bates, Inc., Realtors—your ultimate resource for discovering the hidden gems, real estate opportunities, and lifestyle perks of Putnam County, Florida. Nestled along the banks of the majestic St. Johns River, Palatka serves as the vibrant county seat and a gateway to the region’s natural beauty and rich history. As of July 2025, this charming city of about 10,500 residents continues to captivate visitors and newcomers alike with its blend of outdoor adventures, cultural events, and small-town hospitality. Often called the “Gem City of the St. Johns,” Palatka offers a peaceful escape from urban hustle while being centrally positioned in our “wagon wheel” network—just 45 minutes from Jacksonville, 40 minutes from historic St. Augustine, and under two hours from Orlando.

Whether you’re an out-of-state relocator eyeing affordable waterfront homes or a local family planning a weekend getaway, Palatka’s attractions highlight why Putnam County is Florida’s best-kept secret. From serene parks and historic tours to lively festivals and world-class fishing, there’s something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top things to do in Palatka, drawing on its riverfront allure, blooming gardens, and community spirit. Let’s dive in and uncover what makes this riverside town a must-visit destination.

Immerse Yourself in Nature at Ravine Gardens State Park

No trip to Palatka is complete without a visit to Ravine Gardens State Park, one of Florida’s nine New Deal-era state parks and a crown jewel of the area. Established in the 1930s as part of the Works Progress Administration, this 59-acre oasis features two dramatic ravines plunging up to 120 feet deep with steep 45-degree banks, carved by springs feeding into the St. Johns River. The park’s formal gardens, planted with thousands of azaleas, camellias, and other subtropical flora, burst into color during peak bloom seasons, creating a breathtaking tapestry of pinks, reds, and whites.

Hiking enthusiasts will love the 1.8-mile paved fitness trail looping around the ravines, offering scenic overlooks, suspension bridges, and shaded benches for reflection. For a more immersive experience, explore the Azalea Trail or the White Trail, both winding through lush forests and along crystal-clear springs. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sundown, with a modest entry fee of $5 per vehicle (up to eight people) or $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. Tips for visitors: Wear comfortable shoes for the steep paths, bring insect repellent during warmer months, and visit in early spring for the best blooms. For families or retirees seeking low-impact activity, the drive-through loop road provides stunning views without leaving your car.

Ravine Gardens isn’t just about passive enjoyment—it’s a hub for events like the annual Florida Azalea Festival, which celebrates its 76th year on February 22-23, 2025. Hosted by Revitalize Historic Palatka, this free event at the city dock features arts and crafts vendors, live music, food trucks, and azalea tours, drawing crowds to admire the park’s floral splendor. It’s a perfect introduction to Palatka’s community vibe, blending nature’s beauty with local culture.

Stroll and Relax at Riverfront Park

For a quintessential Palatka experience, head to Riverfront Park, a picturesque waterfront haven overlooking the St. Johns River. This expansive green space, complete with a fishing pier, kayak launch, walking trails, and picnic areas, is ideal for unwinding while watching boats glide by or the iconic Memorial Bridge light up at dusk. The park’s free 24-hour boat ramps accommodate up to 70 vehicles, making it a launch point for river explorations, and its spacious layout includes playgrounds, restrooms, and ample free parking.

Visitors rave about the serene atmosphere—perfect for birdwatching, yoga sessions, or simply enjoying a sunset. Nearby, the Putnam Historic Museum and restaurants add convenience, turning a casual visit into a full day out. As part of Palatka’s revitalization efforts, the park hosts community events year-round, emphasizing the city’s commitment to outdoor recreation. For relocators, proximity to such amenities boosts property values in downtown Palatka neighborhoods, where homes offer river views at affordable prices.

Dive into History with Tours and Sites

Palatka’s rich history, dating back to Native American settlements and 19th-century steamboat commerce, comes alive through its historic tours and landmarks. Start with the Bronson-Mulholland House, a stunning 1854 Greek Revival mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Operated by the Putnam County Historical Society, this antebellum gem offers guided tours showcasing period furnishings, Civil War artifacts, and stories of early settlers. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., admission is free (donations appreciated), and it’s a short walk from downtown.

For a broader perspective, join a historic walking tour of downtown Palatka, highlighting Victorian-era homes, churches from the 1800s, and the Old Atlantic Coast Line Union Depot—a restored railroad station now housing exhibits on the area’s transportation heritage. The Palatka Mural Tour is another highlight, featuring over 30 vibrant murals depicting local history, from steamboat days to modern festivals, scattered across building walls for a self-guided art walk.

Don’t miss the St. Johns River Center, an interactive museum educating visitors on the river’s ecology and history through exhibits, aquariums, and touch tanks. It’s a family-friendly spot that ties into Palatka’s identity as a river town, open Tuesday through Saturday with free entry.

Celebrate at Iconic Festivals

Palatka’s festival calendar pulses with energy, showcasing its community pride and drawing visitors from across Florida. The Blue Crab Festival, a nearly 30-year tradition, returns Memorial Day weekend, May 23-25, 2025, in downtown Palatka along the waterfront. This free event features national headliners, regional music across multiple stages, seafood vendors (crab boils galore), arts and crafts, kids’ activities, and fireworks. Hours are Friday 6-10 p.m., Saturday noon-10 p.m., and Sunday noon-9 p.m., with tips like arriving early for parking and trying local crab dishes. It’s a shell-ebration of Putnam’s coastal flair, perfect for families and foodies.

Earlier in the year, the Florida Azalea Festival blooms on February 22-23, 2025, coinciding with the Bass Masters Elite Series tournament for a double dose of excitement. Held at the city dock from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, it includes plant sales, live entertainment, a mayor’s reception at the Larimer Arts Center, and tours of blooming gardens. As one of Florida’s oldest festivals, it celebrates the azalea’s seasonal splendor, with free admission and shuttle services to Ravine Gardens.

Other events include the St. Johns River Catfish Festival in July and the Blueberry Festival in April, adding to Palatka’s year-round appeal.

Reel in Adventure: Fishing on the St. Johns River

Palatka’s prime location on the St. Johns River makes it a fishing mecca, with spots like Riverfront Park’s pier or public ramps at Lemon Bluff Road and Mullet Lake Park offering easy access. The river teems with largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill, especially in the lower basin near Palatka where grass beds and drop-offs provide ideal habitats. Tips: Use live shiners or plastic worms for bass, fish early mornings or evenings, and follow FWC regulations—a freshwater license is required ($17 for residents). Nearby, Crescent Lake connects via Dunns Creek for trophy catches, and guides like those from Bass Online can enhance your trip.

For variety, try bank fishing at Rodman Reservoir or hiring a charter for eco-tours spotting manatees.

Arts, Culture, and More Hidden Gems

Palatka’s cultural scene shines at the Larimer Arts Center, hosting exhibits, classes, and the Azalea Festival reception. The Palatka Railroad Preservation Society preserves locomotive history with displays at the old depot. Downtown’s murals and historic districts invite exploration, while the Central Academy site nods to educational heritage.

Outdoor options extend to kayaking from Riverfront Park or biking the Palatka-to-St. Augustine State Trail, a 19-mile paved path through scenic farmlands. For dining, sample fresh seafood at local spots near the river.

Why Palatka Beckons Relocators and Visitors Alike

Palatka embodies Putnam’s “best of both worlds”—nature’s tranquility with cultural vibrancy and easy city access. These attractions not only enrich daily life but also enhance real estate appeal, with homes near Ravine Gardens or the riverfront offering peaceful retreats at median prices around $250,000.

At Coldwell Banker Ben Bates, we’ve guided countless relocators to Palatka properties that capture this essence for 50 years. Our team—Marc Spalding (36+ years in commercial and farms), Erin Fortner (23+ years knowing every nook), and Margaret Zahner (38+ years in waterfront with 58+ local years)—is eager to help you explore.

Ready to discover Palatka? Call (386) 328-6716 or visit benbates.com. Subscribe to Putnam Pathways for more. Your adventure in Putnam’s heart starts here!