Many historic sites and landmarks are located throughout the Florida panhandle. Historic lighthouses, such as St. Mark's Lighthouse and the Pensacola Lighthouse still stand and are accessible to visitors. Those interest in Native American history may enjoy a trip to the Indian Temple Mound and Museum, where exhibits depict the lives of four local Indian tribes. Other historic sites of interest include Fort Barrancas, which was the site of the first American naval yard, Fort Pickens and Mission San Luis de Apalachee.
Cities and towns throughout the Florida panhandle offer a wide range of businesses, activities and landscapes to meet the needs of most visitors and residents. Oceanfront cities, such as Destin and Panama City, provide opportunities for a number of water and beach activities. DeFuniak Springs, a small lake town, located around the center of the panhandle, boasts of historic buildings, including the Walton-Defuniak Library, which is the oldest operating Florida library. The state capital of Tallahassee offers many attractions, entertainment options, recreational activities and events.
The Florida panhandle is widely known for its white sandy beaches. The clean green waters give the area it's nickname of the Emerald Coast. Some of the more notable beaches include Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City Beach, Grayton Beach State Park and the beaches of St. George Island. Beach-goers can engage in several activities, such as boating, fishing, swimming, sun-bathing, collecting seashells, jet-skiing and water skiing.
A variety of attractions are also available to visitors of the Florida panhandle. These include Gulf World Marine Park, which houses a variety of marine animals and birds, water and fun parks, such as Shipwreck Island, Coconut Creek Family Fun Park and The Track and several museums, including Knott House Museum, Goodwood Museum and Gardens, and the Museum of Florida History. Florida State University, located in Tallahassee, is also home to a fine arts museum.
