Located in Putnam County, Fla., Palatka has a warm and humid climate. The hot and rainy season runs from June to late September, while the dry season runs from October through May. Palatka offers many activities for the whole family. Visit Palatka's famous mermaid theme park, take a relaxing stroll through Ravine Gardens or spend the day at the Palatka golf club.
The only one of its kind in the world, this unique Florida roadside attraction is called the "City of Live Mermaids." This family-oriented theme park gives visitors a peek into the magical underwater world of live mermaids, manatees and turtles. The Seminole Indians named this place Weeki Wachee, which literally translates into "little spring" or "winding river." The Weeki Wachee runs all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. The basin of the spring, where spectators can watch the mermaids swim, is 100 feet wide. The spring is so deep the bottom has never been found. Sixteen feet below the surface lies the 18-seat mermaid theatre with elaborate props, music and themed mermaid performances.
Built around a ravine, this 146-acre park features formal and natural gardens, bike paths, hiking trails, picnic areas equipped with tables and grills and a playground for children. A 1.8-mile paved road winds around the ravine. One hour before sunset, the ravine loop closes to vehicle traffic, allowing for a peaceful pedestrian and cyclist path. The garden's peak flowering season is late January to April.
Originally built in 1834, the Putnam Historic Museum once served as officers' quarters during the Seminole Indian War. Today, the museum displays memorabilia from the early days of riverboats and provides visitors with a history of the rebirth of the town after a devastating fire in 1884. Visitors will learn about the history of Palatka as a timber town that hosted the largest cypress mill in the world. The building that houses the museum is the oldest surviving structure in Putnam County.
The beautiful Ravine State Gardens are situated in the Palatka Golf Club. The club is home to several nationally known tournaments including the Florida Azalea in March, the Don McNab Junior Tournament in June, the Lee Conlee House Tournament in September and the Beck Pro/Am in December. The golf course is equipped with a driving range and the large clubhouse features a pro shop, a snack bar and lounge.
