Perry, Florida, is a small city located in the northern part of the state of Florida, known for its natural beauty, friendly people, and rich history. It’s a place that might not be as famous as Miami or Orlando, but it’s full of charm. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where is Perry, Florida?”—you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this quiet city, explaining where it is and what makes it so special.
Location of Perry, Florida
So, where is Perry, Florida? Perry is in the Big Bend region of Florida. The city is the county seat of Taylor County, which means it’s the main city in the area. To give you a better idea of where Perry is, think of the panhandle of Florida, the part that sticks out to the left. Now, move your finger a little down from the top, and you’ll find Perry. It’s about 50 miles southeast of Tallahassee, the capital of Florida.
Even though Perry is a small town, it has a very important location because it’s close to both the Gulf of Mexico and beautiful forests. This gives it a great mix of coastal fun and outdoor adventure! Also read Where is Perry, Florida?
The History of Perry, Florida
Now that we know where Perry, Florida is, let’s talk about how it came to be. Perry wasn’t always called Perry. It started as a small settlement in the 1800s. The area was rich with forests, which made it a great place for the timber industry. This is one of the main reasons why people started moving here.
The city got its name from a man named Madison Perry. He was a governor of Florida in the 1800s. As the town grew, it became a center for agriculture and lumber, which helped it to thrive. Even today, you’ll notice that the forests and woodlands around Perry are still very important to the area.
What Makes Perry, Florida Special?
One thing that makes Perry, Florida so special is its small-town feel. With a population of around 7,000 people, it’s the kind of place where everyone knows each other. Life moves a little slower here, and people enjoy the quiet and peaceful surroundings. It’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Another thing that’s really cool about Perry is its connection to nature. It’s close to the Gulf of Mexico, which means you can go fishing, boating, or even visit the nearby beaches. But if you’re more into forests, there’s the Forest Capital Museum State Park nearby, where you can learn all about the local trees and plants. The park also has walking trails and picnic spots, making it a perfect place for family fun.
Getting to Perry, Florida
If you want to visit Perry, Florida, it’s not hard to get there! The closest big city is Tallahassee, which has an airport. From Tallahassee, you can take U.S. Highway 19 or U.S. Highway 98 to Perry. It’s about an hour’s drive, so it’s pretty close.
If you’re coming from other parts of Florida, like Jacksonville or Orlando, you’ll be in for a scenic drive through some of Florida’s beautiful countryside. You’ll see a lot of green trees and wide-open spaces, giving you a peaceful feeling even before you reach Perry.
Things to Do in Perry, Florida
When you arrive in Perry, Florida, there are many fun things you can do. As we mentioned earlier, Perry is all about nature. Whether you love the beach or the forest, Perry has something for you.
1. Visit the Forest Capital Museum State Park
The Forest Capital Museum State Park is a must-see for anyone who loves nature. It’s a place where you can learn all about the history of the timber industry in the area. There’s also a cool exhibit about the trees in Florida and how important they are to the state. You can walk around the park, have a picnic, or just enjoy the peaceful environment.
2. Explore the Beaches
Perry isn’t far from the Gulf of Mexico, so it’s easy to take a day trip to the beach. Keaton Beach is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s a quiet beach where you can swim, fish, or just relax and watch the sunset. If you’re into fishing, the waters around Perry are perfect for catching all kinds of fish.
3. Enjoy the Downtown Area
The downtown area of Perry, Florida is small but charming. You’ll find some local shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It’s a great place to walk around and take in the small-town atmosphere. There’s also a train depot that’s been turned into a museum, where you can learn more about Perry’s history.
4. Attend the Florida Forest Festival
Every year, Perry holds a big event called the Florida Forest Festival. It’s a celebration of the area’s rich history in the timber industry. The festival has fun activities like a lumberjack competition, a parade, and even fireworks. It’s a great time to visit Perry if you want to see the community come together and celebrate their heritage.
The People of Perry, Florida
One of the best things about Perry, Florida is the people. In small towns like Perry, people are known for being friendly and welcoming. The folks here are proud of their town, and they love sharing it with visitors. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for a while, you’ll find that the people of Perry make you feel right at home.
Because it’s a small town, everyone knows each other, and there’s a real sense of community. People look out for one another, and they take pride in keeping their town clean and safe. If you ever need help finding something or just want a friendly chat, you won’t have to look far in Perry.
Wildlife Around Perry, Florida
One of the coolest things about Perry, Florida is the wildlife. If you love animals, Perry is a great place to see all kinds of creatures. The nearby forests are home to deer, wild turkeys, and all sorts of birds. If you’re lucky, you might even see a bald eagle flying overhead!
Because Perry is so close to the coast, you can also see marine life. Dolphins, fish, and sometimes even manatees can be spotted in the waters near Perry. If you enjoy fishing or boating, you’ll have a great time exploring the area’s waterways.
Living in Perry, Florida
If you’re thinking about living in Perry, Florida, you’ll find that it’s a peaceful place with a lot to offer. The cost of living is lower than in many big cities, and there’s a strong sense of community. You won’t find a lot of traffic or noise here, which makes it a great place for people who want to enjoy a quieter way of life.
The local schools are small but offer a good education, and the town has all the basic amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, and healthcare services. If you need something that Perry doesn’t have, you can always take a short trip to Tallahassee or another nearby city.
Why You Should Visit Perry, Florida
Now that we’ve answered the question, “Where is Perry, Florida?”—let’s talk about why you should visit. Perry is a perfect destination if you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing getaway. It’s not crowded, and you’ll get to enjoy the best of Florida’s natural beauty without the big-city distractions.
The mix of forests and coastal areas makes it a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating. Whether you’re interested in learning about the area’s history, enjoying the outdoors, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting, Perry has something for everyone.
Conclusion
So, where is Perry, Florida? It’s a small, friendly town located in northern Florida, rich with nature and history. Perry may not be the biggest or most famous city in the state, but it’s a hidden gem that offers a lot to those who visit. From its charming downtown area to the beautiful nearby beaches and forests, there’s plenty to see and do.
Whether you’re planning a short visit or thinking about moving there, Perry, Florida, is a place where you can slow down, enjoy nature, and meet friendly people. It’s a special place with a big heart, just waiting to be discovered!
