Section 1.3 – Murals, Music & Small-Town Creative Communities

Local cafés and eateries in downtown Chipley offer a welcoming stop for visitors exploring Washington County’s growing dining and cultural scene. Photo courtesy of CycleHere Media.

About an hour north of Panama City, the heart of Washington County can be found in thriving downtowns filled with personality and a growing number of shopping and dining venues along with historic districts, farmers markets, performing arts venues and street parties. On monthly Thursday nights in downtown Chipley, for example, shops stay open late, food trucks and downtown eateries offer a variety of fare and live entertainment provides the soundtrack.

Part of the Marianna Mural Trail in Jackson County, this artwork reflects the town’s heritage and agricultural roots, from citrus to cotton. Photo courtesy of CycleHere Media.

Jackson County is where you’ll find the Marianna Mural Trail—about a half-hour from Chipley—telling the story of the town and its rich agricultural history of peanuts, cotton, cattle and citrus.

The “Keep Dancing” mural in Panama City is part of the city’s vibrant Mural Trail, where more than 15 works of art bring color and creativity to the downtown area. Completed in just three days, this piece is one of the trail’s standout installations. Photo courtesy of Destination Panama City.

And in Panama City itself, your clients will want to follow the city’s Mural Trail, with more than 15 murals and where mini-masterpiece works of art adorn the downtown area.

The Gadsden Arts Center & Museum in Quincy showcases regional art within a historic setting, reflecting the town’s rich cultural heritage. Photo courtesy of CycleHere Media.

East of Panama City Beach, Gulf County offers varied neighborhoods, each boasting its own options for enjoying this diverse destination. Port St. Joe, for one, was the site of the signing of the first Florida Constitution.

The Gadsden Arts Center & Museum in Quincy showcases regional art within a historic setting, reflecting the town’s rich cultural heritage. Photo courtesy of CycleHere Media.

Other North Florida small towns offering a wealth of history and culture include Quincy with its celebrated Gadsden Art Center & Museum, and Monticello, home to the magnificent Monticello Opera House.

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Discover Florida’s Hidden Escape

If you’re searching for a side of Florida that feels untouched, refreshing, and full of adventure, it’s time to discover Marianna and Jackson County. Located in Northwest Florida, this hidden gem offers a completely different experience from the state’s typical beaches and crowds—one where nature, history, and small-town charm come together.

Just outside of downtown Marianna, you’ll find 

Jackson Blue Springs, a breathtaking natural spring known for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters. With visibility often exceeding 60 feet, it’s a favorite for snorkelers and divers alike. As you glide through the water, you’ll feel immersed in a peaceful, vibrant underwater world that rivals some of Florida’s most well-known destinations.

Beyond the springs, Marianna serves as the perfect home base for exploring all that Jackson County has to offer. Venture underground at Florida Caverns State Park, paddle along the serene waters of Merritt’s Mill Pond, or stroll through downtown Marianna to experience local shops, historic homes, and welcoming community spaces.

No visit is complete without stopping by favorites like Southern Craft Creamery, where handcrafted treats offer the perfect ending to a day of exploration.

Marianna and Jackson County invite you to slow down, dive in, and discover a side of Florida that feels authentic, uncrowded, and unforgettable. Plan your visit: https://visitjacksoncountyfla.com