commun i t y
24 25 SEASON
Authentic Walton From boardwalks to nature trails, discover the best hidden gems in Florida by the Walton County Tourism Department A uthentic Walton’s welcoming communities are
YOUR SYMPHONY EXPERIENCE ... REDEFINED DEMETRIUS FULLER, MUSIC & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
• Catch a glimpse of wildlife, including bald eagles and gopher tortoises, at the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center. Surrounded by natural wonders, this environmental education center educates visitors on the importance of biodiversity, promoting sustainability and encouraging conservation, preservation and restoration of ecosystems. The center is open to the public during June and July on Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. • Tour historic sites in DeFuniak Springs, where buildings around Lake DeFuniak date back to the Victorian era, complete with gingerbread trim. The Walton-DeFuniak Public Library is a perfect place to experience a slice of culture, housing nearly 800 historically significant books – including a first edition of To Kill a Mockingbird signed by author
filled with incredible historic treasures and pastoral landscapes in Walton County. Encompassing Freeport, Paxton and DeFuniak Springs, you’ll find a place that perfectly balances all the charm of its colorful past with great amenities and vibrant culture. Take in the sights of Authentic Walton’s communities, from charming, historical
Morrison Springs is one of the most popular scuba diving spots in northwest Florida on a 161-acre park that includes a 250-foot diameter spring pool with crystal-clear water. Photo by Walton County Tourism
• Looking for reflective outdoor spots in Freeport? The Veterans Memorial at Casey Park honors all veterans—active, retired and those who have fallen. Take your time exploring the multiple venues, including an eternal Freedom Flame and the Grace Project, which honors women in service. The memorial embodies heartfelt gratitude for the courageous men and women who have served our nation. • On a hot afternoon, take a dip in Morrison Springs, a premier Florida spring diving destination just east of DeFuniak Springs, where a crystal-clear, spring-fed pool invites swimmers and divers alike. The surrounding 161-acre state park is a perfect destination for enjoying cool, refreshing water as well as stunning scenery.
architecture to picturesque, wide-open spaces. Experience scenic views in Walton County atop the highest point in Florida, scan the night skies for shooting stars, or stroll along the historic district of DeFuniak Springs lined with architecture that transports you to a bygone era. • At Britton Hill in Paxton’s beautiful Lakewood Park, you can roam the trails among lush, green countryside to the highest point of geographical elevation in all of Florida—345 feet above sea level. Camp under the stars at one of Authentic Walton’s many campgrounds. Local favorites include DeFuniak Springs campgrounds Sapphire Island or Twin Lakes Camp Resort with its lovely lake views. Walk the trails at Gaskin Park and have a picnic while the kids enjoy the playground, or stroll the boardwalks and nature trails of Glendale Memorial
Saturday, May 17 | 7:30 PM Destin-FWB Convention Center TICKETS: FROM $40 PER PERSON
Prepare to be captivated by the groundbreaking fusion of Tchaikovsky and Drake in a thrilling performance that blends classical and contemporary hip-hop. Conceived by Steven Hackman, this unique concert reimagines symphonic music with 22 of Drake's hits, creating an unforgettable musical experience.
Frist opened in 1887, The historic Walton-DeFuniak Library in DeFuniak Springsis the oldest continuously running library in the state. Photo by Walton County Tourism Department
• spectacular sunset views, paddleboarding or kayaking in For Choctawhatchee Bay is a must-do for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors to Walton County will find several boat ramps, including at Grady Brown Park, to launch adventures on the
Tour historic sites in DeFuniak Springs, where buildings around Lake DeFuniak date back to the Victorian era, complete with gingerbread trim.
Harper Lee. Take a peek at the historic weapons collection, from Japanese handguns and African spears to Kentucky muskets, adorning the walls.
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Nature Preserve. This 350-acre, eco-friendly “green” cemetery is one of the best hidden nature spots in Walton County, so soak up the serene environment of the longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem and bamboo forests.
bay. Stop by other Walton County parks with striking views, such as Choctaw Beach Park, where you can enjoy a picnic or hop in a canoe and paddle the cove.
For the best views in Authentic Walton, let these natural and cultural treasures open your eyes to Walton County’s history and scenic splendor. Find more ways to explore at AuthenticWalton.com.
Proceeds benefit Sinfonia Gulf Coast and its music education and community engagement initiatives throughout Northwest Florida.
30 | THE THIRTY-A REVIEW | MAY/JUNE 2025
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