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Marianna Mural Trail: Art Meets Southern Charm

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. These murals certainly tell a story. They speak of a town—its culture, its history, and what makes it special. A history rich in agriculture; peanuts, cotton, cattle, and citrus. One mural is described as a “love letter to Jackson County”, another introduces you to the “City of Southern Charm”, and yet another rises from the ashes of a devastating category 5 hurricane. So, join us on a trip through Marianna Florida and beyond. See what makes this place tick, discover the warmth and charm of Southern hospitality. Take pictures. Visit the local shops. Swap stories with the folks you meet and don’t be surprised if you fall head over heels for Jackson County, we sure have!

Magnolias and More

A building mural features a southern landscape of magnolias, live oaks, and magnolias with the words "Welcome to Marianna City of Southern Charm"
2867 S Jefferson Street

This mural located on the Milton Insurance building perfectly captures a Southern view. Magnolias? Check! Spanish moss? Check! A live oak draped in Spanish moss? Absolutely! A beautiful and fitting welcome to Marianna as the “City of Southern Charm”. These murals—along with the efforts of many hardworking people—are helping to renew downtown Marianna. As one Instagram user (@serenole) cleverly put it, the transformation is truly magnolia-nificent!”

  • Just down the road from this mural, you’ll find McCoy’s Outdoors—a true staple. Whether you’re gearing up for a fishing or hunting trip, they’ve got you covered. And if outdoor gear isn’t what you’re after, inside you will find Mustard Seed, a charming boutique tucked within the store, offering Southern-inspired gifts and fashion.
  • If you’re looking for an escape into nature, the Hinson Conservation and Recreation Area is the perfect spot. Just south of Marianna, this 226-acre park offers a scenic four-mile loop trail that winds past caves, sinkholes, and bluffs along the Chipola River. It’s a favorite for hikers, paddlers, and birdwatchers looking to unwind and explore the outdoors. With picnic areas, river access, and plenty of shaded paths, it’s also an ideal place for a quiet afternoon with family or a solo adventure.

Go Bulldogs

A building mural with a 20 foot school mascot bulldog and a postcard with a Florida outline, peanuts and waterways.
2876 Madison St (on Lafayette St. side)

Painted on the corner of Lafayette and Madison Street, our second stop displays a 20 foot bulldog mascot proudly supporting the local school that was founded in 1927. As a town with strong school spirit you will see bulldog emblems frequently throughout Marianna. Continuing the school spirit theme, our state is painted in the same school color and highlights peanuts and our waterways, all styled to resemble a vintage postcard. Peanuts are a vital crop here, with generations of farmers growing them in the area’s sandy soils. Alongside the town’s farming strengths are its natural treasures—Marianna is surrounded by scenic waterways, offering kayaking, fishing, and a peaceful backdrop to a community.

  • Explore this mural on a Saturday and while you are there visit the Marianna City Farmer’s Market. Look for the best farm-to-table produce, local honey and jams, and crafts.
  • In the summer months let the kids splash, play, and get some energy out at the splash-pad at Madison Street Park. It is conveniently right across from the farmer’s market.


Lafayette Landing

A building mural from the early 1900's for Purity Bottling Works featuring an ad for Doublemint Gum
4448 Lafayette St (Lafayette Landing)

In October 2018, Hurricane Michael hit as a category 5 hurricane causing major damage to Marianna and Jackson County. It was a devastating loss of homes, buildings, trees, and crops. But from the rubble rose a strengthened community. A community that would come together to rebuild their town. And from that comes the story of the Purity Bottling Works mural. Painted sometime between 1905-1919 and featuring an ad for Wrigley’s Double-mint gum this artwork was hidden from view until Hurricane Michael crumpled the surrounding structure at Lafayette Landing revealing this piece of lost history.

Coca-Cola

Not much is known about the vintage Coca-Cola sign on Lafayette Street. In 1907 the local bottling company signed a contract to bottle Coca-Cola so it could possibly be around this time that the mural was painted. We do know that it is visible in photos from the Satsuma Festival held in 1928. Locals say that as a far as they remember it has always been there!

Drink Coca-Cola building mural from early 1800s
4420 Lafayette Street
  • As you explore these two historical sites, don’t miss the chance to dive deeper into the past with the Battle of Marianna Walking Tour. The tour begins at Ely Corner (the fountain at the Russ House) but close to these murals you can find the Battle of Marianna Monument placed in the 1920s and the Courthouse Square where hand to hand fighting took place. For more information on the tour click the link above or pop into the Visitor Center in the historic Russ House during business hours.
  • If you are looking for a place to eat nearby Bistro Palms has wood-fired pizzas, Gazebo (open for breakfast and lunch) has soups and sandwiches and if you are looking for finer dining Salt Block is the place to be.

Southern Craft Creamery

A wall mural with two large diary cows surrounded by cotton, oranges, and peanuts in green pastures with more dairy cows off in the distance.
2884 Jefferson St (on Market St. side)

The latest mural painted in downtown Marianna, is on the side of the Southern Craft Creamery building. Painted by Curtis Glover of Knoxville TN this incredible painting shows two friendly looking dairy cows front and center surrounded by cotton, oranges, and peanuts. Southern Craft Creamery uses their own milk from Cindale farms, a second-generation dairy farm to create their delicious handcrafted ice cream. We highly recommend their ice-cream sandwiches or homemade waffle cones!
While you are there be sure to pop next door to the Southern Craft Market for locally made items, and farm-to-table products. If you are there at the right time you can actually see the milk being bottled in the next room.


A Fun Floral Mural

After grabbing your ice cream or coffee at Southern Craft Creamery head down the road to the fun floral wings painted on the Acentria Insurance building. Its a perfect backdrop for a fun photo!

Blue Collar Feed Co.

Before leaving this part of town head to Blue Collar Feed Store which features a colorful mural with a black show pig against bright sunshine and waves. It’s rural meets playful!


The Haute Knot Beauty Bar

A wall mural with blue background with Marianna painted in curly script in shades of pink.

Right next door to the feed store be sure to check out the fun, girly, and all-shades of pink mural painted on the side of The Haute Knot Beauty Bar salon.


Crosshairs

One mural features a hunting scene with the words Welcome to Marianna and adjacent to it is a background American flag with red and blue lips holding a bullet
4176 Lafayette St

These two murals in Marianna make a bold statement and reflect the area’s strong ties to the outdoors and local culture. The black-and-white mural on the left welcomes visitors to Marianna with a hunting scene—deer, birds, and woods that capture the essence of Jackson County’s outdoor lifestyle. Just around the corner, the vibrant red, white, and blue mural marks the location of Crosshairs, a local gun and supply store.

  • While you are on this side of town be sure to pop by Spears Cafe for mom and pop down-home cooking. For homemade goodies, coffee, AND antique shopping head to Coffee, Crumbs, & Comforts, or to El Rio for delicious chips and salsa.

Your Tomorrow Starts Here

Mural on a brick wall at Chipola College showing graduates in caps and gowns with colorful smoke trails and the Chipola College logo.
Mural on a brick wall at Chipola College showing graduates in caps and gowns with colorful smoke trails and the Chipola College logo.
Mural on a brick wall at Chipola College showing graduates in caps and gowns with colorful smoke trails and the Chipola College logo.

Mural on a brick wall at Chipola College showing graduates in caps and gowns with colorful smoke trails and the Chipola College logo.
3094 Indian Circle

Chipola College, founded in 1947, is known for its fine and performing arts program. So it’s no surprise that the mural on the side of Chipola’s Cultural Center is a bright and bold symbol of the school’s love for art, creativity, and community. Titled “Your Tomorrow Starts Here” it showcases graduates looking towards their future. Painted in watercolor style using the college’s colors of blue and gold with pops of colors this mural is worth seeing!

  • While visiting the college, have fun on the pickle-ball courts, catch a seasonal performance by the Chipola College Theater Department, or enjoy a swim in the pool during the summer months.
  • After your time on campus, head to Citizen Lodge Park to play a round of disc golf, explore the walking trails, or let the kids enjoy the playground.
  • You can also visit Florida Caverns State Park to tour the cave system, hike the trails, or spend time fishing in the peaceful surroundings.

Southern Fields Brewing

A Welcome to Jackson County mural with each letter filled in with something to represent the county. Waterways, cotton, gaters, watermelon, cows, peanuts and the historical Russ House.
2328 Highway 2 (on the Highway 231 side)
Tall wings made of feathers on a brick wall. They are colored in green, blue, and purple.
A bonus colorful mural of wings is located on the other side of the brewery facing highway 2.

Tucked away in Campbellton this mural manages to capture almost everything that is the spirit of Jackson County. It’s a cheerful, artistic tribute to the community, and it lives on the side of Southern Fields Brewing -in an 120 year old building that had once been a bank and then a hardware store before it sat empty for over 50 years. The brewery opened its doors in late 2020 and is the only brewery in the area. The owner, Brian Walker, describes the mural as a ‘love letter to Jackson County’. To fully appreciate it, you really have to see it in person. It includes the springs, watermelon, peanuts, cotton and the historic Russ House, just to name a few details.

  • The brewery offers a laid-back atmosphere with a courtyard, live music, and food trucks on weekends. Enjoy a rotating selection of craft beers—from IPAs to seasonal favorites like the citrusy Satsuma Grove IPA.


Graceville

From Campbellton it’s a short drive to the Graceville mural that is a fitting tribute to the town’s farming roots, featuring peanuts on one side and cotton on the other. It’s a simple, eye-catching piece that celebrates tradition- a photo-worthy landmark that reflects the pride and charm of rural Northwest Florida.

A lightgreen background with Graceville written in white script with cotton and peanuts painted beside it.
5390 Cliff St (on the North side)
  • Graceville is a must-visit if you’re craving seafood and Southern comfort food. Enjoy steaks and shrimp at Gary’s Southern Grill, fresh oysters and cold beer at the Oyster Bar of Graceville, or classic favorites like fried chicken, pork chops, and country fried steak at Circle Grill.
  • If you love treasure hunting, be sure to check out our blog for the best antique and thrift shopping spots in Graceville.
Tip: Be sure to check business hours before heading out—many restaurants, shops, and attractions in Jackson County may have limited or varying hours, especially on weekends or during certain seasons.
Note: Many of these murals were painted by the talented Tallahassee artist Kollet Hardeman.


Main Street Marianna Independence Day Celebration

Independence Celebration tractor with USA and haybales
Celebrating the heart of America Marianna style!

Small towns and the red, white, and blue go hand in hand. Celebrate the Fourth of July early and join Main Street Marianna’s Independence Day Celebration and honor this great country of ours. The 15th Annual July 3rd Independence Day Celebration, hosted by Main Street Marianna and the City of Marianna, will include not only fireworks but also live music, food vendors, face painting, a hot dog eating contest, and more! Read on for all the details!

When: July 3rd – gates open at 5:00

Where: MERE Park
3625 Caverns Rd
Marianna, FL 32446

Cost: Admission is free!

Live Music

Grace and Grit kicks off the music at 5:30, bringing their signature sound to the stage, followed by headliner River Dan with great American country music at 6:30 PM. Don’t miss this incredible lineup!

Fun for Kids

Xtreme Jumps Bounce House & Party Rentals LLC will be offering a kids play zone! Be sure to take the kiddos over to enjoy all the bounce houses, water slides and games!

Kid's bounce houses in front of a cloudy sky
Jump into Independence Day fun!

LET’S FACE IT Face Painting!
Be sure to stop by and get those kiddos painted!

Main Street Marianna’s
1st Ever Hot Dog Eating Contest

Think you have what it takes? Come hungry! Contest starts at 5:30. (All contestants must check in by 5:15 at the concession stand)
Entry Fee: $20
Registration Deadline: Friday, June 20th
Register Here: https://form.jotform.com/250928181196160
Waiver must be printed, signed, and brought to the event in order to participate.
Must be 16+ years old to enter.
1st Place Prize to be awarded! Who will be crowned the All-American Top Dog?

Girl enjoys snow-cone with American flag in hand
Cool down with an icy snow cone.

Independence Day Truck Pull

The pull begins at 5:00 when the gates are opening for the celebration. ALL team members must arrive by 4:30. Choose your strongest friends and join us for a showdown- all for a great cause!


Team Info:
$100 per team
10 members per team
16+ to participate, everyone must sign a Waiver & Release
All proceeds will support Marianna’s Christmas Decorations

Entry Deadline: Friday, June 20th
To sign up: https://form.jotform.com/250927581415157
1st & 2nd Place prizes to be awarded.
For more info or to register, contact Nikisha Millsapp with Main Street Marianna,
email: [email protected], phone: 8507181022

Early Fourth of July Celebration! Fireworks, Food, and Fun

The fireworks by PYRO SHOWS kicks off at 8:30 PM! Don’t wait until the fourth of July to celebrate! Come early to enjoy a variety of food trucks and vendors offering tasty treats. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs, blankets—maybe even some bug spray—and, of course, your patriotic spirit for a night full of community fun and celebration!

Kids waiting for the fireworks show to start
Waiting for the show to start!

Passport to Fun: Jackson County’s Summer Challenge! 

Make this summer unforgettable with the Jackson County Summer Passport Challenge in Marianna, Florida! Summer is every child’s favorite time of year: no school, sunshine, swimming, and snacks! But for parents, keeping kids active, engaged, and off the screens can be a challenge. That’s where our family-friendly passport challenge comes in. With outdoor adventures and hands-on discoveries, Jackson County, Florida, is packed with exciting experiences just waiting for curious explorers, weekend wanderers, and thrill-seeking families to uncover. 

How the Summer Passport Challenge Works 

Summer Fun Kayaking at Spring Creek
Summer Fun Kayaking at Spring Creek

The Challenge runs from Memorial Day Weekend through the Friday before Labor Day Weekend. Visit stops throughout Marianna, Florida, and Jackson County, collect stamps and pictures, and earn points.  Most importantly, have fun, make memories, and fall in love with our county! 

The more stops you make, the more points you earn! Each stop will have either a camera or a heart icon. Some may have both. A camera icon is worth one point, and the heart icon is worth two.  

If it is a camera icon, make sure to grab a photo of each child per stop. You will need to submit photos for each child/passport. If it is a heart icon, grab a stamp from someone who works there. A stamp page is available on page 18 of the passport.  

At the end of summer when you redeem the passports at the Jackson County Visitor Center, the points will be tallied up, and your child will win an awesome prize.  

If your child doesn’t have a passport yet drop by the Visitor’s Center to pick one up. 
 
Who can participate in the fun? 
Children age 5-17 

What fun prize can they win? 
6-10 points earn an awesome water bottle, 11-15 points a cool hat and sunglasses, 16-22 points earn 2 tickets to Florida Caverns, 23-27 a free camping trip, and 28 points earn a season pass to Blue Springs.  
 
Important to remember 
Passports must be redeemed before the Labor Day weekend (last day is August 29, 2025) 
 
Must have one picture per stop PER passport. Families with multiple children will need to submit photos for each child/passport. Photos will be utilized in online promotions for the Visit Jackson County online. 
 
Explore Jackson County with Your Family 

Fun Passport Stops 
1: Florida Caverns State Park 
The only dry cave in Florida that offers tours, Florida Caverns in Marianna, FL, is a wonderland of stalactites and stalagmites.  If caves aren’t your adventure of choice, the park also offers hiking trails and freshwater springs. You can get your passport stamped at the Gift Shop and Visitor Center and snap a one-of-a-kind picture from deep under the earth’s surface!

2: Three Rivers State Park 
Located at Lake Seminole, where the Chattahoochee, Flint, and Apalachicola Rivers meet, this park has something for everyone. Fishing, hiking, boating, or just admiring the scenery!  Grab a stamp at the Ranger’s Station and then start your fun!

Water Adventures 

3. Blue Springs 
Perfect for a hot summer day, families can splash, dive, or slide into the crystal-clear waters. When it’s time to take a break from swimming, enjoy a game on the volleyball courts, grab a snack from the concessions, let the kids explore the playground, and discover even more amenities throughout the park. The beautiful blue hues of the spring make the perfect backdrop for those perfect photos!

4. Tube Down Spring Creek 
Bring your own tube or rent one and drift along the crystal-clear waters of Spring Creek for a relaxing adventure. Plan for about four hours of easy floating through scenic surroundings—and don’t forget, disposable containers and glass are not allowed to help keep the creek beautiful and clean! Helpful tip: slide your phone into a ziplock bag to protect it from splashes and capture an epic picture tubing down the creek!

Fish, Sink Hook 

Passport stop on the banks of Lake Seminole, Sneads, FL.
Passport Stop on the Banks of Lake Seminole

5. Lake Seminole 
Make reel memories while fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish! A manmade lake with a unique history, it is over 37,000 acres and borders Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. At Snead’s Park, you can fish from the banks or launch a boat!

6. Chipola River 
Grab your fishing gear and head out on a boat or kayak and enjoy the winding flow of the Chipola River. Nothing to float on? Enjoy the banks of the river from Hinson Preserve or the Chipola Greenway trail.  Don’t forget to catch it on camera!

Sweet Treats 

7.  Southern Craft Creamery 
Pop into this family-owned and operated creamery and treat yourself to a scoop of ice cream with handcrafted flavors like sweet cream, salty caramel, and butter pecan.  Get a stamp and/or a picture and get those points!

8. Kountry Candy Store 
Homemade sweets and hand-dipped ice cream make this a must-visit stop in Alford FL.! From ice cream to cookies to homemade candies, there is a delicious treat to please everyone! Add a stamp to your passport and capture these sweet moments in time in a photo!

Picnic in the Park 

9: Citizen’s Lodge 
Bring the whole family and make the most of all the fun this scenic park in Marianna has to offer. The pavilion in front of the pond makes an Instagram-worthy picture! Dig into a picnic under the trees, then explore one of the 6 walking trails, play on the playground, or enjoy a round on the 18-hole disc golf course.  

10. Madison Street Park  
What kid doesn’t LOVE splash pads? Let them get some energy out and then enjoy a picnic under the pavilion. If you drop by on a Saturday, you can also hit up the Marianna City Farmer’s Market for some farm-fresh goodies! Take a picture to remember it!

Hit the Trails 

11. Hinson Conservation 
The scenic trails hide secrets such as a cave which forms a bridge, an old, abandoned cabin, and tracks from the long-gone M&B railroad. Don’t forget to bring water, bug spray, and to capture your adventure!

12. Chipola River Greenway 
The greenway is home to many rare plants, birds, butterflies, and animals, so keep your eyes open for some unique sightings! Bike, hike, or stroll, take in fresh air and the beautiful nature around you.  Strike a pose before you go!
 
Explore History 

13. Historic Russ House 
The beautiful Russ House was built in 1895 and has housed 5 generations of the Russ Family throughout its history. Now home to the Jackson County Visitor Center, this is a great starting point to explore our community and the Battle of Marianna Walking tour.  Stop by to say hello and don’t forget to get your passport stamped!

14. Bellamy Bridge 
The oldest steel structure in Florida- and maybe the spookiest? This bridge has a legend of a young bride who haunts the bridge, forever searching for the groom she never got to marry. It’s a short hike to the bridge, offering a peaceful walk with a hint of mystery.  Selfie (or a picture of the kiddos!)- or it never happened!
 
Please note that boardwalks are under construction and paths may be inaccessible after heavy rain. Be sure to grab bug spray as well! 

15. Public Library 
Check out a stack of books, a couple of movies, maybe a game while you are at it! It’s a perfect time to join the Summer Reading Program as well- or just enjoy the cool air conditioning and a fun event at the Marianna or Graceville public library.  Snap it, stamp it, and explore more!

Eat Farm Fresh 

Grow Jackson- planting beautiful summer flowers
Grow Jackson- plant beautiful summer flowers.

16. Southern Craft Market 
From freshly bottled milk to juicy drinks to tasty bites, there’s so much yumminess to discover. Make sure to check out their brand-new mural that features the best of agriculture in Jackson County (this would make the best new pic for your Facebook page)!

17. Marianna City Farmers’ Market 
Every Saturday from 7am-12pm find the best farm-fresh veggies, colorful blooms, and just-laid eggs all in one convenient spot! Grab a photo with your farm-finds!

18. Love Jackson 
Let’s keep Jackson County clean and beautiful! Be a superhero by cleaning up trash at your local park or neighborhood. Grab some gloves and a trash bag and begin your hunt for litter! Grab a before and after picture of your hard work and head to the Visitor’s Center to get a stamp.  

19. Grow Jackson 
Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty for a good cause! We’re on a mission to make Jackson County even more beautiful, one tree, flower, or garden at a time. Earn some points while planting something green- grab some seeds, seedlings, or saplings, start planting and don’t forget to capture a picture too! 

What now? 
After having a blast exploring Jackson County all summer long trade in those points at the Visitor’s Center and claim your reward. 
 

Celebrating their passport completion at the Historic Russ House Visitor Center in Marianna.

Please call and schedule a time to come in to ensure time to get pictures transferred in a timely manner. 
 We can’t wait to hear all about your favorite moments and discoveries!

Top Parks for Camping, Hiking, and Adventure

Tucked in Florida’s Panhandle, Jackson County is a great place to enjoy nature and outdoor fun. With two state parks plus plenty of local parks and playgrounds, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy.

Cave Tours at Florida Caverns State Park
Exploring the Florida Caverns State Park

Florida Caverns State Park:

Florida Caverns State Park is one of the most unique places to visit in Jackson County — and it’s the only public cave tour in the entire state! Located in Marianna, this park offers guided cave tours seven days a week. Inside the caves, you’ll discover stunning rock formations that have taken thousands of years to form.

Adventure Above the Caves

There’s plenty to do above ground at Florida Caverns State Park! Take a walk along peaceful hiking trails, paddle down the Chipola River in a kayak, or set up camp and spend the night under the stars.

Whether you’re here for the caves or just to enjoy the great outdoors, it’s a great place for a family-friendly day trip or a relaxing weekend escape.

Don’t forget to bring your camera — this is one adventure you’ll want to remember!

Three Rivers State Park:

Located in Sneads, Three Rivers State Park gets its name from where the Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers meet to form Lake Seminole, which then flows into the Apalachicola River.

This peaceful park is a favorite for freshwater fishing — cast a line from the fishing pier or launch a boat and explore the lake. If you’d rather stay on land, enjoy the hiking trails, spot local wildlife, and keep your eyes open for some amazing birdwatching opportunities.

Bring your tent or RV and camp under the stars for a quiet escape in nature.

Jackson Blue Springs Recreation Area: A Summer Oasis

Woman swimming in Freshwater Springs
Swimming in Blue Springs Recreation Area

When the Florida heat kicks in, Jackson Blue Springs Recreation Area in Marianna is the perfect place to cool down. This crystal-clear spring flows into beautiful Merritt’s Mill Pond, creating a refreshing swimming area for all ages.

Spend the day swimming, renting kayaks, enjoying a picnic, or grabbing a snack from the on-site concessions. It’s the go-to summer spot for family fun and relaxation. Open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day, so make sure to plan your visit while it’s open!


Hinson Conservation and Recreation Area: A Hiker’s Haven

If you’re looking for a quiet escape into Florida’s natural beauty, Hinson Conservation and Recreation Area is a must-visit. Located just south of Marianna, this 226-acre park features a four-mile loop trail including caves, sinkholes, and bluffs alongside the Chipola River. It’s a great place for hikers, paddlers, and birdwatchers, offering a chance to connect with nature.

Citizens’ Lodge Park: A Family Favorite in Marianna

Looking for a great spot to enjoy the outdoors with the family? Citizens’ Lodge Park in Marianna has something for everyone. Take a walk on one of the paved or natural trails, let the kids play on the playground, or enjoy a picnic by the pond under the gazebo. You’ll also find a disc golf course and an outdoor stage that hosts fun events throughout the year. It’s a relaxing, family-friendly spot perfect for a day outside.

Explore More Outdoors Adventures in Jackson County

There’s more to Jackson County than just state parks! Head to Apalachee Wildlife Management Area for nearly 8,000 acres of woods and wetlands—great for hunting, fishing, paddling, and spotting wildlife. Enjoy scenic river views while hiking or biking along the Chipola Greenway. For more family fun, check out Neal’s Landing, Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail, and Sneads Park. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just soaking up the views, there’s something for everyone to enjoy outdoors.

Play Time Fun in Jackson County

Looking for a place to let the kids run and play? Jackson County has plenty of playgrounds where little ones can burn off energy while parents relax nearby. It’s the perfect way to enjoy some fresh air and family time!

Madison Park (Marianna) – Splash Pad

Madison Street Splash Pad- Marianna FL.
Splashpad at Madison Street Park, Marianna FL.

Wynn Street Park (Marianna) – Playground

Citizens Lodge (Marianna) – Playground, walking trail, disc golf

Campbellton Park (located on HWY 231) – Playground

Sneads Park – Playground

Graceville Park Playground

Greenwood Park– Playground

Grand Ridge Park – Playground & Splash Pad

Whether you’re chasing adventure, craving some quiet time in nature, or planning fun for the whole family, Jackson County has you covered. With so many parks and outdoor spots to explore, it’s easy to spend a whole weekend enjoying it all—so go ahead, stay a while!

Yesterday’s Yarn: Weaving the Stories of Jackson County’s History

🧵 Yesterday’s Yarn: The Legacy and History of Pender’s Store 🧵

In the heart of Greenwood, FL, lies a true treasure of Jackson County’s history. Pender’s Store is a landmark steeped in tradition and resilience.

Pender's Store Front: Greenwood FL. Floridamemory.com
Pender’s Store Front Greenwood FL, Photo Credit Florida Memory

This one-story, two-room structure, measuring 34 feet by 50 feet, was built in 1869 by Napoleon B. Riley and Cicero Long on land purchased from Colonel John M.F. Erwin. The deed had one condition: the property could only be used for selling merchandise livery or blacksmith shops were allowed! Originally called N.B. Long & Bros., the store became a community hub.

In 1896, Laurence S. Pender purchased the store, renaming it L.S. Pender’s Store. In 1940, the son of L.S. Pender, James Bowles, and Nicholas Anderson purchased and renamed it once again to honor the family legacy L.S. Pender’s Sons. Today, it is run by Laurence Pender II, continuing over a century of family stewardship.

Remarkably, the original shelves and heart pine floors remain intact, and the wooden blinds over the windows are still closed every night a nod to the store’s timeless charm. Visitors are welcome to step back in time when it’s open and experience this historic gem, which proudly sits on the National Register of Historic Places.

Adding to this family’s legacy is the stunning pen-and-ink artwork by Jane Pender, wife of Laurence Pender. Her incredible pieces, capturing Jackson County’s rich history, are displayed throughout the area a true testimony to her talent and passion for preserving our heritage.

Step back in time in the charming town of Greenwood, where every street has a story to tell. Explore historical landmarks that whisper the town’s rich past. While you’re there, pop into the Greenwood Supermarket and Deli a local grocery store and grab a fresh deli lunch to enjoy a relaxing picnic at the quaint town park. Greenwood invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and create your own story in this picturesque setting.