Fall in Love with Authentic Walton
When was the last time you fell in love with a destination? That instant connection, an “I-belong-here” feeling that kept you coming back for more?
For travelers and locals alike, Authentic Walton is that place, and fall and winter is the perfect time to experience it. From breathtaking Christmas lights around Lake DeFuniak to autumn hikes up Britton Hill, Authentic Walton has a unique blend of history, cozy charm, and breathtaking natural beauty. When you leave, all you’ll think about is coming back for more.
Ready to fall in love with this gem of a destination in just a few days? We designed a schedule that’s packed with local flavor and adventure for the perfect Walton County weekend.
Our journey starts with a walkable wander through DeFuniak Springs:
Morning: Order coffee and pastries at Perla Baking Co. on Baldwin Ave for the perfect start to a weekend in DeFuniak Springs. Then sip while you stroll around Lake DeFuniak, surrounded by over 200 historic buildings. There’s no better way to take in the beauty and Old World elegance of DeFuniak Springs Victorian homes.
Afternoon: Did you know DeFuniak Springs is one of the best cities for antique shopping? Walk over to the Historic Downtown District and find that one-of-a-kind vintage treasure at Nook & Cranny or an out-of-print must-read at Anita’s Half and Half. Cap it off with lunch at H&M Hot Dogs, Florida's oldest (and tastiest!) hot dog stand.
Evening: As your day winds down, check into Sunbright Inn, the oldest home-turned-hotel in Walton County. Stow your bags, walk around the corner, and unwind with a facial or massage at The Pink House. After you’ve been pampered at the quaintest spa in DeFuniak Springs, it’s time for a Gulf-fresh dinner at Café Nola! Cap off your night with a leisurely downtown stroll to see the iconic Christmas lights.
Devote the next leg of your trip to a choose-your-own-adventure excursion. DeFuniak is situated directly between two of our other favorite Authentic Walton neighborhoods – Paxton and Freeport. Drive north for an afternoon of gorgeous hiking in Paxton, or head south for a day on the Bay in Freeport. Either way, you’ll be glad you did.
If you decide to spend a day in Freeport, here’s a can’t-go-wrong itinerary:
Morning: Start the day off right with a fresh breakfast at Di’lishi Yogurt, Coffee & Smoothies. This full-service coffee bar boasts a variety of seasonal flavors for that perfect fall pick-me-up. And their full smoothie and fro-yo menu really hits the spot for any frozen treat craving.
Afternoon: Time for some of the best small business shopping in Walton County! Start your spree at The Little Yellow Bench Company and peruse their selection of small-batch skincare products, local artwork, and handcrafted wooden furniture. If you’re lucky, you might even spy their world-class woodworker in his workshop.
Evening: No weekend in Walton County is complete without Gulf-fresh seafood. Nick’s Seafood Restaurant is a local favorite with beautiful views of the Choctawhatchee Bay. Soak up the sunset with a cold drink and a delicious dinner.
Driving north to spend a day in Paxton instead? Read on to discover some of the best hidden gems Paxton has to offer!
Morning Drive: On your drive to Paxton, grab coffee and Amavida Donuts at Sally’s Alley before heading north. Don’t forget to stock up on snacks or grab a smoothie bowl for the road!
Afternoon: A gorgeous autumn afternoon calls for outdoor adventure. For one of the most beautiful hikes near Lakewood Park, hike to the top of Britton Hill for stunning views and fall foliage at the highest point in Florida.
Evening: Nothing beats a pink-and-orange Florida sunset over open water. So grab some post-hike treats, watch the sky turn fiery over Lake Jackson, and start planning your next amazing weekend in Authentic Walton!