About
While the beaches and ocean views at Amelia Island attract vacationers, there's another area worth exploring. Welcome to the Fernandina Beach Historic District!
With its Victorian-era architecture, unique boutiques, and top-tier restaurants, this history-rich block may become the epicenter of your vacation.
In 1973, the National Register of Historic Places listed it on its registry. Then, in 1987, the Fernandina Beach Historic District expanded by adding 970 acres. Between those boundaries sit around 300 structures, including homes, churches, schools, and civic buildings.
The story begins with Senator David Levy Yulee, whose cross-state railroad from Fernandina Beach to Cedar Key opened in March 1861. That transformation planted the seed for the "new" Fernandina—shifting the town from Old Town to its present location.
In 1975, the city created a preservation ordinance to safeguard the district, including design guidelines and a Historic District Council to review development and rehabilitation. Such forward-thinking will safeguard this iconic district, ensuring generations to come may enjoy all that it offers.
Landmarks include the Nassau County Courthouse, the Post Office, train depot, and churches like St. Peter's Episcopal, First Presbyterian, and St. Michael's Catholic Church. Additionally, the Amelia Island Museum of History is in the former Nassau County Jail, making for a fascinating study of the past.
Like we said at the start: with so much to see, do, and experience, chances are you'll visit more than once to this iconic spot.
Fernandina Beach Historic District: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One of the most appealing aspects of a visit is feeling like you stepped into a 1900s postcard. Centre Street reveals a brick-paved corridor lined with vintage lampposts and Victorian-era storefronts. Each step reveals artisan boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
Speaking of food, the district is a treasure trove of cuisines. Savor Taiwanese-inspired street food at Wicked Bao, or watch chefs cook paella outdoors at España Restaurant & Tapas. With so many different eateries to explore, you're biggest challenge will be deciding which to enjoy first!
History buffs and fans of breathtaking architecture will appreciate the more than 400 historic structures spanning over 50 blocks in the district. One standout is the Bailey House, built in 1885 by architect Robert Schuyler. This home sports turreted bays and fish-scale shingles that crown its Queen Anne detail.
Another architectural anomaly is the Tabby House, featuring a shell-based concrete unique to the area, as well as a bracket-laden veranda. Its tall profile makes a statement where Victorian design meets local materials.
Then there's the Italianate Fairbanks House, built in 1885 for Major George R. Fairbanks. Because the home is dubbed "extravagantly extravagant," it is nicknamed the "Fairbanks Folly." It boasts bay windows, a tower, dormers, and ornate porches. Today, it welcomes guests as a bed and breakfast.
However, there's more to see and do than just inspecting vintage buildings. The Amelia River Cruises & Charters is steps away, offering fun-filled water adventures. Hit the water on a 2-man catamaran with Backwater Cat Adventure or sip spirits at the Marlin & Barrel Distillery.
Visiting the Fernandina Beach Historic District offers an immersive dive into Florida's past. Here, history feels personal and beauty is timeless, making for a memory-making adventure on your Amelia Island getaway.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions to Fernandina Beach Historic District:
- Head onto Centre Street, the main artery of Fernandina Beach.
- Continue east toward the downtown core.
- Turn where local signage directs into the historic heart.
- Follow Ash Street or 7th Street to explore key sites.
- Address: Bounded by North 9th Street, Broome, Ash, South 5th Street, Date, and South 8th Street.
Cost
Visiting is free!
Local Tips
- Arrive early to enjoy Centre Street before crowds gather.
- Events like the Shrimp Festival add allure to a visit.
- Snag a map from the Amelia Island Museum of History to guide exploration.
- Waterfront parking puts you close to historic and scenic highlights.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the sidewalks and Victorian-era streets can be uneven.
