5 Ways to Experience Old Florida Charm This Holiday Season
If you’re dreaming of a holiday season that feels warm, welcoming, and filled with the nostalgic charm of a simpler time, the Suwannee River in North Florida is calling your name.
And while we may be a little biased, we have the proof to back up that there’s no better place to experience that feeling than at Suwannee Gables Motel, a family-run riverfront motel nestled on the iconic Suwannee River. From glowing lights and festive parades to peaceful mornings surrounded by nature, this is where holiday memories are made the Old Florida way.
Here are five “musts” that you need to add to your bucket list to help you experience the magic for yourself this season.
1. Stay in a True Old Florida Gem
Step back in time at Suwannee Gables Motel, where vintage architecture, mid-century details, and warm family hospitality come together to create an unforgettable getaway. Each cozy guest room and cabin overlooks the Suwannee River, giving you a front-row seat to Florida’s natural beauty.
Wake up to the sound of the river flowing just beyond your window, enjoy your morning coffee on the balcony, and let the slower pace of life bring you back down to earth, calm your nervous system, and remind you what the holidays are truly about; connection, peace, and gratitude.
2. Explore North Florida’s Festive Small-Town Events
No one does small-town Christmas quite like North Florida! Just a short drive from Suwannee Gables Motel, you’ll find some of the region’s most heartwarming holiday celebrations:
Suwannee Lights at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park – A dazzling drive-through light show with over 12 million lights, festive music, hot cocoa, and photo ops galore.
Snow Night on the Suwannee – Perfect for families, this event features real snow, sledding, bounce houses, and holiday treats.
Christmas on the Square in Live Oak – A beloved local festival with 200+ vendors, live music, a parade of lights, and even an appearance from the Coca-Cola Santa.
Each event captures that small-town magic and holiday joy that makes the Suwannee region a holiday destination!
3. Embrace Nature’s Beauty Along the Suwannee River
If you are trading in gifts for experiences this holiday season, then ditch the crowded malls for river views and winter boots for flip-flops. North Florida’s “winter” is made for the outdoors and made to get off the grid.
Kayak or canoe along the Suwannee River’s calm waters, try your luck fishing from the dock, or simply stroll the riverbank at sunset. Nearby springs like Fanning Springs and Manatee Springs offer crystal-clear water and peaceful hiking trails that let you connect with nature at its most serene.
4. Discover Local History and Hidden Gems
Part of Old Florida’s charm lies in its stories. Spend a day exploring nearby historic towns, where antique shops, quaint diners, and small museums share a glimpse into the area’s rich past.
From roadside fruit stands to century-old architecture, every corner of the Suwannee region offers something timeless. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, wander, and feel like you’ve uncovered a hidden treasure.
5. Relax, Reflect, and Reconnect
The holidays don’t have to be hectic. At Suwannee Gables Motel, guests are encouraged to take a deep breath, slow down, and truly enjoy the season.
Spend your evenings watching the sunset over the river, roasting marshmallows by the firepit, or stargazing beneath a clear night sky. Whether you’re reconnecting with loved ones or carving out a little “me time,” this peaceful riverside setting offers the perfect backdrop for reflection and renewal.
Celebrate the Season the Old Florida Way
This holiday season, skip the chaos and embrace the charm of Old Florida. With riverfront views, cozy accommodations, and unforgettable local events, Suwannee Gables Motel invites you to rediscover the joy of simple pleasures and the beauty of slowing down.
Book your stay today and make this holiday season one to remember — right here on the banks of the Suwannee River, where every sunrise feels like a gift.