Lake City: The Gateway to Florida
Originally called Alpata Telophkaa, Lake City, FL was a white American town named Alligator established near the Seminole town in 1830. It is said that it was only renamed to Lake City in 1859 after the town mayor's wife refused to "hang her lace curtains" in a town named Alligator. Accessible via Lake City Gateway Airport, Lake City is located 60 miles west of Jacksonville and is the county seat of Columbia County, Florida, United States. As per the 2017 census, the city is home to over 12,100 residents. Known as "The Gateway to Florida", it carries a huge portion of Florida's tourist and business traffic because of Interstate 75 cutting through the city. The city's high traffic of visitors every year is responsible for numerous shops, hotels, and commercial establishments popping up in recent years.
Best Time to Visit
Lake City, Florida is part of the humid subtropical climate zone of the Southeastern United States. Due to its position north of Florida's peninsula, Lake City's weather is sometimes affected by continental conditions which result in occasional cold breezes that may affect sensitive winter crops. Lake City's tourism peaks in the summer months from June to August that subsequently drives room rates and flights higher. Travelers headed to Lake City for the summer are advised to book hotel rooms at least 3 months prior to travel to get the best deals. Tourists are least likely to travel to Lake City in December when temperatures drop to the mid-60s.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Known for its beautiful landscapes, tourists will surely love exploring Lake City's heritage sites, shopping districts, and public parks. While in town, guests can check in to Holiday Inn & Suites Lake City that is conveniently located near Suwannee River State Park, Lake City Mall, and Southside Recreation Complex. Alternatively, Hampton Inn & Suites Lake City can also be considered. This is strategically located near Florida Nature and Heritage Tourism Center, Gibson Park, and Ichetucknee Springs State Park.