Green Cove Springs, located in Northeast Florida’s Clay County, celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2024. With a quaint, small town feel that serves as the county seat, The City of Green Cove Springs has always been a gathering place. From the 1870s around the spring pool or today enjoying a festival in Spring Park, here are just a few reasons why people still enjoy relaxing and exploring in this friendly community.
Anniversary celebrations are in the works throughout the year in Green Cove Springs including a large, town carnival birthday celebration on November 2, 2024.
For those visiting Green Cove Springs, don’t miss spending time at Spring Park. Home to the Green Cove Springs spring pool, one of the oldest in the country dating back to 1871 when Dr. Joseph Applegate made it accessible to the public for medicinal purposes. Today, the spring is part of the newly renovated park providing residents and visitors with waterfront access to the St. Johns River, pavilions, gazebos and numerous playgrounds. The spring pool stays at a consistent 72-degree temperature throughout the year.
At nearby Camp Chowenwaw visitors can explore the outdoors with birding, fishing, hiking trails and camping beneath the stars. Dating back to 1933, Camp Chowenwaw County Park was once Florida’s first Girl Scout Camp. Today, the public park offers 150 acres for exploring along popular Black Creek. At the Bayard Conservation Area, discover the outdoors within this resource-based park encompassing 10,371 acres. The Bayard Conservation Area also features two campsites as well as opportunities for bank fishing, bicycling, hiking, birding and more.
Military buffs can visit the Military Museum of Northeast Florida, once home to Lee Field during World War II, the area served as an airfield and port. The museum continues to keep those stories alive with a hellcat engine, a Blackhawk simulator and more on display for visitors. At the county’s historic triangle near the Old Jail and Courthouse, stop to pay your respects to the 62 Clay County veterans who lost their lives during combat dating back to the Civil War.
Unleash your passion for the arts in Green Cove Springs shopping for antiques along Walnut Street, and celebrate Augusta Savage, the African-American art trailblazer during the Harlem Renaissance when you visit the Green Cove Springs Library.
For a taste of local cuisine, stop in for a cup of locally brewed Brass Tacks Roasters coffee at Spring Park Coffee. For a fun-loving atmosphere or to catch up on sports scores, Roger That Wing & Things is just steps from Spring Park. You’ll find Italian favorites at D’Fontana and tangy Pan Asian Cuisine Sushi Bar. For something sweet, stop in for a delicious treat from Sweet Sensations.
Make plans to join the 150th anniversary celebration throughout 2024 and enjoy the sights, sounds and popular dining spots in historic City of Green Cove Springs. Plan your visit at www.ExploreClay.com.
