WorldAtlas names 8 of the best downtowns in Florida. One is in Alachua County

An Alachua County community's downtown area has been recognized alongside those of historic St. Augustine and the wealth of Palm Beach.

WorldAtlas, an online geography resource, published its list of "8 Towns In Florida With The Best Downtown Areas in 2024." Among those listed is Florida's oldest inland town.

Here's the list:

Naples

Downtown Naples in Southwest Florida offers a "lovely area to explore on foot," complete with fancy shops, art galleries and restaurants, according to WorldAtlas. Just a few miles away from a world-class beach on the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is famous for its sunsets.

St. Augustine

Considered among the top destinations for those in Alachua County looking for a quick getaway, those who have ventured over to St. Augustine understand why it made the list. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine — the oldest city in the U.S. — transports visitors back in time as they enjoy the small shops and restaurants that line its cobblestone streets. The Spanish-built Castillo de San Marcos National Monument also sets the backdrop for this historic downtown.

Winter Park

This Central Florida city's Park Avenue offers a highly-walkable downtown area complete with upscale shops, restaurants and art galleries, according to WorldAtlas. Home to Rollins College, visitors also can stop at attractions such as the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.

Winter Garden

What started as a citrus farming town has "morphed over the decades into a popular tourist and retirement spot," WorldAtlas writes. The downtown area is a "delight to wander" thanks to its "historic charm and brick-lined streets..."

Key West

The "Conch Republic," as it's referred to by locals, is "well-known for its laid-back atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and rich history." The star attraction, according to WorldAtlas, is Mallory Square, a public space at the end of famous Duval Street that features sunset celebrations and street performers.

Palm Beach

Known as the "winter playground for America's elite," visitors to Palm Beach can shop at high-end boutiques and restaurants with a backdrop of yachts and mansions. This Southeast Florida city is "synonymous with luxury, old-world glamour, and tropical elegance," according to WorldAtlas.

DeLand

Another downtown busting at the seams with history, downtown DeLand is home to 68 historic buildings, according to WorldAtlas, including the Museum of Art-DeLand. It notes that the Athens Theatre, which opened in 1922 on North Florida Avenue, is still hosting performances.

Micanopy

WorldAtlas writes that while Micanopy is the smallest on its list, it's downtown area is "quite possibly the best." Located just south of Gainesville, the "little town that time forgot" doesn't take long to explore but features an array of "antique and quirky boutique shops." WorldAtlas also recommends visitors to the area make a stop at nearby Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.