If you’re craving natural beauty, underground wonders, and Southern small-town charm, I think you’ll really enjoy Marianna. Tucked into Florida’s Panhandle, this place surprised me with its peaceful vibe and outdoor adventures. I’ve explored limestone caves, paddled crystal-clear rivers, and wandered downtown streets that feel like stepping back in time. If you're anything like me, you’ll feel welcome the moment you arrive.

Best Time to Visit

I always aim for spring or fall—between March and May or September to November. The weather’s perfect for cave tours, river paddling, and hiking through the woods. You’ll skip the summer heat, and trust me, that makes a big difference when you’re exploring outside. I’ve gone in spring and loved seeing everything so green and alive.

How to Get There

  • By Car: I usually take I-10—it’s super convenient. Marianna’s just about an hour west of Tallahassee or two hours from Pensacola, so it makes a great stop on a road trip.
  • By Plane: When I flew in, I used either Tallahassee International (TLH) or Northwest Florida Beaches Airport (ECP). Both are within 90 minutes, and the drives are easy and scenic.
  • By Bus: I’ve heard Greyhound and other regional buses serve nearby towns, so if you're not driving, you’ve still got options. Just plan a bit ahead for local transport once you get there.

Where to Stay

  • The Hinson House Bed & Breakfast – I stayed here and instantly felt at home. The rooms are cozy, the hosts are friendly, and the historic charm is something you don’t get at a chain hotel. You’ll love being just steps from downtown.
  • Comfort Inn & Suites Marianna – If you’re like me and sometimes just want something familiar and easy, this place works well. It’s clean, reliable, and right off the highway.
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites Marianna – I appreciated the pool after a warm day of exploring. The breakfast was a nice bonus too. You’ll get comfort and convenience without any fuss.

Top Attractions in Marianna, Florida

Take a guided tour of Florida Caverns State Park

Tonya Herring/stock.adobe.com

Take a guided tour of Florida Caverns State Park -                                    

Hike in Blue Springs Recreational Park

Baronb/stock.adobe.com

Hike in Blue Springs Recreational Park -                                    

View The Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail

zphoto83/stock.adobe.com

View The Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail -                                    

Stop by the Historic Russ House Visitors Center

City of Marianna

Stop by the Historic Russ House Visitors Center -                                    

Learn about history at Marianna Civil War Battlefield

kittinit/stock.adobe.com

Learn about history at Marianna Civil War Battlefield -                                    

Dine on Greek-American fusion cuisine at Mashawy

Mashawy

Dine on Greek-American fusion cuisine at Mashawy -                                    

Stop for Irish pub fare at Beef O'Brady's

Beef O'Brady's

Stop for Irish pub fare at Beef O'Brady's -                                    

Merritt’s Mill Pond

Vladimir Wrangel/stock.adobe.com

Merritt’s Mill Pond -                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)