Milton
            Milton is a bedroom community situated in central Santa Rosa County on US-90, around two miles north of I-10.  Apart from serving as the Santa Rosa county seat, Milton is only a short drive from NAS Whiting Field and Eglin Air Force Base – making it a popular choice with military service-members and their families.  Milton is located on the Blackwater River – a major freshwater waterway and popular outdoor destination for outdoor-minded travelers from around the country – and much of the town’s charm and allure is based around its proximity to the river.  The area is known for its focus on the outdoors – especially canoeing, kayaking, and other water-related activities – and both Milton, and the nearby community of Pace, claim the title of “Florida’s Canoe Capital.”

 Neighborhood Make-up

             Milton is one of Florida’s oldest settlements, incorporated in 1844 – a year before Florida was even granted statehood.  The city floundered after the Civil War – suffering from numerous fires and rampant poverty – before finally reemerging during the North Florida timber rush of the late 1800s.  Much of the real estate available is single-family and undeveloped land parcels, mixed with larger houses in the downtown area, making the area perfect for families looking to settle within travel distance of tourist areas further south, without dealing with the associated bustle.  Housing options in Milton range from waterfront neighborhoods such as Eventide Estates to less expensive options closer to downtown and East Milton.

Dining

            From the delightful brunch choices of Blackwater Bistro – an eatery located in an over one-hundred year old historic home – to traditional New Orleans seafood and Cajun cooking at Cosse’s Place, Milton delivers memorable dining experiences in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.  If you’re craving something a bit simpler – but not lacking in quality – Golden’s Soul Food and Boomerang Pizza Kitchen are great options for good, casual dining.

Entertainment & Shopping

             While not as happening as tourist areas along the coast, Milton is not without its entertainment and shopping benefits.  Bands on the Blackwater, for example – a free outdoor concert series held at Jernigan’s Landing in Downtown Milton – offers live music on Friday nights. Additionally, the Imogene Theater – a historic venue in downtown – grants locals and visitors the option of live performances and other seasonal events, and Weber’s Skate World – a fifteen-thousand foot skating rink and skate shop located on Stewart Street – offers a great source of good, clean fun.  Milton also offers many shopping options, such as the Copper ‘Possum Antique Mall and Grey Man Armory – a premier gun store and tactical gear located downtown.

 Attractions

   Blackwater River State Park & Heritage State Trail

            For the outdoor enthusiast, everything Blackwater is a must-visit while in Milton.  Blackwater River State Park offers a wide range of activities like camping, fishing, and various water-related amenities, and geo-seeking, while the Blackwater Heritage State Trail – the westernmost leg of Florida’s State Greenways and Trails System – allows paved hiking and biking options leading from the wooden bridges of the country through the heart of downtown Milton, itself. 

             Coldwater Gardens

            Located just north of Milton, Coldwater Gardens is an outdoor complex that offers over 352 acres of trails, roads, and private sandbars – with numerous camping and lodging options.  The site offers access to Coldwater Creek from 4 primary sandbars, over 7 miles of mixed use trails and hiking areas, and other amenities.  From cottages and cabanas, to glamping and a luxury treehouse cabin, Coldwater Gardens is the perfect escape for anyone looking to relax far from the demands of modern life.

              Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site

            Located in the pine forests of Santa Rosa County, the Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site – a 42 acre property detailing the rich history of Northwest Florida is the perfect day outing for the entire family.  The site features the “Meet Me at the Mill” children’s area, an interactive treetop classroom, and a boardwalk around the remains of the original mill facilities.  A discovery pavilion also features replicas of 19th century mill technology for those interested how the lumber boom transformed Northwest Florida in the late 1800s.

Schools

Milton is served by the Santa Rosa Public School District.

·         Berryhill Elementary School – Public, 1-6

·         W. H. Rhodes Elementary School – Public, K-5

·         East Milton Elementary School – Public, K-5

·         Hobbs Middle School – Public, 6-8

·         Avalon Middle School – Public, 6-8