Explore the Best of Downtown Amelia Island 

It’s fair to say that Amelia Island is a vacation destination that calls to travelers with a passion for time on the sand in droves. Sun seekers from near and far head this way year-round to enjoy downtime far from the hustle of life on the shoreline. However, if you’re someone who loves shopping, dining, and history, Amelia Island is also an idyllic destination for you! Downtown Amelia Island is the place to be when you’re looking to learn about the area’s rich past and indulge in modern retail and dining marvels too. Rest assured that Amelia Island downtown fun and adventure is always within easy reach the next time you head this way.  

Finding time to enjoy the best Amelia Island has to offer is always the right choice, and travelers who request a copy of our Free Vacation Guide ahead of time have even more to look forward to. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to know about local attractions, activities, and events designed to inspire you on your next trip in this direction. 

Discover an Area Rich in Historical Architecture 

Amelia Island’s downtown Fernandina Beach is a must-visit for those with a passion for pursuing the past and looking for no less than 50 blocks of island charm to discover. Downtown Amelia Island is designed to be a scenic retreat, and its rich history is evident everywhere you look. As you make your way from the harbor front through to historic Centre Street, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning historical architecture to admire. The 50 blocks that comprise the Historic District downtown have proudly earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places and in total, feature more than 400 historic structures for visitors to explore.  

Commercial buildings, churches, and homes alike have been restored to their original glory, bringing the past into the present as you stroll through. As you walk through downtown Amelia Island, be sure to keep an eye out for the gorgeous Victorian-era homes complete with wrap-around porches sitting alongside Queen Anne architecture at its best. The Bailey House is a prime example of a Queen Anne-style building downtown that’s worth setting your sights on when you want to come face-to-face with a history dating back to 1885. 

Shops to Explore 

When a little shopping would add a lot of fun to your Amelia Island downtown visit, you’ll find the options here are wonderfully vast and varied. If you’re on the hunt for men’s apparel, head over to JJ Cooper and enjoy browsing a selection of shirts, pants, and accessories that are sure to inspire you to upgrade your closet. Over at Olive Amelia, those spending time exploring Amelia Island’s downtown shopping options can fill up on ultra-premium extra virgin olive oils of all kinds as well.  

The Spice & Tea Exchange is a great place to enjoy browsing over 85 custom spice blends made right in-house, but if you’re looking for something even more local, consider swinging by the Saturday farmers market and arts fair in this area, which is held on South 7th Street. There’s live music to set a fun scene and plenty of time set aside for checking out all of the vendors on-site. If it’s antiquing that gets your heart beating fast, don’t overlook time well-spent at shops like the Eight Flags Antique Market, Ice House Antiques, or Antiques and More Treasures.  

Downtown Dining at Its Best 

When all that shopping and historic landmark hopping leaves you with an appetite, downtown Amelia Island is jam-packed with delicious options to enjoy when it comes to eateries. Café Karibo is a must-visit for those who want to fill up on a mouthwatering veggie burger and pair it with a homemade soup and salad.  

If you find yourself craving European fare, España is a destination where the menu showcases traditional dishes from both Spain and Portugal. Yet another terrific restaurant to add to your must-try list in downtown Amelia Island is Burlingame where you’ll enjoy cozy surroundings and delicious options like the lamb Bolognese, which often has patrons coming back for seconds.  

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