3 FL Cities Named Among Best Food Scenes, Coastal Small Towns: Report

FLORIDA — Two of the nation's best coastal small towns, and one of the country's best small town food scenes, are in Florida, USA Today said last week in its 10best Readers Choice Awards 2024.

The ongoing online contests allow readers to choose the top 10 winners from a list of 20 nominees in several nationwide categories, including food, lodging and destinations. USA Today said an expert panel makes the nominations before voting occurs.

Floridians may recognize some of this year's victors in few categories, including one that secured a No. 1 spot and others that landed on the Best Main Street and Best Riverwalk lists.

Here's how Florida fared and what USA Today had to say:

Best Coastal Small Towns

Stuart, No. 1

"Part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, with the impressive Roosevelt Bridge to its north, is the under-the-radar town of Stuart. Walk along the St. Lucie River at Flagler Park or Shepard Park, both great spots for picnicking, fishing, or otherwise relaxing. The Stuart Heritage Museum, Road to Victory Military Museum, and restaurant-lined downtown Stuart are all among the local attractions."

Key West, No. 3

"Key West boasts everything from conch train tours and six-toed cats to a bevy of bars and festivals, not to mention it's the southernmost point in the continental United States. This walkable Florida town is full of historic and coastal charm, with gorgeous white sand beaches and palm-tree lined streets. It's also home to a robust arts scene, a butterfly garden, an aquarium, and buskers a-plenty for year-round entertainment."

Best Small Town Food Scenes

Mount Dora, No. 6

"With an upbeat atmosphere and down-home, friendly vibe, Mount Dora’s food scene attracts longtime neighborhood residents and tourists alike. Blending that distinctive 'Old Florida' charm with new, modern dining establishments, this town’s eateries feature plenty of outdoor patios to enjoy the sunshine, as well as menus spotlighting just about everything, from Southern specialties to organic juice bars, classic Italian, and international cuisine."

Best Main Street

Deland, No. 4

"Vibrant and community-oriented, Main Street DeLand is more than a street, it's an award-winning organization dedicated to enhancing DeLand's economic development and protecting and promoting its historic heritage. As a result of their efforts, N. Woodland Boulevard, aka Main Street, is thriving, featuring a diverse array of shops, boutiques, and restaurants, as well as cultural attractions including theaters, galleries, and museums."

Best Riverwalk

Tampa Riverwalk, No. 4

"The Tampa Riverwalk was created to connect the businesses, parks and museums along the riverfront in Tampa, Florida. It also serves as a central spot for performances, art, leisure and fitness activities. At 2.6 miles long, there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy along the way, from restaurants to museums, not to mention the scenery."