The Palmetto Pioneers: A Self-Guided Monticello Walking Tour

Destin , United States

The Palmetto Pioneers: A Self-Guided Monticello Walking Tour

Active

(3 reviews)

1h - 1h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Monticello’s homes and historic streets tell the story of a small Southern town’s journey from an optimistic frontier settlement to the Civil War. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll follow the true story of Mary Adeline Walker and her husband William (central characters in the Palmetto Pioneers book series) through Monticello’s remarkably preserved historic district.

The tour begins at the Jefferson County Courthouse Circle, where citizens first learned Florida had achieved statehood in 1845. As you walk, you’ll discover how Jefferson County became one of Florida’s political centers.

Throughout the journey, you’ll learn how Monticello’s early settlers, nicknamed “Palmetto Pioneers“ for their South Carolina origins, transformed a Florida frontier outpost into a thriving cotton-shipping town. The tour ends at William Budd’s general store on the courthouse square, now a popular local coffee shop where visitors can relax.

Available options

The Palmetto Pioneers: A Self-Guided Monticello Walking Tour

What's included

VoiceMap app for Andriod and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

You’ll pass by the Jefferson County Courthouse in Monticello, a Classical Revival building completed in 1909 that anchors the town’s historic district. Please note that entry to the courthouse is not included in this tour.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food and drink

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts at the parking lot at the corner of E Washington and Courthouse Circle. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Destin

Destin is a charming coastal city known for its emerald-green waters, white sandy beaches, and exceptional fishing. It's a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing beach vacation.

Top Attractions

Henderson Beach State Park

A beautiful state park with pristine white sand beaches and scenic trails through coastal dunes and forests.

Nature 2-4 hours Moderate ($5 per vehicle entry fee)

Destin Harbor Boardwalk

A lively boardwalk with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, as well as boat charters and fishing excursions.

Entertainment 2-4 hours Free to explore, costs vary for activities and dining.

Crab Trap Dive Center

A popular dive center offering scuba diving and snorkeling excursions to explore the crystal-clear waters and marine life around Destin.

Adventure Half-day to full-day Moderate to Expensive (depending on the excursion)

The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

A marine adventure park featuring dolphin encounters, sea lion shows, and other marine life exhibits.

Nature 2-4 hours Moderate ($20-$30 per person)

Crystal Sands Beach

A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half-day to full-day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Grilled Gulf Shrimp

Freshly caught Gulf shrimp grilled to perfection, often served with a variety of sauces and sides.

Main Course Gluten-free options available.

Fried Oysters

Crispy fried oysters, often served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Appetizer Gluten-free options available.

Key Lime Pie

A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.

Dessert Gluten-free options available.

Popular Activities

Scuba diving Snorkeling Deep-sea fishing Beachcombing Sunbathing Spa treatments Visiting local museums Exploring historic sites

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

This is the best time to visit Destin for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The water is warm, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

18-30°C 64-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Destin is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of fake tour operators.
• Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach.
• Use reputable taxi and ride-sharing services.

Getting there

By air

Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport • 12 miles from Destin
Pensacola International Airport • 50 miles from Destin

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station in Fort Walton Beach

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are available but not very extensive. Best for short distances and specific routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Destin Harbor Boardwalk Crystal Beach Downtown Destin

Day trips

Pensacola Beach

30 miles • 1 hour

A beautiful beach with white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Naval Aviation Museum

50 miles • 1 hour

A fascinating museum showcasing the history of naval aviation with a collection of historic aircraft and exhibits.

Seaside

20 miles • 30 minutes

A charming coastal village with a mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions, known for its picturesque streets and architecture.

Festivals

Destin Seafood Festival • November Destin Harbor Bash • July

Pro tips

Visit the Destin Harbor Boardwalk for the best seafood and waterfront dining.
Book a fishing charter for an authentic Destin experience.
Explore the nearby state parks and nature preserves for a taste of the local ecosystem.
Check the weather and tide schedules before planning beach activities.
Consider renting a golf cart for easy and fun transportation around the area.