Fort Walton Beach - Florida - United States. Guide & Hotel Reservations from Cheap Hotels

Home to roughly 22,000 people, the city of Fort Walton Beach, in the state of Florida, is a relatively young city with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Of course, it was not always called Fort Walton. The discovery of an old Civil War cannon in 1932 gave rise to the present name of the city. It has always been a popular tourist destination as it has much to offer visitors like resort hotels and the gorgeous waterfront, not to mention the plethora of shopping and dining opportunities and the overall relaxed lifestyle that residents enjoy.

The city is such a popular and splendid place to live that it was actually named the tenth best place to reside out of the 300 largest metropolitan areas in America. Fort Walton Beach is currently trying to combine elements of its rich history with the many modern facets of a city to create an even more desirable place to live. 

In efforts to try and preserve features of the city's history, Fort Walton Beach has founded a number of museums. One of which is the Indian Temple Mound and Museum, which showcases over 6,000 artifacts and items of historical significance. This museum also has in its possession some of the best, most exquisite Fort Walton Period ceramics in that particular area of the United States as well as a number of artifacts from European explorers and local pirates. The city also has a large number of additional sites of historic importance such as the Garnier Post Office Museum and the Camp Walton Schoolhouse and Museum.

The Pleasure Island Waterpark has activities for the whole family. Enjoy the huge water slide or go-carts, but if you wish for more adventure you can rent wave runners and pontoon jet boats. Enjoy a snorkeling cruise along the coast or take a para sailing lesson.

If your interests lie more in the arts, you can take in a production by the Northwest Florida Ballet or you can take in a theater production by the Stage Crafters Community Theater. Shop at the Frame Master's Gallery for a wide selection of high quality art work in many styles and themes.

For your dining, you can try the spiced buffalo wings at Buffalo Wild Wings, or choose from one of the locally operated restaurants, such as Los Panchos, Magnolia Grill, and the Summerhouse Restaurant. Accommodations include a bed and breakfast establishment - Aunt Martha's Bed and Breakfast- where you will have home cooked meals in a family setting. You might also like to stay at a luxury resort, a hotel or motel or rent a vacation home for a longer stay.