NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA BACKROADS TRAVEL takes you off the Interstate Highways and onto the quieter roads that defined this region in earlier years. Millions of people visit North Central Florida every year and never really see it. Everything looks pretty much the same from Interstate 10 and Interstate 75. The same old billboards, gas stations, chain restaurants and tacky tourist traps call out to you as you speed along. This guide will rescue you from interstate monotony and take you off the beaten path to what is called Old Florida. This part of our fast growing state is still a place of serenity, natural wonders and historic places. The guide is organized into several different sections so you can browse what you'd like at your convenience. Several historic North Central Florida towns are profiled including Cedar Key, Cross Creek, Gainesville, Madison, Mayo, McIntosh, Micanopy, Melrose, Monticello, Quincy, Steinhatchee and Tallahassee. The history of each town is discussed and photos are shown along with an antique postcard now and then. If a town has a good restaurant, the guide will mention it along with some favorite lodging choices. North Central Florida is famous for its universities. This guide will show you what to look for, especially on football game weekends. You will also learn about several Florida State Parks. These parks are quiet treasures that will make your visit even more interesting. The guide doesn't focus on popular tourist attractions. The towns and places are the best attractions. It does take you, however, to the outstanding Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville.