![Lake City artwork](https://images.pod.co/Xxo4J8LsfkhQzPg83r-tpZJjyZKoofiOxszu9O2iVdw/resize:fill:600:600/plain/artwork/dc565344-42d8-4df5-840e-39b4acf341a0/the-family-vacationer/lake-city-1721178556.jpg)
**Episode 162: Lake City, Florida – A Perfect Family Travel Destination**
**Special Guest: Konnie Patke**
**Show Notes:**
- Overview of Lake City, Florida as a family-friendly travel destination
- Introduction of special guest Konnie Patke
- **Why Lake City Stands Out for Families**
- Family-friendly atmosphere with a blend of natural beauty, history, and community events
- **Must-See Attractions and Activities**
- Alligator Lake Park: Perfect for picnics, wildlife watching, and outdoor fun
- Lake City Columbia County Historical Museum: Offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history
- Annual Olustee Battle Festival: Features historical reenactments and family activities
- **Family-Friendly Events and Festivals**
- Olustee Battle Festival (February): Historical reenactments, arts and crafts, live entertainment
- Gateway City Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Family-friendly with various activities
- Christmas on the Square Festival: Holiday fun for the whole family
- **Natural Attractions**
- Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Tubing, snorkeling, hiking opportunities
- Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park: Beautiful gardens, nature trails, cultural exhibits
- **Family-Friendly Accommodations**
- Cozy cabins at local campgrounds
- Family-friendly hotels with pools and amenities for all budgets
- **Historical and Cultural Landmarks**
- Lake City Columbia County Historical Museum: Educational exhibits and local history
- Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park: Educational programs and Civil War battle reenactments
- **Dining Options for Families**
- Marion Street Bistro and Brew House: Family-friendly atmosphere and diverse menu
- Halpatter Brewing Company: Local flavors and welcoming environment for all ages
- **Educational Activities and Experiences**
- Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Educational programs on local ecosystem
- Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park: Insights into Florida’s cultural heritage
- **Local Tips and Hidden Gems**
- Falling Creek Falls: Beautiful waterfall and peaceful setting
- Lake DeSoto Farmers Market: Fresh produce, local crafts, and a community vibe
- Encouragement to explore Lake City for your next family vacation
- Reminder to subscribe to The Family Vacationer Podcast for more travel tips and destination guides
- Thank you to Konnie Patke for sharing insights about Lake City, Florida
Tune in to Episode 162 to discover all that Lake City, Florida has to offer for your next family adventure!
The Family Vacationer
A podcast dedicated to families that travel. So many of our memories come from time spent with our family. We want to help you make the most of your family vacations. We do that by covering travel destinations, travel apps, and gadgets, and talk to travel experts for ways to make family travel less stressful. Who doesn't want that?
Meet the Hosts
![Rob Jones avatar](https://images.pod.co/R6N5ClSlvLGzkGsUVpmSwNjqpO3bvLAGmSWeSQFayEk/resize:fill:600:600/plain/avatar/10d272d9-8743-4584-b995-843a0198cdef/75c46790-8b7d-4ce7-925e-607078401390.jpg)
Growing up, Rob Jones mainly traveled to Florida for vacation. Those family trips to Orlando and the Gulf Coast are cherished memories that influence him to this day. His entire professional career has involved travel. From working in the music business to event marketing, Rob has traveled to 46 states and five countries. Rob has been married to his wife, Traci, for 16 years and they love to travel with their three children: Ruthie, Nash, and Chase.
![Traci Jones avatar](https://images.pod.co/hLn3CEaQZ7Rg91zj7YIfCfyqPFLhBBwWM5MpzgtH0XM/resize:fill:600:600/plain/avatar/f92e473d-56c2-4dc8-8b6a-0db65e5e6677/555b9bc9-cad3-491e-a318-fc5232671ea7.jpg)
Traci's been shaking up the Dawson County School System for four years now, injecting it with her unique brand of energy and enthusiasm. When she's not molding young minds, you'll find her co-conspiring with her sister at Seasonal Events and Design—because who doesn't love a good party?
She's a self-proclaimed beach aficionado, never meeting a sandy shore she didn't instantly click with. And let's not forget her partner-in-crime for the past eighteen years, Rob, who's been keeping up with her antics and their three beautiful troublemakers—Ruthie, Chase, and Nash. Together, they're a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and love.
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