Melrose is a rural community with a historic district and a large lake
Melrose is a mostly rural but growing Florida community that encompasses parts of Putnam, Clay, Alachua and Bradford counties in north-central Florida. It is known for its Victorian-era historic district and Lake Santa Fe, one of the region’s largest and most popular recreational destinations. From this center of activity, the community spreads out in all four directions, with most of its land to the north and east. The heart of town is about 18 miles east of Gainesville, making it convenient for residents who commute to the University of Florida or for work in healthcare.
This lakefront arts community has a mix of housing styles and prices
The historic district is known for its older homes, many of which date to the 19th century, when northerners came to the area to build vacation cottages. Melrose remains a popular destination for part-time residents, and the arts play a large role in that. “It’s a big art community,” says Ronald Blake of CB Isaac Realty, who adds that the First Friday Art Walk at Mossman Hall is a popular local event. Melrose has long been a quiet, reflective destination for writers, painters and other artists seeking inspiration from the surroundings. “We have some local nature photographers who put on very nice shows,” Blake says.
Ranch-style homes are common throughout the area, and waterfront homes in a variety of styles and sizes stand out along the shores of Lake Santa Fe. Newer homes are typically contemporary designs with driveways and attached garages, and are found primarily in areas with land available for development. Prices typically range from around $200,000 to over $1 million, depending on age, size and location. Manufactured homes in more remote settings are a lower-priced option, selling from around $100,000 to the mid-$300,000s for properties with additional acreage. The median sales price is about $350,000. “Part of [the attraction] is affordability,” says Blake, who has sold dozens of homes in Melrose. “You can get a house here cheaper than you can in the big city, and it’s just a more laidback lifestyle.”
Lake Santa Fe is the center of activity among many area lakes
Lake Santa Fe is a haven for outdoors enthusiasts, offering nearly 6,000 acres for boating, fishing, kayaking and other activities. Nearby parks have an array of amenities that include boat ramps and playgrounds. Lake Geneva in nearby Keystone Heights is among the many smaller lakes that residents have access to. Indian Lake is home to Camp Freedom, which utilizes the local setting to provide healing through nature for veterans. Soldiers Freedom Outdoors, which runs the camp, organizes retreats and local fundraising events. Fishing is especially popular in the area, as north-central Florida is nationally known for its bass fishing. Palatka, within 30 miles of the heart of Melrose, has hosted the annual Bassmaster's seasonal kickoff tournament on the St. Johns River.
Diverse dining options, from seafood to fried chicken to milkshakes
There are several popular local destinations in and around the historic district. Notable stops include:
- Blue Water Bay, a seafood restaurant known for its stained-glass décor
- Gator Bait Family Sports Grill, a casual place to enjoy food and drinks with friends
- The Frozen Pelican, which offers comfort food and sweet treats such as milkshakes
- Fryer’s Chicken, a destination for Southern-style favorites
Across the street from Fryer’s is Chiappini Gulf Station, a convenience store that has been part of the community since 1935 and hosts live music and other events. “It’s a gathering spot, a focal point of the area,” Blake says. There’s a Winn-Dixie on the way to Keystone Heights, which includes more dining options and a Bealls clothing store about 7 miles north. The closest big-box retailers are in Starke and Palatka.
Melrose spans four counties and school districts
Because the community is spread across four counties, it is served by four school districts. Clay and Alachua County are the largest and highest-rated. Melrose Elementary School is in Putnam County. Students in Florida can apply for transfers to schools outside of their geographic zones, including out-of-district transfers, under the state’s Open Enrollment program.
Easy access to the University of Florida and Gainesville hospitals
State Road 26, which runs through the heart of Melrose, provides a direct route to Gainesville. The Alachua County seat is best known as the University of Florida. “We’re close enough to the university that we attract a lot of professors and doctors,” Blake says. Gainesville is also a regional healthcare center. UF Health Shands Hospital and HCA Florida North Florida Hospital are major employers. Gainesville Regional Airport is the area’s travel hub. Palatka is the Putnam County seat and about a 35-minute drive east via state Road 100.
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Matt Pallister
