Historic Havana is one of Florida’s most unique villages. First settled in the earliest years of Florida’s development, it soon was driven by shade tobacco’s economic engine. The town was named after Havana, Cuba, for its renown as a high-quality tobacco growing and cigar making center. Although the town suffered a devastating fire in 1916, it rose from the ashes and today Havana is well known as an arts center and mecca for antiques. Enterprising entrepreneurs began filling old brick buildings with shops and art galleries in a renaissance of historical preservation. There are more than 40 antique shops, art galleries, artist studios, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants in Havana.

The North Florida Arts Trail runs through Havana and includes many of its historic buildings. Havana is located on U.S. 27, just minutes north of Tallahassee and the I-10 interchange in eastern Gadsden County.