The Niceville center is approximately 1 mile southwest of Twin Cities Hospital and 1 mile southwest of Mattie Kelly Arts Center.
Summer in Niceville lasts from mid-May to mid-August when the weather is hot and humid. If you're planning to head to the beaches and catch some sun, then this might be a good time to visit. However, the area gets very busy with both people and motor traffic, and prices rise to match the demand. July and August are when the crowds hit their peak, so June could be a choice for those that like the sun.
Toward the end of August, the temperatures begin to fall to a more bearable level, and the crowds become more manageable at the major attractions. You'll meet more local people around this time as they come out from avoiding the crowds. If you come in October, you'll enjoy the city's annual main event, the Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival (the fish, not the haircut).
From November to February, winter sets in and the weather is cold and unpredictable. You'll get good rates on hotels at this time, but you may not get the chance to venture out much unless you pack your thermals. Things start to warm up in the spring, but the rain and cold can still catch you by surprise. Due to the proximity to the beaches at Destin, the area can be a hot spot for spring breakers, so if you are planning to make use of the nearby seaside, then spring might be best avoided.
The Hampton Inn Niceville Eglin Air Force Base has a great location close to the center of Niceville, and it offers a generous discount to AAA members. It is close to the Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park and the Eglin Golf Course.
All rooms are air-conditioned with a refrigerator and a microwave, and there's an LCD television with cable to keep you entertained. Wi-Fi is free, and there are complimentary newspapers and free parking. The outdoor pool is available in high season, and guests receive free access to a nearby fitness center. A hot and cold buffet breakfast is included, and there's a welcome reception to meet other guests.
The Comfort Suites at Eglin Air Force Base is close to the Hampton Inn, so it shares the same convenient location. AAA members get a discount here, and group bookings can save 12 percent on average. This hotel has an eco-friendly policy and makes an active effort to stay green.
Rooms have all the usual amenities, including cable television and complimentary toiletries. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and rooms include a desk and a phone with free local calls. Other extras include complimentary newspapers and a coffee maker. A hot breakfast is included, and barbecue grills are available to use in the outdoor areas. The outdoor pool is seasonal, but the fitness center is open year-round.
The Roya Hotel and Suites Fort Walton Beach is a short drive from the center of Niceville and, as its name suggests, it is located right on the seafront. Fort Walton Beach is a little quieter than neighboring Destin, so a stay here will get you a private beach at a more affordable price.
The newly refurbished rooms feature all the expected amenities, including a flat-screen television with cable and a coffee maker. Wi-Fi is complimentary throughout the hotel, and a hot and healthy breakfast is included for all guests. The outdoor pool has been recently developed and overlooks the sea, and there is a 24-hour fitness suite. If you happen to have your own boat, then there's even a private dock.
This annual festival takes place on the third weekend of October every year and is the highlight of the Niceville calendar. The festival began in 1976 to honor the mullet that the Niceville fishing industry relied upon. Back then, the festival was a small event with local entertainment and no admission charge.
These days, the Mullet Festival is well known for its great entertainment and has been named one of the top 12 food festivals in the United States. There's fun for the whole family with tons of attractions such as a petting zoo, game booths, and carnival rides. Live entertainment is another big feature of the festival, and big acts come from the across the U.S. to play. All music tastes are catered for with performances that include classic rock, country, rhythm and blues, and hip-hop.
Food is plentiful and varied, and although mullet does feature on the menu, it is only a small part of the extensive offerings. Alligator kabobs, shark on a stick, and coconut shrimp were just some of the options available at the last festival, along with the typical carnival fare of cotton candy and corn dogs.
Niceville, Florida, is a welcoming city that makes up for its smaller size with personality. The local people are friendly and will happily include tourists in their day-to-day lives, making for a laid-back atmosphere throughout the city. Niceville is conveniently located for nearby popular beaches and attractions. However, staying in the city provides an escape from the crowds at the end of each day. It's an up-and-coming city with increasing numbers of visitors to the area discovering this hidden gem. There are hotel options to suit all needs, so give this friendly, little place a try.
Below are reviews of the city of Niceville, FL from an actual visitor's perspective.
Liked the availability of shopping, food stores and restaurants.
Niceville is great. Just like this hotel.
Easy access to businesses. Located near the water.
There was plenty of shopping and we enjoyed the Air Force Armament Museum.
Convenient to everything!
Great location.