Summary:
Cassadaga, Florida: A Unique Spiritual Journey
1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga, FL 32706, USA
Phone: +1 386-228-2880
Introduction to Cassadaga
Cassadaga is a destination that attracts a variety of visitors including the bereaved seeking solace, paranormal enthusiasts, and the merely curious. This charming town is recognized as the “Psychic Capital of the World” and is home to over 100 mediums, psychics, and healers.
While many would likely pass by on their way to other destinations, choosing to stop in Cassadaga allows for a fascinating glimpse into the historical context of spiritualism in America, making it a unique travel experience.
History of Cassadaga
Founded in 1894 by spiritualist George P. Colby, Cassadaga has a rich history intertwined with the origins of Spiritualism in the United States. Colby, a native of New York, traveled the nation conducting readings and seances before receiving guidance from a Native American spirit named Seneca to establish a spiritual center in Florida. Today, Cassadaga covers over 57 acres and remains a eclectic mix of psychic healers and spiritual traditionalists.
How to Get There
The Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp is conveniently located just off I-4, positioned between Orlando and Daytona Beach. Visitors can expect a short drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes from the major attractions. Keep an eye out as the camp is easily overlooked from the highway. Local folklore suggests that this charming town lies on an energy vortex, enhancing its significance for countless visitors each year.
What to Do
Exploring Cassadaga primarily revolves around seeking enlightenment in various forms. One-on-one sessions with psychics or healers may come with a higher price tag, but affordable workshops and seminars offered by the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp Church ensure everyone can engage with its vibrant spiritual community. Regular events such as Spirit Encounters Night, Healing Classes, and Sunday Church Services provide diverse opportunities to connect and learn.
The historic tours held from Thursday to Saturday at 2:00 p.m. are also a highlight for visitors wanting to delve deeper into Cassadaga’s spiritual past.
Where to Stay
Cassadaga features one primary accommodation option: the Cassadaga Hotel. According to local lore, this hotel may be haunted, but many guests find a welcoming atmosphere complemented by the hotel’s rich history. With 1920’s vintage decor and a basic set of amenities, the hotel boasts a unique charm, though guests should note it does not have a pool.
Rooms start at approximately $65 per night, but rates are subject to variance based on the season. Keep in mind that the hotel enforces a strict policy of guests being 21 or older, underscoring the serious nature of the spiritual practices they uphold.
For those seeking a change of scenery, nearby Lake Helen offers alternative lodging options like The Ann Stevens House and Cabin On The Lake.
Where to Eat
Cassadaga’s dining options are somewhat limited, with Sinatra’s Laldila Ristorante being the primary restaurant situated within the hotel. While restaurant reviews are mixed, patrons generally agree on the quality of the wine and the American cuisine served daily. Adjacent to the restaurant, a coffee bar offers visitors a cozy place to relax.
For those looking for more variety, a short drive to Lake Helen unveils additional dining venues, including pizza shops, ice cream parlors, and BBQ joints, broadening your culinary experience during your visit.