HWY 331 Communities

HWY 331 plays a crucial role in connecting our vibrant communities in Walton County, Florida.

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DeFuniak Springs

DeFuniak Springs, Florida, is known for its historical significance and charming features. It’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and local businesses, often reflecting the town’s character and heritage. The downtown area is also notable for the presence of historic homes, many of which are well-preserved and add to the overall ambiance of the street. You can expect to find a mix of local businesses, cultural attractions, and architectural beauty throughout DeFuniak Springs.

Connect DeFuniak Springs

Image of park with sculptures depicting children with the American Flag.

Freeport

Freeport is known for its small-town charm and proximity to natural attractions. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, with three miles of bay front within the city limits alone. With nearby rivers, creeks, and forested areas, there are endless opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, hunting and hiking. It’s a small town with a big heart that happens to be one of the fastest growing city in the state of Florida.

Connect Freeport

Image of a man casting a net in the Choctawhatchee Bay

Walton & Beyond

The mighty HWY 331 bridge unites Walton County – north and south. Likewise, the HWY 331 website, newsletter, podcast and social channels bridge the gap between locals and visitors in Walton County. By sharing stories, we cultivate a strong sense of community as a whole. All stories we share can be found here.

Connect Walton County

DeFuniak Springs Triathlon Returns

Apr 6, 2026 | Businesses, Communities, DeFuniak Springs, Events, Walton & Beyond

Join us May 2 for the 6th Annual DeFuniak Springs Triathlon, where athletes from across the U.S. and abroad test their limits while the town rallies in support. From swims in the lake to bike rides and runs through downtown, this event celebrates endurance, community, and small-town charm. Proceeds benefit local nonprofits, showcasing the best of DeFuniak Springs.

Where Courage Takes Flight

Apr 6, 2026 | Communities, DeFuniak Springs, Events, Freeport, Walton & Beyond

Experience an evening of film and history in Freeport, FL with a benefit screening of The Flight of Jackie Cochran, featuring a live Q&A and fundraiser supporting the Wings of Courage Tour.

Connect with Summit on the Circle: Diane Pickett

Apr 6, 2026 | Businesses, Communities, Events, Podcast, Walton & Beyond

In this 27-minute episode of the HWY 331 Podcast, Kerri Parker sits down with Diane Pickett, the founder and visionary behind Summit on the Circle in DeFuniak Springs.

Nicole Paloma Brings Couture and Community to South Walton

Mar 25, 2026 | Communities, Events, Walton & Beyond

Step into a night where fashion meets impact. The Nicole Paloma Fashion Show at SOWAL House on April 9 supports the SOWAL Foundation, raising funds for arts and cultural programs that benefit creative voices across the region. Enjoy couture, a live auction, champagne, and community all coming together for a cause worth celebrating.

A Fresh Look and Heartfelt Mission at Best Pals Pet Resort

Mar 23, 2026 | Businesses, Communities, DeFuniak Springs, Walton & Beyond

Under new ownership, Best Pals Pet Resort in DeFuniak Springs has unveiled a stunning remodel, including a warm, welcoming reception area and new healthy treats for every guest. During the renovations, each team member wrote a Bible verse on the interior walls, a quiet reminder of the resort’s mission to nurture both pets and the people who care for them. Discover how this family-owned resort continues to set a new standard in dog care.

CHELCO Announces 2026 Youth Tour Delegates

Mar 11, 2026 | Businesses, Communities, DeFuniak Springs, Freeport, Walton & Beyond

A group of local high school juniors recently stepped into the halls of government in Tallahassee through the Youth Tour program hosted by Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative. From mock legislative sessions to an inside look at how decisions are made, the experience left a lasting impression—and four students have now been selected to represent the cooperative this summer in Washington, D.C. through the national program of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Miccosukee Tribe Purchases Land in Walton County

Mar 10, 2026 | Businesses, Communities, DeFuniak Springs, Freeport, Walton & Beyond

In early 2026, the Miccosukee Tribe of Florida completed the purchase of about 25 acres of land in Walton County, located on the west side of Highway 331 between DeFuniak Springs and Freeport. The transaction, valued at approximately $2.25 million, has attracted local attention and sparked speculation about potential future uses of the property.

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