This region provides somewhat of a contrast to the beach vacation spots of other regions in the state. Tallahassee, Gainesville, and many other towns in the region have rolling hills, lakes and springs, and hardwoods rather than beaches and palm trees. The coastal areas of this region do offer miles of unspoiled beaches, refuges, and marshes that are home to many species of birds and other wildlife, as well as great fishing. The area is the home to the beautiful Suwanee River, mentioned in Stephen Foster’s classic song. The town of Micanopy, near Gainesville, is the oldest inland town in the state.