Things To Do

Citrus County is a vacation destination for those people who want to enjoy Florida the way it used to be... natural and unspoiled. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride down the Rails to Trails as it cuts through Citrus County. Biking not your pleasure? Jog, walk or even skate along this trail that not so long ago was a part of the rail system.

Our local area is referred to as "Mother Nature's Playground" because of the many natural attractions within the area. That doesn't mean that living here puts the rest of Florida's attractions out of range. Hardly! With an excellent highway and interstate system running throughout the state, it's easy to visit all of Florida's attractions.

Let's take a look at some of Citrus County's attractions, natural and otherwise, and then some of the places you'll want to visit when you're ready to venture to north, east or south Florida.

Crystal River offers a glimpse into the past with a visit to the State Archaeological Site and Museum where visitors can get a glimpse at 2,000 years of Florida's pre-Columbian history.

Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins State Historic Site in Homosassa was once part of a thriving sugar plantation owned by David Levy Yulee. Still standing are the steam boiler, crushing machinery, and large cooking kettles used to process the sugar cane, as well as the stonework chimney, well and foundation.

Other places to visit include the Citrus County Speedway in Inverness, the Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park, the Old Courthouse Museum in Inverness, the Coastal Heritage Museum in Crystal River, and the Old Mill House & Printing Museum in Old Homosassa (across from the Sugar Mill Ruins).

Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park, located on the Homosassa River is a showcase for native Florida wildlife and endangered species. The park is also a rehabilitation center and refuge for the endangered West Indian Manatee. Other wildlife, seen in their natural habitat, include alligators, crocodiles, snakes, deer, bears, bobcats, otters and cougars. Bird wildlife include pink flamingos, eagles, herons, egrets and others.

Withlacoochee State Forest and Fort Cooper State Park (south of Inverness), are sites of the second Seminole War. "Rails to Trails," is a 47-mile former railroad right-of-way. The paved trail is excellent for biking, walking or jogging.

The Citrus County Art League is open to all area residents. There's a new theater to showcase their stage plays and theatrical shows featuring talented local actors and actresses. Theater is only one aspect of the art league; details of their current shows, gallery hours, and club news is available by calling (352) 746-7606 or clicking on the link above to go to their website. The Art Center Theater is located at the corner of County Road 486 and Annapolis Avenue in Citrus Hills, Hernando.

Playhouse 19, located at 865 N Suncoast Blvd, Crystal River, has a full schedule of dramas, musicals, and comedies throughout the year. For information contact the box office at 352-563-1333 or click on the link above to go to their website for more details.