Where else in the world can you say that your neighbor is a mermaid unless you’re in Hernando County? Our central location along the Gulf of Mexico means that many of Florida’s most famous attractions are only an hour or two drive away! Being centrally located, residents have accessibility to the Gulf of Mexico, the benefits of a smooth commute to points north and south along the Suncoast, yet we are only a two-hour drive east to the Disney Theme Parks.
Head South!
Hop onto the Suncoast Parkway and head south to visit the theme parks of Busch Gardens and Adventure Island and the world acclaimed beaches of Clearwater/St.Pete. While savvy shoppers prefer the Tampa Premium Outlets and the Shops at Wiregrass; you may choose to take in a Broadway show or musical performance offered at the stunningly beautiful Straz Center for Performing Arts. Acoustic enthusiasts relish in the open air MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre; or enjoy an intimate performance at Ruth Eckerd Hall or Janis Live. Make unforgettable memories, experience the culture, or learn about the innovations of history at one of the hundreds of museums; all within an hour’s drive! Just a few favorites include the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), the Glazer Children’s Museum, the Salvador Dali Museum, and Cracker Country. The Port of Tampa is one of the largest ports in the state and offers many cruise options, including trips to Cuba.
Head North!
Take the Suncoast Parkway north to find the natural wonders found in Citrus County. Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park and Three Sisters Springs boast crystal clear waters and an opportunity to swim and snorkel with manatees. The Plantation on Crystal River offers fine dining and a 27-hole golf course designed by the highly regarded Mark Mahannah.
Head East!
Just a two-hour drive east to reach the mecca of Florida theme parks! Between the shopping outlets and theme parks, the options in the Orlando/Kissimmee regions are limitless! Besides the Disney theme parks of Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and the Animal Kingdom; there are equal adventures to discover at Universal’s Island of Adventure and Universal Studios. Educational and interactive experiences are also offered by SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove; where you can swim with dolphins. In addition to Discovery Cove; there are three uniquely different waterparks to visit including Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Disney’s Blizzard Beach, or Universal’s Volcano Bay. Off the beaten path you can find more treasures such as Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum, WonderWorks, and the Orlando Eye. Attracting visitors from across the world, are the incredible deals that you can find at the Mall of Millenia and the Orlando International Premium Outlets. Keep heading east and you will have to stop at the infamous beaches of Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach! Also along Florida’s east coast is Port Canaveral one of the world’s largest cruising ports in the world and NASA’s Kennedy Space Center!