Local Directory
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
Dunnellon Historic Village
DunnellonA small, walkable riverfront town at the confluence of the Rainbow and Withlacoochee rivers. Browse local shops, grab lunch at a riverside cafe, and soak in the Old Florida charm of this former phosphate mining boomtown.
Lake Panasoffkee
BushnellA shallow, spring-fed lake covering nearly 4,500 acres, Lake Panasoffkee is one of Central Florida's best-kept fishing secrets. Known for outstanding largemouth bass and panfish, the lake connects to the Withlacoochee River and Outlet River. Several fish camps along the shore offer boat rentals and local knowledge. The surrounding wetlands attract wading birds, osprey, and bald eagles.
Marsh Bend Park
BushnellCounty park with boat ramp access, fishing, picnic pavilions, and a playground along the Withlacoochee River.
Riverbend Cattle Company
Crystal RiverFamily-owned cattle ranch and farm store on the Withlacoochee River in Floral City. Pasture-raised, 14-day dry-aged beef and pork sold at the ranch store, online, and at area farmers markets including Brownwood in The Villages. Ranch experiences and tours available.
Singing River Tour
DunnellonUnique eco-tour on the Rainbow and Withlacoochee Rivers in Dunnellon combining nature education and Florida history with original live music aboard a covered, handicap-accessible 40-foot pontoon boat.
Singing River Tours
DunnellonCaptain Jon Semmes combines eco-touring with live music on this one-of-a-kind pontoon boat experience along Dunnellon's Rainbow River and Withlacoochee River. The roughly 100-minute cruise aboard a covered 40-foot pontoon includes original songs, local history, and wildlife spotting on one of Florida's most pristine spring-fed waterways. At just $15 per person, it's one of the best deals in the area.
The Blue Gator Tiki Bar & Restaurant
DunnellonSouthern-style seafood with stunning river views and a non-pretentious tiki atmosphere. The extensive outdoor seating area overlooks the Withlacoochee River, and the menu leans into fresh prawns, fish, and local specialties at fair prices.
Tsala Apopka Lake Chain
InvernessA vast interconnected chain of lakes, pools, and marshes covering over 19,000 acres, Tsala Apopka is one of Florida's most unique waterways. The system is divided into three pools — Floral City, Inverness, and Hernando — connected by channels and the Withlacoochee River. Kayaking and canoeing through the cypress-lined channels feels like paddling through old Florida wilderness. The chain is also outstanding for bass fishing and birdwatching.
Wild Bill's Airboat Tours
InvernessA Withlacoochee River institution offering thrilling airboat rides through the marshes and cypress swamps of Citrus County. Coast Guard inspected and family-friendly, tours include up-close wildlife encounters with alligators and native Florida birds. Wild Bill's has earned a loyal following and nearly five-star reviews for delivering an authentic Old Florida adventure.