Local Directory
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
Featured El Azteca Mexican Cocina
BushnellIf you haven't found El Azteca Mexican Cocina yet, you're missing out on one of Bushnell's best-kept secrets — though with a 4.7-star Google rating and a loyal following, the secret is getting out fast. Tucked into Bushnell Plaza off SR 48, this family-run spot serves authentic Mexican cuisine that goes well beyond the typical Tex-Mex playbook. The enchiladas are rich and saucy, the fajitas come out sizzling, and the tamales taste like someone's abuela made them that morning. Don't skip the sangria — regulars call it spectacular, and they're not exaggerating. What sets El Azteca apart isn't just the food, though. It's the warmth. Reviewers consistently rave about the staff — attentive, genuine, the kind of service that makes you feel like family from the first visit. The dining room is clean and inviting, the kind of place you'd bring your parents or take the kids on a Tuesday night just as easily as a Friday date night. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the fresh, thin tortillas alone are worth the trip. Whether you're stopping in for a quick lunch combo, ordering takeout through Toast or DoorDash, or settling in for a full dinner with margaritas, El Azteca delivers every time. It's the kind of neighborhood restaurant that makes you glad you live here — and if you're visiting the area, it's reason enough to get off the interstate.
1885 Brooksville Train Depot
Crystal RiverRestored 1885 cypress-and-cedar railroad depot now housing a museum with train artifacts, HO model railroad displays, and a 1925 LaFrance fire engine the kids can climb on. Built by the Florida Southern Railway and lovingly restored in 1992.
Beef 'O' Brady's
Crystal RiverFamily-friendly sports bar chain serving wings, burgers, and pub fare with plenty of TVs for game day. The kind of place where you can bring the kids and still catch the game.
Botanico Tacos & Tequila
Mount DoraModern Mexican restaurant with roots in the vibrant flavors of Vera Cruz, offering creative tapas, tequila pairings, and an outdoor dining area with swings for kids and adults.
Bud Mc Kethan Park
Crystal RiverSimple neighborhood park offering a kids' play structure & 3 lighted tennis courts.
Eden Abbey Brewing Community
Mount DoraFamily-owned Mount Dora brewpub with 14 taps of Belgian-inspired house-brewed beers, scratch-made empanadas, Wagyu burgers, and a backyard where kids can run free. Sunday brunch comes with live music — the whole package.
Foxtail Coffee Co. - Tavares
TavaresOrlando-based specialty coffee chain housed in a beautifully remodeled historic home in Tavares, featuring indoor and outdoor seating with dedicated play spaces for kids.
Old Homosassa Heritage Park and Working Waterfront
Crystal RiverCommunity waterfront park on the Homosassa River featuring picnic areas, a shrimp boat playground for kids, and commercial waterfront operations, with plans for walking trails and a history museum.
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews
OcalaCasual burger chain known for bottomless steak fries and a massive menu of gourmet burgers. The campfire sauce is addictive, and the kids menu keeps families coming back.
Rogers Park Splash Pad
LeesburgFree splash pad in Leesburg's Rogers Park at Venetian Gardens, providing water play for kids during warm weather months.
Rookies Family Grille & Bar
Crystal RiverLively, family-run sports bar & American grill offering lots of TVs, a kids' menu, patio & karaoke.
Rusted Jade Art Collective
Crystal RiverTattoo shop and art gallery in Brooksville featuring a versatile team of artists, gallery exhibitions, workshops, events, and a Kids Art Social Club for ages 4-10.
Snooky Park
The VillagesSmall community park in Lady Lake with playground equipment and open green space. A neighborhood gem for families with young kids.
Uncle Donald's Farm
The VillagesFifty-acre family-owned petting farm where kids can feed goats, milk a goat, go on hayrides, and meet llamas, deer, and even alligators. A hands-on farm experience that's been running since 1980.
Wildwood Splash Pad
WildwoodFree public splash pad in Wildwood offering water play for kids at Walker Road park.