Floral City Itinerary

Named for its abundance of wildflowers, Floral City in southeastern Citrus County was bigger than Miami in the early 1900s. This former phosphate mining boomtown today preserves all the appeal of Old Florida. Use this handy itinerary to begin your exploration.

DISCOVER DELIGHTFUL DOWNTOWN

Downtown Floral City retains the quaintness and charm of an authentic Florida small town of yesteryear. Enter downtown Floral City from the east on E Orange Avenue (County Road 48) to pass through the famous Avenue of the Oaks. These majestic, moss-draped oaks canopy over the avenue and have welcomed visitors for more than a century.

A collection of boutiques, gift shops, restaurants and more await in this quaint downtown. Browse unique items at shops like The Red Brick Place and Frugal Frog. Art lovers won’t want to miss Floral City Artists Gallery, a cooperative showcasing the work of local artists.

Also be sure to pay a visit to the Floral City Heritage Museum where you can learn about the area’s past, view current exhibits and shop for a variety of heritage gifts at the Country Store. The museum is open Fridays and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Guests looking for lunch will be well rewarded by a visit to The Shamrock Inn for burgers, wings and salads, or grab a booth at one of the tiniest diners you will ever see, Robin’s Country Kitchen, where the pies are to die for! If you are looking for a dining experience full of character, you can find Pudgee’s just up the road from the downtown area where the offer delicious burgers and loaded hotdogs.

BIKE THE TRAIL

The Withlacoochee State Trail passes through historic Floral City. This 46-mile length of former rail bed has been paved and converted for recreational use, providing an ideal opportunity for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The even terrain and natural surroundings make it especially popular among cyclists. Rent a regular or recumbent bicycle from Hampton’s Edge Trailside Bicycles and hit the trail! If you have your own bike, there is a trail head located downtown off Orange Avenue where you can begin your ride. Whether you ride for a mile or all 46, this beautiful trail is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

FERRIS GROVES: HISTORY BY THE BUSHEL

Continue your visit to Floral City at Ferris Groves. L.G. “Doc” Ferris came to Florida in 1925, originally seeking to build an exclusive golf community on Duval Island in Floral City. When the real estate market took a turn for the worse, Ferris changed his plans and made history by instead planting citrus in the area’s fertile soil.

Over the years, the fruit grown at Ferris Groves has expanded to include Navel and Valencia oranges, Ruby Red grapefruit and Fall Glow tangerines, as well as beloved “Ferris Berry” strawberries and blueberries. These fruits, gourmet jams, jellies, syrups, and exciting desserts made from these ingredients can be purchased today at the Ferris Groves store. They also serve fresh Florida orange juice to give you the quintessential taste of Citrus County. Only during the harvesting season, visitors will have to plan their visit from November – April to catch this season treat!

FLORAL CITY HERITAGE DAYS 

For nearly 20 years, the Floral City Heritage Days event has been a beloved fixture on the local calendar. Heritage Days is held annually on the first weekend in December and includes a Candles & Carols holiday celebration with luminaries, a Folk Life Day, antique cars, food, entertainment, The Blue Banner Tour of Historic Homes and other activities.

FREE PLANNING ASSISTANCE

Be sure to stop by and say hello at the Visitors Center on US 19 in Crystal River. For more information on any of these fantastic activities, contact the Citrus County Visitors & Convention Bureau at 352-794-5506 for free assistance. We look forward to helping you discover all that The Water Lover’s Florida has to offer! If this itinerary sounds like the perfect vacation plan for you, be sure to download our free printable PDF.