The West Central Florida city of Inverness, situated 30 miles southwest of Ocala, lives by the motto “small town done right,” with a lively downtown of historic buildings, independent eateries, and lakeside parks, and a calendar full of popular festivals and events.
A designated trail town, Inverness is a favorite stop along the 47-mile Withlacoochee State Trail for its bikeable and walkable downtown that caters to cyclists and pedestrians. Among the many things to see and experience here are annual events that include Taste of Inverness in April, Cootertober in October, and
Festival of the Arts and Inverness Grand Prix & Motorsports Festival, both in November. Throughout the year, visitors can catch movies and live shows at the historic Valerie Theatre and shop for fresh goods at Market at the Depot on the first and third Saturday of the month.
Inverness is also known for its outdoor recreation opportunities beyond cycling, from paddling, boating, and fishing on the Tsala Apopka Chain of Lakes and Withlacoochee River to hiking the scenic trails of the Withlacoochee State Forest. Just a little more than two miles from downtown and reachable directly from the Withlacoochee State Trail, Fort Cooper State Park offers opportunities for birding, hiking, and biking, and hosts an annual reenactment of a battle from the Second Seminole War in March.
While in the area, visitors will have convenient access to the surrounding communities including Crystal River, which is famous for its freshwater springs and manatees. Homosassa, located about 20 miles from Inverness, is a popular spot for scalloping in the Gulf of Mexico in the summertime and home to Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park.
Plan your trip at Discover Crystal River.
FAMILY FUN
Go for a family-friendly airboat ride and visit the parks and playgrounds.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Check out the city’s popular festivals and events.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Bike and hike the trails and fish and paddle on the lakes.
BEACHES & WATERWAYS
Explore the Tsala Apopka Chain of Lakes and head to nearby Crystal River to spend time on the county’s Gulf beach.
ACCESSIBILITY
The area’s accessible attractions include Fort Cooper State Park and the paved Withlacoochee State Trail.
DINING
Sample the fare at locally-owned restaurants in Inverness.
SHOPPING
Browse the unique stores in downtown Inverness and beyond.
SPORTS
Tee off on the area’s sunny greens all year long and experience the excitement of the racetrack.
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Bring your dog along for the adventure to pet-friendly restaurants and attractions.
PLACES TO STAY
Book a stay at a vacation rental, campground, hotel, or resort.
