Hernando County Florida Map
Located in the heart of Florida’s Nature Coast, Hernando County is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From its beautiful beaches to its charming small towns, there is something for everyone here. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Hernando County has it all. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Hernando County has to offer.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in Hernando County is Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, home to the famous Weeki Wachee mermaids. Watch as the mermaids perform underwater shows and take a scenic boat ride down the Weeki Wachee River. Another must-see attraction is the Hernando Heritage Museum, which tells the story of Hernando County’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts. For nature lovers, the Withlacoochee State Trail offers miles of scenic biking and hiking trails through beautiful forests and wetlands.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out the Little Rock Cannery, a historic building that was once used to can fruits and vegetables. Today, it serves as a community center and event space. Another hidden gem is the Chinsegut Wildlife and Environmental Area, a 5,000-acre nature preserve that is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and bald eagles.
Food Scene
Hernando County has a diverse food scene, with something to satisfy every palate. For seafood lovers, check out BeckyJack’s Food Shack, which serves up fresh seafood in a casual, laid-back atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for Italian, try Coney Island Drive Inn, a local favorite that has been serving up burgers, hot dogs, and Italian dishes for over 50 years.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Hernando County. Take a stroll through the historic downtown areas of Brooksville and Spring Hill, or visit one of the many parks and nature preserves in the area. The Hernando County Farmers Market is also a great place to find fresh, locally grown produce at a reasonable price.
Outdoor Adventures
From kayaking down the Weeki Wachee River to hiking through the Withlacoochee State Forest, Hernando County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. For a unique experience, try paddleboarding or snorkeling with manatees in Crystal River, just a short drive from Hernando County.
Family-Friendly Activities
Hernando County is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Take a trip to the Hernando County Fairgrounds for a fun-filled day of rides, games, and fair food, or visit the Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction, where you can feed the animals and sample fresh citrus fruits.
Natural Wonders
From the crystal-clear waters of Weeki Wachee Springs to the rolling hills of the Withlacoochee State Forest, Hernando County is full of natural wonders. Take a hike through the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, where you can spot manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species, or take a swim in the cool waters of the Rainbow River.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out on the town, Hernando County has plenty of options. Head to the historic downtown area of Brooksville for live music, craft beer, and a lively atmosphere, or check out one of the many bars and restaurants in Spring Hill.
Local Markets
The Hernando County Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh, locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and other unique items. The market is open every Saturday from 10am to 3pm, and is located in the heart of downtown Brooksville.
Beaches and Mountains
While Hernando County doesn’t have any beaches of its own, it is just a short drive from some of Florida’s best beaches, including Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. For mountain lovers, the nearby Ocala National Forest offers miles of scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views.
Cultural Immersion
Experience the unique culture and heritage of Hernando County by visiting the Chinsegut Hill Retreat, a historic estate that was once home to one of Florida’s most prominent families. The estate offers tours, workshops, and other cultural events throughout the year.
Art and Music Scene
Hernando County is home to a thriving arts and music scene, with galleries, theaters, and live music venues throughout the area. Check out the Art League of Hernando County for local art exhibits and workshops, or catch a performance at the Hernando Symphony Orchestra.
Walking Tours
Take a walking tour of the historic downtown areas of Brooksville and Spring Hill, where you can learn about the area’s rich history and see some of its most beautiful architecture. The Brooksville Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes you through the historic downtown area, while the Spring Hill Historic Walking Tour is a guided tour that offers a more in-depth look at the area’s history.
Architectural Marvels
One of the most unique architectural marvels in Hernando County is the Mermaid House, a whimsical home that is decorated with mermaid-themed artwork and furnishings. Another must-see is the May-Stringer House Museum, a historic Victorian home that is said to be haunted by the ghosts of its former residents.
Historical Sites
From the Hernando Heritage Museum to the Brooksville Raid Civil War Reenactment, Hernando County is full of historical sites and events. Take a trip back in time at the Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, where you can learn about the history of the Seminole Wars and see a reenactment of the Battle of Dade.
Biking Routes
The Withlacoochee State Trail is one of the best biking routes in the area, offering miles of scenic trails through beautiful forests and wetlands. For a more challenging ride, try the Santos Trailhead in nearby Ocala, which offers over 80 miles of mountain biking trails.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate, Hernando County has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. The Yoga Loft in Brooksville offers a variety of yoga classes and workshops, while the Brooksville Salt Room offers salt therapy sessions to help with respiratory and skin conditions.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Hernando County offers plenty of adventure sports, from zip lining to skydiving. Try the TreeUmph! Adventure Course, a challenging obstacle course that takes you through the treetops, or take a tandem skydive with Skydive City, one of the highest-rated skydiving centers in the country.
With so much to see and do, Hernando County is the perfect destination for your next Florida getaway. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, this hidden gem has it all.