Extra Retreat FUN!

The view from above the Homosassa Riverside Resort on Tuesday, February 21st, 2017

WELCOME to everyone who has come from near and far to be with us for the 5th Annual Florida Gulf Coast Dulcimer Retreat!  We've got great weather, awesome times, lots of workshops and jams, plus plenty of amazing things to see and do around the area.  We hope you'll take the opportunity to explore while you're here and, to help you have as magnificent a time as possible, here are a few eco-tourism tips to get you started!

Sights To See

Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins State Park - https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/yulee-sugar-mill

You'll pass right through this historic site as you make your approach to the Homosassa Riverside Resort.  Once home to a sprawling sugar plantation, you can see a forty-foot tall limestone masonry chimney, iron gears and a cane press that was all in operation from 1851 to 1864 and served as a supplier for sugar products that went to southern troops during the Civil War.

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park - https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/Homosassa-Springs

If you do nothing else, check out this incredible place just up the river.  Besides being used as a filming location for movies and television shows, this park also features a number of rescued indigenous animals from parts of Florida and beyond.  The star of the show is "Lucifer", a hippopotamus that actually starred in the "Tarzan" movies with Johnny Weissmuller!  You can also emerge yourself into the awe-inspiring underwater viewing chamber that puts you face-to-face with the denizens of the Homosassa River.  

Weeki Wachee State Park - http://www.weekiwachee.com 

Another state park nearby has the distinction of being home to the world-famous swimming mermaids of Weeki Wachee.  This is a time-honored Old Florida tradition and just 20 minutes south of Homosassa.  

Good Eats

The Riverside Crab House and Monkey Bar

Located right here at the Homosassa Riverside Resort, you'll find fresh seafood, inventive and delicious culinary delights and fabulous beverages with a view of famous Monkey Island!

Shelly's Seafood - http://www.shellysseafood.com

If you'll be preparing your own meals this week, be sure to stop by Shelly's and pick up some of the freshest seafood that you'll ever enjoy!  Local fisherman bring their catches in around 1 pm, so queue up around 2 pm and pick up some red snapper, blue crabs and coveted hogfish, among other menu items.

The Freezer Tiki Bar - https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-freezer-tiki-bar-homosassa

This fun and funky place is not only a tourist favorite but also a common hangout for the locals.  Get a taste of real Old Florida in a converted food service freezer warehouse with an atmosphere that can only be called "authentic Homosassa."  Try the shrimp - it's amazing!

The Starting Gate - http://www.thestartinggaterestaurant.com

Open Friday through Monday, this is a traditional way to start the day off right with a fantastic breakfast!

Old Homosassa Smokehouse - https://www.yelp.com/biz/old-homosassa-smokehouse-homosassa-2

You'll pass right by this Homosassa institution as you cruise around the corner towards the Homosassa Resort.  Smoked fish is the main draw here with lots of other goodies that you'll want to bring back to your room or RV.

The Old Mill - http://www.oldmilltavern.net/findus.htm

Shrimp and chicken wings are the big draws here, and you'll find lots more on the menu to enjoy!

Fuji Asian Bistro - http://us.chinesemenu.com/us/homosassa-fl-34446/fuji-asian-bistro/

Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisine are all available at this delectable restaurant known for its superb cuisine and charming atmosphere.

For those who are REALLY planning to eat in - there is a Publix located at 3942 S Suncoast Blvd.

There's plenty more to see and do, so be sure to explore while you're here!  WELCOME to Old Homosassa!