Brooksville

Situated 50 miles north of Tampa in West Central Florida, Brooksville is known as an “adventure-lover’s paradise.” Here, visitors can find all kinds of outdoor adventures, both on land and on the water, from biking and hiking to paddling the area’s scenic rivers and springs and spotting manatees.

Brooskville offers miles upon miles of paved and unpaved trails for cyclists, runners, hikers, and equestrians. One of the state’s most popular rail trails, the 46-mile paved Withlacoochee State Trail, can be accessed via the 10-mile Good Neighbor Trail, which starts at the 1885 Brooksville Train Depot, and the Croom Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest offers a network of fun and challenging off-road bike trails that wind through the woods. Other must-see trails and parks in the area include the Suncoast Trail, Chinsegut Conservation Center, Fickett Hammock Preserve, and Lake Townsen Preserve.

Just 20 minutes from downtown Brooksville, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is home to a historic underwater theater and the famed Weeki Wachee mermaids who perform there. The park is also the headsprings of the iconic Weeki Wachee River, one of the state’s top paddling destinations.

Those looking for in-town adventures can visit the independent shops and restaurants of the downtown area and take a walking or driving tour to see the area’s historic buildings and museums. Throughout town, visitors can try to spot the many mermaid statues that make up the Mermaid Tale Trail, which runs throughout Hernando County. Art lovers will also want to check out the Brooksville Mural & Arts Tour to see the colorful murals and unique art displayed throughout the town.

Plan your trip to Florida’s Adventure Coast.