Homosassa and Homosassa Springs
Homosassa and Homosassa Springs, successfully combines a delicate mix of waterfront living, fishing, tourism and shopping along Citrus County's west coast.

While the Homosassa River remains the hub of the community, by far the biggest draw for tourists and residents alike is the Homosassa State Wildlife Park with its manatees, underwater observation room, wildlife and walking trail.

Tree-lined, narrow roads wind their way to Old Homosassa with its restaurants, motels and marinas, all set in a quaint setting, where recreational boaters share the river and Gulf with commercial fishermen.

Old Homosassa plays host to the annual Old Homosassa Arts, Crafts and Seafood Festival that attracts thousands.

Meanwhile, U.S. 19 slices through the community as the county's major north-south artery and provides a small-scale regional shopping oasis for residents and tourists alike.

First inhabited by the Seminole and Caloosa Indians who made their camps along the river, the first formal settlement was founded by U.S. Sen. David Yulee in 1846, when he opened a 5,000 acre plantation and sugar mill. Sugar and other goods from Yulee's plantation supplied the Confederate Army.

The remains of the senator's sugar mill still can be found on Yulee Drive, part of a small, six acre roadside state historical site.

Another landmark in Homosassa is the MacRae House. It was built in 1882 and was first built as a residence for John F. Dunn, pioneer phosphate man and developer for Central Florida. Around 1890, the building became an inn and has had celebrities such as Thomas Edison and Winslow Homer stay there. The MacRae family still owns the home, but it is now their private residence.