Inverness is the Citrus County seat, a lake-dotted town built around a historic courthouse square and threaded by one of Florida's best rail-trails. It's a quietly charming place -- Elvis filmed a movie on the square back in 1961 -- with good water access, real local food, and a restored downtown theater anchoring the scene.
What is Inverness known for?
Its trail and its square. The Withlacoochee State Trail -- a long paved rail-trail that's a favorite for cycling and walking -- runs right through town, and the historic courthouse square at the center still looks much as it did when Elvis Presley filmed "Follow That Dream" here. The restored Valerie Theatre keeps the square lively with shows and events.
Things to do in Inverness
Ride or walk the Withlacoochee rail-trail, then enjoy the lakes: Liberty Park and Wallace Brooks Park sit right on Lake Henderson with beaches, boardwalks, and boat access, and Cooter Pond Park adds a boardwalk through the wetlands. For history and nature together, Fort Cooper State Park preserves a Second Seminole War site on Lake Holathlikaha, with swimming and trails. Catch a show at the Valerie Theatre if the calendar lines up.
Where to eat in Inverness
The Cove Pub & Grub and Coach's Pub & Eatery are the busy local hangouts, Cedar River Seafood and Salty Dogs Steamer and Bar handle the catch, and Los Magueyes covers Mexican. For an everyday plate there's Papa J's Diner, Hen House Cafe, and Angelotti's Pizza, plus Brooklyn Deli Too for a sandwich and Pine Street Pub for a drink downtown.
When to go
Fall through spring is ideal for the rail-trail and the lakes -- mild, dry, and comfortable for cycling. The Cooter Festival in October is the town's signature event. Summer is warm but good for early-morning rides and the lake parks.
Planning your visit
Inverness sits in Citrus County, about an hour and a half north of Tampa and 45 minutes west of Ocala. The downtown square, the trail, and the lakefront parks are close together; Fort Cooper is a short drive south. Bring or rent a bike -- the Withlacoochee trail is the local highlight.
The bottom line
Inverness is a rail-trail-and-lakes town with a movie-set square at its heart -- come for the ride and the water, stay for a plate downtown. We surface what's worth the trip; you choose the trailhead. See what's on this week at the Lineup.
