Arcadia, Florida

Arcadia, Florida is a small town located in the middle of the state. It is known for its historic downtown area, antique shops, and annual rodeo. The town is surrounded by nature, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Places to Visit

1. Peace River

Peace River is a beautiful river that runs through Arcadia. It is a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The river is surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife, making it a peaceful and serene place to spend a day.

2. Arcadia Opera House

The Arcadia Opera House is a historic building that has been restored to its former glory. It is now a popular venue for live music, theater, and dance performances. The building itself is a work of art, with beautiful architecture and ornate details.

3. Arcadia Antique Mall

The Arcadia Antique Mall is a must-visit for anyone who loves antiques and vintage items. The mall is home to over 30 different vendors, each with their own unique collection of items. You can easily spend a whole day exploring the different booths and finding hidden treasures.

4. Solomon’s Castle

Solomon’s Castle is a quirky and unique attraction that you won’t find anywhere else. It is a castle made entirely out of recycled materials, such as old newspaper and car parts. The castle is home to a museum and art gallery, as well as a restaurant that serves delicious food.

5. Brownville Park

Brownville Park is a peaceful and serene park that is perfect for a picnic or a day spent relaxing in nature. The park has several walking trails, a pond, and plenty of picnic tables and benches.

6. Arcadia Municipal Golf Course

The Arcadia Municipal Golf Course is a beautiful and challenging course that is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. The course is surrounded by nature, and there are even some alligators that live in the ponds!

7. Arcadia Farms Farmers Market

The Arcadia Farms Farmers Market is a great place to visit if you want to stock up on fresh produce and other local products. The market is open on Saturdays and has a wide variety of vendors and products.

8. Oak Street Park

Oak Street Park is a lovely park that is perfect for a family outing. The park has playground equipment, a basketball court, and plenty of open space to run and play.

9. Nav-A-Gator Bar & Grill

The Nav-A-Gator Bar & Grill is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It is located right on the Peace River and has a great view of the water. The food is delicious, and there are often live performances by local musicians.

10. DeSoto County Historical Society

The DeSoto County Historical Society is a great place to learn about the history of Arcadia and the surrounding area. The museum has exhibits on the town’s early settlers, the Seminole Indian Wars, and the impact of the railroad on the town’s development.

Places to Avoid

1. Arcadia Rodeo Arena

The Arcadia Rodeo Arena is a popular attraction, but it is not for everyone. If you are an animal rights activist or do not enjoy watching animals being used for entertainment, you should probably avoid this attraction.

2. Downtown Arcadia at Night

While downtown Arcadia is a charming and historic area during the day, it can become a bit sketchy at night. It is best to avoid this area after dark, especially if you are traveling alone.

3. Dinosaur World

Dinosaur World is a bit of a tourist trap and can be disappointing for those expecting a high-quality museum experience. The dinosaur replicas are not very realistic, and the admission fee is quite high.

4. Great Outdoor Adventure Tours

The Great Outdoor Adventure Tours company is known for overcharging their customers and providing underwhelming tours. It is best to avoid this company and look for other options if you wish to explore the outdoors in Arcadia.

5. Walmart Supercenter

The Walmart Supercenter in Arcadia can be a bit overwhelming, especially during peak shopping times. It is also quite far from the downtown area, making it inconvenient for visitors without a car.

Overview about the City