Arcadia, Florida

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Arcadia, Florida

Arcadia is the county seat of Desoto County, a county located in the southwest region of Florida. Cattle have traditionally played an important part in the settling and economy of Arcadia from the very beginning. In the early 1890's, the infamous cattle wars started and lasted for several years. This era was the most turbulent in the county's history and was almost comparable to the Seminole Indian Wars. In the 1890's, Arcadia was known as one of the wildest towns in Florida.

Arcadia is known as a place of "firsts" - first rodeo, and first cattle war. The first official Rodeo in Florida is said to have been held in Arcadia, November 1929, sponsored by the local American Legion Post. Arcadia's Rodeo has grown in size, comparable to any in the country. The Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo is held every March, July, and October. It draws more than 10,000 spectators.

Located on the fringe of Florida's citrus belt, Arcadia County has in recent years made great strides in citrus production and processing. In the beginning, oxcart loads of citrus fruit were hauled to packinghouses, which dotted the area. Since the packinghouses have all but disappeared, the fruit is now trucked to the processing plants.

Arcadia is renowned throughout the area for its historical antique district. There are many shops filled with an abundance of treasures! The Tea Room & Brenda Lee's offer scrumptious lunches & The Hot Fudge Shoppe...no one can resist!

The recreational Peace River is especially known for its canoeing as well as its archaeological site; another day well spent in our quaint town! The Opera House Museum, and restored train depot are also must-sees.

If Florida is famous for anything, it must be the sunshine and beaches. There are plenty of sparkling waters and sandy beaches near Arcadia! For the adventurous at heart, there is always diving, sailing and salt-water fishing. But for those looking for a way to relax, charter a day cruise or simply spread out your blanket and fix your eyes on the most beautiful sunset you have ever seen.

Arcadia is just a short drive from the number one vacation spot in the world! Walt Disney World! With such a close location, it's so easy to visit Disney World for the day without the hassle or cost of hotel reservations. Such an outing is perfect for visiting friends or relatives, birthdays, or any occasion.

With a future that's as bright and colorful as its past, Arcadia will continue to be the hub of Southwest Florida.

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