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Pasco County is like a hidden jewel of the Suncoast

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SUNCOAST NEWS STAFF REPORT

Published: October 24, 2009

NEW PORT RICHEY - Ever hear of Pasco County? More and more people have as they discover a hidden jewel in a county with many community events.

"It's Only Natural" is still the theme of the many natural attractions in Pasco, especially spacious parks.

Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park is coming into its own, especially when construction of a kayak launch and other facilities starts next year along its new entrance on U.S. 19 north of Ridge Road.

Along the Pithlachascotee River banks, Sims Park remains the jewel in the crown of New Port Richey city parks.

A beehive of activity is the New Port Richey Recreation and Aquatics Center on Van Buren Street.

County parks have developed an enviable reputation for sports events and recreation. Holiday Recreation Complex and Veterans Memorial Complex in Hudson anchor the many West Pasco parks.

The county suggests ideas for many excursions at its Web site at http://www.visitpasco.net/>. Or call 1-800-842-1873. A sampling of suggestions from the Web site includes:

Pasco County is a great birding destination. Birds from both the north and south can be observed. For more, call the West Pasco Audubon Society at 727-372-9640.

One of the best ways to explore Pasco's natural beauty is take a stroll or bike ride along the Suncoast Trail, blooming throughout the year with hundreds of wildflowers.

With 20 miles of shoreline and numerous lakes and rivers, fishing in Pasco County is a popular pastime.

Spend the morning fishing or charter a trip where everything has been taken care of, including tackle, bait and licensing.

Its dinner and a show in Hudson at the Show Palace. Or take in a show at in at the Richey Suncoast Theatre, New Port Richey or the Performing Arts Center at Pasco-Hernando Community College West Campus.

Historic tours of the downtown New Port Richey area tell of a silent-film-star past, including Richey Suncoast Theatre, Hacienda Hotel and several colorful murals depicting the city's glamorous heritage. Call Greater New Port Richey Main Street at 727-842-8066.

West Pasco Historical Society is housed in the original Seven Springs schoolhouse across from Sims Park at 6431 Circle Blvd. in New Port Richey. Museum, library and gift shop, many photographs, books and maps. Call 727-847-0680.

Next door is Queen of Peace Hall, the wood-frame former sanctuary of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, the first Roman Catholic Congregation in West Pasco.

The building was moved to its current location to make way for the construction of the New Port Richey Police Department headquarters. The hall now plays host to public events.

For day trips, one of the gems in Dade City is the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, a tribute to the lives and histories of early Floridians. It hosts several period buildings entirely furnished with appropriate furniture and artifacts.

When the shopping mood strikes, Gulf View Square, a mall in Port Richey, offers more than 100 specialty shops and five major department stores, including Macy's and Dillard's.

If flea markets are more your style, the USA Fleamarket, in Bayonet Point, is the place to be.

This indoor-outdoor market offers a range of goods not found elsewhere.

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