Citra is a small community located northeast of Ocala along Highway 301. Citra was founded in 1881 and is known as the home of the Pineapple Orange which originated on the farm of J.B. Owens around 1860. There are two buildings in Citra on the National Register of Historic Places: The Citra Methodist Episcopal Church and the Armstrong House. Citra is also home to the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) plant research facility. One of the little known attractions in Citra is the Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary (EARS) which provides a home to unwanted and/or abused endangered animals. EARS is home to lions, tigers, cougars, bobcats, bears and more.
McIntosh is a Historic Town located 20 miles south of Gainesville on Hwy 441. McIntosh was platted in 1885 and named in honor of Col. John C. McIntosh, an early settler. The historic town of Mcintosh is a step back in time with many of the houses built during the late 19th century. There are numerous antique shops and the annual McIntosh 1890’s festival is held each October. McIntosh sits on the west side of Orange Lake which is a popular fishing destination for trophy largemouth bass.
