During the recent Tourist Development Council meeting held on March 13, 2024, in Citrus County, Florida, discussions centered on enhancing tourism through a partnership with Atlas Obscura. The initiative aims to promote lesser-known attractions in the region, moving beyond the well-known activities such as manatee watching and scalloping in Crystal River.

The partnership will feature a custom itinerary on Atlas Obscura's website, highlighting various activities and attractions throughout Citrus County. Currently, three locations are listed, but plans are in place to add five new sites to their "Atlas of Hidden Wonders." This effort is expected to increase visibility for these attractions, with an anticipated reach of over six million impressions through social media distribution.

Key ideas for the custom itinerary include eco-friendly activities like hiking, biking, and paddling, as well as historical tours that celebrate the rich heritage of the area. Council members emphasized the importance of including all cities within Citrus County in promotional materials, not just Crystal River. Concerns were raised that focusing solely on Crystal River could alienate other communities, particularly Inverness, which has its own historical significance and attractions.

Council members expressed a desire for a more inclusive approach, suggesting that marketing efforts should reflect the entire county's offerings. They highlighted the need to showcase the diverse outdoor activities available across Citrus County, including extensive biking and hiking trails that are not limited to any single city.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to refine the promotional content to ensure it accurately represents the entire county, addressing the concerns raised by council members. The next steps will involve collaborating with local historical councils and stakeholders to enrich the content and ensure a comprehensive portrayal of Citrus County's tourism potential.