When we think of fall in Florida, it isn’t so much about leaves changing color. It’s more about the fact that the summer heat has subsided, and the throngs of tourists enjoying the ocean view have departed. A more chill vibe settles in on the Sunshine State. Whether you enjoy festivals, alligators, turtles, or even zombies, Inverness has something for you this season. This Florida small town truly comes alive in autumn. Let’s check it out:

A colorful mural greets you as you enter Inverness. During the entire month of October, Inverness offers a full schedule of events celebrating Halloween, small towns, and culture. This extravaganza is called Cootertober.
florida small town comes alive in autumn
City of Inverness, Florida Government/Facebook
What is a cooter you may be wondering? Cooters are freshwater turtles found in the eastern United States.
Friends of Withlacoochee State Trail, Inc./Facebook
This one was hiking the state trail. Some even refer to Inverness as Cooterville!
One of the premier Cootertober events in Inverness is the Cooter Music Festival – two days of live music showcasing various bands. It takes place in Liberty Park.
City of Inverness, Florida Government/Facebook
Refer to the Inverness Cootertober schedule to find out which bands will actually be performing. On the second day of the music festival, attend the Cooter Carnival for games, food trucks, and potato sack races.
The jazzy Valerie Theater hosts performances all season, including comedy and magic.
Valerie Theater/Facebook

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Maybe you are a fan of The Walking Dead. If so, stay for Cooterpocolypse. This Cootertober event features a zombie pub crawl, run, scavenger hunt, and prom.
Twysted Vyne/Facebook
If zombies aren’t your jam, just stop by Twysted Vyne, Pine Street Pub, or the SideBar for live music.
Walk or bike the 46-mile paved Withlacoochee State Trail, previously a train line. Inverness is at mile 30, where you will spot the red caboose marking the trail.
Steven Martin/Flickr
An annual trail ride, Cycle Lacooche, is held in October.
A trip to Inverness is not complete without alligators, cooters, and birds seen from the boardwalk at Cooter Pond Park.
Inverness-fl.gov
Pinecone’s Ice Cream Parlor is serving up ghoulish treats this season.
Pinecone’s Ice Cream Parlor/Facebook

Inverness, this Florida small town comes alive in autumn. I appreciate sidestepping the cold up north by staying put in Florida to enjoy fall and winter festivals, and wildlife, such as cooters, and manatees. Visit the Inverness website to view the Cootertober event line up, including Valerie Theater performances.

Stay in Inverness at this rustic river resort, and come mid-November, look for manatees in the nearby Crystal River.

Discover RVshare for your adventures across Florida.

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