Welcome to DeBary
The historic city of DeBary is a beautiful golf cart community beside Lake Monroe and the eastern shore of St. Johns River. This friendly and laid-back area has an abundance of parks, bike trails, museums, restaurants, and shopping for residents to enjoy. Its picturesque landscape and mild weather make DeBary an excellent location for locals to spend time outdoors.
DeBary has a rich history dating back to 1760 when the Timucuan Indians first inhabited the land and later the Seminole Tribe. After being acquired by Spain, the land was sold to Samuel Frederick DeBary, a New York City wine merchant who erected an exquisite hunting lodge named DeBary Hall. This hall, now established as a museum, is a 20-room, 8,000-square-foot estate that claims the first known swimming pool in Florida.
The Italiante-style of the Hall is one of the many architectural styles in DeBary. Other properties are typically Spanish Revival, Mediterranean, and Italian Renaissance styles, which feature stone details, terracotta roofs, and outside courtyards, patios, and balconies. A number of new housing developments and condominiums are also being built in the city.
DeBary boasts a small-town feel but is close to Orlando via I-4 or the SunRail train. This location makes it easy and convenient for residents to take a day or weekend trip to Disneyworld. These qualities make DeBary an ideal home for individuals who love outdoor activities, history, and a fantastic shopping and dining scene.
What to Love
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Parks and recreation areas
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Upscale dining establishments
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Community activities
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Gorgeous weather throughout the year
Local Lifestyle
Because of its 30-minute distance from bustling locations like Orlando and Daytona Beach, DeBary maintains a suburban-rural feel. Residents spend most of their time outdoors at one of the many parks, golf courses, hiking and biking trails, or along the water. In addition, there are many upscale restaurants and boutique stores to visit.
While carefully preserving parks and recreation areas, DeBary continues building its downtown community with more retail and dining establishments. This lively downtown area next to the SunRail train station is a commuter's dream. Locals can quickly escape the hustle of work life in the busy city and return to the city efficiently.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Whether you’re shopping for the newest fashion trends or celebrating a special occasion with a fabulous meal, DeBary has a hot spot for you. Get your “fix” of the latest clothes and accessories from Your Fashion Fix. This boutique, woman-owned store showcases stylish yet comfortable clothing that makes purchasers exude confidence.
Right across the street from Your Fashion Fix is Genuine Bistro & Lounge. This gastropub serves delicious seafood, meat, and vegetable dishes from local Florida farmers. Patrons can sit inside in the dining room or on the patio to listen to live musicians while they savor a delicious meal.
Another local favorite is Pepe’s Cantina DeBary serving lunch and dinner throughout the week and a bottomless brunch on Sundays. This authentic-style Mexican restaurant uses fresh ingredients full of flavor and color to capture the attention and tastebuds of diners. They also have vegan and vegetarian options and an extensive margarita menu featuring their handcrafted Elite Smoked-Rita served tableside.
For a romantic night out, individuals stop by La Strega Bistro for an authentic Italian meal. Diners enjoy simple food prepared with the finest ingredients. The rustic ambiance and open-glass wine display evoke the feeling of sitting in a cafe in Naples.
Things to Do
The city of DeBary has endless community events for residents to participate in throughout the year. Most events occur in one of the many beautiful parks scattered in the area and can be registered for at DeBary City Hall. The festivities welcome all DeBary residents and are a wonderful place to meet new friends and neighbors.
Two of the largest celebrations are the 4th of July and Christmas parades. The July 4th parade, Freedom Fest, occurs at Gemini Springs Park St adjacent to Mullet Lake. The festival includes live entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities and concludes with a fireworks and laser light show.
In addition, there are several Christmas activities community members join, like a meet and greet with Santa Claus, a house decorating contest, and a Christmas parade. One of the most notable is the tree lighting and chili cook-off at Gateway Park. Sample chili dishes or enter with your own recipe while enjoying live entertainment and a laser light show.
Other outdoor recreation includes the Spring to Spring Trail, which stretches about 25 miles and connects several Central Florida towns. Locals can hike the entire route or just the portion that extends through DeBary. The paved roads make the trail easy to travel, and the picturesque landscape is a delight for resident hikers.
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