Florida City Real Estate

Florida City, located in the rural area of southern Miami-Dade County, lies to the west of Homestead. The city is at the eastern end of the only road running through the Everglades National Park, the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. The Everglades boasts rare and endangered species, such as the American crocodile, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee. The park has been designated an International Biosphere Reserve, a World Heritage Site, and a Wetland of International Importance, in recognition of its significance to all the people of the world. Florida City is the southernmost city in the United States which is not on an island. It is also the last stop on the mainland north of the Florida Keys.

The first settlers, in Florida City were originally from Topeka, Kansas and had settled in Homestead but moved out into the wilderness area that became Florida City in 1910. Many southern families seeking homesteads followed. In 1913 the Model Land Company from Michigan purchased 22,000 acres. They advertised heavily in Detroit and attracted northerners to their "Garden of Eden". Detroiters named the area Detroit but apparently became dissatisfied with their purchases. Conflict developed with the Southern families and the Detroiters moved back north shortly thereafter. In 1914 the city was incorporated. The remaining families named it Florida City. It has a small historic area, but much of the city is compromised of hotels and other tourist facilities.

The community has focused on preserving and renovating historic buildings, establishing new businesses and creating a historic district replete with charming specialty shops and restaurants. The area's strategic location makes it a viable destination for visitors. The business generated by tourism is a key factor in the economy of the community.

Florida City today is still a rural area; agriculture is still a great source of revenue and a mainstay of the economy. Nearly half of the winter vegetables consumed in the United States are grown in tropical South Florida. Florida City also boasts unique and interesting local attractions including the Coral Castle--built by reclusive eccentric, Edward Leedskalnin, who single-handedly erected gigantic quarried stones resulting in his enigmatic castle as a tribute to his lost love. Florida City is also home to the Everglades Alligator Farm--a privately owned real working alligator farm. Nearby is Homestead Motorsports Park, home of Nascar and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first undersea park created in the United States.

With the sprawling expanse of the Everglades to the west, the pristine Biscayne National Park to the east, the glitz and glamour of Miami to the north and the Florida Keys to the south, Florida City truly stands out as a unique and special place.

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