Everyone enjoyed lunch at SLIM'S Deep South Bar-B-Q Restaurant where we found excellent food, lively conversation and lots of camaraderie.

  

Later in the afternoon we strolled through the streets of the historic district and perused the many antique shops.  We discovered the old opera building where there were many different shops and opera stage with equipment and artifacts dated to 1906.

  

   Arcadia dates back to 1887 when the town was a "watering hole" for thirsty and rowdy cowboys (then called Crackers). In 1905 a large fire practically destroyed all the wooden buildings.  The city fathers decreed only buildings of stone were to be allowed afterward, plus the town became a "dry" town with no alcohol and that kept the drunken cowboys away.  As the capital of DeSoto county, Arcadia flourished and became the handsome "best little town in Florida."

  

Every last Saturday of the month an Antique Fair with over 100 accredited dealers is held. Detailed information can be found at: http://www.arcadiaflantiques.com In March and April there are several Rodeos and information on these can be found at: http://www.arcadiarodeo.com/

  

Arcadia is definitely a place worth visiting.