Located at the heart of the Sunshine State, Okeechobee has a moderate climate with summer temperatures averaging from 72 to 93 and mild winters from 49 to 73, making for comfortable days and cool nights. With an average rainfall of only 53 inches, outdoor activities continue throughout the year. The lake is encircled by an excellent road system with many scenic viewpoints. Campgrounds, RV parks, restaurants and recreational facilities are easily accessible to travelers. C. Scott Driver Park, located on Hwy 78 W at the Kissimmee River, provides facilities for hikers, boaters and fishermen. The crossroads in the center of town provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban settings but provides convenience to Florida attractions, beaches and amenities of larger cities within a short drive. The major interstates, railway, waterways, ports and airport provide unlimited access. Okeechobee is only 70 miles from West Palm Beach, 115 from Tampa, 105 from Orlando and 135 from Miami. Immediately across the Kissimmee River on Hwy 78 is Glades County and the community of Buckhead Ridge, whose residents work, attend school and otherwise participate in the life of Okeechobee. Further south on Hwy 78 W is the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation. It encompasses 35,000 acres of rich land that is farmed, fished and hunted by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The reservation boasts a state-of-the-art rodeo arena, a casino complex and modern centers for education and sports. The reservation charter school, Pemayetv Emahakv, expands the normal curriculum with the teaching of the history
and language of the Seminole Tribe. The reservation is open to the public. The Seminole Tribe and residents of the Brighton Reservation play a very active role in Okeechobee’s community. Okeechobee takes great pride it its culture and is always looking for new ways to expand upon it. The city’s active cultural environment includes a mural program depicting local historical times and events, an annual arts festival held in the four-block long park in the center of town, a community theater program that has entertained residents for 34 years, as well as drama and art activities for the youth. Okeechobee’s history is on display at the museum and library, with downloadable material, Internet access and various cultural programs. Throughout the year there are activities and events sponsored by many civic associations and service clubs such as, the National Day of the American Cowboy, the Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta, where homemade boats support a local cause, a community blood drive, a Labor Day parade, festivals in the park, yearround rodeos and an annual re-enactment of the battle of the second Seminole War. There are also monthly mixers that bring business and community together. Okeechobee continues to grow and build on its rich history. With a variety of activities to partake in and historical sites to see, Okeechobee is a perfect home for many and a wonderful attraction for all. As you read through the Community Guide you will discover the many diverse offerings of our community.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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