Downtown has long served as the epicenter for the Zephyrhills community; being the city’s commercial hub, a wary travelers’ oasis, and the community gathering place. In 1882 the town was originally known as “Abbott” and later in 1896 it became “Abbott Station”; when the Seaboard Coastline Railroad established its depot. In 1909 Captain H.B. Jeffries, a retired Union Army captain, established a veteran colony. From top of LeHeup Hill, he heard remarks about the rolling hills and warm Zephyr breezes. These comments inspired Captain Jeffries and in 1910 Abbott Station formally became the City of Zephyrhills!

In 1980, The National trust for Historic preservation founded the National Main Street Program with the goal of revitalizing downtown centers in America’s communities. In the year of 1994, the City of Zephyrhills established Main Street Zephyrhills with that same goal in mind. Over the past 25+ years, Main Street Zephyrhills has grown into a powerful economic development tool for the community. In just the last 15 years 150 businesses have opened, almost 1000 jobs have been created and nearly $20 million has been invested into the district, benefitting our whole community. In addition, the value of homes in Zephyrhills has doubled in the last 10 years! 

Like much of the world, going into 2020, Zephyrhills was poised to have a record breaking year – new developments, new businesses, more housing and more visitors. Our businesses and residents united to support one another and get us through stronger than before! The Main Street district saw an increase in entrepreneurship and new partnerships in existing businesses. The community found fun, unique ways to get together and share in our small town charm through scavenger hunts, virtual events, photo challenges and by visiting our downtown small businesses. 

Now, Main Street Zephyrhills is looking to the future and plans to beautify our district with a mural series beginning in the Spring of 2021, assisting with the development of the “Little But Loud” alley project leading to “The BackYard,” advocating for existing businesses, attracting new entrepreneurs and, of course, our community-favorite events!