Historic downtown
The courthouse, the depot and the blocks around them are why downtown Dade City looks like nowhere else. Main Street’s job is to keep them that way, and in use.
On the National Register
Three downtown places are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the federal list of places worth preserving.
Listed 1994, built 1912
Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Depot
The railroad depot of 1912, and the first place in Pasco County listed on the National Register.
Listed 1997
Church Street Historic District
Listed as a whole district rather than a single building.
Photo: Kirk Riollano Listed 2006, built 1909
Historic Pasco County Courthouse
Red brick and Classical Revival, at the center of downtown. Restored and rededicated in 1998.
Walk it yourself
The City’s guide to its historic register: a page for each historic building and site, with maps.
Fixing up a building
Inside the City’s Community Redevelopment Area, the City offers grants that help owners care for old buildings. Amounts, rules and deadlines are the City’s, so check its page before you plan the work.
The City’s CRA grants(opens the City’s website)- Building Exterior GrantFor exterior work on a commercial building in the district.
- Residential Exterior Paint GrantFor repainting the outside of a home in the district.
- Paving and Repaving GrantFor paving or repaving a parking lot in the district.
Being discussed now
The CRA’s Redevelopment Advisory Committee agenda for April 16, 2026 included:
- A sign grant program
- Wayfinding signs
- The second phase of the alleyway project
Before you change a building
Talk to the City first
Permits, and any review that applies to a building in the district, go through the City. Ask before you order materials.
Ask about the grants early
A grant may need approval before the work starts. The City’s CRA page has the current programs.
Tell Main Street
Main Street’s Design committee, being formed now, will help owners find their way through the steps. And it loves a before and after photo. Meet the committees.