Once named Oak Hill after the majestic Oak trees that color the landscape, Parrish's first documented settlers arrived in 1850 taking comfort in the ideal climate, fertile soil, and nearby river. Today, the area remains largely as pleasantly rustic as it always was, with just a touch of big city shopping and other urban conveniences. Ideal for those looking to escape the bustle of city life, large expanses of the great outdoors offer quiet, open spaces of pure nature. Nearby Ellenton Premium Outlets offers some of the best shopping in the region while vestiges of the earliest inhabitants can be found at places like the Florida Railroad Museum. ... more.With nearby access to I-75, Parrish is an ideal location for growing families and those whose daily activities take them to Sarasota, Bradenton, St. Petersburg or Tampa. Many of the region's newest corporate centers are just minutes away as is access to boating, fishing, golf and every other type of recreational outlet. Housing opportunities are abundant and feature one of the region's best ranges of price for first- and second-time homebuyers.