Positioned on Florida’s Nature Coast, Crystal River is a captivating coastal metropolis generally known as the “Dwelling of the Manatee.” A whole bunch of manatees (and vacationers) come to the river’s considerable springs to maintain heat, particularly in the course of the winter season.
Nevertheless, this fashionable vacationer vacation spot is not only concerning the mild giants. There are many outside actions, native points of interest and issues to do in Crystal River Florida. Swimming with manatees is among the hottest, however there’s additionally issues like discovering road artwork and visiting museums.
So pack your baggage, seize your digicam, and prepare to dive into this aquatic wonderland and uncover why Crystal River is the proper vacation spot for anybody searching for some enjoyable within the solar.
The Greatest Issues to do in Crystal River Florida (Manatees, Eating places, Seashores & Motels!)
1. Swim with Manatees
Swimming with manatees at Crystal River, Florida, is a uncommon and thrilling alternative to attach with nature and witness these lovely animals of their pure habitat. These mild ‘sea cows’ inhabit the nice and cozy waters of Florida, and Crystal River is among the few locations the place you may legally work together with them.
On a guided tour, you may don a wetsuit and snorkel, and observe these majestic creatures up shut. Simply bear in mind to remain calm and respectful, as manatees are protected by legislation.
I did my swim with Hunter Springs Kayaks & Tours, the place I used to be accompanied by an in-water information all the time to make sure that the foundations are noticed so that you simply (and the manatees) may have a good time.
2. See the Mermaid Present at Mertailor
Mermaids could also be legendary, however their attract is simple – fascinating sailors and dreamers alike with their enchanting magnificence and mysterious underwater world. And at Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter, just a few miles southeast of Crystal River, Florida, they won’t simply be a figment of playful creativeness.
The aquarium encompasses a one-of-a-kind present with real-life ‘mermaids,’ carrying real looking and colourful mermaid fins as they elegantly glide by a big aquarium crammed with vibrant marine life.
Watch in awe as these swish performers swim, twirl, and even work together with the viewers, blowing kisses and posing for photographs.
Except for the Mermaid Present, additionally they have totally different displays that includes macaws, tortoises, eels, rays, and a lot extra. Actually a magical underwater expertise value visiting!
3. Go to the Crystal River State Archaeological Website
Uncover the secrets and techniques of historic Native American tradition by visiting the Crystal River State Archaeological Site, a mesmerizing vacation spot positioned on Crystal River’s northern banks.
This 61-acre expanse of lush greenery is brimming with awe-inspiring wonders, together with six spectacular mounds that had been constructed between 250 BC and 600 AD, in addition to a number of burial mounds and carved limestone slabs referred to as ‘stela.’
The museum on the website additionally accommodates a variety of artifacts, from intricately carved pottery to original instruments and different objects utilized by the individuals who left their mark on the land.
And as a part of the Nice Florida Birding Path, you may as well enterprise out onto the character path that winds by the encircling forest and breathtaking panorama.
4. Make a Fast Cease to Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park
Do you know that Florida is the biggest sugarcane producer in america? And what higher method to study concerning the state’s sugar business than at Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park, a must-visit landmark in Homosassa, Florida, positioned 10.4 miles (16.74 km) south of Crystal River.
Named after Florida’s first Senator, David Levy Yulee, the park boasts the ruins of a Nineteenth-century sugar mill that when used steam and progressive know-how to provide sugar for export.
You might be in for a deal with as you discover the fascinating ruins of the Yulee Sugar Mill, which features a towering 40-foot chimney, stonework basis, and a nicely. Among the many ruins, iron gears and the rusted cane press nonetheless stand as a testomony to the mill’s once-thriving sugar manufacturing. Picnic pavilions, tables, and grills are additionally obtainable in the event you fancy occurring a picnic after exploring.
5. Take an Airboat Trip with Ozello Boats
Maintain on tight and prepare to expertise the thrilling experience of a lifetime with Ozello Boats! Taking an airboat tour with them means that you can discover the crystal-clear waters of Homosassa and Crystal River (Nature Coast) the place you may spot quite a lot of wildlife, similar to alligators, manatees, and unique birds of their pure habitat.
Really feel the wind in your hair and the adrenaline pumping as you race by the marshes and mangroves of this lovely and distinctive ecosystem. With skilled and educated guides, you’re positive to have an unforgettable journey that you simply’ll be speaking about for years to come back.
6. Store at Heritage Village
Prepare to buy until you drop at The Shoppes of Heritage Village, a hidden gem positioned within the coronary heart of Downtown Crystal River! With over 13+ locally-owned outlets, this charming purchasing vacation spot presents a singular and numerous number of merchandise you received’t discover anyplace else. From handmade arts and items at Glass Werx Studio to antiques and classic finds at The Basic Retailer, the Shoppes have one thing for everybody.
But it surely’s not simply the purchasing that makes this place particular – it’s the environment. The fantastically restored historic buildings and tree-lined walkways create a captivating ambiance that’s each stress-free and welcoming. And with loads of eating and refreshment choices like BubbaQue’s and Tea Home 650, you may take a break from purchasing and luxuriate in a scrumptious meal or refreshing beverage whereas taking within the sights and sounds of this distinctive purchasing expertise.
P.S. Try the Heritage Home Customer Centre alongside North Citrus Avenue for a strolling map of Heritage Village and any obtainable coupons.
7. Pop Into the Coastal Heritage Museum
The Coastal Heritage Museum is an enchanting historic vacation spot in the event you’re all in favour of studying about Florida’s wealthy historical past and distinctive cultural heritage. The museum is housed within the historic 1939 Crystal River Metropolis Corridor constructing, which has been fantastically restored and renovated to showcase the realm’s wealthy previous.
Inside, you may discover quite a lot of displays that spotlight the historical past and tradition of the Crystal River space, together with a 1927 diorama of Citrus Avenue, an previous holding cell, and a fish home facade. One other distinctive characteristic of the museum is its assortment of vintage fishing gear, which offers perception into the historical past and evolution of economic fishing within the area.
8. Get Some Pics on the Historic Crystal River Prepare Depot
The Historic Crystal River Train Depot is an iconic landmark positioned at Crystal Avenue in Crystal River, Florida. The depot, which was in-built 1909, served as a hub for transportation and commerce within the area for a few years and is now a preferred vacation spot for vacationers and historical past buffs alike.
The depot’s distinctive structure and design make it a preferred spot for photographers seeking to seize its rustic character and historic significance. The constructing options traditional components of turn-of-the-century practice stations, similar to its easy, white wood aesthetic and traditional purple caboose.
9. Stroll the Boardwalk at Three Sisters Springs
Whether or not you’re a nature lover, wildlife fanatic, or just searching for a peaceable escape from the hustle and bustle of on a regular basis life, strolling the Boardwalk on the 57-acre Three Sisters Spring is an expertise you received’t quickly overlook.
Positioned inside the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, the Boardwalk follows the banks of the three springs, that includes totally different viewing platforms the place you may see the mild manatees or the colourful fowl species and different wildlife who name the place their house.
10. See the Animals at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Seeing the animals at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a very distinctive expertise that mixes nature, training, and leisure. This 210-acre park is house to all kinds of animals native to Florida, together with alligators, black bears, bobcats, and panthers, simply to call just a few.
The park’s Fish Bowl Underwater Observatory presents you a uncommon glimpse into the world of freshwater fish, whereas wildlife encounter applications help you work together with among the park’s animals.
Along with its animal displays, the park additionally boasts lovely botanical gardens, strolling trails, and picnic areas, making it an important place so that you can spend a day with household and mates.
11. Examine Out the Avenue Artwork
Whereas Crystal River might not be as well-known for its road artwork scene as another cities, the realm does supply a singular and rising number of murals and different city art work.
In recent times, native artists and neighborhood organizations have been working to carry extra road artwork to the realm, reworking in any other case clean partitions into colourful and crowd pleasing artistic endeavors. These murals usually depict scenes from the pure world, similar to manatees, pelicans, and different wildlife, reflecting the realm’s shut connection to the close by Gulf of Mexico.
Some notable works embrace the 16-foot-high mural referred to as ‘The Kraken’ by William Mickey, painted on the aspect of the Salty Women Seashore Store, the 68-foot-wide, 14-foot-high mural at City Sq. in Downtown Crystal River, and ‘The Crystal Blue Manatees,’ a flooring mural contained in the Crystal Blue Lagoon Mattress & Breakfast, additionally in Downtown Crystal River.
Whether or not or not it’s on the skin or inside, there’s at all times a road artwork or two to shock you alongside the way in which. What number of of them can you discover?
12. Kayak the Chassahowitzka River
Whether or not you’re an skilled kayaker or a novice, kayaking the Chassahowitzka River (or ‘The Chaz’) presents a one-of-a-kind journey that’s positive to go away you with lasting reminiscences. Positioned 14.8 miles (23.81 km) south of Crystal River, the river winds by the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, house to totally different wildlife, together with manatees, dolphins, and all kinds of fowl species.
Some of the distinctive options of the Chaz are the various small springs that feed into the waterway. These springs, that are crystal clear and extremely pure, create a sequence of swimming pools and channels which are good for swimming and exploring. You may as well paddle as much as the headsprings of those springs and take a refreshing dip within the cool, clear water. In case you’re feeling a bit extra adventurous, you may go on a dive and discover one of many underwater caves!
You’ll find many kayak (and different boats) leases within the space, similar to at Chassahowitzka River Campground and 7 Sisters Springs. Alternatively, you may as well carry your personal kayak with you.
13. Go Scalloping
Are you up for a bucket listing expertise that mixes the joys of a treasure hunt with the thrill of snorkeling within the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico? Then don your swimwear and let’s go scalloping! Throughout scallop season, which runs from July to September, locals and vacationers alike flock to the realm to expertise the joys of catching these tasty mollusks.
To go scalloping in Crystal River, you usually have to exit into the Gulf of Mexico. You possibly can go there aboard your personal boat (saltwater fishing license required,) or by reserving an skilled information (who may take you to one of the best scalloping spots!). The scallops are often present in shallow waters between 4 and eight ft deep, particularly the place there are many eelgrass/seagrass.
Upon getting your bag of scallops, you may clear them up and cook dinner them nonetheless you want. Or you may as well name one in every of many participating restaurants upfront, who’ll be completely satisfied to cook dinner up your bounty for you.
14. Discover Kings Bay
Nestled inside the Crystal River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge, Crystal River’s headwater of Kings Bay is a jewel of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Fed by over 70 springs which preserve its waters at a relentless 72 levels Fahrenheit, the realm is famend for its breathtaking pure magnificence and considerable marine life, particularly its beloved inhabitants of mild giants – the manatees.
Probably the greatest methods to discover Kings Bay and see the manatees is by taking a guided boat tour or renting a kayak. As you paddle alongside the crystal-clear waters of the bay, you’ll have the ability to see these majestic creatures swimming gracefully beneath the floor, in addition to different wildlife like dolphins and sea turtles.
In fact, there may be a lot to see up within the air and on land as there may be below the water, such because the Roseate spoonbill and white-tailed deer, inhabiting one in every of 20 small islands in and round Kings Bay.
15. See the Native Artwork at Franklin Anderson Gallery
The Franklin Anderson Gallery is a must-visit vacation spot for artwork lovers visiting Crystal River. Positioned within the coronary heart of the historic downtown space, this gallery showcases the works of among the space’s most proficient artists, in addition to nationwide and worldwide artists.
Though it’s small, the gallery encompasses a numerous assortment of artwork, together with work, sculptures, and blended media items, every with its personal distinctive model and story. You possibly can view works starting from conventional landscapes to summary items, and all the things in between. And did I point out that you could additionally purchase one-of-a-kind items to take house with you proper right here?
16. Watch Some Automotive Races at Citrus County Speedway and Observe
If the sound of engines roaring and quick vehicles zipping by will get your adrenaline pumping, then this one’s for you! The Citrus County Speedway and Track at Inverness, 18.1 miles (29.13 km) east from Crystal River, is a hub for native and regional automotive racing, providing an thrilling expertise for guests of all ages. The observe’s difficult format, with tight turns and high-speed straights, is certain to get your adrenaline pumping.
However that’s not all – additionally they characteristic a snack bar and merchandise sales space, and cozy seating areas for nice views of the motion. Common occasions, similar to inventory automotive and modified racing, are hosted all year long, making it an exciting and thrilling vacation spot for automotive racing fanatics and guests alike.
17. See Monkey Island
Do you know that there’s a tiny island within the Homosassa River that’s house to a household of spider monkeys? This man-made island, generally known as Monkey Island, was constructed to accommodate the monkeys and forestall them from inflicting mischief elsewhere.
The island options huts, ropes, timber, and even a small duplicate of a lighthouse, all fastidiously maintained by the Florida Cracker Riverside Resort (previously Homosassa Riverside Resort). The monkeys obtain common feeding and check-ups from the resort to make sure their well being and well-being.
If you are not allowed to set foot on the island, there are many methods to rise up shut and private with the monkeys. The resort’s restaurant and close by dock present the proper vantage factors to watch the monkeys as they go about their day, and you may as well get a better look by taking a ship or kayak tour.
18. Dangle Out at Hunter Springs Park
Hunter Springs Park is an excellent vacation spot for anybody seeking to loosen up and benefit from the pure great thing about Crystal River. With its beautiful springs, sandy seaside, and vary of leisure alternatives, it’s a vacation spot that’s positive to go away an enduring impression on guests of all ages.
One of many major points of interest of Hunter Springs Park is its crystal-clear waters, which offer a refreshing and stress-free place to swim, snorkel, or just take in the solar. The park additionally encompasses a small sandy seaside space, good for constructing sandcastles, having fun with a picnic together with your family and friends, or launching your kayak/canoe.
In case you desire to remain on dry land, Hunter Springs Park additionally presents a variety of leisure alternatives. The park encompasses a playground for youngsters, in addition to a number of picnic pavilions and grills so that you can get pleasure from a meal outdoor. The park’s trails present a scenic spot for a leisurely stroll or jog, and there are additionally bike racks obtainable in the event you desire to discover on two wheels.
P.S. They cost a small charge for parking.
19. Escape from the Crystal River Room Escape
In search of a special sort of thrill in your Crystal River journey? This one’s for you!
The Crystal River Room Escape is an thrilling and difficult journey recreation that assessments your puzzle-solving abilities and creativity. Positioned at SE Mayo Drive, this escape room is a enjoyable and distinctive vacation spot for teams of mates, relations, or coworkers searching for a memorable and thrilling expertise.
You possibly can select from one in every of 4 totally different eventualities, from aliens to whodunnits to treasures to ‘happening reminiscence lane.’ With their difficult puzzles, partaking themes, and thrilling environment, will you and your group unravel the mysteries of the room earlier than time runs out?
P.S. As they’re open by appointment solely, make sure to e-book upfront.
20. Golf on the Plantation on Crystal River
The Plantation on Crystal River is among the oldest resorts within the metropolis and house to one of the vital fantastically landscaped golf programs within the space. The resort’s 18-hole golf course is designed to problem gamers of all skills, with its rolling fairways, difficult water hazards, and strategic bunkers. The course is impeccably maintained, with lush inexperienced grass, beautiful views, and a serene environment that makes it a pleasure to play.
After a day on the hyperlinks, you may loosen up and unwind on the resort’s restaurant and bar, which presents scrumptious meals and refreshing drinks in an informal and welcoming environment. If you wish to keep in a single day, the Plantation on Crystal River has comfy and spacious rooms to select from, together with cozy choices and opulent suites.
21. See a Present at The Valerie Theater (Inverness)
The Valerie Theatre in Inverness, Florida, is a restored historic theater constructed within the Twenties that provides movie, music, and dwell theater occasions. It options plush seating, state-of-the-art projection, sound gear, and beautiful acoustics.
The Theatre is thought for its dedication to preserving traditional movies from Hollywood’s golden age, the place you may catch weekly screenings of beloved motion pictures like “Gone with the Wind” and “Casablanca.” In addition they host dwell music live shows and theatrical productions that includes each native and nationwide expertise.
22. Spend the Afternoon on the Historic Floral Metropolis
Additionally affectionately generally known as ‘Previous Florida’ by the locals, Floral Metropolis is a captivating city positioned 24.4 miles (39.27 km) southeast of Crystal River. It’s best identified for its historic properties, abundance of wildflowers, and its as soon as booming phosphate mining historical past. Listed here are some locations you shouldn’t miss out right here:
Floral Metropolis Heritage Museum
The Floral City Heritage Museum is positioned in an previous hearth station and is house to a powerful assortment of artifacts, pictures, and paperwork that showcase the city’s wealthy historical past. Don’t overlook to take a look at their Heritage Nation Retailer for one-of-a-kind objects like vintage tin indicators, wood dolls, and extra.
Duval Home
Discovered simply throughout the Museum, the Duval House is a two-story historic house constructed within the late 1800s and is taken into account to be the oldest residential constructing in Citrus County nonetheless standing to today. It’s presently owned by the Duval Preservation Belief.
As the home has no mounted opening schedule, you might have to contact the Belief President at 352-697-2999 for any particular group personal excursions.
Fort Cooper State Park
Fort Cooper State Park is a fantastic 700-acre state park is positioned only a brief drive south of Floral Metropolis and is a good place to benefit from the outdoor. You possibly can hike by the park’s trails, fish, swim, or kayak in Lake Holathlikaha, or have a picnic in one of many park’s many scenic spots.
. . .
Whether or not you’re a historical past buff, nature lover, or just searching for a captivating vacation spot to go to, a day at Floral Metropolis is definitely definitely worth the journey.
23. The place to Keep
With so many actions to do, issues to see, and locations to go to, a day at Crystal River will certainly not be sufficient. Loads of resort lodging can be found across the metropolis, and right here is one we extremely suggest:
Plantation on Crystal River
In case you’re dreaming of a spot the place you may unwind and indulge in the fantastic thing about nature, the Plantation on Crystal River is the proper retreat for you. Think about waking up in one in every of their comfy rooms (they’ve 196!), surrounded by beautiful surroundings and the sound of mild waves lapping on the shore. You’ll have loads of room to unfold out, whether or not you’re touring with household or mates, as most rooms may be joined collectively to create a house away from house.
However that’s just the start of the enjoyable. Take a swing at their 18-hole championship golf course or attempt your hand at water sports activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. In case you’re within the temper for some pampering, bask in a spa remedy or get pleasure from some wildlife viewing. And once you’re able to refuel, you received’t be disenchanted – the resort presents mouthwatering meals and drinks which are positive to please your style buds.
24. The place to Eat
What’s a go to to Crystal River with out having a style of its delectable dishes and grub to gas your physique? Let’s take a look at among the greatest bites in and across the metropolis that can depart you wanting extra:
Wild Sassa (Homosassa): Wild Sassa is a seafood meals truck that provides a singular eating expertise that includes regionally sourced components and a menu that adjustments seasonally. Remember to check out their tacos and wild shrimp quesadillas!
Waterfront Social (Crystal River): A stylish waterfront bar and grill that provides quite a lot of meals and drinks, together with seafood, smash burgers, and craft cocktails, with dwell music on the weekends.
Copp Brewery: A craft brewery in Crystal River that provides a rotating number of beers on faucet, wines, and a scrumptious menu of ‘Prohibition’ plates & tacos, sandwiches, and different pub fare.
Wallace’s on the Greenhouse (Homosassa): Wallace’s at the Greenhouse is a captivating restaurant that serves up contemporary seafood and traditional American dishes in a comfy and welcoming environment.
West 82 Grill (Crystal River): This bar & grill restaurant is positioned on the Plantation on Crystal River and options seasonal and regionally sourced components, providing quite a lot of dishes that vary from seafood pasta to steak.
Vintage on 5th: A classy bistro in downtown Crystal River that provides a menu of seafood, hand-cut steaks, and regional Southern dishes, together with an in depth wine listing. Shrimp and grits, anybody?
Kane’s Cattle Co: An off-the-cuff steakhouse on the coronary heart of Crystal River that provides a singular eating expertise, that includes mouthwatering steaks and contemporary seafood, in a country but elegant setting.
Dan’s Clam Stand: A no-frills seafood shack in Crystal River that provides quite a lot of fried seafood dishes, together with clams, shrimp, and oysters, together with sandwiches and sides.
Crump’s Landing (Homosassa): A beloved seafood restaurant and bar, providing scrumptious native delicacies, waterfront eating, dwell music, and a laid-back environment that’s good for stress-free with family and friends.
And that brings our listing of one of the best issues to do in Crystal River, Florida to a detailed. Crystal River is a singular and thrilling vacation spot that provides an unforgettable expertise for vacationers of all ages. From swimming with manatees to exploring native points of interest, there’s something for everybody on this charming coastal metropolis.
So, whether or not you might be looking for a calming trip or an adventure-filled journey, Crystal River is the proper place to unwind, discover, and create lasting reminiscences. Don’t wait any longer, pack your baggage, and are available uncover the wonders of Crystal River for your self.
Greatest Suggestions for Visiting Crystal River Florida
Easy methods to Get to Crystal River Florida: Tampa Worldwide Airport (TPA) is a significant hub and most airways will fly into it. You possibly can simply examine for one of the best fare offers at Skyscanner, which additionally has the choice to decide on ‘least expensive month’ because the departure to seek out the bottom priced dates to fly to your vacation spot. There isn’t a direct connection from Tampa Worldwide Airport (TPA) to Crystal River. To get there, you may mix utilizing buses and a taxi. You possibly can take a taxi to Crystal River after taking the road 30 bus to North West Switch Middle Tampa, the road 812 bus to Sr. 580 + Summerdale, the road 19 bus to Huey Ave. & Tarpon Ave., and the road 19 bus to Sr. 52 & Us 19. For a extra direct journey, you may as well drive or rent a city automotive.
Getting Round: Driving in a brand new vacation spot could be a little bit of a problem, however in the event you select to lease a automotive, RentalCars.com has nice offers. In case you are not renting a automotive, there are many different choices. Taxis, Lyft and Uber can be found everywhere in the metropolis. For a extra price range pleasant possibility, you may take the general public bus.
Greatest Time to Go to Crystal River Florida: Based on NOAA (the Nationwide Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), one of the best months to go to Crystal River for the climate are February 19 to Could 20 or October 1 to December 301. However you might go on an important journey at any time of the 12 months.
The place to Keep in Crystal River Florida: It’s greatest to remain close to town middle, public transportation or the realm that you can be spending probably the most time in. Holiday Inn Express Crystal River, an IHG Hotel, Best Western Crystal River Resort and The Plantation on Crystal River is a good alternative in Crystal River. For one thing on the cheaper aspect, attempt Hampton Inn Crystal River positioned in Crystal River. Or search some nice offers on lodges of your alternative at Booking.com. In case you’re searching for extra of a house environment (or are touring with a bunch of individuals), head over to Airbnb that has homes, residences and even only a room for lease in each worth vary.
Greatest Excursions in Crystal River Florida: You’ll find among the high excursions at Get Your Guide or Viator, and listed here are among the high ones. excursions:
Common Adapter: Your American plugged gear will want an adapter. I take advantage of the Celtic Universal Adapter, which has introduced me all over the world with no issues.
This publish could include affiliate hyperlinks. In case you make a purchase order by my hyperlinks, I earn a fee that helps to maintain this weblog operating—at no further price to you. For extra data learn my full disclosure.
Extra Issues to Do in Florida
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Panama Metropolis Seashore Bucket Record: 30 Greatest Issues To Do in PCB Florida
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Swim with Manatees & Different Encounters in Florida’s Crystal River
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