15 Greatest Issues to Do in Crystal River, Florida

Crystal River could also be often known as the “Manatee Capital of the World” (and seeing these light giants up shut is a bucket listing should!), however there’s a lot extra to this Florida coastal city. Nearly an hour north of Tampa, it’s loaded with outside adventures, enjoyable museums and a few road artwork surprises.

I’ve hung out exploring the world in each the chilly winter and the sunny summer season months, and have discovered a number of the greatest issues to do in Crystal River (and close by). Listed below are my prime picks of not-to-miss experiences.

1. Swim (or Kayak) with Manatees

Let’s begin with the primary draw to Crystal River—the manatees. It’s truly the one place in North America the place you’ll be able to legally swim within the wild with these light sea cows. Throughout manatee season (sometimes November by way of March), tons of of them flock to the nice and cozy spring-fed waters of Crystal River, creating the right setting for an up-close encounter. They’re curious, slow-moving, and surprisingly massive (like, refrigerator-sized massive!).

On my tour with Hunter Springs Kayaks & Excursions, we boated out to the world and the in-water information spent the entire time ensuring each the manatees and the people had been protected and respectful.

If swimming with manatees is a bit of too up-close-and-personal, then go for a transparent water kayak tour as an alternative. Kacey’s Customized Journey has them.

2. Go Scalloping

In the summertime (non-manatee season), one of many go-to actions for guests and locals goes scalloping. And I like to recommend going with Paddletail Waterfront Adventures, particularly in case you plan on staying on the Paddletail Waterfront Lodge (and you must!).

We caught the boat simply steps from the lodge. It was a couple of 30-minute experience out to the saltwater gulf, the place the actual enjoyable begins—snorkeling in shallow grassy waters in the hunt for these sneaky little scallops. I managed to snag two myself (yay me!), whereas our information casually scooped up a pair dozen. Even in case you’re not up for diving down, the snorkeling itself is value it—heat 83° water, little fish darting round, and only a peaceable underwater vibe.

Again on the boat, we rehydrated with juicy watermelon (the right salty sea water palate cleanser) after which got here one of the best half—recent scallop ceviche made proper on board with lime and a secret seasoning. After, you’ll be able to take the rest of your catch to the Paddletail Waterfront Lodge tiki bar, the place they’ll whip it up for lunch—blackened or fried, and served with Cajun tartar sauce. Sure please!

Try my scalloping video:

3. See the Mermaid Present at Mertailor (Lecanto)

For those who’ve ever dreamed of mermaids being actual (and let’s be sincere, who hasn’t?), then Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter is the place your creativeness will get a magical actuality verify—in one of the best ways attainable. Only a quick drive from Crystal River, this whimsical little aquarium places on a critically enchanting mermaid present inside an 18,000-gallon saltwater tank. These “real-life” mermaids glide, twirl, and blow kisses whereas swimming alongside yellowtail snapper, grouper, redfish, and extra.

However the magic doesn’t cease there. Mertailor additionally has over 25 marine life reveals (suppose: playful cownose rays, seahorses, tortoises, and even macaws), a lot of which had been rehomed animals. The aquarium has a robust message of lifelong animal duty, and their passionate group of aquarists makes certain each creature is effectively cared for.

Oh, and if being a mermaid has at all times been in your bucket listing (no judgment right here!), they even supply a program the place you’ll be able to be taught to develop into one. Sure, tails and all.

Try my video to see what you’re in retailer for:

4. E-Bike Trip Withlacoochee State Path (Inverness)

For those who’re craving a soothing experience by way of nature (with a bit of electrical increase), then hop on an e-bike from Choose E-Bikes and hit the Withlacoochee State Path! This family-owned rental store is conveniently situated proper on the path, so all it’s a must to do is decide your bike and begin pedaling. Or somewhat, gliding—these electrical bikes make cruising the 47-mile paved path a complete breeze, and because the path is usually flat, it’s beginner-friendly and tremendous pleasant regardless of your health degree.

The Withlacoochee Path is without doubt one of the longest paved rail-trails in Florida, stretching by way of small cities, scenic ranches, and peaceable pure areas throughout Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco counties. Whether or not you wish to experience for half-hour or 30 miles, it’s completely as much as you (I like that type of freedom!).

Alongside the way in which, hold your eyes open for wildlife and take little detours to spots like Downtown Inverness or the Ferris Groves Fruit Stand when it’s in season.

5. Take an Airboat Trip

For those who’re able to crank up the journey, then buckle up for an airboat experience with Ozello Boats—as a result of this isn’t your common sightseeing tour. It’s half adrenaline rush, half nature safari, and 100% unforgettable. You’ll skim throughout the crystal-clear waters of Crystal River and Homosassa, zipping by way of mangroves and marshes whereas recognizing every thing from dolphins and sea turtles to alligators, stingrays, and even the occasional manatee.

Select between a 1-hour or 1.5-hour tour, led by true locals who know this area just like the again of their hand. They’ll not solely present you a number of the most beautiful hidden spots—together with historic websites and historic Indian burial mounds—but additionally provide you with a peek at what Outdated Florida actually seems to be like.

6. Go Duckpin Bowling (Inverness)

The Practice Station in Inverness for some old-school enjoyable with a twist—Duck Pin Bowling! For those who’ve by no means heard of it, duck pin is like mini bowling’s cooler cousin. The pins are shorter, the balls are smaller (no finger holes!), and the sport is simply as addictive—if no more.

Set inside a superbly restored Eighteen Eighties practice station within the charming Depot District, this place has extra than simply bowling. Every desk has a distinct board sport on it (I performed one referred to as Shut Field that I had by no means heard of earlier than!), and there’s a comfy porch with Adirondack chairs to relax on.

The meals? Suppose playful train-themed pizzas like The Conductor (howdy, beef and pickles!) and the over-the-top Practice Wreck Nachos.

7. See the Animals at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park 

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a 210-acre park is dwelling to an unbelievable lineup of wildlife—like bobcats, owls, alligators, and even a couple of manatees floating lazily by way of the springs. One of many coolest options is the Fish Bowl Underwater Observatory, it’s at present underneath renovation, however quickly you’ll have the ability to step under the water’s floor for a close-up view of freshwater fish swimming throughout you.

➞ Tip: To achieve the wildlife stroll, you’ve obtained choices: stroll, shuttle, or (my decide!) take the scenic boat experience. It’s a small additional charge, however completely value it for the 20-minute float down Pepper Creek. Alongside the way in which, we noticed turtles and geese whereas studying a bit concerning the park’s historical past.

8. Stroll the Boardwalk at Three Sisters Springs

For those who’re within the temper for a peaceable nature stroll (with a very good likelihood of recognizing a manatee or two!), the boardwalk at Three Sisters Springs is the right little escape. Tucked contained in the Crystal River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge, this 0.75-mile boardwalk loops by way of 57 acres of pure Florida magnificence, wrapping across the turquoise springs and providing a number of scenic viewing platforms.

I’ve walked it in each winter and summer season, and every season has its attraction—winter brings the manatees, and summer season brings lush greenery and birds galore!

9. Go to the Crystal River State Archaeological Website

For those who’re like me and love mixing a bit of historical past into your outside adventures, the Crystal River State Archaeological Website is a must-visit. This peaceable 61-acre Nationwide Historic Landmark is one in all Florida’s longest repeatedly occupied Native American ceremonial websites—lively for over 1,600 years earlier than Europeans even confirmed up. The location options six spectacular mounds (together with Temple Mound A, the best level in Crystal River!), burial mounds, and interesting carved limestone slabs referred to as “stela.” Once I visited, I obtained to witness an excellent cool demo of how they used fireplace to make dugout canoes.

The park provides scenic trails winding by way of marshlands, excellent for recognizing birds (it’s a part of the Nice Florida Birding Path). Don’t miss the museum, which homes an unbelievable assortment of artifacts—from pottery to projectile factors—and even attracts neat comparisons to what was occurring globally on the identical time.

10. Discover Downtown Inverness

Only a fast 30-minute drive from Crystal River, you’ll discover Inverness—a cute small city recognized for its historic courthouse sq.. For those who’re wandering by way of Historic Downtown Inverness, there are a couple of stops to verify to make.

First pop into the Outdated Courthouse Heritage Museum that’s housed within the beautiful 1912 Citrus County Courthouse. This constructing is an architectural cocktail of types (neoclassical, Italian Renaissance, mission, prairie college—you title it!) and even hosts concert events in its superbly restored courtroom. 

Inside, the museum is filled with fascinating artifacts like pottery, arrowheads, fishing hooks, and even a Suwannee projectile courting again to 9000 BC. It’s an ideal spot to take in the historical past of Citrus County and get a really feel for the world’s deep roots.

Right here’s a enjoyable twist: in 1961, Elvis Presley filmed the climax of Observe That Dream proper on this courthouse! 

After your museum go to, be sure you snap a photograph by the long-lasting Elvis mural simply off Pine Road and the intense Inverness signal. Additionally see how most of the cute painted turtles you’ll be able to spot round downtown. Then stroll by way of native boutiques, one in all my favorites is Twisted Moon Boutique. And don’t miss getting a wholesome protein shake at Invibe Vitamin (I can vouch for the s’mores) to chill off throughout your stroll.

11. Kayak to Three Sisters Springs

If paddling by way of crystal-clear water surrounded by Florida wildlife feels like your type of magic, then kayaking to Three Sisters Springs with Kacey’s Customized Adventures completely must be in your listing! You possibly can lease an everyday kayak or go for one in all their clear-bottom kayaks—I went with the clear one, and truthfully, it felt like I used to be floating on glass. As you glide by way of Kings Bay towards the springs, hold your eyes peeled for dolphins, turtles, colourful birds, and, in case you’re fortunate, these light manatees Crystal River is legendary for.

For the total expertise, I extremely advocate their All-Inclusive Kayak and Swim Tour, which features a guided paddle, time to swim within the crystal-clear springs, snorkel gear, and even a free photograph package deal (as a result of, sure, you’ll undoubtedly need these reminiscences captured!). 

12. Spend the Afternoon on the Historic Floral Metropolis

For those who’re wanting a style of Outdated Florida attraction, Floral Metropolis is the right little escape—nearly 24 miles southeast of Crystal River. This little city is sprinkled with historic properties, wildflowers all over the place you look, and an interesting previous tied to phosphate mining.

Begin your go to on the Floral Metropolis Heritage Museum, which is housed in an outdated fireplace station and filled with cool artifacts, images, and tales that carry the city’s historical past to life. Don’t miss their Heritage Nation Retailer—it’s filled with distinctive finds like vintage tin indicators and picket dolls that make excellent souvenirs. Simply throughout the road is the Duval Home, the oldest residential constructing in Citrus County, courting again to the late 1800s. And if you wish to stretch your legs in nature, Fort Cooper State Park is only a quick drive away.

13. See Monkey Island in Homosassa

Right here’s a unusual little gem you in all probability didn’t find out about—Monkey Island! This tiny man-made island floats within the Homosassa River and is dwelling to a vigorous household of spider monkeys. Constructed to maintain these mischievous little guys from inflicting hassle on the mainland, the island is decked out with huts, ropes, bushes, and even a miniature lighthouse. It’s all lovingly cared for by the Florida Cracker Riverside Resort (previously Homosassa Riverside Resort), the place the monkeys get common feedings and well being check-ups.

When you can’t hop onto the island your self, one of the best ways to expertise it’s to both glide proper by it on a kayak or seize a drink on the Florida Cracker Monkey Bar the place you can find the island proper behind the bar.

14. Swim at Hunter Springs Park

Hunter Springs Park is all about crystal-clear springs that invite you to swim, snorkel, or simply float your worries away. There’s additionally a cute little sandy seaside that’s excellent for constructing sandcastles, picnicking with associates, or launching your kayak or canoe for a mild paddle.

However Hunter Springs isn’t only for water lovers! For those who’d somewhat keep on dry land, there’s a playground for the kiddos, picnic pavilions and grills for outside meals, plus scenic strolling trails and bike racks for exploring the world on two wheels.

15. Store the Native artwork on the Heritage Village district

Prepare to buy until you drop at The Shoppes of Heritage Village! With over a dozen regionally owned retailers, this cozy little district is filled with artsy finds you gained’t see anyplace else. Whether or not you’re looking for handblown glass at Coastal Artwork Gallery or enjoyable presents at The Normal Retailer, there’s one thing right here to spark your curiosity and fill your buying baggage.

But it surely’s not nearly what’s contained in the retailers—the entire vibe is what makes Heritage Village so particular. Suppose superbly restored historic buildings, shaded tree-lined walkways, and an easygoing environment.  

What to do in Crystal River, Florida video:

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