15 Best Things to Do in Crystal River, Florida

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

I’ve frolicked exploring the realm in each the cooler winter and the sunny summer season months, and have discovered a few of the finest issues to do in Crystal River (and close by). Here are my high picks of not-to-miss experiences.

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1. Swim (or Kayak) with Manatees

Let’s begin with the principle draw to Crystal River—the manatees. It’s really the one place in North America the place you’ll be able to legally swim within the wild with these mild sea cows. During manatee season (sometimes November by means 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 large (like, refrigerator-sized large!).

On my tour with Hunter Springs Kayaks & Tours, we boated out to the realm 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 just a little too up-close-and-personal, then go for a transparent water kayak tour as an alternative. Kacey’s Custom Adventure has them.

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2. Go Scalloping

In the summer season (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 the event you plan on staying on the Paddletail Waterfront Lodge (and it is best to!).

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

Back on the boat, we rehydrated with juicy watermelon (the right salty sea water palate cleanser) after which got here the very best half—contemporary 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. Yes please!

Check out my scalloping video:

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3. See the Mermaid Show at Mertailor (Lecanto)

If you’ve ever dreamed of mermaids being actual (and let’s be trustworthy, 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 potential. Just a brief drive from Crystal River, this whimsical little aquarium places on a significantly 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.

But 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 powerful message of lifelong animal duty, and their passionate staff of aquarists makes certain each creature is effectively cared for.

Oh, and if being a mermaid has at all times been in your bucket record (no judgment right here!), they even provide a program the place you’ll be able to be taught to turn out to be one. Yes, tails and all.

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

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4. E-Bike Ride Withlacoochee State Trail (Inverness)

If you’re craving a calming trip by means of nature (with just a little electrical increase), then hop on an e-bike from Select E-Bikes and hit the Withlacoochee State Trail! This family-owned rental store is conveniently situated proper on the path, so all it’s important to do is decide your bike and begin pedaling. Or slightly, gliding—these electrical bikes make cruising the 47-mile paved path a complete breeze, and for the reason that path is usually flat, it’s beginner-friendly and tremendous fulfilling regardless of your health degree.

The Withlacoochee Trail is without doubt one of the longest paved rail-trails in Florida, stretching by means of small cities, scenic ranches, and peaceable pure areas throughout Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco counties. Whether you wish to trip for half-hour or 30 miles, it’s completely as much as you (I like that sort of freedom!).

Along the best way, 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.

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5. Take an Airboat Ride

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

Choose 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 few of the most gorgeous hidden spots—together with historic websites and historic Indian burial mounds—but in addition offer you a peek at what Old Florida actually appears like.

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6. Go Duckpin Bowling (Inverness)

The Train Station in Inverness for some old-school enjoyable with a twist—Duck Pin Bowling! If you’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 fantastically restored Eighties prepare station within the charming Depot District, this place has extra than simply bowling. Each desk has a special board recreation on it (I performed one known as Shut Box that I had by no means heard of earlier than!), and there’s a comfortable porch with Adirondack chairs to sit back on.

The meals? Think playful train-themed pizzas like The Conductor (hey, beef and pickles!) and the over-the-top Train Wreck Nachos.

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7. See the Animals at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park 

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

➞ Tip: To attain the wildlife stroll, you’ve bought choices: stroll, shuttle, or (my decide!) take the scenic boat trip. It’s a small further charge, however completely price it for the 20-minute float down Pepper Creek. Along the best way, we noticed turtles and geese whereas studying a bit concerning the park’s historical past.

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8. Walk the Boardwalk at Three Sisters Springs

If you’re within the temper for a peaceable nature stroll (with a great likelihood of recognizing a manatee or two!), the boardwalk at Three Sisters Springs is the right little escape. Tucked contained in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, this 0.75-mile boardwalk loops by means 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 appeal—winter brings the manatees, and summer season brings lush greenery and birds galore!

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9. Visit the Crystal River State Archaeological Site

If you’re like me and love mixing just a little historical past into your outside adventures, the Crystal River State Archaeological Site is a must-visit. This peaceable 61-acre National Historic Landmark is one in all Florida’s longest constantly occupied Native American ceremonial websites—energetic for over 1,600 years earlier than Europeans even confirmed up. The web site options six spectacular mounds (together with Temple Mound A, the very best level in Crystal River!), burial mounds, and interesting carved limestone slabs known as “stela.” When I visited, I bought to witness a brilliant cool demo of how they used hearth to make dugout canoes.

The park provides scenic trails winding by means of marshlands, good for recognizing birds (it’s a part of the Great Florida Birding Trail). 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 taking place globally on the similar time.

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10. Explore Downtown Inverness

Just a fast 30-minute drive from Crystal River, you’ll discover Inverness—a cute small city recognized for its historic courthouse sq.. If you’re wandering by means of Historic Downtown Inverness, there are a couple of stops to ensure to make.

First pop into the Old Courthouse Heritage Museum that’s housed within the gorgeous 1912 Citrus County Courthouse. This constructing is an architectural cocktail of types (neoclassical, Italian Renaissance, mission, prairie faculty—you identify it!) and even hosts concert events in its fantastically 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 realm’s deep roots.

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

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

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11. Kayak to Three Sisters Springs

If paddling by means of crystal-clear water surrounded by Florida wildlife appears like your sort of magic, then kayaking to Three Sisters Springs with Kacey’s Custom Adventures completely must be in your record! You can lease a daily kayak or go for one in all their clear-bottom kayaks—I went with the clear one, and actually, it felt like I used to be floating on glass. As you glide by means of Kings Bay towards the springs, hold your eyes peeled for dolphins, turtles, colourful birds, and, in the event you’re fortunate, these mild manatees Crystal River is known for.

For the complete expertise, I extremely suggest 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 bundle (as a result of, sure, you’ll undoubtedly need these recollections captured!). 

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12. Spend the Afternoon on the Historic Floral City

If you’re wanting a style of Old Florida appeal, Floral City is the right little escape—nearly 24 miles southeast of Crystal River. This little city is sprinkled with historic houses, wildflowers all over the place you look, and an enchanting previous tied to phosphate mining.

Start your go to on the Floral City Heritage Museum, which is housed in an outdated hearth station and filled with cool artifacts, pictures, and tales that deliver the city’s historical past to life. Don’t miss their Heritage Country Store—it’s stuffed with distinctive finds like vintage tin indicators and picket dolls that make good souvenirs. Just throughout the road is the Duval House, 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 brief drive away.

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13. See Monkey Island in Homosassa

Here’s a unusual little gem you most likely didn’t learn about—Monkey Island! This tiny man-made island floats within the Homosassa River and is residence to a energetic household of spider monkeys. Built to maintain these mischievous little guys from inflicting bother 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.

While you’ll be able to’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 will see the island proper behind the bar.

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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 seashore that’s good for constructing sandcastles, picnicking with pals, or launching your kayak or canoe for a delicate paddle.

But Hunter Springs isn’t only for water lovers! If you’d slightly 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 realm on two wheels.

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15. Shop the Local artwork on the Heritage Village district

Get prepared to buy until you drop at The Shoppes of Heritage Village! With over a dozen domestically owned outlets, this cozy little district is filled with artsy finds you gained’t see anyplace else. Whether you’re looking for handblown glass at Coastal Art Gallery or enjoyable presents at The General Store, there’s one thing right here to spark your curiosity and fill your procuring baggage.

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

What to do in Crystal River, Florida video:

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