Slightly touristy, funky, and laid-back, Crystal River, located about an hour and a half north of Tampa, is a coastal city in western Florida. Loaded with all the elements that could give you an authentic Florida adventure, Crystal River promises plenty of old Florida fun, without making a dent in your pocket. Don’t skip a Crystal River vacation if you are fascinated with charming historic districts, friendly manatees, crystal clear springs, epic fishing adventures, and many more hidden gems.
For an authentic, bona fide experience, you may like to visit these awe-inspiring places in Crystal River. Check them out –
Three Sisters Springs: Nestled on the Crystal River in Citrus County, Florida, Three Sisters Springs are in a natural inlet on the east side of Kings Bay. The unspoiled oasis is a perfect place to spot manatees. Apart from spotting the gentle giants (from November to March), you may like to try your hands at certain water activities including boating, swimming, and paddle-boarding.
Crystal River Archaeological State Park: Encompassing an area of 61 acres, Crystal River Archaeological State Park on the Crystal River lets you explore a complex of Native American mounds and get a sneak peek into Florida’s past. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark flaunting burial mounds, a plaza area, a substantial midden, and temple/ platform mounds. The state park is also a birdwatchers’ haven.
Monkey Island: Monkey Island, located across from the Homosassa Riverside Resort, on the Homosassa River witnesses 5 spider monkeys reside and play. Come catch some sights of some of the cutest residents of Homosassa on Monkey Island. They would swing from ropes, climb on platforms, and clamber around the base of a small replica lighthouse.
Ferris Groves: Ever wondered how it feels like roaming through a classic Florida roadside fruit stand? Ferris Groves will take you back in time. For more than 80 years, it has been a mainstay of Florida citrus and the fresh fruits are worth a detour. Visit Ferris Groves between November and mid-April to buy ruby red grapefruit, fall glow tangerines, citrus galore, and the legendary Ferris Berry. Over the years, it has expanded and includes sauces, butter, salsa, gourmet hams, candies, and jelly.
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park: Visit Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park for an up-close experience with Florida’s vibrant wildlife. Here, you will discover the wild-side of the Sunshine State of Florida with rare and endangered Florida panther, black bears, alligators, red wolves, bobcats, and manatees and whopping cranes.
In the early 1900s, Homosassa Springs used to be a popular train stop for passengers who could take a dip in the spring, picnic in the lush greenery, and enjoy the beautiful surrounding. Bruce Hoover of Chicago, in 1924, called Homosassa Springs “the most beautiful river and springs in the world”.
Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park: Welcome to Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park! Once part of a thriving sugar plantation owned by David Levy Yulee, the park showcases a cane press, iron gears, and a 40-ft. limestone masonry chimney. The park is located about three miles west of the city of Homosassa Springs.
Shop Historic Downtown: Lined with unique shops and restaurants, Citrus Avenue in Crystal River is worth a day trip. Staying at Crystal River vacation rentals or Tampa vacation rentals will help you reach Crystal River’s Historic Downtown.
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