I have been fortunate to have visited Crystal River and that entire area of Florida several times in my life. Living in Crystal Lake offers residents a suburban rural mix feel and most residents rent their homes. The staff is very friendly, courteous and helpful. Those waters certainly are crystal clear! Youll certainly love it! At the Wildlife Center, you can view animals in the Fish Bowl Underwater Observatory, walk the Pepper Creek Birding Trail, take a 15-minute boat tour, and attend one of the manatee programs at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. More info here. Hundreds of these gentle giants stuff themselves into springs and rivers around Crystal River each winter (and a handful are resident Crystal River manatees who live in the area year-round), making manatee sightseeing tours really popular. Head over to. On the north side of the bay is several delicious restaurants including Crackers Bar and Grill, Charlies Fish House, and an ice cream shop with old school charm Dockside Ice Cream Parlor. Looking to spice up the trip with the best things to do in Crystal River, FL? 2. It's so beautiful! Welcome to the Bicentennial Skate Park! Here's information to help you find a variety of accessible attractions, beaches, parks, events and activities for your vacation in the Sunshine State. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! Enter your cart into the judging to win a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place Join us at Town Square every first Friday of the month for live music, shopping vendors, lawn games, food trucks, and more. 1. Delve into the area's history and check out the best tourist attractions in this charming city. The gyms prices can vary depending on if you need to rent equipment, but day passes are 14 USD for adult day passes, 10 USD for a junior day pass and 7 USD for a childrens day pass. Upcoming Events in Crystal River & Citrus County, FL Inverness is always festive with multiple events, often free, scheduled throughout the year. A nature center and great trails to hike. THE BEST Things to Do in Crystal Bay - Tripadvisor Enjoyed your blog! As thrilling as it promises to be, this lovely activity is simply perfect for nature lovers and adventurous people whod enjoy some paddling now and then. The shows range from comedy shows and poetry to musicals and concerts. Reserve online and present your receipt at the gate. The tap room also holds special events throughout the week, such as live music and yoga, so youll want to check the calendar before you head over. What are the best things to do with kids? It may seem like the MegaTrampoline fun zone is for kids, but that doesnt mean you cant enjoy it too! Instead of a boardwalk, its a small beach-like entrance into the water with a open park for children and families to enjoy while theyre not swimming. Watch from the sand, or from out on the fishing pier. 3. The following can be experienced for nix. The town is well-known for its nature and recreation as well as entertainment available near the lake, here are the best things to do in Crystal Lake! Best free things to do near Crystal Lake, FL 33801 - Yelp Market at the Depot, 1st & 3rd Saturday of every month. The staff are friendly and patient. Not much is known about the customs surrounding the pilgrimage but what is left by the native people tells a story of their lives and journeys in the area. Duration: 12h Start time: Check availability Mobile ticket English Features animals Highlights Discover Florida's native wildlife on this adventure tour from Orlando Avoid hidden costs with meals and hotel transfers included Tick off several must-do experiences in just one day Benefit from the expert knowledge of your professional guide One of my favorite non-manatee things I did in the Crystal River area was kayaking on the beautiful Chassahowitzka River. In the past, everyone would travel long distances only to conduct trades around here. If you wish to have boat access to the river, Petes Pier and Marina is an excellent spot in kings bay to set off towards the river. Manatees will migrate in herds to Three Sisters Springs to escape the frigid winter water of the Gulf of Mexico during winter months. Case - the best coach ever! My name is Amanda, and I'm a former journalist-turned-blogger from Ohio who's been writing about travel since 2010. What a lovely town, I drove around the lake and saw many swans.more, I never thought I would enjoy this - and it was so fun! While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside. There are MULTIPLE vegan options! 8 Best Things To Do In Crystal Lake, Illinois, Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, A Weekend In And Around Wheeling, Illinois: 10 Best Things To Do, 8 Best Things To Do In Palatine, Illinois, 10 Best Hotels With Free Parking Near O'Hare International Airport, Chicago - Updated 2023, 7 Best Wellness Retreats In Montana, USA - Updated 2023, 15 Best Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Montana, USA - Updated 2023, 22 Fun Things To Do In Schaumburg, Illinois, 10 Best Things To Do In Wauconda, Illinois, 11 Best Things To Do In Woodstock, Illinois, 8 Best Things To Do In Gardnerville, Nevada, Where To Stay In Falmouth, England: 8 Best Hotels & Holiday Homes - Updated 2023, Where To Stay In Stockport, England: 8 Best Hotels & Holiday Homes - Updated 2023. Swim with gentle manatees. Like many rivers in this part of Florida, The Chazz is spring-fed, and is bursting will all sorts of life. Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Crystal Lake? Its history precedes the Plymouth Rock Pilgrims by 10,000 years or more and runs a direct timeline to the Space Age. Before doing so, however, we recommend that you do your research on the best tourist attractions, as well give you some juicy details on these spots. As an Airbnb Associate and Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Illinois has so much more to offer than Chicago, and visiting Crystal Lake will give you a taste of that. This scenic destination was once nothing more than a hidden gem enjoyed only by those who knew how to get to it, but now that experience can be enjoyed by the whole family. 2023 A Dangerous Business. Ellianos Coffee is open Monday and Tuesday from 6 am to 9 pm, Wednesday through Saturday from 6 am to 10 pm, and Sunday from 8 am to 9 pm. Many people skip this part of Florida, but here are five reasons why you shouldn't skip Crystal River and the surrounding area. The beer flights are $10 for 4 decent-sized beers and all 4 I had were really good. Discover the local scene with events and activities in Florida's Citrus County! If you wish to do some fishing or trapping yet dont have a boat, look no further than the pier just off the main swimming and picnic areas. What can you do in Crystal Lake for free? Explore the Charming cities of Inverness and Floral City. If you prefer to be a passenger and still see everything Crystal river has to offer from a Birds Eye View, the airport also offers air tours for you and a couple of your close friends. See all Sbu Ramen reviews, "Phenomenal dining located in downtown Lakeland - upset that we didn't visit sooner while being so close." Wemore, The education center and kids activities are great/more, our to go place for our scuba activities.!!! Everything sold in store is made on site by Fran and his team and includes a variety of wine from bubbling white to a dry dark red and if youre more of a craft beer enthusiast Fran also makes his own brews for locals to try for a one of a kind Florida brewery experience. 10 Best Things To Do In Crystal River, Florida | Trip101 Address: 431 N. Walkup Avenue, Crystal Lake, IL. Adding a business to Yelp is always free. Heading to Crystal Lake on a budget? This is a review for things to do near Crystal Lake, FL: "I never thought I would enjoy this - and it was so fun! Hippos are certainly not indigenous to Florida, but when the state took over the park the locals petitioned for Lu the hippo to be able to stay since he'd been a staple at the park for so long. Admission varies depending on the day but is 11 USD for the first hour and 6 USD for each additional hour on weekdays. I've got a thing about kitschy, Old Florida towns. For the same price, you get either skates or blades so you can change your mind at any time. Address: 150 N Main St, 60014 Crystal Lake, IL. #BvSSpring. Ice is melting and boats are ready to go. The airport in Crystal River is relatively small compared to Tampa International for example but what it lacks in size it makes up for in location and a chance for a more comfortable flight lesson experience with no crowded lines or waiting rooms. Crystal Lake Motel - (815) 459-0476. Inverness is the perfect place to spend a fun family-friendly evening and is easily accessible from Crystal River and Homosassa on the Gulf to Lakes Highway. Because its on Crystal Lake, theres also a boardwalk and fishing pier. The river is also how manatees get from the Ground of Mexico to Three Sisters Springs in the winter. Great price and great venue.more, Cool ecotour with some gator activity. Normally, there are many restrooms and showers around here, so you dont have to worry about such tiny details. It is often simply referred to as "Camp Crystal" or "CCL." Read More The trail passes right by the city's waterfront on Lake Henderson and Cooter Pond with their celebrated boardwalks only steps away from downtown. (And yes, the water really is that color! Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Crystal Lake, FL Health & Activities Weather Forecasts | AccuWeather While the outside storefront may not look like much, the journey that awaits you is more than worth it. Having an indescribable urge to let your creativity loose? Join the ADB Community! Be careful not to touch the Wildlife but photographs are always welcome. Your email address will not be published. . Here guests can enjoy family fun time with kids, adults, and seniors of any age. Be sure to take a dip in the cool spring water on your next journey to Crystal River. $32,212 Median Home Price $176,200 Median Age 30.8 Comfort Index (Climate) 2.2 / 9.2 summer / winter Subscribe to Download Report Subscription Benefits United States / Florida / Lakeland-Winter Haven Metro Area / Polk County / Crystal Lake / Zip Codes Best Places to Live in Crystal Lake, Florida Slightly off the main road, but worth finding. What to Do in Crystal Lake The boardwalk can also take you to the very mouth of theThree Sisters Springs. 11. Why not spend a lazy afternoon at West Beach during your trip to North Shore? You have to come see this beautiful community to appreciate it, call for an appointment today! The tours are led by Coast Guard Certified instructors through the waterways of old Florida after a short explanation and safety brief on wildlife and boating conditions. Indeed, the Fort Island Gulf Beach is actually one of the best spots where you could kill some time in the great company of your beloved family and friends. The pier has its own designated parking lot and boardwalk access that includes a secluded short forest section that leads to the picnic area at the beach. Each delivered all-star performances in earlier shows and the audience wanted them back. Address: N Baseball Point, Crystal River, FL 34429. The first thing youll notice about the location is the main hotel building is modeled after the very plantation homes that populated Crystal River in the late 1800s and early 1900s. See all MyIndiKitchen reviews, "Entrees were a baked cod with crab, chicken San pretonio, and lobster ravioli topped with shrimp." The complex is open to the public with a $5 fee upon entry and has parking and disabled access so anyone can enjoy the park wether theyre on 2 legs or in a wheelchair. Play in Citrus County Floral City Itinerary. Find out information on living conditions, demographics, transit options, schools, daycares, things to do, and homes for sale. You can do just that at Crystal Lake Brewing, where they have a brew for everyone, made right in Crystal Lake. Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities. Along with Tara from Citrus County tourism and Dennis who runs the campground/RV park where you can rent boats and kayaks, I paddled leisurely along the Chazz to its source a natural spring everyone just calls The Crack., The Chazz is another spot where you may encounter manatees. See all Mojo Federal Swine & Spirits reviews, "I especially enjoyed the bar tender, and they recommended I try the Moscow Mule made with vodka made out of vine!!" 5. At 46 miles and growing, its the longest paved recreation trail in Florida. The hotel part of the property boasts almost 200 rooms with unique designs and furniture layout that makes you feel like youre about to sail away to paradise even though youre already there. I have only been there during the day, but at night I bet this place goes buck mental!!! Cuban B's Burgers & Bakes Food Trucks, Burgers, Cuban "I'll start with this: There are MULTIPLE vegan options! True to its name, Crystal Lake, Illinois offers a beautiful lake to enjoy just 45 minutes outside of Chicago. Address: 16000 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429. Address: 824 S. Main St. Suite #106, 60014 Crystal Lake, Illinois. Spend time on things that you have been postponing for a while. On Fort Island Trail, before you hit the beach, youll come across Crystal Rivera largest and most well known hotel The Plantation Inn and Resort. A Dangerous Business is a participant in several affiliate programs. The staff are friendly and patient. Skate Buddies (the Good prices, convenient hours, great quality. There's great seafood, nearby beaches, and more than enough to do to keep you busy for a short visit including getting to know Crystal River's resident manatees. For those who enjoy fishing or golf, there are several golf courses and fresh water lakes in the area. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can relax and put your energy into planning the perfect vacation. Have fun! This is Kings bay and a source of pride for our small town. From a Local. Its 5145 residents share about 2.7 square miles of space in the metropolitan area referred to as Lakeland-Winter Haven. Exactly! The building is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday. The small city is a main attraction on Florida's Nature Coast, and is situated around Kings Bay and dozens of natural springs. The beautifully restored Valerie Theatre features music, live theater, classic films and other community events year round and the Historic Old Courthouse Museum provides a glimpse into the regions incredible cultural history from Seminole warriors to the filming of the Elvis Presley classic Follow That Dream in Inverness in 1962. See all The Yard On Mass reviews, "They never disappoint, my favorite are Cajun garlic extra crispy " See all Decisions Grill & Bar reviews, "We spent a while talking with the bartender Joe who had great recommendations for us, and then chatted with some locals for a few hours who were also sat at the bar." Cuban B's Burgers & Bakes"more, "Ryan was an excellent and knowledgeable tour guide. Discover Crystal River and explore Florida's Citrus County! There are party rooms available for parties. Experience Old Florida. It is a pleasure to shoot here. Unsubscribe in one click. Lowest Price Guarantee Powered by Marina Updated Oct 10, 2022 Save to Bookmarks Looking to spice up the trip with the best things to do in Crystal River, FL? Staff was very friendly and helpful. Please send me any info that will make our decision easier. You can do it at the old bait house. Andy - the most hospitable and welcoming member of the team. Sat 81F Quick Facts Spring-fed rivers and manatee haven. Whatever your speed may be, the Crystal River Preserve State Park will have everything you need for a memorable experience. People also searched for these near Crystal Lake: What are people saying about things to do near Crystal Lake, FL? Please RSVP by calling (352) 341-6428 or signing up online at https://cccourthouse.org//c Scroll on down and find out about the best things to do in Crystal River, Florida. Their hours are 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 3 p.m. to midnight on Friday, noon to midnight on Saturday and noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Top Things To Do In Crystal Lake - Groupon I'm planning my girls trip this year out to Chicago. She's also a (Do a quick search on the following sites). Plan your must-do list now so you're ready and raring to go once you arrive. Crystal Lake 2023 Top Things to Do - Crystal Lake Travel Guides - Top And while there were no manatees around when I was paddling there, we did see plenty of mullet (fish that like to leap out of the water and scare you) and lots and lots of birds (it's home to hundreds of species of birds, including bald eagles!). This unique place offers an extraordinary beauty, mixed with many inlets, stunning undisturbed islands, backwaters, and wild forests. Thanks, Peggy! The staff are friendly and pa"more, "I'll start with this: Just read on below for the top activities in the area. These are a few of the top family friendly experiences around. Once there, you'll be able to wander around and talk to the US Fish & Wildlife Service volunteers who watch over the springs. The springs here are similar to Three Sisters springs just a mile away by boat in that they both connect to Kings bay, but the difference lies in the land access of Hunter Springs. Historically the river was used for transport of goods such as cotton, sugarcane, and mined minerals from local quarries. Many families live in Crystal Lake and residents tend to have moderate political views. Doug was beyond amazing and so helpful with everything. Up to 23% Off on Zoo - Petting at All The Fun In 1. Address: 150 N Main St, 60014 Crystal Lake, IL. It wouldnt be a complete trip to Crystal Lake if you didnt actually spend some time on the lake. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside. Top things to do in Crystal Lake, IL : Discover the best activities this weekend and beyond in Crystal Lake with deals of up to 70% off. Whatever way you choose, be sure to go see the Crystal River at sunset when the orange light bounces off the deep blue-green waters. We highly rec." more 3. Crystal Lake, FL - Niche Address: 3266 N Sailboat Ave, Crystal River, FL 34428, Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing. Peoplefriendly. Make the most of it: P.S. Crystal Lake Village. Enjoy your view: From there, visitors are able to observe birds in flight. This beach on the Gulf of Mexico is perfect for an afternoon picnic or beachy sunset. 2023 Discover Crystal River Florida. So we put together a killer lineup to celebrate Free event where you can enjoy a spectacular firework display and live music while celebrating our nations independence! But all very good people. See all County Inn and Suites - (815) 477-3500. Community pooloutside and nice! Through the recreation area, you can access the lake by swimming, boating, fishing and scuba diving. Address: 401 Country Club Rd, Studio 215, 60014 Crystal Lake, IL. You can put-in at any of the public boat ramps or kayak launches in Kings Bay (or book a tour like this one) and then paddle into the spring. The famous Hammock Trail snakes its way right up to a sawgrass marsh. As Crystal River grew and developed in the late 1800s and early 1900s, the central kings bay served as the focal point of the city. Of course, we Playgrounds Game & Entertainment Centers. Joe Diamond is a mind reader in the Crystal Lake area that performs extremely entertaining demonstrations of mystifying mind reading. Located about an hour and a half north of Tampa, Crystal River is exactly the sort of funky, slightly touristy, laid-back Florida town that I love. What are the top attractions to visit in Crystal Lake? Well done Raue Center. Many of the shops in Heritage Village are unique and have an old world charm to them that you dont see very often anymore. I used to go here since I was a kid and till it was closed. What is it like living in Crystal Lake, FL? Crystal Lake City Hall - If you enjoy modern-day architecture and design, add this landmark to your to-do list. They have live music on the weekends and host great events as well! Meet this beauty: This actually serves as a shortcut to the Mullet Hole, a wonderful place for relaxing and fishing. As always, all opinions are my own. The facility is outstanding. There is air hockey and other games. It's a beautiful location well worth visiting. Quick & Easy Tools Today's market moves fast! Dont miss the views: from there, you can observe numerous spring events as well! The staff we quick to seat us and gav"more, "I never thought I would enjoy this - and it was so fun! Tickets for the shows can range, but general admission is 25 USD. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! Rock crusher pavilion.up close to bands. Address: 26 N Williams Street, 60014 Crystal Lake, IL. Themore, I absolutely love Hollis Gardens! Lessons & Workshops Stand Up Paddleboarding. very nice church but the priests should avoid talking politics during mass. Crystal River, Florida 34429 800.587.6667 | 352.794.5506; info@discovercrystalriverfl.com; Things to Do . Crystal Lake is in Polk County. Don't forget to tip your captain.more, There are gazebos and grill out spots, baseball fields and a few other activities, along with plentymore, I arrived in Lakeland early for my tour, so I was able to drive around the town and campus. Come celebrate as the City of Crystal River turns 100! Love nature: come around and dont miss enjoying the stillness and raw beauty of nature! We are looking to travel to key west from New Orleans. There are many classes to choose from depending on your level and preference.