Crystal River Foodie Tour

Come along for a guided stroll through downtown Crystal River, where the stories are rich, the food is local, and the charm runs deep. Once a working fishing village and cedar mill town, this little Gulf Coast spot has grown into one of Florida’s most overlooked treasures — just ask Southern Living, which named it among “The 10 Most Underrated Destinations in the South.” It’s also the only place in the U.S. where you can legally swim with manatees.

Tour/Tasting Itinerary: (subject to change slightly)

Your experience begins on North Citrus Avenue, right in the heart of Heritage Village. Here, history lines the streets. This is where early pioneers built their homes that are now little cafes, tea houses and art galleries.

You’ll start with a four-course tasting at a cozy café. Expect fresh, seasonal dishes paired with thoughtfully crafted lattes or premium teas.

From there, head over to a beloved barbecue spot run by a local family with deep roots in the community. The slow-smoked meats speak for themselves — hearty, flavorful, and served up with a regional craft beer or a fountain drink.

Sip, Stroll & Shop

With two tastings behind you, take a laid-back walk-through town. This stretch features locally owned shops and galleries like the Lemon Tree, Coastal Art Gallery, and Franklin Anderson Gallery. You’ll enjoy a complimentary pour of wine or limoncello while browsing — a nice way to slow things down and toast the creative spirit of this town.

Manatees and Bayside Shops

Stop by Explorida Adventure Center and gift shop, a local resource for manatee education and conservation — and discover why this place proudly calls itself the Manatee Capital of the World. There will also be time to explore neighboring giftshops such as Amy’s on the Avenue and Fishhook Outfitters.

Tastings on Bayside

Then it’s off to a tucked-away seafood spot with coastal flavors. Your third tasting features locally inspired bites with wine or beachy themed cocktails.

Finish the day on a high note with a tasting of homemade ice creams and warm, fresh doughnuts. It’s a simple treat, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

**The tour covers about one mile. It concludes a few blocks from the starting point. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

Itinerary:

11:45 am- Depart Lake Sumter Landing (1045 Old Mill Run)

12:05 pm- Depart Brownwood - located behind the Brownwood Hotel and The Center for Advanced Healthcare (click here for map)

1:15 pm- Arrive in Crystal River

1:30 pm- Tour begins

Tour will be approximately 3 hours

6:45 pm- Approximate arrival time back in The Villages

Price includes transportation, full tasting tour, bus driver tip and a bottle of water. Host gratuity is not included.

Day Trip Purchase is non-refundable but is transferrable to another person.