Crystal River Culinary & Culture Experience | Thursday October 23, 2025
Crystal River Culinary & Culture Experience | Thursday October 23, 2025
Discover Crystal River’s Top Foodie Activity! Join us for a guided walking food tour in Crystal River, Florida, and indulge in delicious tastings and pairings at local restaurants. Explore this charming coastal town, famous for its manatees and vibrant local art scene. Enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience while learning about Crystal River’s unique culture and history. This tour is an unforgettable way to discover top restaurants, hidden gems, great galleries and shops.
Tour/Tasting Itinerary: (subject to change slightly)
Kickoff at the Historic Heritage House
Begin your day with a warm welcome at the charming Heritage House—a beautifully restored historic home with gourmet surprises.
Split Start: Wine & Tastings or Award-Winning Bites
Half of our group will head just across the street to enjoy a multi-course tasting at Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters, a World Food Championship winner and local favorite.
The other half will stay at the Heritage House for a delightful bonus wine tasting and light bites. (then rotate)
Reunite for a Stroll Down Citrus Avenue
Once everyone’s had their first bites, we’ll come together to explore scenic Citrus Avenue, lined with shops, local art, and rich stories of Crystal River’s past.
Outdoor Patio Experience at KC Wine Bar
Next, relax and sip at the inviting KC Wine Bar, where their spacious outdoor patio welcomes the whole group for a curated tasting experience.
Kings Bay Riverwalk & Manatee Encounter
Enjoy a breezy walk along the Kings Bay Riverwalk followed by a short, fascinating visit to Explorida—home to passionate manatee educators and engaging nature exhibits.
Seafood Tasting with Local Flavor
Then it's off to our third restaurant stop, where fresh seafood and authentic Crystal River vibes await.
Finale: Sweet Endings
We’ll cap off the experience with a decadent dessert stop—featuring a curated tasting of gourmet homemade ice cream and made-to-order donuts.
**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)
12:00 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
5:45 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.