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Crystal River Culinary & Culture Experience | Thursday October 22, 2026
Crystal River Culinary & Culture Experience | Thursday October 22, 2026
Experience the flavors, history, and waterfront beauty of Crystal River on a relaxed, guided culinary tour. This immersive afternoon blends local cuisine, charming boutiques, and scenic coastal views into one unforgettable experience.
Begin your journey in the heart of Crystal River with time to explore Heritage Village, a collection of art galleries, locally owned shops, and unique boutiques. Enjoy a leisurely stroll as you browse, sip, and take in the charm of this vibrant district.
Your culinary experience features a curated series of tastings that highlight the region’s rich food culture. Savor chef-inspired creations paired with herbal teas, sparkling beverages, and fresh roasted coffee. Indulge in slow-smoked, hand-pulled barbecue, a true staple of Crystal River’s culinary roots, served with your choice of local craft beer or a light regional favorite.
Between tastings, enjoy relaxed “sip and shop” time or unwind under the shade of grand oak trees with a refreshing sangria on the porch of a historic home.
The tour continues to the scenic waterfront of Kings Bay, known as the home of the manatee. Here, you will dine alfresco at a family-owned seafood destination with deep ties to the community’s fishing heritage. Once a working crab plant, this location now serves some of the freshest seafood in Crystal River, sourced directly from their own boats. Enjoy a signature seafood dish while overlooking the bay, paired with house wine or local beer.
Your experience concludes on a sweet note with a visit to a beloved local shop featuring fresh-made donuts and homemade ice cream, offering classic flavors that bring comfort and nostalgia to every bite.
All food is included and comes to more than a full dinner, so please bring your appetite!
Tour/Tasting Itinerary: (subject to change slightly)
**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.


