Table of Contents
Map Of Florida Cedar Key
Introduction
Cedar Key is a charming island town located on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida. Its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture make it an ideal destination for travelers looking for a unique experience. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Cedar Key, including its top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Cedar Key Historical Society Museum
The Cedar Key Historical Society Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Cedar Key’s past, including its origins as a Native American settlement, its role as a major port during the 19th century, and its recovery from devastating hurricanes in the 20th century.
Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge
The Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge is a paradise for nature lovers. The refuge covers over 8000 acres of pristine wetlands, salt marshes, and islands. Visitors can hike, birdwatch, kayak, and fish in the refuge’s beautiful and diverse ecosystem.
Cedar Key Arts Center
The Cedar Key Arts Center is a hub for the town’s vibrant arts and culture scene. The center features rotating exhibits and workshops by local and regional artists, as well as a gift shop that sells handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Hidden Gems
Low-Key Hideaway
Low-Key Hideaway is a cozy and charming bed and breakfast located on the waterfront. The hideaway features eight rooms, each with its unique decor and charm. The hideaway also features a tiki bar, where guests can enjoy drinks and live music while taking in the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve
The Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve is a hidden gem for hikers who want to explore Cedar Key’s natural beauty. The reserve covers over 500 acres of sand hills, pine forests, and coastal wetlands. Visitors can hike the reserve’s trails and observe native wildlife, including gopher tortoises, bald eagles, and Florida scrub jays.
Cedar Key Fishing Pier
The Cedar Key Fishing Pier is a hidden gem for anglers who want to catch some of the Gulf of Mexico’s most delicious seafood. The pier is a popular spot for fishing and crabbing, and visitors can rent gear and buy bait at nearby shops.
Food Scene
Tony’s Seafood Restaurant
Tony’s Seafood Restaurant is a Cedar Key institution that has been serving up fresh seafood for over 30 years. The restaurant’s specialties include clam chowder, oysters, and shrimp, all caught locally and cooked to perfection.
Steamers Clam Bar & Grill
Steamers Clam Bar & Grill is a casual and lively spot that serves up delicious seafood and drinks. The restaurant’s specialties include crab cakes, fish tacos, and steamed clams, all served in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
83 West
83 West is a trendy and upscale restaurant that serves up delicious coastal cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant’s menu features fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and creative cocktails.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Stay in a Vacation Rental
Staying in a vacation rental is a budget-friendly option for travelers who want to save money on lodging. Cedar Key has a wide range of vacation rentals, including apartments, cottages, and houses, that are available at affordable prices.
Visit State Parks
Visiting state parks is a budget-friendly way to enjoy Cedar Key’s natural beauty. The state parks in Cedar Key, including Cedar Key State Park and the Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve, offer free admission and affordable activities, such as hiking and birdwatching.
Eat Local
Eating local is a budget-friendly way to enjoy Cedar Key’s delicious seafood. The town’s seafood markets and fish houses offer fresh and affordable seafood that can be cooked at home or enjoyed at a picnic on the beach.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking
Kayaking is a popular outdoor adventure in Cedar Key. The town’s calm and shallow waters are perfect for kayaking, and visitors can rent kayaks and explore the town’s scenic waterways, including the Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge.
Boating
Boating is another popular outdoor adventure in Cedar Key. Visitors can rent boats and explore the town’s beautiful coastline, including nearby islands and hidden coves. Boaters can also fish, swim, and picnic in the town’s pristine waters.
Biking
Biking is a fun and active way to explore Cedar Key’s natural beauty. The town has several biking routes, including the Cedar Key Rail Trail, which offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the town’s historic sites.
Family-Friendly Activities
Cedar Key Public Beach
Cedar Key Public Beach is a family-friendly spot that offers swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has calm and shallow waters that are perfect for children, and visitors can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable day in the sun.
Cedar Key Aquaculture Farms
Cedar Key Aquaculture Farms is a family-friendly attraction that offers tours and tastings of the town’s famous clams and oysters. Visitors can learn about the town’s aquaculture industry and sample fresh and delicious seafood.
Cedar Key Pirate Invasion
The Cedar Key Pirate Invasion is an annual family-friendly event that celebrates the town’s pirate history. The event features live music, street performers, and a pirate parade, as well as pirate-themed activities for children.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
Cedar Key Cemetery
The Cedar Key Cemetery is an off-the-beaten-path experience that offers a unique perspective on the town’s history. The cemetery features graves of early settlers and prominent citizens, as well as stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Cedar Key State Museum
The Cedar Key State Museum is an off-the-beaten-path experience that offers a glimpse into the town’s past. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Cedar Key’s role as a major port and railroad hub in the 19th century.
Cedar Key Cemetery Point
Cedar Key Cemetery Point is an off-the-beaten-path experience that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and Cedar Key’s historic landmarks. Visitors can hike to the point and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Natural Wonders
Cedar Key Clam Beds
The Cedar Key Clam Beds are a natural wonder that offer a glimpse into the town’s aquaculture industry. The clam beds are vast underwater fields where clams are grown and harvested, and visitors can observe the workers and learn about the town’s famous clams.
Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve
The Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve is a natural wonder that offers a unique ecosystem of sand hills, pine forests, and coastal wetlands. Visitors can observe native wildlife, including gopher tortoises, bald eagles, and Florida scrub jays, and hike the reserve’s beautiful trails.
Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge
The Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge is a natural wonder that offers over 8000 acres of pristine wetlands, salt marshes, and islands. Visitors can hike, birdwatch, kayak, and fish in the refuge’s diverse ecosystem.
Vibrant Nightlife
Steamers Clam Bar & Grill
Steamers Clam Bar & Grill is a popular spot for nightlife in Cedar Key. The restaurant’s tiki bar offers live music and delicious drinks, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico while dancing the night away.
Big Deck Raw Bar
Big Deck Raw Bar is another popular spot for nightlife in Cedar Key. The bar offers outdoor seating with stunning views of the waterfront, as well as live music and a variety of drinks and snacks.
Dock Street Oyster Bar
Dock Street Oyster Bar is a lively and popular spot that offers delicious seafood and drinks. The bar features live music and a friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring Cedar Key.
Local Markets
Cedar Key Farmers Market
The Cedar Key Farmers Market is a local market that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market is held on Saturdays and features local vendors who sell their products in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.