A Weekend Reunion in Crystal River, Florida: Good Friends, Great Food, and Natural Wonders

We recently had the incredible opportunity to spend a weekend in Crystal River, Florida – a place that not only offers stunning natural beauty but also the chance to reconnect with old friends we hadn't seen in over two decades. From delicious Mexican cuisine and exploring local vendors to witnessing manatees in their natural habitat and a visit to a unique state park, our trip was nothing short of amazing. Read on to discover our memorable experiences in Crystal River.

Reuniting with Friends Over Delicious Mexican Fare

Our journey began with a long-awaited reunion with old family friends, Joe and Bonnie, whom we hadn't seen for more than 20 years. We met for our reunion at a delightful Mexican restaurant, Los Magueyes Crystal River, where the fajitas stole the show. We all chose different fajita combinations of chicken, shrimp, and beef, accompanied by black beans, rice, and corn tortillas, it was a true fiesta on our plates. Shelly, always the trendsetter, opted for a skinny margarita that didn't disappoint. Yet, the real reward of the evening was reconnecting with our friends, reminiscing, and laughing.

Exploring Crystal River's First Fridays

Following dinner, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local culture by attending Crystal River's First Fridays event. Live music, vibrant local vendors, and the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee (which we indulged in) filled the air. We couldn't resist picking up unique items – a banana spice vinegar that promises exciting culinary experiments and a Caramel Swirl-scented candle from a couple of the vendors.

As we strolled through the festivities, the band Jekyll and Hyde took the stage, belting out classic rock tunes that had us singing along.

Savoring Breakfast at the Breakfast Station

The following morning, we started our day at the highly-rated Breakfast Station. This charming eatery didn't disappoint, offering omelets, muffins, and exceptional coffee. No wonder it's considered one of Crystal River's top breakfast spots - yummy!

Manatee Magic with Bonnie

Saturday brought a highlight of our trip as we joined our friend, Bonnie, on a breathtaking tour of Three Sisters Spring. Witnessing hundreds of manatees in their natural habitat was awe-inspiring. We meandered through scenic trails and soaked in the beauty of this remarkable place, appreciating the importance of preserving these gentle giants and their surroundings. It was the perfect day for manatees and even made record-breaking news!

Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters

For lunch, we dropped by Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters. Shelly indulged in a sugar-free vanilla latte, while Marie and I opted for flavored iced teas. I couldn't resist indulging in a Nashville hot chicken wrap with blueberry chutney – a delightful blend of spicy heat and sweet blueberry goodness.

Encounters at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Our adventure continued at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, where we encountered the oldest hippopotamus in captivity, born in 1960 and relocated from the San Diego Zoo. The park was also home to bobcats, panthers, and even a bald eagle. Witnessing these creatures up close was an unforgettable experience. Homosassa State Park also serves as a refuge for injured manatees, further emphasizing the importance of conservation.

Sweet Citrus Acres RV Park – A Relaxing Retreat

Our weekend retreat wouldn't have been complete without a comfortable stay. Sweet Citrus Acres RV Park, a brand new and still expanding destination, provided us with spacious full hook-up sites, a 12,000-square-foot clubhouse, Pickleball courts, a well-kept bathhouse with laundry facilities, a fitness center, and a sparkling pool and spa. We couldn't have asked for a better base for our Crystal River adventure.

Crystal River, Florida, left us with cherished memories of reconnecting with dear friends, savoring delectable cuisine, exploring vibrant local events, and appreciating the wonders of nature. If you find yourself in this beautiful area, don't miss out on the unique experiences it has to offer. Crystal River truly is a gem worth exploring.

Until next time, keep spinning the wheel of adventure!

Happy RVing!

2KidsatHeart 🚐💨