Recently, USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice put out a list of the best small-town cultural scenes across the United States. Luckily for Florida residents, we have one particular town that made the list. As an old fishing village with a population of fewer than 1,000 residents, come visit Cedar Key, Florida and see why it has become an ultimate tourist destination filled with things to do.
Cedar Key, Florida has a history dating way, way back, with some arrowheads discovered in the area dating back 12,000 years.
Flickr Dorothy Finley
However, the modern settlement of Cedar Key began in 1839 when Fort No. 4 on Depot Key was built.
Flickr Darryl Kenyon
Over the years, Cedar Key become a major Florida port, with lumber, salt, cotton, and other goods shipped from the village around the globe.
Flickr Florida Sea Grant
But in the early 1900s, Cedar Key became a major sponging and oyster harvesting spot, which ultimately led to growth in the area which resulted in major tourism.
Flickr Steven Martin
Why Cedar Key was listed as a cultural phenom is not surprising - this is one of the last remaining towns in Florida that retain much of the culture and charm from decades ago.
Flickr Darryl Kenyon
Cedar Key remains a perfect example of what’s been dubbed as “Old Florida.” There are restaurants and shops, bed and breakfasts, museums, galleries, and hotels galore.
Flickr Darryl Kenyon
Every year there are festivals held here, too - from the Annual Fine Arts Festival in March to the Cedar Key Seafood Festival in October.
Facebook Cedar Key Welcome Center
Visitors can explore the older waterfront area that’s been dubbed “The Dock” which is where much of the culture and life of the village thrives.
Flickr Foto Floridian
But even just driving through the area, you’ll see many renovated homes more than 100-years-old, plus some of the oldest homes that still withstand the test of time.
Facebook Cedar Key Welcome Center
The entire village has been granted national historic status, which certainly adds to the appeal of a visit.
Facebook Cedar Key Welcome Center
Come see for yourself why Cedar Key made the list for the best small town cultural scenes in the country in just one weekend visit.
Flickr James Hawley
Click here to find out where Cedar Key is in Florida.
Google Maps
Have you ever visited Cedar Key in Florida before? Do you think this small fishing village is a cultural phenom? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or if you’re interested in learning more about this fishing village, including current attractions and things to do, then check out the Cedar Key Chamber of Commerce website.
Flickr Dorothy Finley
Flickr Darryl Kenyon
Flickr Florida Sea Grant
Flickr Steven Martin
Facebook Cedar Key Welcome Center
Flickr Foto Floridian
Flickr James Hawley
Google Maps
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Address: Cedar Key, FL 32625, USA
