Cedar Key: a small Gulf island town and its history museum
An island town on Florida's Nature Coast, with a state park museum, salt marshes and a historic waterfront.
As of October 2026, check hours, fees and closures before you go.
Why go
An island town on Florida's Nature Coast, with a state park museum, salt marshes and a historic waterfront. Reviewers have rated it well: see the review line above.
Itinerary
Day trip
- Morning
Start at Cedar Key Museum State Park, with exhibits on local history and St. Clair Whitman's collections of seashells and Native American artifacts. Naturalist John Muir spent a few months in Cedar Key in 1867; a state historic marker is on the grounds.
- Midday
Take the short nature trail to the boat launch and look out over the salt marshes. Paddlers can put in a kayak or canoe there.
- Afternoon
Walk the town's waterfront and Dock Street.
Park, hours & fees
- Cedar Key Museum State Park (Florida State Parks)
12231 S.W. 166th Court, Cedar Key. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Sunday. $2 per person; children 5 and younger free. The Whitman House has been temporarily closed since Dec. 20, 2024.
Hours, fees and address as listed on the official page when we checked on October 28, 2026.
Food
We have not listed restaurants for this guide. The town has a waterfront dining area; check current hours locally.
Local spots
We are still verifying local businesses for this guide and will add them once their ratings are confirmed.
Practical tips
- The museum is open Friday through Sunday only, according to the park.
- Cedar Key is at the end of State Road 24; plan fuel accordingly.
- Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30.
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Plan ahead, check the official page the day you go, and enjoy the trip.
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