Overview
Cedar Key Museum State Park is a park you might want to visit if only for the opportunity to visit the small island of Cedar Key, a population just shy of 800. The park consists of a small museum, hiking trail, and an old house that showcases the history of Cedar Key at its height in the 19th century when it was home to a thriving lumber industry.
This park is better for older children who have an interest in history and museums. There are no playgrounds here. The nature walk is fun for all ages, but the entire visit to the park shouldn’t take more than an hour. Still, this little State Park is a worthy stop on a weekend or day trip to Cedar Key.
Location
The Cedar Key Museum State Park is pretty far off the beaten path on the small island of Cedar Key. Cedar Key is a collection of small islands off the gulf coast to the west of Ocala.
The island has no chain stores or fast food, and the drive to the island bridge is miles and miles of cow pastures and scrub. It is an hour drive from Gainesville and about 2.5 hours south of Tallahassee.
Although it is remote, and perhaps due to its remoteness, Cedar Key a special place worth visiting due to its friendly small-town feel and slow-paced fishing town atmosphere. The downtown area can get fairly busy at night, with both locals and tourists riding golf carts to their favorite bars and people going out to eat at the numerous gulf side restaurants. Golf carts are the norm here, and traffic is practically non-existent. We felt very safe walking around.
What to Do
Whitman House
St. Clair Whitman was once featured in National Geographic for his seashell collection, which is now housed in the Museum. His house was donated to the state by his family and is open to walk through and see how life was like in the 1920s.
Cedar Key Museum
The museum displays could almost be artifacts themselves. The diorama displays of life in Cedar Keys from the 50s and 60s by the University of Florida are detailed and intricate and a throwback to museum displays of the past. There is also a large seashell and Native American artifact collection.
Both the dioramas and shells will be fun for kids to look at, but don’t expect them to hold their attention for very long.
Hiking Trail
A short nature path leads to a boat launch for kayaks or canoes if you’re a paddler. Otherwise, the trail has nice scrubby and sandy views. Keep an eye out for gopher tortoises and green tree frogs.
When to Go
The park is open 10 am to 5 pm Thursday through Monday, year-round except for Christmas. Admission to the museum is only $2 and children five and younger are free. Parking is free, and no admission is required to walk around the park.
This lovely little park is worth a visit if you’re in the area, although don’t expect it to entertain young’uns for more than an hour.
What Else to do in the Area?
Cedar Key is a great island for weekend or day trips. If you’re spending the night I highly recommend renting a golf cart. They are reasonably priced and everyone uses them.
Near the State Park is an old cemetery with a walking trail and a boardwalk with a small recreation area.
Lil Shark Park is downtown by the marina and has a beach, kayak rentals, a big playground, picnic tables, a bathhouse and grills for picnics. It’s a really cute city park and was busy on the Sunday we went. Lots of people swimming, fishing, and playing on the playground.
Other Resources
Website: Cedar Key Museum State Park
Address: 12231 SW 166th Ct
Cedar Key, FL 32625
(352) 543-5350