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| Things to do while visiting:  Take a self guided tour of the village
All the historic homes are identified as well as other buildings. Many of them are still owned and occupied by members of the original family. Look for the annual Tour of Homes in the spring. See a glimpse of Florida as it should be
 Walk along the waterfront or sit on one of the public docks and look for the brown and white pelicans, herons and other water birds. See the fishing boats unloading their catch or preparing for a trip. Pick up fresh seafood in one of the markets on the water. Visit one of the gift shops and see native crafts and art. Take a cruise with one of the ecology tours. Be sure to bring your camera. Build a boat at the Florida Maritime Museum
Every day about a dozen volunteers work with master boat builders on various projects. For more information, call 941-708-6120 or email Ryan Murphy.   Visit the Florida Maritime Museum and restored Cortez Schoolhouse
The Cortez Schoolhouse was constructed in 1912. The building was the second schoolhouse for the community of Cortez, which was established in the 1880s as a fishing village. It originally housed two classrooms and in 1933, an auditorium with a stage was added forming a T-shaped floor plan.
Residents of the Cortez community are passionate about preserving the past and ensuring that current and future residents and visitors to Manatee County understand the significance of the village and this schoolhouse.
Now almost completely restored the building serves as a museum providing local history and environmental education programs. Visit the N.E. Taylor Boatworks Museum
 Built in 1914, Taylor Boatworks was responsible for many of the wooden boats that fished the waters around Cortez. Now the home of Alcee Taylor, son of founder N.E. Taylor, it is a museum of thousands of interesting maritime artifacts. Visitors are welcome most any day, but should call ahead as they don't follow a rigid schedule.
Taylor Boatworks is located at 12304-46th Avenue in Cortez, 941-794-2582
Have a great meal at Star Fish
 Star Fish Company strives to serve simple Florida seafood prepared in the simplest of ways. Most items are either fried, grilled, blackened or sauteed. Sides are kept simple, too. There's cole slaw, cheese grits and french fries. Be sure to try the grouper sandwich or fried mullet. Sit on the deck and watch the fishing boats come in.
Located on the water at the end of 123rd street. Where to stay:
There are several motels within a short drive. A  better choice would be one of the beautiful Cortez homes that are available for vacation rental. Send us an email if you're interested and we'll send details or check this link for the Capt. Billy Fulford House or this one for Taylor Homes of Cortez. Listen to live music @ Cortez Kitchen
Cortez Kitchen
4528 - 119th St. West
Named for the body of water that surrounds it. A favorite outdoor gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. | |
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