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Silver Springs State Park: Things to Do, Glass Bottom Boats + Tips

April 3, 2023 //  by  Florida Trippers

If you have never been to Silver Springs State Park, you are in for a real treat! The springs and park here is a natural wonder that brings Florida beauty to a whole new level.

Formally known as Silver River State Park, this park is located on the Silver River (hence the past name) in Marion County. It is, in fact, one of Florida’s first tourist attractions.

Since its opening in the 1870s, humans have been captivated by the beauty and crystal clear waters of one of America’s largest springs. Experience a Silver Springs Glass Bottom boat tour, go kayaking, or explore the museum and nearby village! There’s plenty to do!

Where is Silver Springs State Park?

If you’re looking for an exact address, go ahead and put in 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488! When inputing this address your GPS will tae you to this stunning park.

Within the nature area– that features springs, museums, a nearby RV park and a resort– this must see location is in North Central Florida. It is just east of Ocala!

There are two entrances here: the main entrance and the camping entrance. Use the main entrance to go toward the springs, experience boat tours, get rentals, and explore gardens as well as food and retain. This entrance is located right off State Road 54!

To use the camping entrance, put the address of 1425 NE 58th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34470. This will take you to the camp areas, as well as the Pioneer Village and Silver River Museum/Education Center! It is just off County Road 35.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Silver Springs?

Ocala Florida Silver Springs is a great day trip, and a cheap one at that! For single-occupant vehicles, it is $5 to get in. It is an additional $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, and for those who hold an Annual Individual Entrance Past.

It costs $4 to launch a vessel– this money acts as a fee– and you can launch a personal canoe or kayak. To go on tours, your prices range. Glass Bottom tours are $12-25; canoes are $35-60, paddle boards are $30-55, and kayaks are $25-60.

Lastly it is $2 for entrance to the Silver River Museum and the Environmental Center. Make sure to check for hours before you go!

Are There Alligators at Silver Springs State Park?

One question people always ask about the springs in Florida centers around our lovely population of alligators. So, are there alligators at Silver Springs State Park Florida? Yes!

There is always the risk of running into wildlife when we are in their environment. It isn’t uncommon to see alligators, turtles, manatees, and many species of fish in the river here.

You may always experience sightings of armadillos, deer, turkeys, and foxes too! Just depends on where you are, and what time of year you visit!

History of Silver Springs State Park

It’s been a while! Tourists and locals have been drawn to the banks of Silver River for at least 10,000 years. That’s right! It dates back to the first Neolithic people in Florida.

In the 1820s, the springs became an attraction for adventurous travelers. They explored the narrow Ocklawaha River from the intersection of St. Johns River and Silver River. They enjoyed the thick cypresses and Spanish moss!

In the 1850s, the banks of nearby Ocala grew as Silver Springs became a commercial distribution center. You’d see steamships moving crops and supplies quite often!

In the 1870s, their glass bottom boat tours began which really brought the park to fame! Other attractions where then added on, like zoological displays and demonstrations. IT became like a theme park! And in the 1900s, historic shops, boat docks and more were added.

Today the park is restored and preserved from a cultural and environmental perspective. The theme park has closed. The 4,000 aces, however, still bring tourists as they did back in the 1800s!

Movies and Shows Filmed at Silver Springs

In the 1930s, Hollywood discovered Silver Springs and at least 20 movies have now been filmed here! This isn’t even including television episodes too! You may recognize other titles like:

• Rebel Without a Cause
• Distant Drums
• Creature from the Black Lagoon
• Cross Creek
• Down to the Sea

For more information check out the filming location of the IMBD page that is connected to Silver Springs State Park!

Map of Silver Springs State Park

If you are a visual person, seeing a map of the springs may help you! This puts locations into perspective, plus it gives you insight as to where parking is, where the river starts, where launches are and more. So here is the map!

Glass Bottom Boats at Silver Springs

The glass bottom boats at Silver Springs are world famous! These boats have wowed visors and brought tourists and locals alike since the 1870s. They offer breathtaking views of the underwater life that bring the springs to life.

When renting a glass bottom boat at Silver Springs, you should at least be aware that these were invited here! The springs allow tours aboard these historic boats. Their sheer size allows you to explore the river’s head spring– Mammoth Spring.

You can also explore many other beautiful feeder springs when booking one of the glass bottom boats in Ocala tours. Guests see countless species of fish, ancient Native American artifacts, and even underwater movie props when touring!

Choose your adventure wen you go. All tours run every 15-20 minutes, year round. You can also book one extended tour. However, make sure to purchase your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly! And always arrive 30 minutes before your departure time! Check out more information at the Silver Springs Official Website!

Please note that some for the glass bottom boats in Florida are also accessible! Just make sure to check respective dates and times before booking!

Canoeing and Kayaking at Silver Springs State Park

The Silver River flows for 5 miles, making it the perfect places to paddle. With a wide, wild and scenic path, explore the heartland of Florida either on canoe, kayak, or even a paddle board!

You can either bring your own or rent canoes, kayaks or the stand-up paddle boards. Enjoy the pristine and unspoiled river. Once you complete the five miles, transportation is provided to return back upstream.

You can also opt in for a shorter excursion, which is a one and two hour “out and back” excursion. Please do note that rentals are available on a first come first serve basis, and animals are not allowed on the watercraft.

Swimming at Silver Springs in Ocala

We can all imagine how badly we want to jump into the crystal clear waters of Silver Springs. However, you cannot swim here! There is NO SWIMMING at Silver Springs.

Although we know this is sad, there is still so much to do. Go on a boat ride, rent a kayak, hike or camp. The parks and springs are still worth it, even if you aren’t directly in the water!

See the Wild Monkeys at Silver Springs

Silver Springs are home to at least 300 rhesus macaques, which is a monkey native to south and Southeast Asia! These monkeys are descendants of the theme-park escapes from park’s history.

If you are lucky, you can see one of these monkeys now in its natural habitat. In the wild, witness them flock together, hear them talk, or more! These monkeys bring in many tourists. I was even lucky enough to see one! Just don’t feed or touch these animals!

Hiking in the State Park

Discover a variety of hiking and nature trails at Silver Springs. These trails range in length: you can take one that is less than a mile, or tap in at a 4.1 mile loop. Some of the most famous trails include the Creek trail, the Spring Connector Trail, the Sandhill trail, and even the Sinkhole Trail & Old Field loop.

When choosing to hike, make sure to bring a map and dress appropriately. You are in Florida, so plenty of water, sunblock and insect repellent is a must! If yo decide to tackle all 15 miles of trails, take your time. The environment surrounding the trails is to die for! The images are something you don’t want to rush pass. Keep your eyes out for wildlife too!

Camping and Lodging at Silver Springs

Would you believe us if we said that Silver Springs offers some of the best camping cabins in the state?! Well they do! These springs offer cabins, RVs, tent sites, and group primitive camp sites at fair rates with great locations.

The cabins are located beneath shady oaks and accommodate up to six people. They have dining areas, bedrooms, one bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a fireplace! RV and tent sites are spacious and have water and electric hook ups.

Lastly, if you decide to take it to nature and go primitive camping, rest in the shadow oaks near picnic tables and fire rings. Non-portable water is available here, but shower facilities are not. Book online to reserve spots, and book early!

Tips for Visiting Silver Springs Park

Before you go visit, here’s a few tips for Silver Springs:

• Book your glass bottom boat tours online and in advance– especially if you are going for a 90 minute boat tour
• Know that Silver springs save tickets for day of purchase, so there is always a slim chance to get tickets the day you’re there if you cannot book online
• Bring medicine if you are prone to motion sickness and decide to hop on the glass bottom boat tours
• Allow time for exploration! This place is huge!
• Don’t miss the educational aspects. There is so much to learn from nature, and at their education centers too
• If you don ‘t want to camp, there’s hotels near by!
• And lastly, keep an eye on their local event calendar. Extra and unique events pop up all the time and may overlap with your visit!

And there you have it, folks! Things to do at Silver Springs, info on glass boat tours, and more. These springs are something you have to go see in person. So do some research, plan, and go explore! You’ll love this oasis.

Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024)

Orlando boat tours are a fantastic activity in Central Florida, no matter the type of boating adventure you choose.

Some of the suggestions below are full-day tours, and others take mere hours. But all are a great way to spend your time in order to enjoy the Sunshine State’s beautiful scenery. And that could mean a wild ride in the Everglades or sailing sunset cruises on one of the Orlando area's attractive lakes.

We are sharing the best Orlando boat tours – private and group options – including scenic pontoon boat tours, airboat rides , kayaking , canoeing, sunset sails, and even boat rentals at Walt Disney World.

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase at no cost to you. We recommend experiences, hotels, products, and services we use and support. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Orlando Airboat Rides 

One of the things Florida is most known for is its famous airboat tours. Sign up for this fun adventure whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, within Everglades National Park, or Orlando on Shingle Creek, on the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. 

You won’t soon forget an exciting airboat ride when you visit the Orlando area, with a chance to see Bald Eagles and other endemic tropical birds, alligators, and crocodiles (maybe even a baby alligator). 

Airboat rides are particularly popular amongst nature lovers. These special boats allow you to glide on the unique marshes and swampland of the Central Florida area. We thoroughly enjoyed our Florida airboat experience. 

Sign up for a 90-minute fun and educational Orlando airboat tour to encounter the real Florida with experienced captains. Alternatively, secure your spot for a 1-hour sunset airboat tour and hope for one of Florida’s famous colorful sunsets. 

Most airboat tours take place rain or shine. Just in case, we recommend traveling to Florida with a poncho or thin raincoat of some sort. Be sure to check in for your tour at least 30 minutes before the experience. 

Orlando Boat Tour on an Airboat with Transportation

This tour includes pick up and drop off in Central Florida (including designated Disney World and Universal hotels), a BBQ lunch, a printed photo, and admission to their animal rescue Wildlife Park, where you can see birds, big cats, and reptiles. 

The entire experience – from transportation to the boat ride – lasts around 7 hours, including the drive to and from the Everglades area. The Florida Everglades are approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive each way from Orlando. Choose from a 30-minute or 60-minute airboat ride when you book your experience . 

Orlando Sailing Tours 

How about enjoying Orlando’s lakes with wind power? Sailing tours are the perfect way to glide on the water. And a sunset sail is incredibly romantic, to boot! 

Private Morning Sail 

Set sail on a 2-hour private sailing tour, starting at 10:00 am. Adventure awaits on Lake Fairview for up to four guests. 

This area is just north of College Park near downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando’s Lieu Gardens. Don’t forget to bring towels if you want, though water is provided (and lakes are calm anyway, so you shouldn’t really get wet!).

Advanced reservations are required.

Private Lake Sunset Sail 

Sail on Lake Fairview, approximately 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, 30-35 minutes from the Disney theme parks (including the Disney Springs area), and 25 minutes from Universal. 

This 2-hour private Orlando boat tour can fit up to four people, and they allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages onboard. We recommend bringing a bottle of wine or champagne! 

We recommend bringing along a wine tumbler set for your sailboat adventure! 

Kayaking Tours

Connect with nature from the comfort of a kayak and get in some exercise too. Orlando boat tour options for kayaking are plentiful. 

Kayak with Manatees

Head 45 minutes north of Orlando for your chance to kayak with manatees! These cute and friendly mammals are famous in the Sunshine State, where they come to enjoy the warm water for the winter. 

Whether you’re a novice kayaking trying it for the first time, or an experienced pro, this tour is for you if you want to see a plethora of wildlife. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Check out this popular tour with 5-star reviews

Glass Bottom Boat Kayak Tours

If you want to see the fish below the water’s surface without snorkeling, sign up for a glass-bottom kayak tour. See through the bottom of the boat on this Orlando boat tour and have the chance to view the colorful fish and marine plant life beneath you. 

Try a Rock Springs guided kayak eco-tour as you glide on the crystal-clear water for two hours. You’ll learn about the local ecosystem, stop for photos, and have the opportunity to swim in the springs. Opt to jump into the water from a rope swing for a thrill during this adventure. 

You can also opt for a sunset tour in a glass-bottom kayak . Paddle through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes and canals in a peaceful setting. Your knowledgeable guide will point out interesting nature homes along the way and share some history of the area. You’ll also be able to stop for photos where you like! 

This tour is likely to sell out: Reserve Now

Winter Park Evening Clear Kayak Glow in the Dark Tour

If you want to add a fun element to your kayaking adventure, sign up for a Winter Park kayak tour at night with a glow-in-the-dark kayak. The boats are illuminated with nighttime lighting!

They will surely be a good photo opp and fun outing as the lights make the water beneath you glow. 

Another great option is this Neon Night Glow Paddleboard or Clear Kayak experience on Lake Ivanhoe.

This unique boat tour allows you to see Orlando’s skyline at night as you paddle along with the help of your guides, the moonlight, and the colorful lights beneath your kayak or paddleboard.  

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of our favorite Orlando boat tours is in Winter Park. It was established in the 1930s, decades before Walt Disney World opened in Lake Buena Vista.

This pontoon boat tour starts near the well-known Park Avenue area. Set out on your scenic cruise from Lake Osceola to the Winter Park Chain of Lakes as your guide takes you through the manmade canals.

Sail past stunning homes in Winter Park, where you will have breathtaking views of the opulent private homes in the area (which is one of the reasons we enjoy the boat tour).

You will have a chance to see wonderful some of Florida’s beautiful birds, like Blue Herons and large cranes, as you travel on several lakes. 

Each boat holds a maximum of 18 passengers. Be sure to bring cash or a check to buy your tickets because credit cards are not accepted. We advise purchasing tickets in the morning on weekends, even if you plan on going later in the day. It’s a very popular tour, and tickets often sell out quickly. 

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is closed on Christmas Day. Otherwise, tours leave daily on the hour, starting at 10:00 am. The last tour is at 4:00 pm. 

Day Trip Boat Tours from Orlando

While the Orlando boat tours listed above are within 30 minutes, on average, from Orlando, it’s worth mentioning there are more boat tour options nearby within a 2-hour drive. Here are some additional Central Florida boat tour options. 

Mount Dora Lake Tours

One of our favorite destinations from Central Florida is 45 minutes north: the quaint town of Mount Dora . There’s so much to see and do there in the afternoon or morning; a boat tour is the best way to extend your trip to a whole day. 

Take a 2-hour pontoon boat tour with a departure point at the historic hotel, the Lakeside Inn. Enjoy your leisurely cruise around Lake Dora and The Harris Chain of Lakes, including the famed Dora Canal.

The all-weather 25’ boats can cruise rain or shine thanks to their retractable clear covers for the sides of the boat. Choose from one of two daytime tours, or their third option to cruise during sunset. 

Clearwater Beach with Dolphin Encounter Cruise

This 12-hour full-day tour begins with pick-up at 7:30 am. You’ll head west of Orlando to the popular Florida destination (Clearwater Beach), where you will take a cruise to encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. 

While this means that you aren’t guaranteed to spot dolphins, your tour guide will do his or her very best to find them. You may see these beautiful mammals up close by the boat or further in the distance if they appear in the ocean. Part of the fun is the anticipation. 

A one-hour dolphin tour boat ride is sandwiched between hours of free time on a Gulf Coast beach. For only $10 more, you can purchase a wristband for the boat ride that allows you to have unlimited beer, wine, and vodka punch. 

Pickup and drop off are included at one of three major locations of your choice (Disney areas included). This means that all you have to do is sign up for the tour and be at that location for pick-up time. 

Choose from the three pick-up locations listed below:

• Walt Disney World area, on Epcot Resorts Blvd. (northern area of the parks) 
• Walt Disney World area, at Maingate Lakeside Resort in Kissimmee (area of the Disney World theme parks that is further south) 
• International Drive (close to Universal) at Senor Frogs

Clear Canoe Boat Tour Near Orlando at Silver Springs

This clear canoe boat tour is approximately halfway between Orlando and Gainesville at Silver Springs. The drive is approximately an hour and 45 minutes from downtown Orlando. 

You’ll do a self-guided tour after the kayak company representative meets you and gives you a laminated map and some brief instructions. Paddle near Cypress Trees and see turtles, ducks, birds, and a chance to see manatees during the winter season, when they swim to Florida’s warm waters.

Dan and I often like to explore an area freely, on our own. Maybe you’re the same way! If so, this is a great tour for you in the Orlando area, as long as you can rent a car to get to the meeting point or take a taxi/Uber or Lyft there. 

Orlando Boat Tours at Walt Disney World

Did you know that you can rent motorized boats at Disney World? It’s one of the best things to do at Walt Disney World, besides the parks. 

Rent a Sun Tracker® Pontoon boat by the half-hour for up to 10 people. You can also opt to kayak or canoe from Fort Wilderness by the hour. 

One of the most singular boat tours in Orlando, or perhaps anywhere, is an Amphicar boat tour. Be a passenger and the envy of all onlookers in a cool convertible car that drives right into the water. This experience is available at Disney Springs restaurant, The Boathouse.

Lastly, you can book a specialty cruise to see the fireworks. You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to do so! Snacks and soft drinks are included in a memorable cruise on a 25’ boat. 

You can also request ​​for a festive banner and/or balloons to be set up on the boat, which is included in the cost (request at the time of booking). It’s a great thing to do for you and your partner or up to 10 guests total, whether a proposal, anniversary treat, or family reunion. 

What to Bring for Orlando Boat Tours

Florida's heat can be brutal, depending on the time of year. No matter the month, you definitely need to protect your skin from the sun. The sun in FL is strong, year-round. 

Be sure to pack the following if you’ll be on the water in sunny Florida: 

• Refillable water bottle (the ice will stay intact for hours in the MiiR bottle, our favorite insulated wide-mouth bottle) 
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• SPF lip balm
• Eco-friendly bathing suit 
• Rash guard 

Conclusion for Best Orlando Boat Tours

Whether you want to captain a boat yourself, row your way through Florida’s waters in a kayak, see gators on an educational airboat ride, or go on a romantic sailboat cruise around one of Central Florida’s lakes, an Orlando boat is a wonderful Florida activity. 

It will connect you with nature, get you out in fresh air, and allow your body to absorb vitamin D in the Florida sunshine. Sign up for an Orlando boat tour and explore this southern state in a unique and adventurous way. 

Read this next:

• 40 Awesome Things Florida is Known For
• 30 Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks
• Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Helpful Info for a Successful Visit

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Storm update: Silver Springs State Park is open and will resume all services effective today, August 31.

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glass bottom boats

Glass Bottom Boats

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world famous!

Glass Bottom Boats have wowed visitors to Silver Springs since the 1870s with breathtaking views of underwater life and the many springs that feed the Silver River. In fact, the Glass Bottom Boat was invented here! Take a tour aboard one of our historic Glass Bottom Boats and marvel at the beauty and sheer size of Mammoth Spring, the river’s head spring. You’ll explore many other beautiful feeder springs and see countless species of fish, ancient Native American and Spanish artifacts and even underwater movie props from the days when Hollywood productions flourished at the park! 

Choose your adventure

30 minute tour, extended tour.

Please Note:

Wheelchair users welcome! One boat in our fleet of nine is wheelchair accessible. Our all-accessible Glass Bottom Boat, the Chief Potackee, operates weather permitting, when it is in service. Because of the height of this boat, it is subject to closure due to windy conditions. Wheelchairs may be accommodated aboard the Chief Potackee. If you would like to make a reservation for the Chief Potackee, please click Book Now! on this page and select a time slot marked “Wheelchair Accessible”.  Please choose the Adult/Senior/Kids 3-12/Kids 2 & Under seats marked “with wheelchair” for every passenger bringing a wheelchair on board. If you need assistance making a reservation, please call 352-261-5840. We are unable to accommodate wheelchairs on board our other Glass Bottom Boats due to the historic nature of the boats. For guests who are able to transfer to our historic boats, we are happy to assist them.

Reservations: Please check in at the ticket booth upon arrival to pay the $2/person State Park Admission.

We do not allow pets on board. Service dogs are permitted. Food is not allowed but you may bring a beverage in a container with a lid/cap.

*Boat schedules subject to change and cancellation due to inclement weather and/or other safety issues.

To participate in this activity, one must have the ability to follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently or with the assistance of a companion, board and disembark from the boat independently or with the assistance of a companion, and sit on a moving vessel independently or with the assistance of a companion. In the event of a capsize one must have the ability to get out from under the watercraft independently and right oneself and remain face up in the water with the aid of a personal flotation device. Must have the ability to follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently or with the assistance of a companion. Must have the ability to withstand exposure to the outdoors for as long as one chooses to attend. Must have the ability to traverse stairsteps and sloped ramps independently or with the assistance of a companion.

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1-Day Orlando to Silver Springs, Glass Bottom and Kayak Boat Tour

Tour code: gol-orl-150, duration: 1 day.

Tour Guide: Chinese, English

Quality: Budget

• 7 Days left

Departure City

Destination, return city, departure location.

Experience: UNESCO, Family

Extra (Excluded): Wifi, Meal etc...

Come to Silver Springs State Park, take a Glass Bottom Boat, rent a paddle boat or kayak, and have a close encounter with nature! You can also take a hike and explore various trails.

• Glass-bottom Boat ticket and Silver Springs State Park Entrance Fee.

Day 1 Silver Springs with Glass-bottom Boat+ Kayak Boat 1-Day Tour from Orlando

Located in north central Florida, just east of Ocala, Silver Springs State Park has been a natural landmark destination since the 1870s. Take a tour aboard one of our historic Glass Bottom Boats and marvel at the beauty and sheer size of Mammoth Spring, the river’s head spring. You’ll explore many other beautiful feeder springs and see countless species of fish, ancient Native American and Spanish artifacts and even underwater movie props from the days when Hollywood productions flourished at the park! 

Orlando → Silver Springs → Glass-bottom Boat Tour  (30 mins)  → Free Time  (3.5 hours, hiking trail, kayak/paddle tour for optional, please pay the self funded activities fees to park) →  Orlando

Attractions

In the heart of Florida, Orlando has over dozen theme parks to hypnotize the visitors. These parks have 2 water parks in the list with magnetizing features. A beautiful sight for adventure lovers!

Itinerary - Important Notes

What's Included

What's Excluded

Note:  Customers should not buy admission tickets or passes on their own and use them on this discounted tours. In case they do, they will have to arrange their own transport.

Pricing - Important Notes

Return location, important notes.

• 8615 Vineland Ave (Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista in the Marriott Village) Orlando, FL 32821 AT 10:00 AM.
• 10100 International Dr,(DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld) Orlando, FL 32821 at 10:15 AM
• 5767 TG Lee Blvd, (Hampton Inn Orlando Airport) Orlando, FL 32822 at 10:35 AM
• Usually the same as departure location but different time. Some locations are only for pickup.
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Cancellation charges 

⇒  16 days or more prior to departure, 10% of the tour fees will be charged as cancellation.

⇒  9 to 15 days prior to departure, 50% of the tour fees will be charged as cancellation.

⇒  Within 8 days prior to departure, 100% tour fees will be charged as cancellation.

Any Amount paid in cash to the Tour Guide is not refundable.

There is no refund for unused features. You forfeit the entire payment when you are a no-show on the departure date and unable to join the tour for any reason including COVID.

An add-on fee of 6% for handling fees is charged in addition to the above penalties. No matter what the reason for cancellation is, the processing fee will be deducted on each refund.

In order for there not to be a cancellation, a minimum number of participants are required. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip although every effort is made by us to ensure that normal operations are maintained. We reserve the right to cancel or re-schedule any tour departure with respect to operating requirements or circumstances beyond control. In case a cancellation is made at any given moment in time before departure, our only liability as GoldenBusTours will be to refund you the amount we received for the booking of the tour. We will try our best to re-book the same or similar tour if the future travel plan suits you. We are not responsible for any cancellation penalties that may have been incurred on any other travel arrangements like separate purchase of air tickets, visa cost, taxi fare etc. We are not liable for any other travel arrangements that have been affected as a result of the cancellations. 

Note:  More than 30 days after the completion of the tour, we cannot grant any refunds. Each Cancellation Request must be received in writing by email.

Cancellation and reschedule charges are applicable even if you are NOT able to take the tour because of visa rejection, COVID or any other serious issue. If you reschedule a tour and later decide to cancel it then cancellation charges will be applicable to the original departure date and not to the rescheduled one.

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Any travel service purchases indicate your acceptance of the Terms & Conditions set out herein.

You are advised to carefully read through and understand these Terms & Conditions before making your booking.

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You will get an email immediately once you place an order. Tour Confirmation usually takes 2, 3 days except for urgent order. Urgent orders can be confirmed in a day or even few hours, but we can’t assure success in these cases. On fewer occasions, some of the others may require a longer period of time for confirmation. You are advised not to book airline tickets unless you have received the confirmation.

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Your e-ticket includes complete operator information such as local telephone numbers at your destination. You are required to print the e-tickets and bring them along with you on the trip. They will be needed as proof of purchase.

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You may incur a fee for any revisions or alterations made to the reservation when the booking has already been confirmed. Cancellation fees may be applied to things such as name changes or corrections. They may also apply to tour date changes or tour itinerary changes. Please note that no departure changes are permitted 72 hours before departure.

Changes in Tour Itinerary

We are continuously striving to improve tour itineraries and features. In the event of unforeseen circumstances that are beyond the control, we do reserve the right to vary the itineraries and to substitute hotels. Duplicate departures may operate during certain peak periods, sometimes in reverse order. As such, hotels may vary from those included on the itinerary pages.

​If you want to reschedule your tour (change the departure date or choose a different tour) then a reschedule fees may be applied. No reschedule request will be entertained within 15 days before the departure date. 

Cancellation and reschedule charges are applicable even if you are NOT able to take the tour because of visa rejection.

1.  One room can accommodate maximum 4 people. Even if you are 5 people including 1 month old baby you still need 2 rooms.

2.  If you can carry your child up to 2 years of age then you do not need to book seats for him. It may vary from one tour to another.

3.  Service providers hold the right to change the itinerary and hotel arrangements without any notice.

4.  Child (0-9 years) and Single traveler going on the tour have special rates. These prices vary from one tour to another.

5.  Meals and Attractions are not included. You can ask your tour guide to try to arrange the meal for you as per your requirements. For attractions, admission fees pay it to the tour guide on the tour.

6.  Prices may change without any notice because of prices fluctuation in the market.

7.  All prices mentioned on the website are in US dollars.

8.  In Case of Bank Wire Transfer customer have to bear Wire transfer fee.

9.  Tour package price is inclusive of taxes.

10.  Tour Prices are every individual and in view of room inhabitance.

11.  Hotels and the city/country  of stay may change based on availablity.

Child rates are applicable for children between (0-12 years) of age. Parents are advised to bring car seats for the safety of their child.

Buy 2 Get 3rd discounted: Get 3rd Ticket on special discounted rates on the purchase of 2 tickets.

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Orlando is always a thrill for me. I planned this trip with my family during vacations and was really a good experience in my life. kids were enjoying it a lot. Kudos to the team.

Go and have fun with your mates. I would give you 4 stars as I enjoyed my travel. Keep up the good work GoldenBustours LLC.

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A Guide to Glass-Bottom Boat Rides at Silver Springs State Park

Everything you need to know to enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour at Silver Springs State Park near Ocala, Florida.

A day of boating is always fun—skimming above the water, catching glimpses of wildlife in the trees and on the riverbanks. But boating gets even better at Silver Springs State Park , where you can experience the world-famous glass-bottom boats that let you see what’s happening underwater, too!

These innovative boats were first invented in the late 19th century. When they launched at Silver Springs , the glass bottom boats quickly became one of Florida’s very first tourist attractions .

Silver Springs is located just east of Ocala in Marion County. It is one of the largest artesian springs ever discovered, making it the perfect spot for visitors to scope out fish, manatees , turtles, alligators and vegetation in the crystal-clear waters beneath the boats. Look closely and you’ll even see a dugout canoe dating back to the 1500s resting on the riverbed, a relic of the area’s Native American settlers.

From the historic design of the boats to the serene setting of the Silver River, stepping aboard a glass-bottom boat tour feels a bit like stepping back in time. So discover Florida’s untouched history at Silver Springs State Park. Plan your visit to Silver Springs, including a glass-bottom boat tour, with this helpful guide!

When Are Boat Tours Available?

Glass-bottom boat tours depart about every 30 minutes from 10 am to 6 pm year-round. Regular glass-bottom boat tours run about 30 minutes. For those curious to know even more about Silver Springs, extended 90-minute tours are available Friday through Sunday at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm. During the 90-minute cruise, your boat captain will share the rich history of the springs while pointing out wildlife on land and underwater.

How Much Do The Boat Tours Cost?

Admission to Silver Springs State Park is $8 per vehicle. The park is open 365 days per year, including holidays from 8 am until sundown. For complete park pricing and fees, click here .

30 Minute Tour Tickets

Adults: $13

Seniors 55+ $12

Children 6-12 $12

Children under 5 ride free.

Extended 90 Minute Tour Tickets

Adults: $25

Seniors 55+ $20

Children 6-12 $20

Can I Reserve My Tickets Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can reserve your tickets online here . Advanced reservations are highly encouraged for the 90-minute tours.

Can You Swim In Silver Springs State Park?

Swimming is not permitted in Silver Springs State Park. Visitors may enjoy the river and waterways on a glass bottom boat ride, kayak, or canoe.

Are Dogs Allowed At Silver Springs State Park And On Boat Tours?

Dogs must be leashed at all times and are welcome in most outdoor areas of the park. Dogs are not permitted to join you on the glass bottom boat tours. Service animals are welcome in all park areas. For more information visit the tour website .

Are There On-site Dining Options?

Bring your own lunch and take advantage of the park’s many picnic areas and grills. The on-site dining options include casual options and healthy fare at Spring Side Cafe, along with ice cream and other sweets from Paradise Treats. These dining options are currently closed for renovation and expected to re-open early 2023.

Are The Glass-bottom Boat Tours Wheelchair Accessible?

Silver Springs offers an accessible boat in the fleet of glass bottom boats. The boat is named Chief Potackee Betty Mae Tiger Jumper, after the only female Seminole Chief! The benches on this new boat lift up and down, making it accessible for wheelchairs and making it easier for every passenger to see the glass viewing area.

What Are The Other Top Things To Do At Silver Springs, In Addition To The Glass-bottom Boat Tours?

Silver Springs State Park offers 5,000 acres of outdoor fun. Explore the river on a kayak or canoe, or go hiking and biking on 14 miles of multi-use trails . Keep an eye out for wildlife including frogs, tortoise, white-tail deer, wild turkeys, and of course many species of birds. Visit The Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center , which offers a look into the park’s past, including pioneer settlement buildings and exhibits highlighting local wildlife, vegetation, geology, and human inhabitants dating back thousands of years! Admission to the museum is $2 per person. The museum is usually only accessible to the public on weekends and holidays, so call before you arrive to make sure its open.

Click here for a park map and brochure.

Were Famous Tv Shows And Movies Filmed In Silver Springs?

Yes, definitely ask your tour guide about the park’s history. Many of the original “Tarzan” movies were filmed at Silver Springs, along with “Creature from The Black Lagoon,” the TV series “Sea Hunt,” and more. Read more about filming in the area here.

Silver Springs State Park

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with glass bottom boat tours, kayaking excursions, and more at Silver Springs State Park.

If leisurely exploring is your pace, fun outdoor activities may include a relaxing float down Rainbow River in a tube, an iconic Florida experience on the famous glass-bottom boats at Silver Springs…

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Silver Springs State Park 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, Florida 34470 United States

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Silver Springs State Park

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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Effective March 5, 2024: The Half Mile Creek Trail and Fort King Paddle Trail at Silver Springs State Park are partially closed until further notice due to boardwalk construction.

8 a.m. to sundown, 365 days a year

$8 per vehicle

See all fees

5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd Silver Springs FL 34488

Contact Info

Welcome to silver springs state park.

Explore one of America’s largest and best loved springs from the park’s famous glass bottom boats and see an underwater world.

The main spring is surrounded by serene gardens and historic structures reminiscent of the days when Silver Springs was a major destination for Northerners arriving by steamship.

The park is still a favorite destination and the home of the annual Springsfest celebrating protection and restoration of all Florida springs and waterways.

The Silver River allows kayakers to experience a primeval forest wilderness surrounded by some of the state’s best managed sandhills, accessible by trails and dotted with friendly campgrounds.

Plan Your Visit

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Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Silver River Museum

Experiences, silver springs state park photo gallery.

Photo by Silver Springs employee Jean Blom

If you're lucky, you can see manatees during your paddling adventure at Silver Springs State Park!

Geology of Silver Springs

Trails of Silver Springs

Upcoming events, inside mammoth spring.

Sat, Jun 22, 2024 10:00 am - 11:30 am EDT

Sun, Jun 23, 2024 9:00 am - 10:30 am EDT

Silver Springs, FL

Save The Manatees - Summer Speaker Series

Sat, Jul 13, 2024 10:00 am - 11:30 am EDT

People Make the Parks

Volunteer Spotlight

Friends of Silver Springs State Park

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Glass Bottom Boat To Shark Junction

After arrival at UNEXSO, guests will check in and board our 56’ glass bottom vessel. Upon departure, your host will give a short safety briefing. As we make our way out to the reef your host will entertain and educate you with facts about the marine life you will be seeing through the glass bottom windows. Our first site will be a barrier reef alive with corals and other marine life. Next, we move on to “Fish Farm” – a reef with spectacular coral heads, sea fans, fish and even sea turtles. Our last stop will be the world famous “Shark Junction” where we have been hand feeding sharks for over 25 years. Once we arrive at the site, watch as the sharks congregate under the glass bottom windows. When available, we will have our professional shark feeders onboard to hand feed the sharks right before your eyes. After our visit to “Shark Junction”, our host will answer any questions you may have and play a little trivia game for some prizes as you sit back and relax during the ride back to UNEXSO. Please note as this is a wildlife tour there is a rare possibility that sharks may not arrive at the site due to migration and mating season at certain times of the year, in the event this happens we will proceed to another reef site where guests will marvel at the diversity of the local marine life.

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Glass bottom boats at silver springs state park in florida.

It’s a Florida twist on the classic question: Is the glass-bottom boat half empty or half full?

Well, if it’s a glass-bottom boat at Silver Springs State Park, it’s full of people having fun. Crowds are once again seeking the pleasures of this old Florida attraction, and new protection and upgrades have been completed since the park's transition to state management.

Just east of Ocala, Silver Springs is one of the world’s largest artesian springs, gushing up to 550 million gallons of clear water to form the Silver River, a 4½-mile shorty that feeds the Ocklawaha River and eventually the St. Johns. Glass-bottom boats were invented and launched here in the 1870s, and in the 1920s a pair of developers created what became the theme park — and what many call Florida’s first tourist attraction. Animal exhibits, rides and a water park joined the glass-bottom boats, from which visitors still eye fish and fossils beneath the surface, and turtles, alligators and myriad birds above it.

The state bought the land in the 1980s and created Silver River State Park , leasing the springs and attraction to a private company. Later, state park officials took over.

Individual animal shows were combined into a single “Wings and Things at the Springs” show three times each day except concert days, when there’ll still be “Meet the Animals” photo opportunities and Q&A sessions with the entertainers. State officials have made a pledge also to restore the springs’ volume and clarity.

Downstream, the rest of the 5,000-acre Silver Springs State Park embraces the river itself. Hiking, camping and biking are popular, but the premier experience is canoeing or kayaking down the gin-clear river. Keep an eye out for the park’s critters: You might see nine-banded armadillos, white-tailed deer, wild boars, wild turkeys, foxes, American alligators, Sherman’s fox squirrels, gopher tortoises, coyotes, bobcats and even Florida black bears.

Want an argument? Offer your story of how rhesus monkeys established a home in the park and its environs. One popular story says they escaped while Tarzan movies were being filmed here (as were TV shows such as Sea Hunt and movies such as Creature from the Black Lagoon ). Other say nope, no monkeys in the six Tarzan films shot here. Boat tour operator “Colonel Tooey” turned ’em loose on an island in the late 1930s, and the skilled swimmers quickly spread out. No matter who wins the argument, all have a ball watching for monkeys.

Within the park, the Marion County School District’s Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center, open to the public on weekends and holidays, spotlights the area’s cultural and natural history. It includes a late-1800s pioneer “Cracker” settlement and a 1930s one-room schoolhouse in which African-American students attended classes during the days of segregation.

One downer? No fishing allowed on the Silver River. But if you see the glass as half full, you can watch ’em even if you can’t catch ’em!

Silver Springs State Park , 352-236-7148;  floridastateparks.org/silversprings

Steve Griffin has been a full-time freelance outdoors and boating writer since 1975. His work has included features, boat tests and Short Cast mini-features in Boating.

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I went there last November. It was great. Beautiful scenery and the boat ride was neat. I don't remember there being a lot to keep small children entertained. I think there was a merry-go-round, and a couple of animal shows, but that was about all that I noticed.

Hi, we were there last year with my daughter/granddaughter, which is now 2 1/2. It is a nice park but NO WDW!! So keep that in mind. The boat ride is nice and the veiw of the fish under the boat is neat. They feed them and you can watch them fight for the bread. We seen a few gators lying on the bottem (some were BIG) and several by the shore or swiming. There are TWO boat rides if I remember right. The glass bottem and the other one on the left side of the park near the animals. That one take you back farther down the river to a place that tells you about some of the animals that live in the area. You may even see a monkey or two that got lose when they were filming the tarzan movies WAY back when. There are several shows with snakes, gators, birds and other critters at differant parts of the park. They have an area enclosed by a fence with a gate that you can enter an see other animals, like a zoo enclosure, and they have some bigger animals like giraffes there. All in all is is a nice place with a well maintained park, with flowers/shrubs that are interestinly manicured. kind of like what WDW does. Hope this help and have a great vacation.

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5 Best Glass Bottom Boat Excursions in Florida

Florida has some remarkably clear rivers and springs making it perfect for taking excursions in a glass bottom boat. A whopping 900 springs rise to the surface in Florida. And there are also ample beautiful things to see in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean . It’s only natural that folks would want to make a show out of checking them out. So, let’s unpack the 5 Best Glass Bottom Boat Excursions in Florida.  

#1 Fury Water Adventures  

Found at 0 Duval St in Key West, Florida, Fury Water Adventures is just a two-minute walk to Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square Pier.   Fury Water Adventures features cruises on glass bottom boats through the emerald, green waters around Key West. They also offer snorkeling tours as well as sunset tours with live music and drinks.  

But, on Fury’s Glass Botton Boat, you can enjoy the view from an air-conditioned cabin. You’ll encounter an amazing view of tropical marine life . You’ll see anything from coral reefs to sea turtles, rays, and a variety of fish cruising through the crystal-clear waters they call home.  

#2 Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Tours  

Located on Gulf Blvd in St. Petersburg, Florida, Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Tours specializes in LED illuminated eco-tours. As they’re open from 9 AM to 9 PM Mon-Fri, day and nighttime kayak tours are offered, and prices range from $55 to $70.  

The daytime tour will take you through a mangrove tunnel and to a large sandbar. And there you can swim and snorkel in the water around the sea life of the sandbar. At night, the real fun begins as your tour will be illuminated with LED lights so you can view the sea life from an entirely different perspective.  

#3 Glass Bottom Boat Tours at Silver Springs  

Located in the 4000-acre Silver Springs State Park, glass-bottom boat tours started here back in the 1800s and are still just as special. Taking a glass bottom boat ride, via Glass Bottom Boat Tours at Silver Spring s, is the best way to experience the Mammoth Spring and witness the teeming life in its waters.  

Don’t worry about being bored around here either. There are plenty of hiking trails, a museum, gardens, restaurants, and more to keep you and your family occupied. Prices are $13 for adults and $12 for youngsters and that’s for a 30-minute ride. You’ll also encounter a $2 fee when you enter the park.  

#4 Sea Experience  

Located on Seabreeze Blvd in Fort Lauderdale, Sea Experience offers scuba diving classes as well as scuba diving and snorkeling trips. The Sea Experience glass bottom boat tour takes off from Bahia Mar Marina. It then cruises along Fort Lauderdale’s beautiful Intracoastal waterways.  

#5 Key Largo Princess  

The Key Largo Princess luxury glass bottom boat cruises the Florida Keys piloted by an experienced captain. From 8 AM to 5 PM daily, you can view the sea life in the US’s only undersea park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Enjoy the view from the comfort of an air-conditioned cabin. Also of interest is the Princess’s expansive sun deck and full-service snack bar.    

Come back to Travel Hop for more info on exciting excursions.

NO WALK-IN RESERVATIONS - ALL RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE ONLINE.

KEY WEST GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOUR

Quick Details

• Users Ages: All ages
• Clock Duration: 2 hours
• Map Marker Location: Key West, FL
• Calendar Daily: Yes
• Dollar Currency: US Dollars
• User Tour Guide: Yes

See Key West’s Waters on a Glass Bottom Boat!

Key West’s only window to the sea! Join us aboard our Glass Bottom Boat and experience Key West’s vibrant underwater paradise without ever having to get wet! Through the glass panels of our spacious catamaran, you’ll get to see all kinds of marine life – and who knows, you might even spot a sea turtle or a stingray!

Stay cool and dry as you view a stunning array of tropical marine life in air-conditioned comfort aboard our Glass Bottom Boat. Through our windows to the sea, guests can witness the wonder of North America’s only living coral reef. You may even observe sea turtles, rays and fish of all kinds gliding through the crystal waters they call home.

Tour Highlights

• See North America’s Only Living Coral Reef in Comfort
• Special Glass “Windows to the Reef” Provide Continuous Viewing for all Passengers
• Expert Tour Guides
• Air-conditioned viewing cabin makes it easy and comfortable to view the reef
• See colorful tropical fish, rays, sea turtles, numerous species of coral and more

Tour Details

• Chevron down Tour Details

📍Departure Location: Key West, FL. Advance reservations are REQUIRED.

⏰ Departure Times: 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, & 2:00 PM

✅ Inclusions:

• Glass Bottom Boat Tour

❌ Exclusions:

• Selection of Sodas
• Gratuity (optional)
• Chevron down Good to Know

Additional Information

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
• Check-in is 30 minutes before the departure time.
• A valid government issued photo I.D. is required to check-in.

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 48 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Chevron down FAQ

DO YOU PROVIDE PARKING?

No, we do not provide parking at any of our check in locations, but you can use street parking, pay to park lots or parking garages.

IF I HAVE PAID FOR MY TICKETS, WHY DO I STILL NEED TO CHECK IN?

It is necessary for us to collect your paid in full voucher and give you a boarding pass. This helps us maintain an accurate count for the coast guard.

ARE THERE LIFE JACKETS FOR CHILDREN?

Yes, life jackets are onboard for everyone in case of emergency.

CAN MY CHILD WHO IS UNDER 18 YEARS OLD GO ON A TRIP BY THEMSELVES?

Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Children 16-18 may go on a glass bottom boat trip unaccompanied, but only if they have a valid photo ID.

IS THIS TRIP GOOD FOR MY CHILDREN?

Oh yes! This is a wonderful trip for children!

HOW FAR OUT DO YOU GO?

7 miles to the reef.

HOW LONG DOES THE RIDE TO THE REEF TAKE?

30 minutes.

HOW LONG ARE YOU AT THE REEF?

50 minutes.

DO YOU RUN TOURS EVERY DAY?

CAN WE TAKE STROLLERS?

No, the coast guard won’t allow it. We’ll hold it on the dock until trip returns.

CAN WE TAKE A WHEELCHAIR?

Manual wheelchairs allowed, 4 per trip (electric wheelchairs not allowed.) We have one manual wheelchair that is available for guests to use. Guests must have assistance that can help move them safely to the manual chair.

CAN WE TAKE A SCOOTER?

HOW BIG IS THE BOAT?

It is a 65 foot catamaran, air-conditioned, enclosed, with a shaded viewing cabin, snack bar, sundeck, and 2 restrooms.

ARE THERE PLACES TO GET OUT OF THE SUN?

The glass bottom boat has a spacious, air-conditioned viewing cabin that can accommodate many guests.

ARE THERE SEATS ON THE BOAT?

Yes. You may sit or stand while viewing.

CAN WE BUY FOOD ON BOARD?

During the Sunset Cruise, we offer complimentary snacks. You are more than welcome to bring food–just no glass containers, please.

DO YOU SERVE DRINKS ON THE SUNSET TRIP?

Yes, we offer complimentary, sodas, water and a champagne toast.

CAN WE BRING DRINKS?

Yes, you can bring your own drinks and alcohol as long as there are no glass containers. No large coolers, please. Small 6 pack coolers are ok.

HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN SEE AT ONCE?

110 people can see at once; we never take more than that.

DO YOU WATCH THE SUNSET FROM THE BOAT?

Yes, but on the sunset trip only.

CAN YOU SEE THE REEF ON THE SUNSET TRIP?

Of course, the sun is still high in the sky and viewing is the same as during the day.

DO YOU GET IN THE WATER TO SWIM OR SNORKEL?

No, this is a viewing trip only.

WHAT IS YOUR WEATHER POLICY?

We do not operate in unsafe weather conditions, but a light rain shower is not a deterrent. The Captain will assess the weather and should the Captain determine that the conditions are unsafe to run the tour, the tour may be postponed or it will be canceled. If a trip is canceled by us for any reason, every effort will be made to reschedule the trip during your stay in Key West. If you are unable to reschedule, you will have the option of receiving a voucher for a future trip or receiving a full refund.

• Chevron down Why Choose Us

Why Wannado Tours Is The Right Choice

Wannado Tours has earned its reputation as a premier choice for travelers when planning a Key West vacation. Wannado Tours not only focuses on offering the best sightseeing tours and activities in Key West, but we also strive to make each and every traveler experience South Florida in a memorable way ❤️

Need Help Making a Reservation?

Reach out to us at 📱 786-785-1700 , or email us at ✉️ [email protected] . One of our agents will gladly help you make a reservation, and will answer any questions about our tours and water sports.

Our office is open everyday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST.

RELATED TOURS

• Clock 3 hours
• Users All ages

Key West Dolphin Tour & Snorkel

Climb aboard our Key West Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Tour for an aquatic journey to observe the grace and beauty of our resident Key West dolphins!

Key West Double Dip Snorkeling

If you want twice the snorkeling in Key West, then Double Dip’s the trip for you! Enjoy the underwater marvels of two tropical Key West reef locations in one day!

Rum & Reggae Snorkeling Tour

Snorkel North America’s only living reef from a spacious catamaran while enjoying the rhythmic sounds of reggae music and sipping rum punch.

Summer is heating up: Cool off with these springs and nature parks in and around Gainesville

As temperatures rise and summer begins, Gainesville offers a multitude of outdoor activities to do alone or with others. There’s no shortage of nature to experience here in North Central Florida.Here are some local springs and nature parks and what you can do at each one:

Boulware Springs Park

3300 SE 15th St., Gainesville

Boulware Springs acts as a trailhead for the 17-mile-long Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. There is an active restoration by the city to restore degraded sandhill and upland pine forest north of the park's parking lot.

Swimming : No.

Can you bring your dog? Yes (leashed).

Activities : Picnic facilities, grills, trails/paths (hiking, bicycling, horseback), wildlife/bird watching, pavilion, restrooms.

Fees : None.

Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens

4990 NE 180th Ave., Williston

Cedar Lakes is an abandoned limerock quarry, which was originally purchased by Dr. Raymond Webber in 1991 for private use, and eventually turned into a 20-acre botanical gardens. The gardens became a nonprofit in 2014 and opened to the public; the 64 acres of surrounding woodlands were donated to Conservation Florida .

Can you bring your dog ? Yes (leashed).

Activities : Picnic tables, trails, benches, welcome center, restrooms.

Fees : Ages 13+, $12; 6-13, $7; 5 & under, free; military, $6.

Devil’s Den Spring

5390 NE 180th Ave., Williston

Devil's Den Spring is an underground spring with a maximum depth of 54 feet, which resides in a dry cave. It was bought in 1993 by its current owners and the water 72 degrees year-round. Many extinct fossils have been found here, which are on display at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

Swimming : Scuba diving and snorkeling in spring only.

Can you bring your dog? No.

Activities : Tent/RV camping, lodging, picnic facilities, grills, lawn games, pavilions, cabanas, gift shop, restrooms, shower/changing area.

Fees : $7 per person entry fee. Additional fees for scuba and snorkeling. Reservations required.

Devil’s Milhopper Geological State Park

4732 Millhopper Road, Gainesville

Devil's Millhopper is a 120-foot deep, bowl-shaped cavity (sinkhole) with a miniature rainforest ecosystem. You can visit the sinkhole by descending a 132-step boardwalk surrounded by flowing water. The park became a designated National Natural Landmark in 1976 and has attracted visitors since the 1880s.

Activities : Hiking, guided ranger tours (Saturdays, 10 a.m.), picnic facilities, wildlife watching, visitor center, restrooms.

Fees : $4 per vehicle, $2 for pedestrians. bicyclists.

Rainbow Springs State Park

19158 SW 81st Place Road, Dunnellon

Rainbow Springs became a privately owned theme park in the 1930s, offering sub-boat rides with stairs that went below the waterline as well as a zoo, rodeo, gift shops and a monorail. However, the park closed in 1974 due to the development of the interstate highway system, which drew visitors to newer attractions.

It reopened as a state park in the 1990s with the help of the  Friends of Rainbow Springs , the park's citizen support organization. The Rainbow River is now a designated a National Natural Landmark , a Florida aquatic preserve and an Outstanding Florida Water , and spans over 1,400 acres with three main entrances.

The town of Juliette, which no longer exists, was located on what is now park property and was founded in the 20th century along with the town of Dunnellon.

Swimming : Yes.

Activities : Tent/RV camping, snorkeling, paddling, canoes, kayaks, picnic facilities, grills, pavilion, hiking/trails, wildlife/bird watching, fishing, gardens/waterfalls, concession/restaurant, visitor center, interpretive exhibit, restrooms, shower/changing area.

Tubing is allowed at a separate entrance, located on Southwest 180th Avenue Road, Dunnellon. No inflatables are allowed in the park.

Fees : $2 per person, other fees vary.

Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

7450 NE 60th St., High Springs

Multiple natural springs make up Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park , including a large, second-magnitude spring, Gilchrist Blue, which produces on average 44 million gallons of water a day and discharges water through a shallow spring to the Santa Fe River.

Activities : Tent/RV camping, paddling, snorkeling, canoes, kayaks, picnic facilities, grills, pavilion, hiking/trails, wildlife watching, restrooms/changing area.

Fees : $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 per single occupant vehicle, $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers.

Silver Springs State Park

5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs

Silver Springs dates back to the early 1900s when it became a local attraction known for its glass-bottom boats and multiple other attractions including a jungle cruise ride, replica Native American village, carousel and petting zoo. The park was discovered by Hollywood in the 1930s and scenes from at least 20 movies were filmed there — including "Creature from the Black Lagoon," and six Tarzan pictures (which was also the inspiration for the release of the wild monkeys occupying the park today).

In 1962, the park was purchased by ABC Paramount but couldn't compete with rising attractions, particularly in Orlando. The Florida Park Service took control of the property in 2013 and merged it with Silver River State Park, creating the park it is today.

Activities : RV/tent camping, lodging, glass-bottom boats, paddling, canoes, kayaks, trails/hiking, wildlife/bird watching, Silver River Museum & Environmental Center, Cracker Village (pioneer settlement replica), pavilion, café, restrooms.

Fees : $8 per vehicle, $5 per single occupant vehicle, motorcycle, $2 per pedestrian, bicyclist, $2 per person for museum. Additional costs for pavilion rental, camping and water activities.