Throw on your bathing suit and hop in the car because we’re road tripping to the best natural springs in Orlando! We’re soaking up all the fun in the Florida sun. Orlando is perfectly situated between a ton of beautiful outdoor locales, which are all perfect for an escape from your daily life! From live mermaids to manatees, each spring has something exciting to offer.
Get ready to escape the tourists and enjoy the serenity of these seven natural springs in Orlando!
Whether you‘re kayaking through the five miles of the Silver River‘s open canals on a glass-bottom kayak or experiencing a scenic hike around the park, there‘s something for everyone to enjoy at Silver Springs.
There is so much wildlife to spot as you explore, like hundreds of turtles basking on sunny rocks. You’ll be able to see plenty of fish through the glass bottom of your canoe, and you may even spot an alligator—keep an eye out!
The spring’s admission is only $2 per person, and children 6 and under are free. Rental prices do vary for Glass Bottom Boat Tours, Canoe, Kayak and SUP Rentals. Check out their website to learn more information about the park’s offerings and specific prices.
Another favorite on our list of natural springs in Florida is super unique! Devil’s Den is an underground spring inside of a cave. You’ll definitely want to pack a camera, because this spring is unlike any other.
The spring was given its name due to the steam that comes out of the opening early in the morning, giving the area an eerie vibe. When visiting, you have the option to snorkel or scuba dive inside of the cave. For safety measures, they aren’t allowing groups over ten people, so be sure to reserve your spot on their website.
Admission prices vary between $15-$22 a person.
Wekiwa Springs State Park is the closest spring to Central Florida, only minutes away from Downtown Orlando. Grab the whole family and spend the day canoeing, swimming, or hiking down the miles of trail! The scenic views will transport you from busy city life and remind you of the beauty that natural Florida holds.
Wekiva Island is a quick and enjoyable pit-stop along the river. You’ll find a bar, cabana rentals, food, and many different events all year long! Visit the spring’s website to learn more.
Admission to the park is only $6 per vehicle.
Ginnie Springs is next on our list of natural springs in Orlando! A 2-hour drive is quick, right? Trust us, although this spring might require a mini road trip, it’s definitely worth it. There are so many ways to explore this crystal clear spring! You can swim, canoe, kayak, tube, or dive into the devil’s eye.
The devil’s eye is a round opening about 20 feet across and 20 feet deep that experienced divers can dive straight into.
Ginnie Springs makes for the perfect day trip, but it can get busy in the hotter months! Make sure to look at their website for hours and call before you go to ensure the park hasn’t reached its limit.
Park admission varies from $15-20 per adult and $5 per child.
If you love manatees, then you’ll love Blue Springs State Park! Only an hour away from Orlando and an easy drive, this is a summer must-do for sure.
Encounter these gentle giants by renting a kayak or canoe, taking a guided riverboat cruise, or hiking along the spring run. Of course, you can also enjoy a dip in the cool, 72-degree spring water! The springs are a beautiful blue color, staying true to their name. To learn more, visit their website!
Park admission is only $6 per vehicle.
Next up on our list of natural springs in Florida is Weeki Wachee Springs: a natural Florida spring that is also home to a full water park and mermaid encounter!
You can see live mermaids, take a trip on a riverboat cruise, see wildlife, and swim in the waters of Buccaneer Bay. A lot of the amenities are open back up for you to enjoy! We love hanging out at the water slides and lazy river.
Admission: $13 for adults / $8 for children
The last park on our list of natural springs in Orlando is the historical Rainbow Springs! This beautiful park has existed for many years, and it’s just as popular now as it was in the 70s. A former mining operation turned tourist attraction, Rainbow Springs is a man-made park full of big waterfalls, hills, and scenic gardens that will make you never want to leave.
The beautiful blue springs are perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming. There’s even a picnic pavilion, so bring along lunch!
Admission is only $2 for adults, and children under 6 get in for free!
Who’s already planning their trip to one of the natural springs in Orlando? We can’t wait to see all of your adventures. Make sure to tag us @StuffToDoInOrlando in all your outdoor adventure pics, and stay up to date with all things Orlando by following us @StuffToDoInOrlando on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok!
Storyteller and lover of people. Michigan-born, Florida-living....