Silver Springs State Park

I loved this place! We had a boat tour scheduled for 1:30 but got there around 12 and I am glad we did. We walked around and enjoyed nature the whole time. And when it was time for our boat ride it was a smooth process. The boat tour was beautiful, we got to see a gator, monkeys and a manatee!

Love this place! 2nd time here and it's so gorgeous. Very busy with tourists this time, but they have nice paved walkways and a boardwalk through the woods. We ended up in the middle of about 25 monkeys on the boardwalk so it was great to watch them jumping around. We also did a clear bottom kayak on the river and enjoyed looking at all of the alligators / turtles / birds / fish again. We didn't do the glass bottom boats, but did the first time and is well worth the money and wait for the great knowledge that the guides have.

I visited the park 3 times in 2 weeks while on vacation from Maine. One day we did a tram tour, another day we walked along the paths and finally we took a glass bottom boat ride. Each visit offered something new and beautiful to see! Our tour guide on the tram was friendly and knowledgeable. Our boat captain had jokes to keep us entertained and was full of information about the springs. I wish the visitor center was open during the week so I could squish a penny. I will have to come back and visit again!

Silver Springs State Park Florida Visit Date: February 2025 A couple hour drive from the Orlando area this state park a nice day trip for visitors and residents. For a $2 Entry fee you’ll have access to several nice trails that run adjacent to the water. Park is very clean and well maintained. Boat Tour: the main attraction will be the glass bottom boat tour. Make a reservation online in advance was they book up quickly. There are handicap and kid friendly boats. Tour guide was excellent and the water was crystal clear with an abundance of fish to see. Half hour tour was perfect for the kids but they do offer an extended 90 Minute tour. Wildlife: Lots of wildlife in the area, turtles, unique birds, alligators, fish, and …….monkeys. **Manatees: despite the numerous reviews and links guiding one to this State Park to see Manatees it should be noted they are only present during short periods throughout the year. Do your research before hand as we thought during the boat tour we would see lots of manatees, this was in fact not the case as they had already migrated from the area. Shops: There were several shops near the docks including a cafe, restaurant, and gift shop. Staff: all staff were pleasant to deal with and the park seemed well managed and taken care of. There was always staff nearby if you needed something. Activities: other than the trails throughout the park you can rent kayaks or paddle boards and check the springs out yourself. Note the forest stream water trail was closed when we went as it appears they are constructing something over the water. Overall: recommend the visit just do your research if your goal is to see Manatees.

Fun place to visit. Cool artifacts from the Black Lagoon Monster and Tarzan movies.. and many more! The trails are easy and scenic. The glass bottom boat tours are enjoyable 😉