Things to see and do in Silver Springs, Florida

Silver Springs, Florida: A Window Into the Wild Heart of the State

Silver Springs isn’t a flashy tourist hotspot. It doesn’t have roller coasters, mega resorts, or neon lights. What it does have is something a lot more rare: crystal-clear water, lush subtropical wilderness, and a deep sense of old Florida. Located just east of Ocala, Silver Springs is one of the oldest and most iconic natural attractions in the state—and it still delivers the kind of experience you can’t find anywhere else.

We have been to Silver Springs numerous times.  We enjoyed riding on the glass bottom boat over the springs and hiking the trails.

At the center of it all is the Silver Springs State Park, home to some of the largest natural artesian springs in the world. The water is so clear it feels almost surreal, bubbling up from underground aquifers at a constant 72 degrees year-round. It flows into the Silver River, creating a pristine, spring-fed ecosystem full of fish, birds, turtles, and yes—wild monkeys (more on that in a minute).

The glass-bottom boat tours are what made Silver Springs famous. Running since the 1870s, these boats give visitors a crystal-clear view of the underwater world below—schools of fish, submerged statues from old movie sets, and ancient logs resting on the riverbed. It’s peaceful, immersive, and a welcome break from the fast pace of modern life. If you’d rather paddle yourself, you can rent a kayak or canoe and explore the winding waterways at your own speed.

Silver Springs isn’t just a scenic place—it’s packed with history. Before it was a state park, it was a privately owned tourist attraction that played a big role in Florida's early tourism boom. It was featured in dozens of classic films and TV shows, including Tarzan and Creature from the Black Lagoon. The park still carries that vintage charm, with remnants of old buildings and retro signage giving it an almost time-capsule feel.

And yes, about those wild monkeys—the story goes that rhesus macaques were introduced in the 1930s as part of a jungle cruise ride. The monkeys didn’t stay on their island as planned; they swam across the river and spread out. Today, their descendants still live in the surrounding forests. They’re not always easy to spot, but sightings are common, and they’ve become a strange but fascinating part of the Silver Springs story.

Beyond the water, Silver Springs State Park offers hiking trails, boardwalks, and picnic areas shaded by towering live oaks and cypress trees. It’s a favorite for birdwatchers and photographers, especially during the cooler months when wildlife is most active.

In a state that’s often defined by rapid development and theme park sprawl, Silver Springs is a reminder of what Florida looked like before all of that. It’s wild, serene, and unpolished in the best way. Whether you’re a local, a nature lover, or just someone looking to see a different side of Florida, Silver Springs offers a rare kind of escape—real, raw, and unforgettable.

Thinking of visiting? Viator offers numerous tours in Florida.  Click here for details. vi.me/0yyUX

For more information on wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries in the area visit https://flbwd.com 

Silver Springs entrance

Silver Springs Ticket Booths

Glass bottom boat over the springs

Inside the glass bottom boat

View of the spring from the bottom of the glass bottom boat

Walking trail in Silver Springs State Park