This realistic Guide on Things to Do in Silver Springs Florida helps you plan your next adventure in this park.

Silver Springs State Park has attracted visitors for nearly 150 years. The beauty of the springs and the surrounding wildlife make Silver Springs a worthy destination in North Florida.

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Things to Do in Silver Springs Florida

Silver Springs gives visitors plenty of things to look forward to. Some people come here to enjoy the blue waters of the Silver River and its springs.

Most visitors hope to see manatees, alligators, and monkeys. And others just enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding. Silver Springs State Park has something for every visitor.

This Guide describes the best things to do in Silver Springs Florida. You will learn about both easy-to-take and challenging activities.

1. Take a Glass Bottom Boat Tour

A Glass Bottom Boat Tour is one of the most popular things to do in Silver Springs, Florida. These tours run on the Silver River and the nearby springs.

Silver Springs State Park has offered these tours since 1870s. So, the tour guides know a thing or two about keeping the visitors entertained.

The name of this tour is quite descriptive. But it is worth setting the right expectations. You will not be walking on glass like on Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower.

Instead, you will board a rectangular boat with benches next to the boards. The large boat windows will be behind you.

You will be facing other visitors as if you all are sitting at a giant dinner table. But there is a glass floor instead of the table. This is the only transparent part of the boat’s floor.

You will still be able to see plenty of wildlife and items through this glass opening. Enjoy countless fish, occasional manatees, underwater plants and logs. Look out for ancient items and movie props.

The guides will narrate throughout the tour. You will get to know different species of Silver Springs. The Glass Bottom Boat Tour is also a great way to learn about the history of this park.

Choose between a standard or an extended tour. The latter tour takes three times as long (90 minutes) and often sells out.

2. Go Paddle Boarding, Kayaking, or Canoeing

A Glass Bottom Boat Tour is not the only way to explore the Silver River and Springs. But all other options involve some physical activity.

Canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding is a way to explore Silver Springs at your own pace. You could choose between bringing your own equipment and renting it in the park.

Sole travelers on a budget could rent a single kayak. It is the most cost-efficient solution. Stand-up paddle boards are another option. They are slightly more expensive than a single kayak.

Canoes and tandem kayaks cost about $15 more than a single kayak. Yet, they offer the best value for a couple or a group. It could also be a more relaxing option since you would not need to paddle all the time.

You could rent equipment for an hour, 2 hours, or a full day. An hour long rental is just enough to explore the head spring and the upstream section of the Silver River.

You might need more time to go further into the park. Keep in mind that most people do not paddle regularly. So, it will take you a few minutes to find your stride.

You would need 3+ hours for the longest route in Silver Springs. A 5.2-mile (8.4-km) journey downstream brings you from Silver Springs to Ray Wayside Park. Do not forget to book a shuttle ride back.

3. Skip the Swim

It will be tempting to jump into the refreshing waters of the Silver River on a humid summer day. But swimming is one activity that is off limits in Silver Springs State Park since 1960s.

The water quality has deteriorated over the years. Human activity and climate change are to blame. They both led to the growth of algae. You will see algae on your Glass Bottom Boat Tour or kayaking trip.

Wildlife preservation and safety are other reasons for the park to ban swimming. A handful of different species are present in Silver Springs. Encounters could be dangerous to both people and wildlife.

It is best to follow the park rules. Enjoy the blue spring waters and wildlife without dipping your toes. And keep wildlife wild.

4. Hit the Trails

Water activities are a natural thing to do in Silver Springs Florida. But Silver Spring State Park also has an extensive network of trails. 9 hiking trails cover over 21 miles (34 km).

• Creek Trail: a 0.9-mi (1.5-km) loop path.
• Old Field Loop: a 1.3-mi (2-km) loop path.
• Sandhill Trail: a 1.8-mi (3-km) loop path.
• Swamp Trail: a 1.9-mi (3-km) loop path.
• River Trail: a 2-mi (3-km) out-and-back path.
• Sinkhole Trail: a 2.3-mi (4-km) loop path.
• Silver to Green Connector Trail: a 2.5-mi out-and-back path.
• Historic Trails (Military Trail Loop & Ross Allen Camp Loop): 4.5-mi (7-km) loop path.
• Spring Trail: a 4.5-mi (7-km) out-and-back path.

Not all trails bring you to the river and the springs. Choose the Swamp Trail to a river viewpoint if sightseeing is your primary activity in the park.

The Spring Trail and the River Trail also bring you to the Silver River. But these trails are quite a bit longer than the Swamp Trail. Still, you could follow them to the equipment launch areas.

You could bring a mountain bike on some of the hiking trails. There is also an Equestrian Multiuse Trail system. These trails are on the north shore of the Silver River.

5. Enjoy Wildlife Viewing

A Glass Bottom Boat Tour and paddle boarding are fun activities. But they will be a million times better if you pair them with wildlife viewing.

It is another great thing to do in Silver Springs, Florida. With manatees, turtles, alligators, and monkeys, Silver Springs is made for wildlife viewing.

Hop aboard of your vessel or head to the river to increase your chances. You would not have to wait long to see the first animals in the park.

5.1. Turtles

Turtles, or Florida red-bellied cooters, are everywhere in Silver Springs State Park. You will see them on nearly every partially submerged log. They will likely be stretching their legs and enjoying the sun.

You could also observe turtles from a fairly short distance. Stop paddling and let your kayak or paddle board slowly approach a log. Some turtles will jump in the water. But others will remain in their position.

Most of the turtles in Silver Springs have an easy to recognize pattern. They have a black top shell and a yellow bottom. You could spot them from a few hundred feet (meters).

A few turtles have a different shell. It could have changed color and formed outgrowth over the years. And remember that not all reptiles that look like turtles are indeed turtles.

In fact, you are more likely to see gopher tortoises further away from the river. These reptiles tend to be bigger and have a dome like shell.

5.2. Alligators

Given the number of turtles you will see on the river shores, you might soon lose interest in them. It would be a mistake in such a wildlife rich habitat as Silver Springs.

As you look out for turtles, you could spot other species. The Silver River is home to countless alligators, like nearly every other place in Florida. Alligators prefer shores with lots of vegetation.

You could often find them in areas with water lilies and algae. These plants make it easier for the alligators to blend into the environment.

But some alligators are out in the open. They could climb up the fallen logs. You should be able to easily see these reptiles.

It goes without saying but alligators are predators. It is imperative to give them plenty of space. View alligators from a safe distance.

These precautions should help you avoid being that Florida man or woman involved in another wildlife related accident.

5.3. Manatees

Manatees are another reason so many visitors come to Silver Springs State Park. You might also know these massive mammals as sea cows.

Manatees live in the Gulf of Mexico. But you could also find them in many rivers and springs in Florida. Silver Springs State Park is no exception.

Manatees go to the warmer waters of the springs during the winter months. As a result, November through March is the best time to see manatees in Silver Springs.

While your chances are lower, you could see manatees in Silver Springs year round. Keep in mind that most manatees in Silver Springs will be swimming up the river.

Do not even try catching up with them on a kayak or a paddle board. The strong river current will make an upstream journey challenging. A Glass Bottom Motor Boat has a clear advantage over a kayak here.

A manatee sighting might only take a few seconds to a minute. But few things compare to a feeling when a large manatee swims just below your paddle board.

Manatees come to the surface for breathing every few minutes. Put your luck to a test. Trying being in the right place at the right time. And a manatee might show its whiskers and fluke before the next dive.

5.4. Monkeys

You might be surprised to learn about the next animal on this list. Few people know that Silver Springs is also home to monkeys.

These monkeys, or rather rhesus macaques, are not Florida natives. A jungle boat tour operator released them in Silver Springs some 100 years ago.

Six original monkeys found Silver Springs a suitable habitat. That led to an almost uncontrolled growth in their population. There are now around 400 rhesus macaques in Silver Springs State Park.

It is harder to see monkeys that most other animals in the park. But your chances are highest once you paddle past the River Viewpoint on the Swamp Trail.

This area attracts fewer visitors. Most hourly equipment renters do not make it that far downstream. And there are just two trails that bring hikers to this section of the river.

Listen for the noises. Monkeys squeal and shriek a lot in their interactions. Slow down and try to locate the source of the noise. It is up to nature and luck after that.

Just like with alligators, give the Silver Springs monkeys some space. This species carries herpes. It is hardly a good idea to contract a non curable virus on a visit to this park.

5.5. Little Blue Herons

Do not worry if there were no monkeys near your route. There are plenty of other species to see in Silver Springs State Park.

The park is an excellent place for birding. You could see a handful of birds without even making an effort. Just see for yourself.

Little Blue Herons are one of the most common birds in this state park. They are often in the same areas as the turtles and alligators.

Look towards the shores and fallen trees. These birds will be walking on algae fields and scouting the area for food.

Some Little Blue Herons are dark. Others are white or have dark spots. As this bird matures it gradually changes its color to a darker tone.

5.6. Common Gallinules

A Common Gallinule is the next bird you might see in Silver Springs. Despite its name, this bird is a little less common in the state park.

A Common Gallinule is a bit smaller than a typical Little Blue Heron. Most of them look a bit like small chickens. You could recognize them by their charcoal color and red bill.

Shallow wetlands are the best places to spot Common Gallinules in Silver Springs. Once again, it means looking towards the shores of the Silver River.

5.7. Wood Ducks

A wood duck is another bird you could count on seeing in Silver Springs State Park. This bird is larger than a common gallinule and many herons. It means you should have no problem spotting it.

Wood ducks are some of the prettiest birds in the park. Male ducks have feather of different colors. They range from brown, grey, and black to green, yellow, and blue.

Females are mostly brown with a beautiful black or grey pattern. They also have an easy-to-recognize white pattern around their eyes.

Wood ducks do not like to be approached. Keep your distance and do not make any sudden movements around them. These birds would fly away if you get too close.

5.8. Fish

Fish is the other obvious species to look out for when exploring Silver Springs. The river and springs have a large population of different fish types.

But fish in Silver Springs have a story to tell. A study revealed that blue tilapia became the most common fish species in this area. Not unlike the rhesus macaques, tilapia is an invasive species to this area.

It likely came to Silver Springs from the Atlantic Ocean via the St. Jones River. The arrival of tilapia increased competition for food and nesting areas with the native fish.

As a result, the populations of native fish started to drop. But despite decreasing numbers, you could still see largemouth bass, sunfish, stripped mullet, and catfish in the springs.

5.9. Water flowers

You can be certain that you will see a handful of animals in Silver Springs State Park. But you should not overlook its plants either.

The shores of Silver Springs have countless aquatic plants. You will be paddling next to the water lilies and pickerelweed.

Both plants bloom from June to September. This is the time when you are less likely to see manatees and monkeys. At least, you be enjoying the blooming blue and yellow aquatic plants.

5.10. Tape Grass

You cannot describe Silver Springs without speaking about tape grass or eel grass. Some people confuse it with algae, the reason for the declining wildlife populations and a swim ban in the park.

But they are wrong. Tape grass is a highly beneficial plant for the ecosystem. You could enjoy its underwater lawns that attract schools of fish.

5.11. Springs

The springs are the first and the last thing to see in Silver Springs. They create a habitat for the different species in the park. The springs are also an attraction by themselves.

Clear waters of the springs and the river will look blue or green in areas without tape grass. These shallow and deep spots look just like Tulum, Puerto Rico, and Hawaii.

Swamp Tupelo trees along with Spanish moss give Silver Springs its unique appeal. It is easy to feel like an explorer while paddling on the Silver River.

You never know what species awaits you after the next river turn. Will it be an alligator on the shore or a manatee swimming upstream? A wood duck protecting its ducklings or a turtle enjoying the sun?

You have to be alert to see wildlife in Silver Springs. But you should also use the time to relax and reconnect with nature.

Only occasional motor boats will interfere with your peaceful exploration. They will pass you quickly. The river goes back to its mysterious state after just a few minutes.

Continue with this Guide on Things to Do in Silver Springs Florida. You will learn more about ways to get to the sights, entrance requirements, and places to stay.

Getting to Silver Springs Florida

Silver Springs is a community outside of Ocala, Florida. Both towns are a hair north of a regional line between North Florida and Central Florida.

Silver Springs is under 10 miles from Interstate Highway I-75. As a result, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Sarasota are all within a 2.5-hour drive of the park.

This location makes Silver Springs a great day trip destination from a few cities across both regions. It also gives you more airports to choose from as an out-of-state visitor.

Sanford Airport (SFB) north of Orlando is less than 2 hours from Silver Springs. A drive from Orlando (MCO) is about 20 minutes longer.

But there is a reason to take a closer look at Orlando. Orlando is a much bigger airport than Sanford. It is close to the world class theme parks of Disney World and Universal.

There are plenty of direct connections from Orlando to major cities across the US and abroad. You could count on getting a deal to Orlando.

On the other hand, Sanford is a hub for low cost regional carriers. This airport is often cheaper for fliers from smaller towns, like Knoxville, Tennessee or Roanoke, Virginia.

Still, Orlando and Sanford are not the only airports near Silver Springs. Tampa (TPA), St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE), Sarasota Bradenton (SRQ), and Jacksonville (JAX) are all solid options.

Tampa Airport is 7 miles further away from the park than Orlando. But a drive from Tampa could be comparable to Sanford thanks to Highways I-275 and I-75.

St. Pete-Clearwater and Jacksonville Airports have comparable drive times to the park. Sarasota Bradenton is the furthest airport from the park on this list.

As you likely guessed, you need a car to get to Silver Springs. A car rental will allow you to enjoy Silver Springs on your own schedule.

Where to Stay near Silver Springs

There are a few places to stay right in Silver Springs, Florida. They include Holiday Inn Express Silver Springs – Ocala, an IHG Hotel, a solid option next to the state park.

You will have even more choices if you do not mind a short drive to Ocala or Highway I-75. Check out TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ocala if you prefer hotel chains.

The Equestrian is a pricier option in Ocala. But you will be paying for a 5-star experience at this hotel. Check out Latinos Y Mas, Mesa de Notte, or Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille if you stay in Ocala.

Other options for places to stay depend on your next destination. You should look into Gainesville or Jacksonville if you travel north.

Wildwood, Spring Hill, Wesley Chapel, and Tampa work best if you travel south. And Orlando is an unbeatable if your trip brings you to the theme parks.

Entrance Requirements & Passes

Silver Springs State Park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset every day of the year. The Silver River Museum is only open between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

30-minute Glass Bottom Boat Tours run every 20 minutes every day of the year. Reserve a spot if you would like to guarantee admission at a particular time slot. Walk-ins for this tour tend to be available.

Extended Glass Bottom Boat Tours run only Friday to Sunday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. These tours routinely sell out. You should book this tour in advance since they will not have availability the day of.

Additional rules apply if you rent kayaks, canoes, or paddle boards. You have to return the rental equipment by 5 p.m.

This requirement adds limits to your rental. You could rent for a full day with a shuttle ride no later than 12:30 p.m. A full day rental without a shuttle goes till 2 p.m. One hour rentals continue till 4 p.m.

Admission & Activity Fees

The state park charges admission fees. These fees depend on both the mode of travel and activities in the park. You will need to pay $2 per person regardless of your travel mode for exploring the Silver River.

But it pays off to carpool to Silver Springs for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.

• You would pay $5 per car if you are visiting the park alone.
• Yet, it costs just $8 per car if you enter the park in a car with up to 8 people.
• Pedestrians and cyclists pay $2 per person if they enter the park on foot or on a bike.

These fees cover the entrance to Silver Springs State Park. You would need to pay extra for the museum, tours, and rentals.

• The Silver River Museum costs another $2 per person.
• A 30-minute Glass Bottom Boat Tour is $13 per adult, $12 per senior and child between 6 and 12.
• A 90-minute Glass Bottom Boat Tour is $25 per adult, $20 per senior and child between 6 and 12.
• A single kayak rental costs $30 for an hour or $55 for a full day with a shuttle ride back.
• A tandem kayak, canoe, or paddle board rental costs $45 per hour or $70 for a day and a shuttle.
• A fee of $4 per kayak, canoe, paddle board applies if you bring your own equipment.

You could end up paying even more. Additional pavilion rental, cabin, and camping fees apply if you plan on extending your visit to Silver Springs.

A Florida State Parks annual pass only covers the entrance fee to Silver Springs. It costs $60 per person or $120 per family. It is far less useful than an Interagency Annual Pass.

Takeaways: Things to Do in Silver Springs Florida

Silver Springs is an excellent day trip destination in North Florida. You could reach the park in less than 2.5 hours from Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville.

Silver Springs helps you to see Florida from a different perspective. Florida springs are just as iconic experience as the state beaches, swamps, and theme parks.

Yet, monkeys and manatees set Silver Springs apart from other springs in Florida. You will not find these animals in other Florida state parks as easily.

You could choose a narrated Glass Bottom Boat Tour if you would like to see wildlife with almost no effort. Kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding are options for a self guided exploration.

Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are other activities in Silver Springs. Yet, they give you far fewer chances to see wildlife in the park.

Swimming is one thing you cannot do in Silver Springs. With algae in the water and alligators nearby, it is probably for the best.

Take a look at this Video Guide on Things to Do in Silver Springs Florida. And visit the YouTube channel for the latest videos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Safe realist travels!