Things to Do in Silver Springs
Home to Florida's original glass-bottom boats since 1878, Silver Springs is one of the largest artesian spring formations in the world. From kayaking and hiking to dining and exploring, here is your complete guide to the area.
Silver Springs sits about 6 miles east of downtown Ocala along State Road 40, at the point where over 30 individual spring vents push an average of 550 million gallons of water per day to the surface. This massive flow creates the headwaters of the Silver River, which winds five miles east through dense subtropical forest before merging with the Ocklawaha River. The water clarity at Silver Springs is extraordinary, with visibility often exceeding 80 feet, and the springs maintain a constant temperature of approximately 72 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.
The history of Silver Springs as a tourist destination stretches back further than almost anywhere else in Florida. Glass-bottom boat tours began here in 1878, making Silver Springs one of the oldest commercial tourist attractions in the state. Throughout the early and mid-twentieth century, the springs served as a filming location for six Tarzan movies, the television series Sea Hunt, and numerous other productions. The iconic glass-bottom boats remain the signature experience today, operated by a park concessionaire within Silver Springs State Park.
Beyond the famous boat tours, Silver Springs State Park encompasses over 4,000 acres of protected land with more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails. Kayakers and canoeists can paddle the Silver River through corridors of live oaks, cypress, and palm trees, with frequent sightings of manatees, otters, alligators, deer, and the well-known population of rhesus macaques that have inhabited the riverbanks since the 1930s. The park also offers camping, picnicking, and access to the Ocala Greenway, which connects to the broader Cross Florida Greenway trail system.
The area surrounding Silver Springs State Park has its own collection of attractions and amenities. The Silver Springs Shores community to the south provides neighborhood parks and local services. The Appleton Museum of Art, located on the College of Central Florida campus along SR-40, houses a collection of over 24,000 objects spanning European, American, Asian, and African art. Dining options along the SR-40 corridor serve visitors heading to and from the park, and downtown Ocala is a short drive west for a wider selection of restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
Whether you are planning a morning kayak trip, a full day at the state park, or a weekend exploring the Silver Springs area and nearby Ocala, this guide covers the activities, attractions, and practical details you need to make the most of your visit.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
Signature ExperienceThe glass-bottom boat tour at Silver Springs has been operating since 1878, making it one of the oldest tourist attractions in Florida. Boats glide over the crystal-clear headspring and along the Silver River, giving passengers an unobstructed view of the spring vents, submerged fossils, fish, turtles, and aquatic vegetation below. Tours last approximately 30 minutes and depart regularly throughout the day. It remains the most popular activity at Silver Springs State Park and is suitable for all ages.
Kayaking & Canoeing the Silver River
The Silver River offers one of the most scenic paddling experiences in Florida. From the launch point at Silver Springs State Park, kayakers and canoeists paddle downstream through a corridor of subtropical forest, past limestone formations, and through habitats frequented by manatees, otters, alligators, wading birds, and rhesus macaques. The river is calm with a gentle current, making it accessible to beginners. Kayak and canoe rentals are available through the park concessionaire, and guided tours provide naturalist-led experiences for those who want expert commentary.
Hiking & Biking Trails
Free with Park EntrySilver Springs State Park features over 10 miles of trails that wind through longleaf pine sandhills, hardwood hammocks, and along the Silver River. The Sinkhole Trail is a popular loop that passes several collapsed limestone formations. The park's trail system connects to the Ocala Greenway, part of the Cross Florida Greenway corridor, which extends for miles in both directions and is popular with cyclists and joggers. Trails are flat to gently rolling and suitable for all fitness levels. Wildlife sightings are common, including white-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, and a variety of bird species.
Wildlife Viewing
Silver Springs is one of the best wildlife viewing destinations in central Florida. The clear water of the Silver River makes it possible to spot manatees, large bass, mullet, gar, and dozens of turtle species from the surface. Along the riverbanks, the resident population of rhesus macaques is regularly visible in the tree canopy. Birdwatchers will find great blue herons, anhingas, limpkins, barred owls, and red-shouldered hawks throughout the park. Winter months bring increased manatee activity as the animals seek the warm spring water, and guided wildlife tours are available seasonally.
Dining Near Silver Springs
The SR-40 corridor between Silver Springs and downtown Ocala offers a range of dining options for visitors. Within the park, a snack bar serves sandwiches, drinks, and quick bites for day visitors. Along East Silver Springs Boulevard, you will find family restaurants, barbecue joints, Mexican restaurants, and fast-casual chains. For a broader dining experience, downtown Ocala is approximately 6 miles west and features locally owned restaurants, craft breweries, coffee shops, and the dining options around the downtown square. Picnic pavilions within the state park are a popular choice for families bringing their own food.
Shopping & Nearby Attractions
The Silver Springs area connects to several other attractions worth exploring. The Appleton Museum of Art, located on the College of Central Florida campus along SR-40, houses a collection of over 24,000 objects and offers free admission on the first Saturday of each month. The Silver Springs Shores community south of SR-40 has neighborhood shopping centers with grocery stores, pharmacies, and local shops. For more extensive shopping, the Paddock Mall and various retail centers are located along SR-200 in southwest Ocala, and downtown Ocala features boutiques, antique stores, and specialty shops around the historic square.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do at Silver Springs State Park?
Silver Springs State Park offers glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking and canoeing on the Silver River, hiking on over 10 miles of trails, wildlife viewing, swimming in designated areas, picnicking, and camping. The glass-bottom boats have been operating since 1878 and remain the most popular attraction, giving visitors a view of the spring vents, fish, and turtles in the crystal-clear water below.
How much does it cost to visit Silver Springs?
Admission to Silver Springs State Park is free. Glass-bottom boat tours are offered at an additional fee, typically around $12 for adults and $11 for children ages 6 to 12. Kayak and canoe rentals are available from the park concessionaire at separate rates. Camping fees vary depending on the campsite type, with tent sites and full-hookup RV sites available.
Can you swim at Silver Springs State Park?
Yes, swimming is allowed in designated areas at Silver Springs State Park. The spring-fed water maintains a constant temperature of approximately 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it comfortable in every season. Swimming areas are clearly marked and monitored. The headspring itself is off-limits for swimming to protect the ecosystem, but there are approved swimming zones along the Silver River.
What restaurants are near Silver Springs?
The Silver Springs area along SR-40 has a variety of dining options. The park itself has a snack bar and picnic facilities. Along the SR-40 corridor between Silver Springs and Ocala, you will find fast-casual restaurants, barbecue spots, and family dining. The nearby Silver Springs Shores community also has local eateries. Downtown Ocala, about 6 miles west, offers a wider selection of restaurants and cafes.
Is kayaking at Silver Springs good for beginners?
Silver Springs is excellent for beginner kayakers. The Silver River has a gentle current, no rapids, and the water is calm and clear. Kayak and canoe rentals are available at the park, and guided tours are offered for those who prefer a structured experience. The typical paddle route follows the Silver River downstream through a corridor of subtropical forest where you may see monkeys, manatees, turtles, and wading birds.
Are there wild monkeys at Silver Springs?
Yes, a population of rhesus macaques lives along the Silver River. The monkeys are descendants of a small group released on an island in the river during the filming of Tarzan movies in the 1930s. They swam to the mainland and established a breeding population. Today, visitors commonly spot them in trees along the riverbanks during kayak trips and glass-bottom boat tours. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission manages the population.
What is there to do near Silver Springs besides the state park?
The Silver Springs area offers several attractions beyond the state park. Silver Springs Shores has neighborhood parks and community amenities. The Appleton Museum of Art is located just west along SR-40 on the College of Central Florida campus. The Santos mountain biking trails are a short drive south. Downtown Ocala, about 6 miles west, features restaurants, shopping, galleries, and the Ocala Downtown Historic District.
Plan Your Silver Springs Visit
From glass-bottom boats and kayaking to hiking trails and wildlife viewing, Silver Springs is one of Florida's most rewarding natural destinations.