Last Updated on December 29, 2023
Silver Springs State Park is located in Silver Springs, Florida, just down the road from Ocala.
The Central Florida park is in Marion County and is primarily known for its unique glass bottom boat tours.
Silver Springs is one of Florida’s first tourist attractions, with the famous glass bottom boats dating back to the 1870s. In fact, two men from Marion County (Hullam Jones and Philip Morrell) invented these boats.
The construction of the Silver Springs Tourist Center took place in the 1950s. The historic shops and boat dock designed by famed architect Victor Lundy still greet visitors today.
Here are the best things to do and the top places to visit at and around Silver Springs State Park. We also include nearby places to eat, stay, and shop to inspire a fun Florida getaway.
From enjoyable boat tours and good comfort food to cozy accommodations and unique shops, there are many places to visit and exciting things to do at this alluring Old Florida spot.
Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is located in Ocala National Forest, not far from Rainbow Springs State Park and Juniper Springs.
The Florida Park Service merged the Silver Springs area with the existing Silver River State Park in 2013. Today it’s known as Silver Springs State Park.
Original Florida’s Silver Springs Attraction
Silver Springs has changed a lot since it first introduced its glass bottom boats over one hundred years ago. The springs have been home to a variety of animals, rides, and even a water park.
In 1978, ABC Television built Wild Waters Waterpark in Silver Springs. The water park stayed open until 2013.
Old amusement park rides of Silver Springs included a 40-passenger endangered animal-themed carousel and a gondola ride that took riders 80 feet above the ground for unmatched views of Silver River.
There was also a Jeep safari ride that took guests around the surrounding forest.
When Florida State Parks took over, they removed the remaining operating rides and animals. But the memories live on forever.
Silver Springs on the Big Screen
The natural beauty of Silver Springs welcomed the unique opportunity to be a film location site over the years.
Notable movies, like Creature from the Black Lagoon, Rebel Without a Cause, and multiple Tarzan movies have scenes that were shot at the springs.
The Monkeys of Silver Springs
Did you know that the wildlife viewing of Silver Springs includes wild monkeys? This particular species of monkey is known as rhesus macaque.
They have been roaming the Silver Springs area since a glass boat operator released them in the 1930s.
It is estimated that about 200 rhesus macaques call this area home today.
Visitors are advised to exercise caution, as the monkeys are known to be aggressive. Many of them carry the Herpes B virus, which can be deadly when transmitted to humans.
Things to Do at Silver Springs State Park
There are plenty of things to do in Silver Springs State Park. Once you enter the park, enjoy the charm of a historic Florida attraction via its boat tours, nature trails, kayak rentals, and more.
There are miles of trails (including equestrian trails) for hiking and horseback riding in the park.
Paddling is a fun option, with the Fort King paddling trail allowing visitors to explore a 1.1-mile loop on the water.
Once you work up an appetite from hiking or paddling, there is a picnic area with picnic tables near the main entrance.
While you are at the park, make sure to check out the Silver River Museum. It’s open on Saturdays and Sundays.
The museum has interesting exhibits about Florida wildlife and an 1800s pioneer settlement.
Glass Bottom Boat Tours
The best way to see Silver River is by booking one of the park’s famous glass-bottom boat rides. The crystal-clear water of Mammoth Spring allows for unparalleled views of the spring run and its ecosystem.
There are 30-minute tours that run daily. On select days, there is also an extended 90-minute tour available for booking.
TIPS:
- It is recommended that you reserve your tour in advance online.
- Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
- The 30-minute glass bottom boat tour runs every 15 to 20 minutes.
- Extended tours are offered Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at 9:30 am, 11:30 am, and 1:30 pm.
- 30-minute tours are $13 for adults and $12 for children ages 6 to 12. Children 5 and under ride for free.
- Extended tours are $25 for adults and $20 for children ages 6 to 12. Children 5 and under ride for free.
For more information on tours, visit the official Silver Springs State Park website.
TIPS:
- Silver Springs State Park is open daily from 8 am to sundown.
- The entry fee is $8 per vehicle for two to eight people.
- Entrance to the Silver River Museum is $2 per person.
- The best time to visit is on weekday mornings, with weekends and holidays often drawing large crowds.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Silver Springs State Park Address: 1425 NE 58th Ave, Ocala, FL 34470
Learn about Friends of Silver Springs State Park, an organization that provides support to the park and enhances community involvement to protect the park’s resources.
Where to Eat Near Silver Springs State Park: Silver Springs Diner
Silver Springs Diner is the best place to eat near Silver Springs State Park. The restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients. It’s Ocala’s only 1950s diner.
Enjoy breakfast or lunch at this cool spot. Breakfast is served all day and includes options like omelets, pancakes, and biscuits & gravy.
The lunch menu includes sandwiches and comfort dishes like chili, meatloaf, and country-fried steak.
TIPS:
- Silver Springs Diner is open daily from 7 am to 3 pm.
- Online ordering is available.
- Ask about the daily Blue-Plate Special.
For more information, visit the official Silver Springs Diner website.
Silver Springs Diner Address: 5300 E Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs, FL 34488
Additional Places to Eat Near Silver Springs State Park
Lena’s Restaurant
18478 E Highway 40 Silver Springs, FL 34488
Darrell’s Dog Gone Good Diner
5125 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Check out Silver Glen Springs + Nearby Places to Eat, Stay, & Shop, Lena’s is one of the restaurants we featured.
Silver Glen Springs is a little over 30 miles away and takes you through the Ocala National Forest.
Where to Stay Near Silver Springs State Park: Cozy Cottage in the Forest
Cozy Cottage in the Forest is a great place to stay near Silver Springs State Park. The cottage is located in Ocala National Forest, making it a quiet spot to relax and unwind.
Inside, there are two cozy bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a living room. Enjoy thoughtful amenities such as books and board games while staying at the cottage.
The outdoor space includes seating, a hammock, and a fire pit – perfect for being in nature while enjoying a good book.
Finding a peaceful and remote spot like this cottage is a fantastic way to enjoy the Silver Springs area.
TIPS:
- Cozy Cottage in the Forest is available to book with an advanced reservation.
- Check-in is after 4 pm. Check-out is before 11 am.
- The cottage sleeps up to four guests.
- This listing’s pet policy allows up to two dogs on the property with advanced approval and an additional pet fee.
For more information, visit the official Cozy Cottage in the Forest listing on the Airbnb website.
Cozy Cottage in the Forest Address: Silver Springs, FL (exact address is disclosed after booking)
Additional Places to Stay Near Silver Springs State Park
Sun Plaza Motel
5461 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488
NOTE: We love the old, vintage Sun Plaza Motel sign, but wanted to include another photo of how the motel actually looks.
Shamrock Cove Inn
215 S Pine Ave, Ocala, FL 34471
Where to Shop Near Silver Springs State Park: Peaches Home Furnishings
Peaches Home Furnishings is a unique spot to shop near Silver Springs State Park. The thrift store sells home décor, furniture, jewelry, and vintage and antique finds.
Browse the shop’s one-of-a-kind selections for some perfect souvenirs and items to remember your trip by. You never know what treasures you’ll find.
Peaches Home Furnishings is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 am to 5 pm and Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm.
For more information, visit the official Peaches Home Furnishings Facebook page.
Peaches Home Furnishings Address: 2996 NE 55th Ave, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Additional Places to Shop Near Silver Springs State Park
Hospice Thrift Store
4901 E Silver Springs Blvd #603, Ocala, FL 34470
Forest Shopping Center
15940 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488
If you enjoyed this ultimate guide on Silver Springs State Park and are looking for a few other recommendations, check out:
- Our 19+ Favorite Freshwater Florida Springs for 2023
- Top Places to Eat, Stay, & Shop Near Florida’s Unique Attractions
- 6 Best Glass Bottom Boat Tours in Florida
- Florida Springs Council Advocates for Our Springs
- 27 Best Places to Kayak in Florida
- 23 Best Roadside Attractions in Florida
- Falling Waters State Park + Nearby Places to Eat, Stay, & Shop
- Green Springs Park + Nearby Places to Eat, Stay, & Shop
Loved strolling pics and facts. I found here some 1946 pic of park where my parents honeymooned!