Located in Florida, Silver Springs is home to a vast range of artesian springs connecting to the Silver River in Marion County. The best way to experience this heavenly abode is through recreational activities like boat tours.
Glass-bottom boat tours are among the most popular activities that attract visitors from around the world to these stunning waterways. Taking a clear kayak in Silver Springs offers a unique opportunity to experience its diverse and astonishing wildlife up close. Boat tours have been a renowned part of Silver Springs tourism since 1878.
If you’re new to traveling, don’t be intimidated by its fame; exploring Silver Springs is easier than it seems. All you need is an experienced guide and a can-do attitude; you are all set to go!
Here is the best way for a beginner to explore Silver Springs:
Silver Springs is incredibly age-friendly. From kayak tours to walking tours through the Silver Springs State Park, this heavenly abode has something to offer everyone.
1. Boat Tours
A must-try experience in Silver Springs is its renowned boat tours. You can enjoy a glass-bottomed boat tour and have friendly encounters with some of the cutest aquatic creatures. A boat tour is the best way to see these marine animals and perhaps even interact with them. On these tours, you can encounter gentle giants like the Florida manatees, turtles (also known as Florida cooters), temperamental river otters, and even the occasional alligator. However, be careful not to get too friendly with a gator!
2. Paddleboard tours
Similar to the boat tours, a paddleboard tour will take you into the water. Paddleboard tours make for a unique experience. The experienced guides of Silver Springs will lead you about five miles downstream on the Silver River. Paddleboard tours will give you the chance to take charge. You can go on these tours solo. Canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent. Visitors can take either a single kayak or a tandem kayak. A clear kayak in Silver Springs will allow you to enjoy the underwater view. Canoes are more family-friendly. The stability of canoes makes them the perfect transport for photographers. Stand-up paddleboards are available for experts and beginners alike. It makes for a great watersport while you explore the marine wildlife of Silver Springs.
3. Hiking tours
Silver Springs State Park has the right hiking tours if you are more of a land person. This haven of natural beauty has numerous trails for visitors, ranging from easy to expert-level hikes. Make sure to carry a GPS device and a map. Wear appropriate clothing and bring plenty of water and sunscreen; Florida can get very warm. Hikes are a great way to encounter wildlife on land, like the rhesus macaques. These wild monkeys were brought to Silver Springs in the 1930s. If you’re lucky, you might encounter these pesky, curious creatures. Your guide may advise you to keep your distance and avoid feeding these wild animals.
4. Museum and art gallery tours
What better way to understand the history and culture of Silver Springs than through its museums and art galleries? Silver Springs offers the exquisite Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center. Here, you can learn about the geology, archeology, and natural history of the area.
5. Camping
Silver Springs offers plenty of RV and tent sites to accommodate large crowds. Moreover, they also provide more traditional camping sites. Camping can be a great way to relax after a long day of exploring. If RVs and tents are not your style, Silver Springs also provides cabins for a more luxurious stay.
Silver Springs is incredibly beginner-friendly. With a wide range of readily available activities, beginners can ensure they experience everything this haven has to offer.