Most tourists will come to Orlando and splash around in wave pools, or float down lukewarm lazy rivers at crowded water parks. But smart, savvy travelers seek out Central Florida’s secret natural attractions — its springs. Due to Florida’s geology and climate, the state is home to the most natural springs in the country. Unlike popular geothermal or “hot” springs, Florida’s springs stay mild at 68-70 degrees F, as the water sits close to the earth’s surface in Florida’s aquifer. With almost a year-round climate calling for bathing suits, Florida’s natural springs are popular for cooling off, enjoying the outdoors, and experiencing nature’s wonders.

1. Wekiwa Springs

Park

Wekiwa Springs is a popular recreational area for Central Floridians. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at this state park, from horseback riding to camping, canoeing, and of course swimming in their well-maintained spring. In the summer months, the park is so busy it often runs out of parking space, so arrive early.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUIjaSDji2Q/?taken-at=234558245

1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL, +1 407-884-2009

Rock Springs

Rock Springs at Kelly State Park is known for its tubing trail, Rock Springs Run, a meandering creek fed from the spring emerging from a rock bluff. This state reserve also boasts 17 miles of trails and recreational hunting opportunities.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUKKA7kgEJK/?taken-at=254171009

30601 County Road 433, Sorrento, FL

2. Blue Springs

Park

Blue Springs is the largest spring along the St. John’s River. Its water stays at a crisp 73 degrees year-round, attracting Manatees during their mating season. Snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving are popular activities at this beautiful spring.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUF_vqYli18/?taken-at=853181661422931

2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL, +1 386-775-3663

3. De Leon Springs

Restaurant

Get an early start and head to De Leon Springs, where you can get a home-cooked breakfast before your day in the sun. On property is the historic Sugar Mill, now a restaurant serving make-your-own pancakes. This state park is named after Juan Ponce De Leon, the Spanish conquistador credited with being the first European explorer to land in North America. Activities include swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking, and boating.

De Leon Springs State Park (c) By Ebyabe, Wikimedia Commons

601 Ponce De Leon Blvd, De Leon Springs, FL, +1 386-985-4212

5. Juniper Spring

Camping

Juniper Spring is deep in the Ocala National Forest, and is home to a swimming area, campground site, and a network of trails. Juniper Springs is truly a jungle oasis shrouded in palms and live oaks with hundreds of tiny bubbling springs.

State of Florida, photo by H. Means || Wikimedia Commons

Ocala National Forest 26701 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.