Silver Springs Nature Theme Park

Visitors have been flocking to Silver Springs ever since Glass Bottom Boats were invented at the park in 1878, making it "Florida's Original Attraction." Silver Springs is a 350 acre nature theme park that surrounds the headwaters of the beautiful Silver River, the largest artesian spring formation in the world. Located 90 miles north of Orlando, just east of Ocala, Florida.

Here you can view the underground springs from our famous glass-bottom boats, where you'll see fish, shellfish, turtles and alligators in water that's up to 80 feet deep and 99.8% pure. These vessels take guests on an enchanting tour of the seven major spring formations at the headwaters of the Silver River, including Mammoth Spring, the world's largest artesian limestone spring.

The Lost River Voyage transports guests back in time to wild Florida as it was thousands of years ago -- untouched and untamed. Cypress trees line the banks of the river where alligators, turtles and waterfowl and other wildlife thrive. Naturalists at a wildlife outpost, home to many injured and rehabilitating animals that were rescued or brought to the park, talk about Silver Springs' wildlife rehabilitation and breeding programs.

The Fort King River Cruise carries passengers through Silver Spring's 10,000 year history. Interactive exhibits and displays include an archeological dig site, Seminole village, Fort King, riverboat dock and train depot, Florida Cracker homestead and a movie set.

The Big Gator Lagoon is a one-acre cypress swamp habitat featuring more than two dozen of Florida's largest alligators averaging 11 to 13 feet in length. Guests observe these large reptiles from the safety of an elevated boardwalk.

During your visit, you can walk the beautiful grounds and experience the natural habitats of Florida's largest alligators, endangered bears and panthers, Kritter Korral petting zoo, plus an entertaining variety of wildlife shows from Birds of Prey to snakes and reptiles. There are rides and exhibits for all ages in a natural setting of stunning beauty.