Nestled an hour north of Tampa Bay, Florida, and just over an hour and a half west of Orlando, lies the wondrous world of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. This Florida state park is a classic American roadside attraction tour stop. It also sits near Buccaneer Bay Waterpark, boasting multiple water slides for the whole family to enjoy.
The stunning clear waters flow from the first-magnitude spring into the pure crystal river known as the Weeki Wachee River. Florida's springs are genuinely incredible. But in 2007, cave divers discovered this one in Hernando County to be the deepest known freshwater cave system in North America.
The Weeki Wachee Mermaids
Besides the water park next door, the primary draw to visit Weeki Wachee is the live mermaid show. Yes, you heard that right, a real-life mermaid show! The mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs have been treating guests of the park for six decades and counting!
Currently, the mermaids perform a customized version of Hans Christian Andersen's The Little Mermaid live at the park's submerged 400-seat auditorium. The entertaining show includes several musical tunes, the classic story of The Little Mermaid, and fun underwater feats only mermaids can undergo — like eating and drinking underwater.
Fun Activites at Weeki Wachee
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While the mermaid show is the main attraction at the park, there are many other exciting activities to enjoy during your visit. A riverboat cruise on the Weeki Wachee River is a unique way to discover this enchanting spot's pristine spring waters and fragile ecosystems. Be sure to check ahead of time and schedule your boat tour in advance to reserve your spot.
Another way to explore by water is to go paddling and kayaking via the boat rentals available at the park. Rent a kayak or canoe for an exciting day trip, including paddles, PFDs, and transportation back to the entry point at the parking lot (the price is per boat, not per person). You can visit the Boating Florida website or call 352-597-8484.
Pack your lunch for the day and enjoy a meal at one of the picnic tables located at the Buccaneer Bay picnic pavilion. Snorkeling and swimming are also highly-suggested activities at his prismatic Florida State Park. http://weekiwachee.com/boating-in-florida/ At Buccaneer Bay, you can also find a lazy river, a beach area, a playground, and a shower station. Lastly, kids and adults alike LOVE the educational Animal Show, where you can get up close to the native wildlife of the region in a fun and friendly way.
Essential Information for Visiting Weeki Wachee State Park
The park is typically open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM every day of the year. Entry fees are $13 for adults, $8 for children ages 6-12, and free for kids five and under.
For more information, you can visit their website here.
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