It’s officially springtime, which means it’s the perfect time to head outside and enjoy the nice weather! Mr. Clean Can understands that when you think of Orlando, you think of theme parks. We love visiting the theme parks, but sometimes it’s nice to see what else Central Florida has to offer! Take a look at our list of natural springs recommendations below!

Wekiwa Springs State Park

A very popular place to visit near Orlando is Wekiwa Springs State Park. It’s located in Apopka, and is not too far of a drive from downtown Orlando. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day to swim and cool off from the heat, or if you’re hoping to see wildlife, this is the perfect place to visit. There are so many experiences at Wekiwa Springs State Park, so no one in your family will be bored. You can go hiking, swimming, horseback riding, snorkeling, and so much more. The Wekiwa Springs State Park website says, “With emerald springs feeding the Wekiwa River and lush tropical hammocks, this unique park just minutes from downtown Orlando is perfect for observing abundant wildlife or cooling off on a summer day.” We recommend arriving as early as you can, because this park hits capacity pretty quickly, especially on weekends! They are open from 8 am until sundown. It costs $6 per vehicle, $4 per single occupant vehicle, or $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, etc.

Blue Spring State Park

If you’re looking for somewhere with lots of wildlife to see, and beautiful, warm water to swim in, Blue Spring State Park is where you want to go! From mid-November to the end of March, it is manatee season at Blue Spring State Park! During manatee season, all water activities such as swimming, kayaking, tubing, and so on will be unavailable. The reason for this is because hundreds of manatees use Blue Spring as a winter refuge! You and your family do not want to miss seeing all of these manatees! If you go in the winter season to see the manatees, we still recommend paying another visit in the warmer seasons, so you can experience all of the water activities they have to offer. Blue Spring State Park is open from 8 am to sundown, and it is only $6 per vehicle, $4 per single occupant vehicle, or $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, etc.

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Home to the deepest freshwater cave system in the United States, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park should be on your list of places to visit. While visiting this beautiful park, you can go on a boat tour, swim, snorkel, and even go paddling on the Weeki Wachee River! While you’re visiting Weeki Wachee, you may even spot a mermaid. That’s right! You can take the family over to watch their version of The Little Mermaid. According to their website, “The Mermaids of Weeki Wachee perform underwater feats from the past six decades, including eating and drinking underwater.” Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is open from 9 am to 5:30 pm, and tickets are $13 for adults, $8 for kids aged 6 to 12, and free for kids ages five and under!

What are your favorite natural springs to visit near Orlando? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below!