Just outside of the hustle and bustle of Orlando lies a first-magnitude spring, which is central Florida's most essential swimming hole. Welcome to Wekiwa Springs, Florida's best hidden swim spot!
For a look at what wild Florida was like centuries ago, visit Wekiwa Springs State Park. You can hike, enjoy a picnic, or take a dip in the spring, which maintains a constant temperature of 72°F year-round, making it perfect for swimming or snorkeling. The park has more than 13 miles of trails that are accessible for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
In addition to offering food off of the grill, snacks, and cold drinks, the park’s concession stand provides canoe and kayak rentals (you also are able to bring your own). They even have Wekiwa Springs souvenirs available for purchase so you can commemorate your trip!
Voted the number-one steakhouse in central Florida, The Back Room Steakhouse is a delicious place to grab some grub on a night out. Everything on the menu gets high marks for flavor, and you won’t have trouble finding something that will suit your tastes. If you want an adult beverage, they offer handcrafted cocktails and craft beers on tap. Make sure to save room for dessert, and to snag a reservation ahead of time.
Taverna Italiano, located just off of Rock Springs Road features absolutely amazing pizza from their wood-fired pizza oven. It also uses seasonal ingredients to create surprising entrées. Try the risotto; it just might be the best dish on the menu.
Known as the best paddle run in central Florida, Kings Landing is the place to go for canoeing and kayaking adventures. The river current runs three to four miles per hour, so you won’t have to work too hard to get your boat flowing. The paddle run is a haven for many critters, such as deer, bears, otters, and even monkeys! The trip down the run is 8.5 miles long and takes (on average) 4.5 hours to complete. The trail has a few places to stop and relax, swim, and picnic on the riverbank. Rates are $40.00 per canoe or kayak, and $50.00 for a two-person kayak.
With a year-round temperature of 68°F, Kelly Park Rock Springs is a wonderful place to cool down on a hot day. One of the most popular activities at this park is tubing, as the creek flows freely and swiftly, and you can rent or purchase tubes from vendors outside of the park. The “lazy river” takes about 30 minutes to complete. Park admission fee is $3.00 per vehicle for one to two people and $1.00 per additional person.
Whether you're exploring central Florida on horseback, in an inner tube, via kayak or canoe, or just in your Airstream, you're bound to fall in love with the lush, wild beauty here.
