One of the most popular and beautiful state parks in the state of Florida is definitely Weeki Wachee Springs. It has crystal clear water, a water slide, adult beverages, and a natural lazy river!
If you are in or around Hernando County this is definitely a place you need to check out. After recently moving to the area and purchasing our annual Florida State Parks pass we have been visiting many parks in the area. This one is definitely the perfect place to spend a day with the kids!
Get there Early
I had read online to get there early as the park will hit capacity. But what I did not know is that you should probably get there 30+ minutes before the park even opens! You will want to get there early so that you do not end up at the back of the line. While usually it takes about 90 minutes for park to hit capacity there would be nothing worse than waiting in line for 90 minutes only to be turned away at the gate.
I definitely suggest getting there early too so that it is cooler outside while you are waiting and by the time it gets hot you are in the park and can jump in the water!
Rent tubes
Definitely make sure you get tube wrist bands while you are there! The natural lazy river is a great way to relax and see the fish in the clear water! It is also less crowded than the swim and dock area so it is a nice little break from the chaos.
There are single rider and double rider tubes but you will both need wrist bands for the double rider! The tube wrist bands are $7 each but definitely worth it for a full day at Weeki Wachee Springs.
Get in line for a mermaid show
Weeki Wachee Springs is know for the clear blue water and the real life mermaids! The mermaid show at Weeki Wachi happens ever 2 hours and you need to get in line early as the show does fill up quickly!
This is such an awesome performance and definitely a favorite among the kids. You defiantly do not want to miss one of the shows even if it means getting in line 30 minutes early!
Ride the Wilderness Cruise
Another fun attraction at Weeki Wachee Springs is the boat tour that goes around the springs! Think Jungle Cruise vibes. It is fun and just another fun activity for the whole family to do together!
The best part about the Wilderness Cruise is the real life wildlife you get to see! It is not animatronic like some cruises because Florida wildlife is literally everywhere.
Get some food and drinks
If you are looking to save money, bring a lunch! But the snack shack actually has some pretty good burgers at Buccaneer Bay! And of course if you are 21+ there are adult beverages available that make the day much more enjoyable!
Any kids themed attraction is made better with a cocktail in hand. One of the things we loved about Universal Studios was being able to drink all day while the kids played. Let’s all be honest, if you are a person with children who sometimes consumes alcohol, water parks and amusements parks are places you want a drink at!
Play on the slide
What would a water park be without a water slide?! With two options you can have a fast and straight ride down or a more curvy option that everyone will enjoy! There is a height requirement but all kids that can will enjoy the slides! We even enjoyed the slides quite a bit as adults. It is a fun way to let loose and a quick way to get into the chilly water.
So now that you know a little more about Weeki Wachee Springs, you are ready to plan your day trip here! Let me know if you love the clear blue water as much as we do.
