Silver Springs, Botanical garden and tourist attraction in Marion County, Florida, US
Silver Springs is a nature reserve with walking trails through gardens, wooded areas, and one of the largest spring systems in the country. Water flows from underground limestone formations and allows visitors to see deep into the spring itself.
The site was registered as a historic place in 1878 when it began operating as a nature attraction with glass-bottom boats. This concept made it one of the first of its kind and drew tourists from across the region.
Indigenous peoples relied on these springs for thousands of years as a vital water source and gathering place. Today, visitors can observe how people still use the water for recreation, much as generations did before.
The site is open year-round with regular hours and offers different ways to explore the grounds. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for varying trail difficulty and exposure to direct sun.
The spring releases roughly 550 million gallons of water daily, making it one of the most productive in North America. The clear water allows visitors to see several feet down and observe fish and plants beneath the surface.
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