The Real Florida - Visiting Natural Springs and Nature Beyond Orlando

• Silver Springs State Park, located about one and a half hours from Orlando: For over 100 years, people have been visiting Silver Springs for the untouched beauty and the world-famous glass-bottom boat rides. Something really unique about this river are the wild monkeys that call it home. Rent a kayak or paddleboard, or take a glass-bottom boat ride, and spot some amazing wildlife while gliding over history. People have been on the banks of this river for 10,000 years, and sunken boats can be seen through the crystal clear water.

• Wild Florida, located about 45 minutes from Orlando: Wild Florida is the ultimate place for Florida fun, with so much to do. Take an airboat ride and spot alligators in lakes that are considered the top of the Everglades. Drive through the safari park and see over 150 different species of native and non-native animals. Walk through the Gator Park, where you can visit a petting zoo, see sloths, and of course, alligators. There are alligator feeding shows a couple times during the day, making it a fun and exciting day for the whole family.

• Kelly Park/Rock Springs, located about 35 minutes from Orlando: A real-life natural lazy river, Kelly Park at Rock Springs allows visitors to rent a tube and float down the gorgeous river. You can also camp here, and launch kayaks and paddleboards. Worried about alligators? Although you have to expect them in any body of water in Florida, they tend to stay clear of areas that are frequently visited and have lots of people. Tip: Drive a couple of minutes up the road to King's Landing, which is home to the famous Emerald Cut- a narrow river that weaves in and out of trees that feels like you're in the jungle. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards here.

• De Leon Springs, located about an hour from Orlando: This is a great spot to swim in the cool, clear swimming area that is next to the river. There are also some great trails here to wander around on. They offer eco and heritage boat rides with excellent opportunities for bird watching. Tip: If visiting on a weekend or in the summer, get to the springs when they open or before. De Leon Springs is small and is very popular in the summertime.

• Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, located about 25 minutes from Orlando: This is a free activity that is close to Orlando and gives you a chance to see huge alligators in their natural habitat, all from the safety of your car. This drive takes you all around the top of the massive Lake Apopka. You'll be driving very slowly — about 10 mph — with canals on each side of the road and many gators can be spotted as you drive the 11-mile trip. You can also listen to an audio tour as you drive and learn more about the area and the animals that call it home.

• Crystal River, located about one and a half hours from Orlando: Have you ever wanted to not only see, but swim with manatees in their natural habitat? Crystal River is where hundreds and hundreds of manatees gather from November to March and seek out the warmer waters of the river. This provides visitors with a unique opportunity to get in the river and swim with them, or view them from the boardwalks around Three Sister Springs. It's a really special chance to witness this massive migration. Tip: When it's not manatee season, visitors can swim anywhere in the springs. During manatee season, there's designated places to swim.

• Rainbow Springs, located about one and a half hours from Orlando: Rainbow Springs is a gorgeous stretch of river that you can paddle down, swim in, tube down or even scuba dive in. The water here is extremely clear and there are many sandy spots at the bottom of the river, making the water clarity stunning. The main swimming area is roped off and is very refreshing. Something that makes Rainbow Springs unique is the waterfalls that can be found on the trails. The waterfalls, although man-made, blend into the natural surroundings and are lush and beautiful.

• Scenic Boat Ride in Winter Park Chain of Lakes, located about 20 minutes from Orlando: This quiet, hidden gem near Orlando is an opportunity for a scenic boat ride through three different lakes that are connected. You'll be able to sit back, relax and spot local birdlife, alligators, grand cypress trees and tall palms as you navigate narrow, quaint canals.

• Silver Glen Springs, located about one hour from Orlando: Silver Glen Springs — not to be confused with Silver Springs — is located in the Ocala National Forest. Visitors can swim directly in the head spring, which is a perfectly round, blue hole. Bring some snorkel equipment and swim with the schools of beautiful blue fish that call this springs home. It feels more like you're swimming somewhere in the Caribbean, instead of in a river in the middle of Florida. Tip: Silver Glen Springs is great for kids as a lot of the swimming area is really shallow. It doesn't get much deeper until you dive down into the blue hole. There is also a nice grassy area here for a picnic after your swim.

Old Sugar Mill Pancake House: Located at De Leon Springs, this is a really fun restaurant where you actually get to make your own pancakes at your table. You'll be given pitchers of batter and toppings and you will cook your own pancakes on a skillet in the center of the table. It's a fun attraction on its own, or as an add-on to your day at De Leon Springs.

Hamilton's Kitchen: Located almost directly next to the scenic boat tour in Winter Park, this is an elegant yet casual restaurant for some delicious Southern food after your boat ride.

Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters: Located in the town of Crystal River, this is a great stop for a morning beverage and breakfast sandwich or pastry before you head to the river. They also have a nice selection of gluten-free breakfast items here.

Swampy's Bar & Grille: Located directly on Rainbow River in Dunnellon, have lunch here before or after your visit to Rainbow Springs. Dine outdoor and riverside on classics like burgers, wraps and sandwiches and enjoy the fun and relaxing atmosphere.

Chomp House Grill: Located on site at Wild Florida, you can eat inside the restaurant, or under the shaded pavilion overlooking the lake. They have a nice variety of entrees, platters and vegetarian options. If you're feeling adventurous, try the fried gator nuggets.

Rock Springs Bar & Grill: Located directly outside the entrance to Rock Springs, stop by this family-owned spot for some good food and a fun and casual atmosphere.