The Weeki Wachee Mermaid Show: A Florida Hidden Gem
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Weeki Wachee Springs is a natural spring in Florida and home to the world-famous Weeki Wachee Mermaid Show, which has been entertaining visitors since 1947. Their unique underwater theater features mermaids performing aquatic ballet and other acts six feet under the water's surface making it a true hidden gem of Florida. Florida is full of crystal-clear natural springs but Weeki Wachee Spring is by far the most magical of them all! At Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, you can do the typical natural spring activities, such as kayaking and paddle boarding, but what makes this spring unique is the iconic mermaids.
Weeki Wachee State Park had been on my list of things to do in Florida right after moving there in 2019, but I wasn’t able to visit until right before I moved out of state in 2021. Visiting Weeki Wachee Springs was well worth the wait and I had an amazing time there! It’s the perfect place for a day trip from Tampa or a weekend trip from South Florida, and it’s fun for the whole family, no matter your age! We visited Weeki Wachee with my two nephews and they loved every minute!
What to Expect at the Weeki Wachee Mermaid Show
The Weeki Wachee Mermaid Show is a one-of-a-kind experience. You'll get to witness the magical world of mermaids and their captivating performances, explore the on-site waterpark and Buccaneer Bay, and even enjoy a small river cruiser. While the mermaids are the main attraction, there's plenty more to see and do at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. You can go kayaking or canoeing down the spring run, take a river cruise through it, or just stroll along one of the nature trails. To the right of the entrance is Buccaneer Bay, which is the spring area where you can snorkel or swim. In the middle, there's a floating platform where kids (including your inner kid) can jump off into the water. Right past the stairs that lead you into the water is a roped-off area in the water where the big water slide will spit you out. This is a great place to wait for someone to go down the slide! You can use your GoPro or other waterproof camera to film them coming down the slide and dropping into the water since the water is so clear. There’s a second water slide that doesn’t drop you into the spring that’s located right across from the kiddie splash area. If you go straight after you enter the park, you can find a gift shop & there’s the theater where the mermaid shows are held. Past that are a couple of cafés, a playground, and the path that leads to the river cruise. Keep your eyes open in this area and you might even see a few peacocks!
Things to Know Before Visiting Weeki Wachee Springs
If you're planning to visit Weeki Wachee Springs, here are a few tips to make the most of your trip:
The best time to visit Weeki Wachee Springs is during the summer months, and that goes for any other Florida spring for that matter. The water temperature stays at 72 degrees all year round at all Florida springs so they’re a great way to cool off on a hot steamy summer day. I’ve been to a few other springs but this one felt extra cold for some reason, but don’t worry, your body will adjust after a few minutes so don’t let that deter you from getting in the completely crystal clear water!
The entrance fee is $13 per person and $8 for children ages 6-12, and children 5 years old and under can enter for free!
Arrive early to the park, especially for the mermaid show. Try to arrive at the park close to the opening to get in line early. This park can get really crowded as it’s one of the top things to do in Florida. Once inside the park, there are a few mermaid performances each day so plan to get to the theater 15-20 minutes before showtime so that you can get good seats!
Kayaking and paddle board rentals, and tours are surprisingly not located within the park but can be found along Weeki Wachee River just outside of the park. Inside the park, there is a floating dock where you can climb up and jump off into the water and a version of a “lazy river” that you can float down.
Why You Should Visit Weeki Wachee Springs
Weeki Wachee Springs is an unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking for a fun family outing or a romantic getaway, this hidden gem of Florida is the perfect destination. With its stunning natural beauty and unique attractions, you won't regret making a stop here.
It's no surprise that Weeki Wachee Springs has been named one of America's top 10 springs by USA Today readers every year since 2011 and is one of the most visited Florida State Parks!
Another unique thing about this specific spring is that it’s also a huge piece of Florida’s history. The first mermaid show was back in 1947 and the original owner, Newton Perry, invented the way these mermaids are able to breathe underwater! Within 10 years after their first show, Weeki Wachee Spring became one of the nation’s most popular tourist attractions and in 1959 it was purchased by ABC (yes, the television network!). After that, the spring was heavily marketed and had celebrities, including Elvis, visit! Since then, the water slides were added, but the mermaid show remains the same and it really is a show to remember. Another fun fact about this spring is that it’s so deep and the current is so strong that no one has ever been able to find the bottom!
What to Pack for Weeki Wachee Springs
When packing for Weeki Wachee Springs, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat. You'll want to dress comfortably, as you'll be walking around in the heat most of the day. A bathing suit is also a must because you won’t be able to resist the clear, beautiful water of Weeki Wachee Springs! Make sure to pack a towel and a change of clothes for after your day of fun. Finally, bring your camera or GoPro so that you can capture all the memories from your visit here at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
Where to stay near Weeki Wachi Spring
Here are some hotel options that are near Week Wachi Spring State Park. The park is about an hour's drive from Tampa if you opt to stay there.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Brooksville Suncoast Parkway (Brooksville, FL)
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Spring Hill/Weeki Wachee (Spring Hill, FL)
Innisbrook, A Salamander Golf & Spa Resort (Palm Harbor, FL) *Right near Tarpon Springs which is a really cool historic boating area where the original sponge docks are!
Fenway Hotel, Autograph Collection (Dunedin, FL)
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay (Tampa, FL)
Element Tampa Midtown (Tampa, FL)
Weeki Wachee Springs is a must-see destination in Florida. With its unique mermaid show, lush natural beauty, and plenty of activities, you won't regret making a stop here. So what are you waiting for? Come see the mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs and make some magical memories!
Happy travels!
-Tess
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Tess Arnold
Hi! I’m Tess, founder of TravelingTessie.com, and not only do I love to travel, but I love immersing myself in new places and finding off the beaten path experiences wherever I go! I’ve lived in 4 different states & traveled to 13 countries and counting. I believe that tourism is meant to benefit both visitors and locals alike—and I want to bring that idea back into the travel industry by highlighting companies run by locals such as tours, hotels, restaurants, and more. On Traveling Tessie you can find hidden gems in top destinations around the world, travel tips, detailed city guides, and tons of inspiration for your next trip! If you love travel as much as I do, then please join me on this journey! I hope you enjoy my content as much as I enjoy providing it for you!
