Local Directory — The Villages, Ocala & Central Florida
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
Buccaneer Bay
Crystal RiverFlorida's only spring-fed waterpark, located within Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, featuring white sandy beaches, body slides, a lazy river, and crystal-clear 74-degree water from the natural spring.
Crystal River Clear Kayak Tours
Crystal RiverPaddle transparent kayaks over Crystal River's impossibly clear springs, watching fish and manatees glide beneath your feet. The see-through hull makes every paddle stroke a window into Florida's underwater world.
Hunter Springs Kayaks
Crystal RiverPremier kayak and paddleboard rental outfitter in downtown Crystal River offering single and tandem kayaks, SUPs, clear bottom crafts, and guided manatee eco-tours during season (November through March).
Hunter Springs Park
Crystal RiverThis wooded park is named for its natural springs & popular for a cozy beach with a kayak launch.
Island Girl Cruises
Crystal RiverNarrated 2-hour pontoon boat tours on the Homosassa River led by a USCG-licensed captain, visiting Monkey Island, local springs, and wildlife viewing points.
Kaceys Custom Adventures Kayak Rentals and Tours
Crystal RiverClear kayak and paddleboard rental outfitter at Pete's Pier Marina, the closest shop to Three Sisters and Hunter Springs, offering manatee kayak tours including sunset and glow tours.
Rainbow Springs State Park Tubing
DunnellonSeasonal tubing launch at Rainbow Springs State Park where visitors rent tubes and float 1.5 hours down the crystal-clear Rainbow River, one of Florida's first-magnitude springs.
Scott Springs Park
OcalaCommunity park in Ocala with a natural spring-fed pool area, picnic pavilions, walking trails, and a playground. A local favorite for family outings and afternoon picnics.
Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center
The VillagesIntimate performing arts theater on Spanish Springs Town Square. Hosts concerts, Broadway-style shows, and special events year-round.
Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center
OcalaHidden gem inside Silver Springs State Park with 12,000 years of Florida history — prehistoric artifacts, rare fossils, and a pioneer cracker village with historic cabins and a one-room schoolhouse. Open to the public on weekends only.
Silver Springs State Park Glass Bottom Boat Tours
OcalaThe original glass-bottom boat experience, running since the 1870s. Thirty-minute tours depart every 15-20 minutes, with extended 90-minute deep tours at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. Book ahead — they sell out.
Silver Springs State Park Paddling Adventures
OcalaKayak and canoe rentals on the crystal-clear Silver River inside Silver Springs State Park. Paddle through one of Florida's most pristine waterways with chances to spot manatees, turtles, and monkeys.
Three Sisters Springs Visitors Center for Swimming with Manatees
Crystal RiverPreserved area of springs & natural habitat for manatees with a boardwalk & trolleys for viewing.