A jewel of North Central Florida, Wakulla Springs, just 20 minutes south of Tallahassee in Wakulla County, is one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. At Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, visitors can experience the springs and get a taste of Old Florida by taking scenic boat tours of the river and staying and eating at the park’s grand historic lodge.
The Lodge at Wakulla Springs, an attraction steeped in Hollywood history, is considered “North Florida’s Castle” and features 27 rooms that overlook the spring. Throughout the two-story Mediterranean Revival-style hotel, built in 1937 by financier Edward Ball, ornate features can be seen, from the marble and iron Art Deco staircase to a painted ceiling depicting wildlife and nature scenes. The lodge offers three places to eat and drink: the Edward Ball Dining Room, which serves Southern-style specialties and seasonal farm-to-table fare, the Post Office, former home of the first post office in Wakulla County which now functions as a special event bar, and the Soda Fountain, which boasts a classic counter more than 70 feet in length – the world’s longest marble soda fountain – with trained soda jerks serving sweet treats and counter food.
On-water adventures at Wakulla Springs include open-water scuba and cave diving, swimming in the springs, making a splash from the 22-foot diving and observation tower, and boat tours of the river, a longstanding park tradition. Boat tours last about 45 to 55 minutes and are perfect for birding and catching glimpses of the park’s wild animals: alligators, migratory birds, turtles, fish, and more. It’s possible to spot manatees at any time during the year, but chances are best between October and January.
On land, visitors can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, and do some birding and geocaching. Beyond Wakulla Springs, Wakulla County offers a plethora of parks and natural areas, festivals and events, and unique North Florida communities to explore.
Plan your trip at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park and Visit Wakulla.
BEACHES & WATERWAYS
Explore the springs, river, and more of the area’s waterways.
FAMILY FUN
Splash in the springs and see the area’s other parks and playgrounds.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Learn about local history and check out events and festivals.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Hit the trails, swim in the springs, and take a boat tour of the river.
ACCESSIBILITY
Check out the state park’s accessible activities and amenities.
DINING
Dine at the state park or at one of the many eateries in the area.
SHOPPING
Shop for outdoor gear, gifts, and more in Wakulla County.
PLACES TO STAY
Stay at the state park lodge or one of the area’s hotels, vacation rentals, or campgrounds.
