A 2,600 acres park and manatee refuge. During manatee season (mid-November through March), several hundred manatee can be viewed atop the spring’s overlooks on cold days.

The spring’s crystal clear, 73-degree water can be enjoyed by swimmers, snorkelers and certified scuba divers, with a partner during designated swimming season.

A self-guided tour inside the historic Thursby house, built at the height of the steamboat era in 1872, can also be experienced.