Spirit of the Swamp, Orlando

National GeographicMar 31

Where to find some of the wildest rides and thrills in Orlando, Florida

Roller coasters and boat adventures are a vacation staple in Orlando. This city in central Florida is the theme park capital of the world, after all, where resorts attract millions of visitors every ...

six-seat boats for spotting wildlife

20 things in this story

Wild FloridaPlaceairboat tours include restaurants and animal encounters
Spirit of the SwampPlacesix-seat boats for spotting wildlife
Get Up and GoPlaceoffers clear kayaking and bioluminescence trips
Rock SpringsPlaceclear kayaking tours available
Blue Spring State ParkPlacemanatees congregate in warm spring water
Crystal RiverNeighborhoodonly place to swim with manatees
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs State ParkPlacehas an underwater observatory
Silver Springs State ParkPlaceglass-bottom boats tour natural springs
Wekiwa Springs State ParkPlacepart of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail
Rock Springs Run State PreservePlaceglide along the water on an innertube
Hal Scott Regional Preserve and ParkPlaceThe Preserve is bordered by the Econlockhatchee on the West and Wedgefield, Florida on the East.
Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental AreaSighthome to a 200-year-old tree
Loch Haven Cultural ParkSightA guide to the numerous historical trees in the City of Orlando.
Constitution GreenParkIncludes a large park area for dogs.
Harry P. Leu GardensGarden50-acre botanical garden with diverse plant collections
Lake Eola ParkParkrent swan-shaped paddle boats
Florida's EvergladesPlace
Great Florida Birding and Wildlife TrailPlace
Tibet-Butler Nature PreservePlace
Oakland Nature PreservePlace

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Spirit of the Swamp

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Where to find some of the wildest rides and thrills in Orlando, Florida