Blue Spring State Park is a first-magnitude spring and one of the best places in Florida to see wild West Indian manatees, which gather in the warm spring run from roughly mid-November through March. A boardwalk follows the run, and in summer the park is a popular swimming and snorkeling spot. In winter, swimming in the run is closed to protect the manatees. The trip is about 35 miles (56 km) northeast from Orlando, roughly 45 minutes by car. Take I-4 east to Orange City exit 114, then follow French Ave to the park entrance; about 45 minutes. Costs: Park entry $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 for a single driver, $2 for pedestrians or cyclists; manatee boat tours on the St. Johns River about $30-$40. Before going, confirm hours and any closures with the operator at 386-775-3663 or www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/blue-spring-state-park.
| Distance | About 35 miles (56 km) northeast |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 45 minutes by car |
| Getting there | Drive: Take I-4 east to Orange City exit 114, then follow French Ave to the park entrance; about 45 minutes. No LYNX or SunRail service reaches this destination, so rent a car, book a tour or use rideshare. |
| Cost | Park entry $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 for a single driver, $2 for pedestrians or cyclists; manatee boat tours on the St. Johns River about $30-$40 |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | 2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763 |
How to get there
- Mode
- Rental car
- Cost
- Gas only
- Frequency
- Any time; leave early to beat I-4 traffic
- Operator
- Rental agencies at MCO or Orlando hotels
- Departure point
- Anywhere in Orlando
- Mode
- Guided tour or coach
- Cost
- Guided manatee tours from Orlando cost about $60-$110 per person
- Frequency
- Daily departures where available
- Operator
- Orlando tour operators (book via Viator or GetYourGuide)
- Departure point
- Selected Orlando, I-Drive and Disney area hotels
- Mode
- Rideshare one way
- Cost
- About $60-$90 each way
- Frequency
- Any time
- Operator
- Uber / Lyft
- Departure point
- Anywhere in Orlando
Location
2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
28.9466, -81.3393 View on map
Highlights
- Watch dozens of manatees from the boardwalk on cold mornings
- Swim and snorkel in the spring in summer
- Take a St. Johns River boat tour from the park
- Paddle the St. Johns River in a rented kayak
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before 8:00 AM in manatee season; the park closes the gate when full
- Check the manatee count on the park's website before driving
- Cold mornings below 50 degrees bring the most manatees
- Bring a polarized pair of sunglasses to see below the surface
When to visit
Mid-November to March when manatees shelter in the 72-degree spring run. Arrive in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms in summer.
Accessibility
The boardwalk to the manatee viewing area is paved and accessible. Phone 386-775-3663.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
When can I see manatees?
Mid-November through March, especially on cold mornings.
Can I swim with manatees?
No. The spring run is closed to swimming in manatee season; summer swimming is allowed.
How far is it from Orlando?
About 35 miles, roughly 45 minutes via I-4.