Where Is It?
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is close to the Gulf Coast, about an hour north of Tampa in Hernando County.
What Is It?
Weeki Wachee is an ancient spring where you can watch a mermaid show, take a river boat cruise, learn about Florida wildlife, swim in the pristine waters at Buccaneer Bay or paddle down the Weeki Wachee River.
History
The park has been entertaining visitors since 1947 and is one of Florida’s oldest roadside attractions. Navy veteran Newton Perry developed the original tourist destination with the now-famous mermaid show as main attraction.
Mermaid Show
The world-famous Mermaids of Weeki Wachee perform their version of The Little Mermaid live in a submerged 400-seat auditorium. They also perform classic feats, such as eating and drinking underwater. The Mermaids also share historical information and technical aspects of the show.
When to Go
Go any weekend in the winter or fall to avoid crowds. The attraction is open year-round, except Christmas Day. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.
More Info
The park is at 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, Florida. For more information, call 352-592-5656, visit weekiwachee.com, or www.floridastateparks.org/WeekiWachee.