5 things to do within driving distance of Orlando that are not theme parks
By Brian Miller
Blue Springs State Park
To the northeast of Orlando, you will find Orange City, and Blue Springs State Park. Blue Springs is a noted park that is home to a blue hole that is spring fed, in fact, the entire waterway is spring-fed. With 72-degree water temperatures, it’s an ideal place to swim, snorkel, and in some cases dive if you can get the permit.
There are rafts that you can rent and ride the water current like a lazy river or you can walk the boardwalk that weaves in and out of the vegetation along the river. The water crystal clear below you, take in a view of the fish and turtles but keep your eyes open for the real treasures.
Depending on the time of year, watch manatees swim the same river that you can dip your feet into, watch for alligators lounging on the banks and sometimes in the water but don’t worry, there are plenty of people in the water that keeps the alligators away and the parts of the river open to the public are very safe and alligator free.