Things To Do & Food Recs
Rainbow Springs State Park
Wonderful swimming hole that is roped off and very safe. Ideal for kids! The state park rents kayaks and paddle boards. It is a 30-40 minute paddle to our house going downstream, but you do have to go back up ;) so keep that in mind! Also has beautiful hiking/running trails, and a few waterfalls too that are worth the trip. Only about 5 minutes from our house. $2 entry fee (cash or card).
KP Hole Park
KP Hole is located about 4 lots downstream from us. Great place to rent kayaks, paddle boards or floats. KP Hole is an easy 5 minutes or less paddle up to our house. Important to note that if you rent a float, you will be going DOWNstream for a few hours. I do not recommend this unless you want to dedicate an entire day to floating down the worlds most beautiful lazy river.
Blue Run of Dunnellon Park
Great for a peaceful stroll, jog or bike ride through the swamp. Safe and paved trials.
Cannon Farms
Their produce stand is now open with their amazing spring events kicking off the first weekend in May! What to expect on the weekends: Hayrides, Corn Maze, Crop trails, Flower picking, Tons of photo spots, Petting Zoo, Face Painting, Badminton, Cornhole, Bouncy animals, Food trucks, Craft Vendors, Bounce houses, Fresh grown sweet corn, watermelon and cantaloupe, Produce stand. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm There is no admission on the weekdays. $5 on weekends.
Crystal River Archaeological State Park
"Explore a complex of Native American mounds and get a glimpse into Florida's past. A National Historic Landmark, this 61-acre, pre-Columbian site has burial mounds, temple/platform mounds, a plaza area and a substantial midden."
Three Sisters Springs
"In-water recreation at Three Sisters Springs is accessible by launching a vessel from any of the public boat ramps or kayak launches on Kings Bay and navigating to the spring-run for Three Sisters. Public kayak launches can be found at: Hunter Springs Park, 104 NE 1st Ave, Crystal River King's Bay Park, 268 NW 3rd St, Crystal River Visitors must arrive by paddle craft or motorized vessel to get to the spring run at Three Sisters Springs; however, motorized vessels are not permitted inside the Springs. Paddle-craft are permitted inside from April 1 to November 14."
Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring
You've likely seen this prehistoric spring on social media. It's a quick trip and an even quicker dip in, as it is usually packed and not much room to swim around. Get there early!
Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs is another beautiful and famous freshwater spring. No swimming allowed as it is very, but you can rent kayaks or paddle boards. There's a VERY good chance that you'll see plenty of alligators and manatees, so be sure to bring your camera.
Captain Bob's Airboat Tours
If you want to see a few alligators, here's your chance! Airboats are fun, fast and LOUD.
Swampy's Bar & Grille
Great atmosphere (located right on the river) with a simple American food and drink selection. Perfect place for apps and drinks or a local piece of fish.
Don Pepe Mexican Restaurant
This spot has consistently good Mexican food. I (Brittany) grew up eating here most weekends with friends and family.
Cheers at Rainbow Springs
Great atmosphere and usually live music. This place just recently switched owners and I've heard it's an improvement!
Latin Family Restaurant
Traditional cuban food that never misses. Known for their cuban sandwiches and great service. This place is family owned and it shows.
Blue Gator Tiki Bar & Restaurant
Great outdoor atmosphere on the river that is very relaxed and typically has live music. The blackened grouper is my favorite! You can also rent boats or hop on an airboat tour.
World Equestrian Center — Ocala
A few different quality food options and an overall great place to hangout. Noah and I eat at Stirrups often and always have a fantastic experience. Definitely our favorite restaurant in the area. You're guaranteed to see a few horses if you go during the day!
Go For Donuts
I (Brittany) grew up going to Go For Donuts every single Friday on my way to school. Very nostalgic place for me :) The white frosting donut with rainbow sprinkles is my favorite! They have other breakfast options as well. They sell out of donuts QUICK, so be sure to get there early. They open most days at 6 a.m. and close at 2 p.m.
Sweetie's Cafe And Bakery
Right in the heart of town located near all the antique shops. You can count on this place for great breakfast, baked goods and sandwiches, then be sure to pop over to the Grumble House next door to do some antiquing!
Stumpknockers Restaurant
Another place I grew up going to most weekends. Stumpknockers is a Dunnellon favorite, so be sure to show up early. Best pancakes in town!
The Front Porch Restaurant & Pie Shop
Another local favorite that feels like you just stepped back in time. You can't go wrong with breakfast at this local gem, or pick up your favorite type of pie. They have them all!
The Breakfast Station
The Breakfast Station is known for their hearty portions! Good option for breakfast or lunch.
Publix Super Market at Rainbow Square Shopping Center
Pick up a famous "Pub Sub" (Publix Sub) before you hit the river. A Floridian's favorite on-the-go lunch. You can order ahead online to skip the long weekend line. Publix also has a really great food selection if you're wanting to stock your hotel or Airbnb. Tons of organic options! Even Noah loves it, which says a lot :)