The Local's Guide: Top Things to Do in High Springs, FL

Your Ultimate Weekend Itinerary for Florida’s Premier Historic Springs Town.

Nestled just a short drive from Gainesville and Jacksonville, High Springs, Florida, is the undisputed capital of North-Central Florida's natural springs country. Known for its charming historic downtown, antique shops, and unparalleled outdoor recreation, it is the perfect destination for weekend travelers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for the ultimate day trip from Gainesville, FL.

Whether you are here to explore crystal-clear river trails, dive into ancient caverns, or enjoy local dining, here is the definitive local guide to the **top things to do in High Springs, FL

Paddle the Historic Santa Fe River

The crown jewel of High Springs is the Santa Fe River. Unlike any other river system in Florida, an 8-mile stretch on this river contains one of the highest concentrations of natural springs in the world.

For the ultimate experience, embark on the legendary 8 Springs in 8 Miles® Adventure. This registered trademarked paddling experience is exclusive to our region, allowing you to paddle down an elite eco-self guided tour that glides through a stretch of water where stunning, clear spring runs mix beautifully into the dark, scenic river waters.

How to Do It: If you need top-tier gear or a worry-free shuttle, book your trip with Anderson's Outdoor Adventures, located right inside Poe Springs Park. We handle all the logistics so you can focus entirely on the water.‍ ‍

Two people kayaking on a calm, narrow river surrounded by dense green trees and foliage.
Reserve Paddling on the Santa Fe

Pro-Tip: Because the river features dozens of hidden, pristine spring vents that are easy to paddle right past, make sure to download the Spring Seeker App (available at SFRsprings.com) before you launch. Co-founded by the Florida Springs Discovery Network (FSDN), it acts as an unbiased interactive mobile guide to accurately map, track, and journal your way down the river.

People kayaking on a river surrounded by dense green trees.

Stay Close To The Adventure

New wooden house with a metal roof and multiple windows, surrounded by a gravel driveway and trees.

Moonshine Acres

Postcard Cabins, High Springs

Postcard Cabins

A tall glass of iced coffee with ice cubes and a black straw, surrounded by two white coffee cups and saucers, with a spoonful of ground coffee in front, on a wooden surface.
Red brick building with the sign 'Watershed' on the front, featuring a water-themed logo, with large windows reflecting the street and parking lot outside.
Two people holding a freshly baked pizza topped with vegetables such as arugula, red onions, and tomatoes, in a pizzeria or restaurant kitchen.

Chow Down

Night Life

  • Pink Flamingo Mini Golf (10 Min. Away)

    Dave & Busters (30 Min. Away)

    Escapology (30 Min. Away)

  • High Springs Brewery (8 Min. Away)

    Watershed; Outdoor Bar and Live Music (8 Min. Away)

    Santa Fe Bar (16 Min. Away)

A person's hand inserting a card that says 'FUN IS IN THE CARDS TODAY' into a card reader on an arcade game.
Miniature golf course with a water fountain and trees in the background, sunlight shining through the trees.
  • 8 Springs

    8 Springs in 8 Miles

    • Gainesville ~ 35 Min.

    • Lake City ~ 40 Min.

    • Jacksonville ~ 1.5 Hours

    • Tampa ~ 2.5 Hours

    • Orlando ~ 2.5 Hours

    • Homosassa ~ 1.5 Hours

    • Valdosta ~ 1.5 Hours

    Reserve