Top things to do in High Springs, FL

From eats to lodging and from Adventures to memories

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.

Discover the Springs of High Springs

You cannot visit the area without dipping your toes into the freshwater springs.

Each park offers a completely different vibe:

The best way to visit all of these springs and more is to go one an amazing paddling Adventure. The 8 Springs in 8 Miles®, the Blue Springs Hopper, or the Ginnie Springs Paddle are perfect. Check the calendar below for availability.

Poe Springs Park: A fantastic, family-friendly county park boasting a large, shallow, natural spring pool (known as the Emerald of the Santa Fe) - perfect for swimming, picnicking, and launching a paddle craft.

Ginnie Springs Outdoors: World-renowned for its incredibly clear water, underwater caves for scuba diving, and vibrant river scene.

Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park: Boasting an incredible second-magnitude spring head that pumps out an average of 44 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily (known as the Sapphire of the Santa Fe).
*Note: The park is currently operating under a phased reopening with no day-use land access for driving or walk-in traffic. The premier way to experience its sapphire waters is by paddling right into the spring run from the river!

Refuel at the Midway River Oasis

Paddling is hard work, and you don't need to stay cooped up on a single spring basin. Exactly 2.5 miles downriver from your Poe Springs launch, you can pull your watercraft up to the paddle launch at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park to stretch your legs and refuel at the
Gilchrist Blue Springs Smokehouse & Mercantile.

Food Service Permit Pending

Our family's wood-fired, slow-smoked Southern BBQ original flavor creations, signature series lemonades, and handcrafted mocktails are powered by the Super Tasty BBQ Co.

(Food Service Permit Pending—visitors should bring their own refreshments until our official opening date announcement!).

Once open, it will serve as the perfect midway rest stop on your river itinerary.

Explore Historic Downtown High Springs

After a day on the river, dry off and head into the heart of town. Downtown High Springs is incredibly walkable and filled with unique local flavor:

Antiquing & Shopping: Spend an hour strolling through local antique malls and boutiques filled with unique Florida treasures.

Local Eats: Grab a craft brew, a wood-fired pizza, or a southern-style dinner at one of the town's beloved independent restaurants.

Santa Fe River Park: If you prefer to stay on land but want a quiet view of the river, this peaceful park offers great shoreline walking paths and fishing spots just outside the main town strip.

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