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Homage to Homosassa – part 2: Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park
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A Florida manatee - Kelly Shannon Kelly
I sometimes passed by on my way to somewhere else. As I drove by, I looked over and for the umpteenth time wondered what it was like inside. The parking lot was always full, but it looked so peaceful and natural from the outside. I finally got to see for myself exactly what it was like – and I wasn’t disappointed.
If you’re looking for something different to do that's also closeby this Memorial Day weekend, consider visiting Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park. Tickets are inexpensive and it's an economical day of fun for the entire family.
This unique destination brings you face to face with many Florida natives – manatees, flamingos, roseate spoonbills, black bears and even a Florida panther.
At the welcome center, a small gift shop displays hand-crafted art of Florida’s beloved denizens. A small boat takes you from the welcome center downriver to the main park entrance. Keep your eye out for turtles, native birds and an occasional alligator.
A symbol of Florida - Kelly Shannon Kelly
Although manatees can be found all throughout Florida, at this park, you can come face to face with these gentle creatures. Several times a day, a wildlife expert presents a manatee show, including a feeding of carrots and other vegetables. Somehow these sea cows know precisely when it’s time to eat – and swim down the river for the inevitable feast.
An underwater observation center lets visitors observe the hordes of snook, redfish, sheepshead, snapper, Crevalle Jack and other native fish in the river. Handicapped guests need not navigate the stairs – there’s a handy television screen to observe what’s below.
If you’re a photography nut like I am, you’ll want to spend the day shooting photos of the various inhabitants. Red foxes, otters, bald eagles – even a hippo named Lulu!
Don’t miss another gift shop on the way out for your chance to take home a manatee – be it stained glass, jeweled or stuffed.
If you’re tired of the daily grind and need to unwind, there’s no better place to come face-to-face with Florida’s natural outdoors.
Be sure to check out the below slideshow for more photos.
Watch the manatees on the park's Manatee Cam.
View videos of the manatees at Homosassa Wildlife Park:
Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park
Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park
Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park
4150 S. Suncoast Blvd. ( US 19 & 98 ), Homosassa Springs, FL
Adults – $9
Children 3-12 – $5
Children under 3 – Free
Annual Pass – $22.50
Manatee Program – 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
Wildlife Encounter Program – 10:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m.
Alligator/Hippo Program – 12:30 p.m.
For other area attractions, see Visit Citrus.
Some suggestions:
Whatever you do, don't visit this area without eating at Neon Leon's – the Cajun food is out of this world!
Dickerson’s Riverside Gallery & Gifts showcases the works of 15 local artists.
Heritage Village boasts shopping, music, a tea shoppe and a great beer joint – Burke’s of Ireland. Visit during the second Saturday event in downtown Crystal River.
A Cobia Tournament takes place at MacRae’s in June.
Homosassa Fireworks Festival occurs at the end of June – perfect for a fun family getaway.
Related articles:
Need to release stress? Head to Homosassa
Other Florida attractions articles
Follow me on Twitter @kellyskelly
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