[zcaveman]

Originally Posted by bike42

If you can make only one trip I think Homosassa Springs has much more appeal for kids -- short boat ride to the park, with manatees (with underwater viewing), all the birds of Florida and many native animals, plus a "native" hippopotamus. See http://www.floridastateparks.org/hom...gs/default.cfm

I disagree. Silver Springs is definitely worth the trip. It is also right down the road - about 20 miles - give or take a few. It is a day trip with all of the rides (glass bottom boat, jungle ride) and other attractions to see (bears, alligators, animals, etc) plus the gator and snake shows.