Mythical creatures have long been a fascination. Rooted in the depths of our childhood imagination and centuries-old folklore, the whimsical world of fairies, unicorns, dragons and even mermaids cannot be discounted or ignored. For we believers, they exist. For naysayers who question, truth or fantasy, a journey to Weeki Wachee in Central Florida is sure to be a revelation.
Weeki Wachee, named by the Seminole Indians, translates to “small spring”.
It is nestled at the mouth of the Weeki Wachee river which is fed by the deepest freshwater spring cave system in the United States. Millions of gallons of crystal-clear water flows from the aquifer every day to the Gulf of Mexico.
Weeki Wachee opened in 1947, long before Disney, soon becoming a top Florida road-side attraction. Many fabulous vintage photos can be viewed on the attraction website.
Historical excerpt from the Weeki Wachee website provides interesting insight to changes over the years:
Weeki Wachee’s heyday began in 1959, when the spring was purchased by the American Broadcasting Co. (ABC) and was heavily promoted. ABC built the current theater, which seats 400 and is embedded in the side of the spring 16 feet below the surface. ABC also developed themes for the underwater shows, with elaborate props, lifts, music, and storylines such as Underwater Circus, The Mermaids and the Pirates, and Underwater Follies. The mermaids performed Alice in Wonderland, The Wizard of Oz, Snow White, and Peter Pan.
A beloved Old Florida icon.
Today, Weeki Wachee is part of the Florida State Park system and is on the National Register of Historic Sites. For nearly sixty years, the attraction has been welcoming tourists, residents, dignitaries and celebrities.
FAST FACT: In 1961, Elvis Presley halted film production for a little Weeki Wachee fun.
Fish, turtles, manatees and MERMAIDS enjoy the temperate spring waters as much as the visitors.
And, YES… the mermaids are real “living” creatures, not imaginary. Weeki Wachee offers three mermaid shows in an aquarium-like theater setting daily. If you are lucky to snag a seat, you will be truly amazed. Audiences leave awe-struck by the magical Mermaid performances.
Mermaids elegantly glide underwater with ease. The choreographed movements are beyond water ballet. A compressed air device is used for breathing. A hose and a bubble trail seem to be key to the mystery and showmanship. Sadly, I may never understand how the science works, but my mermaid memories remain a delightful consolation.
The life of a Mermaid begins with an audition. The entire process and training can take up to six months:
- An interview to evaluate candidate’s passion, personality and stage presence
- Scuba Certification
- Air-Hose Breathing Competency
- Choreography/ Dance Assessment
- Endurance Test. Candidate must be able to swim 400 yards (four football fields) above water in 15 minutes.
The ages vary from 18-40. There are mermaid alums still active at age 70+.
Mermaid Mania has exploded. There are clubs, performance troupes, pageants, festivals and even several documentaries and a TV series.
The 2023 Netflix “MerPeople” series is now a cult-like classic. And, “Mermaids”, a 2017 documentary film, featured Weeki Wachee and former mermaids.
Coney Island hosts an annual Mermaid parade that draws crowds. It is said to be the nation’s largest art parade and one of New York City’s greatest summer events.
the small Texas river town of San Marcos is home to the Mermaid Society of Texas and annual a mermaid-inspired art festival.
There is are even Mermaid Conventions.
A popular West Coast convention is on the calendar for May 16-18.
The California Mermaid Convention in Rancho Cordova, CA. A Splash into the Surreal.
The quirkiest cosplay event with Live shows, workshops, and a Bubble Ball.
The list goes on and on. One can find a Mer-mazing plethora of mermaid stories, sightings, research, world-wide events and more by surfing the internet. But Florida’s Weeki Wachee remains uniquely authentic and a national treasure.
A special place that should be on everyone’s bucket list!
Weeki Wachee is open 365 days a year. (exception: closure due to severe weather or hurricane alert)
Travel Tip: Summer is the busiest season. Park will often reach capacity by early morning. Best arrive before 9 am, or plan a late Fall or Winter escape when temps are still fabulous.
Location: Spring Hill, Florida (an hour northeast of Tampa)
Admission:
- Adults: $13
- Children 6-12: $8
- Children under 5: Free
Highlights include:
The Wilderness River Cruise runs between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Guests must sign up for a reserved time at the boat dock after arriving. Reserved times are first-come, first-served until full for the day.
Helpful “Plan Your Visit” information can be found on the official Weeki Wachee website. A few “Know Before You Go” videos for reference.
For all your vacation planning needs, visit the Florida’s Adventure Coast website.
If time allows, take the Mermaid Trail challenge. Discover 27 colorful mermaid statues hidden throughout Hernando County. A map and passport guide are generously provided to help you find your way. Pick up your copy at the Welcome Center in Brooksville, Florida. Art Lovers, be sure time your visit to enjoy the annual spring Art in Park Festival.
Photos Courtesy of Florida’s Adventure Coast tourism office and S.Gaspers.
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