Silver Springs is located north of Orlando, east of Ocala, Florida on State Road 40. We travelled via Highway 27. The route, although interesting, was long and tedious and we would advise travellers to take exit 352 east off Interstate 75 or exit 268 west off Interstate 95.

It was refreshing to arrive at a park and not find a queue! For those of you with a Florida residence Silver Springs operates a two for the price of one scheme.

The park is attractive and well cared for. Floral displays, botanical gardens, fountains and clear Blue Springs set alongside a zoo like environment make this a pleasurable day out. There are a range of animals and reptiles. We loved the contrasts, which ranged from cuddly looking brown bears to feeling in awe of the alligators. The park staff are well informed and encourage questions and participation. Our daughter actually held a baby alligator!!

The wilderness trail ride through the forest – in a safari style jeep - gave us the opportunity to encounter wild chimpanzees swinging next to us.

Glass bottom boats give an interesting underwater view of the springs. The boats, with U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains, tour the seven major spring formations at the headwaters. We saw turtles, colourful fish, old wreckages and even alligators as we viewed the watery world in the safe comfort of the boat.

The one and only ride is a very smooth 80-foot rise in a gondola/carousel called the Lighthouse Ride. This offers fantastic views across the park and is a must to appreciate the area.

The entertainment programme for Silver Springs boasts some well-known names. The events area looked very inviting. It is easy to imagine a warm Florida evening, good music, a deck chair and a cocktail!

Staff at the park urged us to return for the Christmas Lights season, which commences early December. It is evidently renowned as one of the best displays in Florida - presented from dusk to 8:30 p.m. and feature more than a million twinkle lights throughout the park!

We look forward to a return visit. Next time we will take our swimming gear as there is a quiet water park, Wild Waters, adjoining Silver Springs.