The Springs is a sinkhole, but not a regular one, pretty common in Florida. It is a hour-glass shaped, water-filled sinkhole. Warm Mineral Springs around the sinkhole-lake has been in operation as an international day spa since 1946. Recently, they started to build so-called Vacation Village east of the lake; one day, you will be able to stay there. Meanwhile, there is a hotel nearby (on the corner of Tamiami Trail and Ortiz Blvd) and numerous house rental options.
From the spacious parking, you enter the resort’s lobby. From here, you walk towards the lake. The picnic area is on your left, followed by the drinking fountains. Yes, you can drink the water too. I would not say that I enjoyed it, but it was interesting to try. Next come the facility rooms (massage, homeopathic doctor, etc.) and café. In the café, they serve healthy Mediterranean cuisine (the café called the Springs Café, of course). Finally, from the terrace, you see the Springs. Allow from 3 to 6 hours to enjoy it fully.
Surrounded by 84 acres, the 1.4-acre spring is 230 feet deep in its center, has a constant water temperature of 87 degrees Fahrenheit, and produces nine million gallons of fresh, recirculated, mineral-enriched water each day. On the surface, it looks like a lake, 80 yards or so in diameter and 230 feet deep where warm, heavily mineralized water enters from regions far below. They say that the water in the lukewarm lake can provide relief for many ailments, including skin conditions, stress, pain, muscular problems, and arthritis. In addition to swimming, the facility offers massage therapy, facial rejuvenation, and acupuncture. And curious visitors can learn more about the history of the Springs at the free Cyclorama presentation that takes place every day at 1pm.
The water's buoyancy makes it easy to wade around the lake's edge at least eight times, which is the equivalent of a mile. An estimated 600 to 800 people a day walk around the circumference or swim in the lake. The water is good for humans but definitely bad for metals - dimes and quarters corrode quickly. You will enjoy swimming in the warm mineral springs, but remember to take off your watch.
General Admission $14; Students $9; AAA members and Age 65 and over $12; Children 12 and under $5.