Silver Springs is one of Florida's oldest tourist attractions. It was founded in 1852 and began immediately to attract tourists to enjoy the climate and the pure crystal clear water. The popularity increased even more as the glass bottom boat was invented in 1878.
Over the years, the boats got bigger, hotels were built, and the attraction prospered. Things changed for the worse, however, when Walt Disney World opened in 1971. Fewer tourists visited, and finally in 2013 the attraction became an operational part of Silver Springs State Park. The glass bottom boats still entertain thousands.