Explore Dunnellon & Beyond

River days are just the beginning.

From floating directly from the house and ziplining over canyons to swimming with manatees, glass-bottom boats and waterfront dining, there's plenty to experience during your Rainbow River stay.

Plan Your River Float
Your Florida Adventure

As relaxed or adventurous as you want it to be.

One of the best parts of staying directly on Rainbow River is that the adventure can begin right outside your door. Spend a day floating downstream, or head out to explore some of Central Florida's most memorable attractions, small towns and local restaurants.

Your Easiest Rainbow River Adventure

Float directly from the house.

No need to drive somewhere to launch. Grab a tube, step into the river from the property and let the current carry you downstream to Blue Run of Dunnellon Park.

Rainbow River Properties

The Retreat & The Villa

9491 & 9489 SW 190th Ave Rd
Dunnellon, Florida

Guests staying at The Retreat or The Villa can launch directly from the property and enjoy a long, relaxing float downstream through the crystal-clear Rainbow River.

Approx. 3½–4 Hours Typical float time to Blue Run
Rainbow River Property

The Oasis

10369 SW 186th Ave
Dunnellon, Florida

Guests staying at The Oasis can launch directly from the property. Because The Oasis is located a little farther downstream, you'll enjoy a shorter but still beautiful float through Rainbow River.

Approx. 2½–3 Hours Typical float time to Blue Run
Where You'll Get Out
Blue Run of Dunnellon Park

Float downstream until you reach the designated tuber exit at Blue Run of Dunnellon Park.

Blue Run of Dunnellon Park 19680 E. Pennsylvania Ave.
Dunnellon, FL 34432

We recommend confirming current park hours before your float.

The Easiest Option

The Two-Car Strategy

Before your group launches from the house, stage one vehicle at Blue Run so your ride home is waiting when you finish.

Drive two vehicles to Blue Run. Everyone who needs to return to the house goes together before the float.
Leave one vehicle at the exit. Park one car at Blue Run of Dunnellon Park for the group to use after the float.
Return to the rental in the second car. Bring everyone back to the house with the remaining vehicle.
Launch right from the property. Grab your tubes and enjoy the river. No separate launch point is required.
Exit at Blue Run. Use the staged vehicle to bring your group and gear back to the property.
Float times are approximate. River current, wind, stops for swimming, how much you paddle or kick, and the pace of your group can all affect your actual float time. Give yourself plenty of daylight and don't plan the trip too close to sunset.
♻️
Bring Reusable Containers Disposable containers are prohibited on Rainbow River. Bring drinks and snacks in reusable containers and take everything you bring with you.
🚫
No Alcohol Alcohol is not permitted on Rainbow River. Keep your river day fun, safe and family-friendly.
🌿
Help Protect the River Avoid disturbing vegetation and wildlife, leave nothing behind and help preserve this remarkable spring-fed ecosystem.
Sweet Florida Rentals boat rental near Dunnellon Florida
Explore By Boat

Rent a Boat & Explore the Water

Sweet Florida Rentals offers pontoon and skiff rentals for cruising, fishing and exploring the area's beautiful waterways. They deliver the boat to the launch ramp you choose, and rentals of 24 hours or more may be eligible for delivery directly to your vacation rental dock.

✓ Pontoon & skiff rentals
✓ Delivery to your selected launch ramp
✓ Dock delivery available for qualifying longer rentals
Visit Sweet Florida Rentals
A Little Adventure

Experiences worth leaving the river for.

When you're ready to mix things up, these nearby adventures make an easy addition to your stay.

Ziplining at The Canyons
Ocala Adventure

The Canyons Zip Line & Adventure Park

Zip across limestone canyons, lakes and dramatic elevation changes on lines stretching more than 1,000 feet.

The Canyons also offers horseback riding, kayaking and gem mining, making it a fun half-day adventure for families, couples and groups.

Explore The Canyons
Devil's Den prehistoric spring
Something Completely Different

Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring

Descend into a prehistoric underground cavern filled with clear spring water. Devil's Den is one of Florida's most unusual natural attractions.

Visitors can snorkel in the cavern, while certified divers can explore beneath the surface.

Visit Devil's Den
Worth the Drive

Three memorable Florida day trips.

Each offers something completely different and is easy to work into a longer stay.

Crystal River manatee tour
Crystal River

Swim With Manatees

Visit Florida's Nature Coast for guided manatee encounters, kayaking on Kings Bay and the beautiful springs surrounding Crystal River.

Explore Crystal River
Silver Springs glass-bottom boat
Silver Springs

Glass-Bottom Boat Tours

See one of Florida's most historic attractions aboard a glass-bottom boat, or paddle the beautiful Silver River.

Visit Silver Springs
World Equestrian Center Ocala
Ocala

World Equestrian Center

Watch equestrian competitions, stroll the beautiful grounds, browse boutiques and enjoy lunch or dinner at the resort.

Explore WEC
Stay Local

Explore Historic Dunnellon

Dunnellon has the charm of a small Old Florida town, with local shops, antiques, restaurants and a history dating back to Florida's phosphate boom.

Outdoor lovers can also explore nearby walking and cycling trails, including the Dunnellon Trail and other scenic routes in the area.

Discover Dunnellon
Historic Dunnellon Florida
Eat Like a Local

A few nearby favorites.

From casual waterfront restaurants to easy family dinners, these are a few places worth knowing.

Swampy's Bar and Grille
Riverfront Dining

Swampy's Bar & Grille

A casual local favorite directly on Rainbow River with outdoor seating and an easygoing waterfront atmosphere.

View Location
Blue Gator Tiki Bar
Waterfront & Casual

Blue Gator Tiki Bar & Restaurant

A laid-back waterfront stop on the Withlacoochee River with seafood, sandwiches, drinks and classic Florida vacation vibes.

View Location
Riviera Maya Dunnellon
Local Favorite

Riviera Maya

A popular local choice for Mexican favorites, margaritas and an easy family-friendly dinner.

View Location
More Ways to Explore

Fill the days however you like.

Tube the River Spend a lazy afternoon floating through crystal-clear spring water.
Bike the Trails Explore the Dunnellon Trail and nearby scenic cycling routes.
Go Fishing Cast a line on the Rainbow or nearby Withlacoochee River.
Wildlife Watch Look for turtles, birds, fish and native Florida wildlife.

A quick tip before you head out

Attraction hours, reservations, park entry requirements, tour availability and restaurant hours can change. We recommend checking directly with each business or attraction before heading out, especially on weekends and holidays.

Your Rainbow River Getaway

Do everything — or happily do nothing at all.

Spend the week floating the river, exploring springs, canyons, manatees and historic Florida, or stay close to home and let Rainbow River be the entire itinerary.

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