The great Seminole Indian tribe that flourished here named the River ... Weeki Wachee Springs ... which translates into 'winding river' or 'Little Spring'. The spring water percolates to the surface from eons aged subterranean caverns deep within the earth. As it blossoms upwards, it becomes naturally filtered making the river water clear and pristine. To this day, the bottoms to these caverns have never been discovered.

 

For 12 miles from the top of the river, it winds and the water meanders softly through the rustic and woodsy nature preserve before emptying in the the Gulf of Mexico. Due to this, there is a daily high and low tide as well as a current that runs from 1 to 6 miles per hour on any given day. The Weeki Wachee River has also been the subject for a National Geographic documentary due to it's wild beauty.

 

Keep alert and a camera handy as your journey on the river is awe inspiring and teeming with wildlife to witness. Naturally, the peaceful and gentle Manatees that travel this waterway are the main attraction and if you are lucky you may come across some. The river water remains at a steady 74 degrees year round. This is on of the reason why it remains a safe haven, feeding area, and breeding ground for Manatees to raise their young and flourish.

 

The world famous Weeki Wachee attraction located just a few miles up the road from Pam's Mermaid House opened in 1947. It is one of Florida's oldest theme parks. This attraction has lured travelers from around the glove. Visitors will be entertained by beautifully costumed mermaids and mermen performing choreographed underwater ballets and theme shows that appeal delight those of all ages.