Discover High Springs: Railroad History and Springs

If you’re looking for a hotel in High Springs, the destination’s historical and nature-focused attractions can help you plan your trip. The following sections highlight what makes each place distinctive and how cultural, river, and park activities differ.

Railroad History in High Springs

At the beginning of the 20th century, High Springs was known as an important railroad hub. The old passenger depot was built around 1910, moved to its current location, and renovated as a railroad museum in 1994. This progression—from depot to its later use as a museum—makes railroad history tangible in a specific building. The Priest Theatre was built in High Springs in 1910 for vaudeville performances. Together, these sites offer a glimpse of two aspects of the city’s history at the time: rail travel and stage entertainment.

Springs and River Activities

The Santa Fe River near High Springs is used for canoeing and tubing. Admission to Ginnie Springs provides access to all seven springs for the day. Inner tubes, diving equipment, and paddleboards are also among the items available to rent; rental availability may change. Ginnie Springs Outdoors is a nature park that is open year-round. Check current conditions before your visit.

Trails and Paddling in the Parks

At Poe Springs Park, loop trails and a boardwalk lead through a cypress swamp to the springs. Watercraft rentals and extensive paddling experiences are also offered there. Offerings may change. This park combines trails through a swamp landscape with designated paddling excursions.

At River Rise Preserve State Park, the Santa Fe River resurfaces in a circular basin after flowing underground, then continues on toward the Suwannee River. The transition from the hidden river course to the visible basin gives this place a distinctive landscape. The park has more than 35 miles of trails for fat biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Fishing in the river is also possible. Some trail sections may close temporarily depending on conditions or due to management work. Check current trail conditions before your visit.

A Regular Friday Event

The High Springs Farmers Market takes place year-round on Fridays from 3 to 7 p.m. If your stay includes a Friday, you can plan to visit the market in the afternoon. As the schedule may change, check the current market hours before your visit.

Comparing Park Activities

The two parks offer a clear contrast: Poe Springs combines loop trails and a boardwalk through a cypress swamp with rentals and paddling experiences. River Rise offers a trail network of more than 35 miles for three activities, along with fishing and its distinctive river course. If you’re including outdoor activities in your plans, you can choose between a focus on paddling and a broader trail network.

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