FRANCO'S at RIVER RUN
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS AND BUSINESSES
When swimmers take their first dip in the sapphire-blue waters of Rainbow Springs, they become part of a story that stretches back over 10,000 years, when humans first visited this place.
Ornamental gardens, man-made waterfalls and sloping hills are visible reminders of the springs’ more recent past, when the land was home to a mining operation and a privately-owned tourist attraction.
Take a walk through lush, mossy hammocks and then cool off in the springs—it’s a time-honored tradition.
Today, Gissy Springs is a vision of shimmering water where turtles and small fish contentedly swim, surrounded by wooden decks and boardwalks with built-in benches. A screened pavilion provides storage and shelter. Beyond the watery haven are dense woods where black panthers, bobcats and boars have been spotted.
Gissy Springs is not open to the public, but is available to rent for events.
RAINBOW RIVER
Drop your tube in the crystal-clear waters of the Rainbow River and the first thing you'll notice is that it's an even spring-fed 72 degrees year-round. Plan your visit for the fall, when the air's a little cooler, and you'll have the river mostly to yourself — yourself, that is, and the birds, gators and other wildlife that call it home. The Rainbow is one of the largest springs in the state, offering more than enough room for you to rediscover your inner child.
Located at the confluence of the Rainbow River and the Withlacoochee River, we offer you the unique opportunity to canoe or kayak two of the finest rivers in Florida!
This paddle is what any outdoor enthusiast or adventure-seeker is looking for. Year round we experience over 14 different type of birds, fish, turtles, otters, alligators, and other wildlife. The best part of it all, is that you have a chance to see some of these directly below your Clear Kayak!
Surrounded by two beautiful rivers, the historic community of Dunnellon lies centered on the eastern flank of Florida’s rich Nature Coast. Dunnellon earns its reputation not only for its spectacular rivers, springs, vegetation and wildlife, but also its quaint historic downtown filled with cafés, antique and art shops, and its bike trails— all located just 15 miles from the warm salt waters of the Gulf of Mexico on Florida’s Nature Coast.
After visiting Dunnellon's attractions, be sure to stop by River Run at Rainbow Springs and relax with a beverage and meal prepared by our chef while listening to one of our many talented musical artists. We are not just a restaurant, but a go-to destination while you are here.
