By Patrick Connolly
From Orlando Sentinel
Orlando—It’s the sweltering summertime in the Sunshine State and many resident Floridians are turning their vacations northward in search of cooler temperatures.
But throughout Florida, there are pristine beaches to behold, shimmering springs to swim, and quirky attractions to explore. Some destinations have history abound, while others have modern local eats and amenities for a comfortable stay.
Here are ideas for summer getaways fit for a quick weekend away or a weeklong vacation.
Rainbow Springs/Dunnellon
Rainbow Springs State Park provides visitors with three manmade waterfalls, a remnant of the park’s private attraction days, near Dunnellon, Florida on Wednesday, March 3, 2021. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel/TNS)
Nothing helps beat the summer heat quite like taking a dip in crystal-clear 72-degree waters. Visit Rainbow Springs State Park to take a plunge into sapphire-blue springs, which together pump out more than 400 million gallons of water per day. Tubing, snorkeling, and paddling are popular activities in the park, which features manmade waterfalls left over from Rainbow Springs’ private attraction days. Be sure to arrive early during the summer to ensure entry….