Best Historic Stays: The Lodge at Wakulla Springs

Stay in a truly special place: a historic lodge nestled in 6,000 acres of pristine forest, just steps away from one of the largest freshwater springs in the world.

The Lodge at Wakulla Springs will make the worries of the modern world fade away. While human history at the spring and along the river dates back thousands of years, the Lodge itself was built by one of the most influential figures in Florida during the 20th century.

The investment poured into the lodge, along with the remarkable craftsmanship, allows visitors today to truly step back in time and enjoy a simpler era.

A Journey Through Time: The History of Wakulla Springs

The story of The Lodge begins with wealthy financier Edward Ball, who was touring Florida’s panhandle searching for land to purchase to grow pulpwood  when he stumbled upon “love at first sight” at Wakulla Springs.

Ball vowed to preserve the land from that moment on.

Wakulla Springs had been drawing tourists long before Ball’s visit. In 1844, an ad in Tallahassee’s newspaper offered lodging and exciting tours of the spring and river.

When Ball decided to build a lodge at Wakulla Springs, he purchased all the surrounding land. He personally handled the design and construction, outlining the floor plan, selecting the architects, and paying attention to every small detail.

Construction began in 1935. The Lodge's style is a unique blend of Spanish-Moorish and art deco. Visitors today can still admire the original marble floors, counters, stairwells, and bathroom partitions. The marble is fitted so perfectly that no grout is visible.

The Lodge is also home to the world’s longest known marble bar—measuring 70 feet and three inches—in the Soda Parlor and Spring Shop. 

The use of “heart cypress” can be appreciated throughout the Lodge. Heart cypress is the very interior of the tree, and all the logs used in the Lodge were obtained locally as “deadheads,” meaning the trees had been submerged in water for over 50 years, making the wood impervious to rot.

The Great Lobby ceiling, with its 16-foot height and expansive cypress panels, is one of the most iconic features of the Lodge, yet it was actually an afterthought.

Legend has it, a German man approached Ball and offered to paint the ceiling with beautiful designs. Thankfully, Ball accepted, and it was later revealed that the man had been the last court painter for a German Emperor. His detailed artwork blends Spanish-Moorish, European folk art, and Native American influences, with wildlife scenes and European crests woven into the design.

During World War II, the Lodge was used as a military training facility. A fire caused by a trainee destroyed the original wooden roof, but the new roof was reinforced with steel and concrete, making it fireproof.

Wakulla Springs has even seen its fair share of Hollywood action, with scenes from “Tarzan’s Secret Treasure” (1941) and “Creature from the Black Lagoon” (1954) filmed here.

Vintage Charm with Modern Comfort

After passing by the iconic “Lodge” sign and admiring the beauty of the lobby, guests will check in and receive an actual key to one of the 27 rooms.

As you make your way to your room, take note of the marble and iron staircase, as well as the original Lodge elevator, which many consider an art deco masterpiece.

I loved noticing the outlines of limpkins and egrets in the ironwork throughout the railing, true to life in size. It’s these kinds of details that make The Lodge so special.

My room had a comfortable queen-sized bed, a dresser with a mirror, and a charming desk with overlooking the spring in the distance. Since I visited during the summer, each room had its own A/C unit, keeping it pleasantly cool while also providing soothing ambient noise. I especially liked the framed paintings of birds you’re likely to spot on the river, like moorhens.

While I’ve come across guestbooks at many historic hotels, this was the first time I found one in each room! Leaf through the pages to see who else has stayed there, and appreciate how many people from all over the country, and world, have been drawn to the wonders of Wakulla.

Fine Dining in the Forest

It’s not common to find fine dining at Florida State Parks, but you can experience it at Wakulla Springs.

The Edward Ball Dining Room is a treat for the tastebuds. It’s open daily, with breakfast served from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., and lunch and dinner available from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Start your day with Eggs Dupont, a classic eggs Benedict with a side of home fries.

For dinner, you’re in for a real delight! Don’t miss the Fried Green Tomatoes, Panhandle Chicken Breast, and a slice of rich chocolate cake. After a day of adventure and delicious food, you’ll sleep soundly. Reservations aren’t required but are recommended.

For something more casual, visit The Soda Fountain, open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (hours vary based on the time of year). 

Here, you can sit at the world’s longest known marble bar, stretching 70 feet, six inches! Enjoy root beer floats, ice cream, and sandwiches, and indulge in retro candies that will take you back in time.

In the same area, you’ll find the Spring Shop, where you can pick up any essentials you may have forgotten, as well as fun souvenirs like plush manatees and adorable ornaments, like the baby alligator breaking out of its shell that I couldn’t resist.

Guests at The Lodge will also find a coffee station available from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Splash, Pedal, and Explore

Swimming in the spring and taking a boat tour are undoubtedly the most popular activities at Wakulla Springs.

Especially during the summer, diving into the refreshing 68-degree waters is an unforgettable experience. I arrived one morning before the gates opened and saw a small alligator laying on the bank. The ranger politely told it to move along, and it did! Shortly after, manatees began feeding on sea grass inside the swim area. 

Standing on the diving platform, I took in this magical moment before jumping off the 22-foot platform once the manatees were a safe distance away. At that height, the leap gives you a thrilling second of realization before you hit the water—a rush of excitement and nerves all at once.

As you enjoy the spring, you’ll notice boat tours cruising by just outside the swim area.

Unlike other springs in Florida, this is the only way to get on the water due to protections for the Wakulla River, so reserving a spot on a boat tour is essential. I took the first 45-minute Jungle River Boat Cruise of the day, and it was the perfect way to kick off my visit. The boat wasn’t full, so we were able to move around easily to see what the captain and guide pointed out. We saw alligators basking on the banks, manatees surfacing for air, and an incredible variety of birds.

The scenery was breathtaking—it felt like something out of a painting. The boat tour is an absolute must, and the price is very reasonable. Many visitors take the tour multiple times during their stay to appreciate the ever-changing landscape and wildlife.

Booking online in advance is highly recommended. Only 20 tickets are available for each boat in advance, with 10 more available for walk-ins on the day of:

- $8 for adults (13 years and older)

- $5 for children ages 3 to 12

- Free for children under 3

For land explorers, bike rentals are available at the front desk, and the Sally Ward Trail is a popular hiking option. This trail starts at the Lodge parking lot and runs six miles out and back. Families can enjoy portions (or the whole 12 mile hike!), though watch out for tree roots and rocks along the path.

An early highlight of the trail is the boardwalk bridge that crosses Sally Ward Spring Run. The water flows beneath the bridge, eventually joining the Wakulla River and continuing on to the Gulf of Mexico, just 14 miles away.

Don't forget your bug spray, and check for ticks after your hike!

The Perfect Escape Awaits

Whether you’re looking for a serene retreat surrounded by nature, a deep dive into Florida’s rich history, or a thrilling adventure on the water, The Lodge at Wakulla Springs offers it all. From its beautifully preserved architecture to its pristine surroundings, this is a place where time slows down, and unforgettable memories are made.

Thanks to Our Sponsor

Thanks to our series sponsor, Visit Wakulla, for making this series possible. Wakulla County is truly a nature lover’s paradise and I personally cannot wait to return to explore more! Lean on their website as a resource to plan an exceptional staycation full of fishing, diving, snorkeling, hiking, and more!