A Local's Guide to Dunnellon: Rainbow River Tubing and a Historic Boomtown

Dunnellon is a small Marion County town with one very big draw: the Rainbow River, a spring-fed, gin-clear river that's among the best tubing and paddling water in Florida. Wrapped around it is a walkable historic "Boomtown" district left over from the 1890s phosphate rush. Come for the river; the small-town charm is the bonus.

What is Dunnellon known for?

The Rainbow River. Rainbow Springs State Park protects the headspring -- a constant 72-degree, crystal-clear spring that feeds the river -- with gardens, swimming, and the famous tubing run that floats you downstream through clear water and overhanging cypress. The 1890s phosphate boom built the historic downtown, still known locally as the Boomtown.

Things to do in Dunnellon

Float the river: tube from Rainbow Springs State Park or launch a kayak from Blue Run of Dunnellon Park for a paddle on some of the clearest water in the state. Swim and picnic at the state park headspring, then poke around the historic Boomtown district downtown. It's a get-on-the-water day, plain and simple.

Where to eat in Dunnellon

The riverside spots lead: Swampy's Bar & Grille and The Blue Gator Tiki Bar put you right on the water with a casual menu and a drink. In town, the Front Porch Restaurant is the sit-down favorite, Riviera Maya and Don Pepe cover Mexican, and Gruff's Tap & Grille and Southern Palate round out dinner. For a nostalgia stop, Paige's Root Beer is the old-school drive-up.

When to go

Summer is peak tubing season -- hot days and cold spring water are the whole point, so expect company on weekends. Spring and fall are quieter and lovely for paddling and the park gardens. The spring stays a constant cool temperature year-round, so a winter float is bracing but doable.

Planning your visit

Dunnellon sits in southwest Marion County, about 25 minutes from Ocala and an hour and a half north of Tampa. For summer tubing, arrive early -- the state park's tube launch has limited daily capacity and fills fast on hot weekends. Water shoes and a dry bag go a long way.

The bottom line

Dunnellon is all about the Rainbow River -- the clearest float in the region and a historic Boomtown to dry off in. We surface what's worth the trip; you choose the launch. See what's on this week at the Lineup.