DUNNELLON, Fla. - Before the major theme parks took over, tourists traveling to Florida's Nature Coast in the mid-20th century sought a different kind of magic. They found it at natural spring attractions, and Rainbow Springs was one of the crown jewels.

What we know:

As chronicled by author Tim Hollis in his book Glass Bottom Boats and Mermaid Tails , Rainbow Springs was the third of Florida's natural springs to be developed as a commercial draw.

The park's developers weren't shy about adding their own creative touches, including a large, manmade waterfall, which became an iconic photo op.

In the 1960s, a new owner gave the park a significant facelift. It expanded to include:

Dig deeper:

The attraction became a well-known destination, heavily promoted and even visited by figur

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