Residents and visitors explore the Warm Mineral Springs resort in North Port as Sarasota County and the city of North Port seek public input on possible future development at the site.
The Warm Mineral Springs is a water-filled sinkhole located in North Port, Florida, a mile north of U.S. 41. The primary water supply is a spring vent deep beneath the pool’s water surface. Warm Mineral Springs is the only warm water mineral spring in the State of Florida.
It is an important geological and archaeological site containing Native American remnants. It functioned as a small natural spa since the 1960s. People travel from all over the world to soak in the mineral-rich waters. The waters are believed to have extraordinary healing powers and some believe it was the fountain of youth sought by Ponce de Leon. It was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on November 28, 1977. The springs re-opened for swimming only on April 12, 2014.
Hours:
Warm Mineral Springs will be open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Price:
Entry pricing, including sales tax, shall be as follows:
Day Pass for adults age 18 and above will pay $20 (residents pay $15);
Students age 6 through 17 will pay $15 (residents pay $11.25);
Children age 5 and below will pay $10 (residents pay $7.50).
Ten day passes will cost $170 for an adult (residents pay $112.50).
Sarasota County residents shall qualify for the resident rate. Tickets are not refundable. Same day re-entry shall be permitted.
Seating and food and beverage concessions are available. A gift shop also is on site and offers sundry items and souvenirs.
Contact:
Call the office at Warm Mineral Springs at (941) 426-1692.
The Purchase:
The City of North Port purchased Sarasota County’s interest in the Springs on Friday, September 26, 2014 for $2.75 million. This completes the sale of the 81-acre property to the City of North Port.
The Operations Details:
The City of North Port has contracted with National and State Park Concessions, Warm Mineral Springs, Inc., to operate the natural spring and its facilities for swimming and bathing. Language was added to the contract to allow the management company, with City approval, to add several services to the facility, including the sale of healthy food and drinks and the sale of sundry items and gifts. Entertainment, classes and events may also be offered. The City of North Port will receive 100 percent of the funding obtained from admission sales. The management company will receive $48,280 each month to operate the Springs.
