The Swamp at Wakulla Springs in Florida

In addition to the grand historic lodge, the swamp at Wakulla Springs in Florida is equally impressive. The clear water, visible seaweed, and hanging moss make it evident why Creature from the Black Lagoon was filmed here in the 1950s. The wildlife is also abundant, and early in the morning I was greeted by several manatees swimming just off the dock. 
 

Scene from Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954).

My first time seeing manatees in the wild.

The Lodge at Wakulla Springs in Florida

Opened in 1937, the Lodge at Wakulla Springs in Northern Florida is like taking a step back in time to a bygone era. Surrounded by acres of lush swamp, forest, and spring water, this remote gem is something really special that you don't see much of anymore.

At first glance you can almost hear the echo of vintage big band music reverberating through the lobby and down the hallways. From elegant wood finishes to dark interiors, the Lodge at Wakulla Springs still feels grand, but in a genuinely old-fashioned way - meaning you can tell some updates have been postponed for a few decades.

To be fair the lodge's 27 rooms do lack some modern amenities, like televisions, but some of what may seem quaint today, only adds to the aesthetic and character of the place. In fact, a lot of the more rustic elements of the property quickly became highlights for me.

And if you're getting a bit of a vintage horror vibe from the surroundings you're actually not far off. It was here in the 1950s that key scenes for Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) were filmed. A remote grand lodge in a Florida swamp where an iconic horror film was shot? I can't deny that sold me on coming to stay in Wakulla Springs.