When was the last time you slowed down to stop and smell the roses—literally? Not only is a day spent in nature rejuvenating, it’s romantic when you’ve got your partner at your side. It got me thinking about all the beautiful things. Central Florida Gardens that offer free admission are not only worth the effort, but also those that are nearly free and well worth the visit. Here’s a guide to all of the gardens right here in our backyard that you can visit forFree or close to it
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Harry P. Leu Gardens – Orlando
This paradise of 50 acres is only minutes from downtown Orlando It is not a secret. But did you know Leu? Gardens Offers free admission on the Monday of most months. The paths will take you through lush tropical leaves, past palms, towering bamboo, and through a sculpted Rose. garden And beyond. The property has a rich past. It was first purchased by the Mizell family 1858, and then passed on to Harry P. Leu and Mary Jane in the 1930s. If you wander far enough, you might stumble upon the Mizell Cemetery where the original owners are buried.
Upcoming free Mondays: September 6, October 4, and November 1, 2021.
Image credit: Leu Gardens
Kraft Azalea Garden – Winter Park
This Winter Park gem has stunning lake views and beautiful gardens. Kraft Azalea Garden is located lakefront on Lake Maitland in the Winter Park Chain of Lakes. It offers 5 acres of bliss. Winter Park’s most beloved garden. “secret garden,” The green space includes benches, a boat dock and the photo-worthy Exedra Monument.
Mead Botanical Garden – Winter Park
Mead Botanical Garden is one of Winter Park’s most spacious public (and free) garden These areas. The park covers 40 acres and includes a butterfly garden. garden You will find a boardwalk, hiking trails and a pond. Take a picnic and enjoy the picnic pavilion. Bring your bikes and follow the paved path to the destination. Orlando Urban Trail.
Central Park Rose Garden – Winter Park
Our bite-sized version CentralPark may not be NYC-sized, but it is the small rose. garden When in bloom, it is stunning. This vibrant flower is simply stunning. garden It is dangerously close to Peterbrooke Chocolatier, and is located at the southern end. The rose garden It features circular walkways and a peacock fountain. There is also a pergola with ample bench seating. You can even rent it out fo rIntimate wedding ceremonies
Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
There is no other place like it Central FloridaBok Tower is even more captivating than Bok Tower Gardens The Singing Tower, 205 feet tall, chimes with the carillon bells as the sun sets in the late afternoon. Edward W. Bok donated the gardens to the public and founded them. Edward W. Bok, an immigrant to the Netherlands, created the gardens as a sign of thanks. He has been given every opportunity throughout his life in America.
Regular admission is $15/person. Wawa offers free admission on the last Friday in each month, September through. You can still get in free on the remaining days for2021 is August 27, 2021, and September 24, 2021.
The Florida Botanical Gardens – Largo
There are fourteen themes garden This nature oasis, which includes a butterfly, is made up of natural areas. A shaded tropical walkway and succulents garden. The Wedding will be loved by the Couples Gardens It is adorned with white flowers and a jazzy soundtrack garden rose garden, topiary garden Cottage garden. You will also find many art installations throughout the grounds. Check the website before your visit to see what’s in bloom.
Hollis Garden – Lakeland
Walking around Lake Mirror in downtown Lakeland, you will eventually arrive at Hollis Gardens, a beautiful and well-kept formal garden. It is exploding in color. There are more than 10,000 plants and flowers within the 1.2-acre area. Pair your romantic gardenTake a stroll and stop at The Poor Porker/801 E. Main for a cup of coffee or breakfast from Black & Brew. Born & Bread Bakehouse sells baked goods (Saturdays only). Closed Mondays
Image credit: Hollis Gardens
Memberships with Reciprocal Admission benefits
Are you a member of an annual club? for Leu Gardens Bok Tower Gardens? Both Central Florida Garden membership is available to the American Horticultural Society. This allows you to get free or discounted admission to other gardens. Florida And all over the United States.
In Central Florida Your membership benefits include free admission to these gardens
You can find a complete list of participating gardens here Florida Visit the American Horticultural Society website.
$10 OR LESS
Sculpture Gardens at Albin Polasek Museum – Winter Park
The museum pays tribute to Czech sculptor Albin polasek by featuring a 3-acre outdoor sculpture garden in addition to the historic home housing Polasek’s works. Picnics are allowed. Bring a basket. This is a great date for those on a tight budget. Admission is only $10 per person
Lukas Nursery Butterfly Encounter – Oviedo
Peak butterfly season started in April and continues until September. This is the perfect time to visit Lukas Nursery, Oviedo. Explore the bird and butterfly conservatory while you feed them. Admission is $7
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park – Palm Coast
A visit to this park can be paired with an east coast beach vacation. It has formal gardens, live oaks, magnolia trees and river marshes. Park admission costs $5 per vehicle.
$15 OR LESS
Sunken Gardens – St. Pete
Sunken has been named St. Pete’s oldest museum. Gardens It is over 100 years of age and contains some the region’s oldest tropical plant species. You can explore the waterfalls and tropical plants as you walk along the trail. You can also wave goodbye to the resident Flamingos. Admission costs $12
McKee Botanical Garden – Vero Beach
You can explore 80-acres full of natural beauty, native plant species, and tranquil Vero Beach by walking along a bamboo trail or past water lilies. garden. Admission is $15/person.
