12 National Parks and Gardens near Orlando

Blue Spring State Park spans over 2,600 acres and includes the largest spring on the St. John’s River. The water is crystal clear, a gorgeous emerald colour and usually around 22.7°C during the swimming season. The freshwater spring is a manatee refuge and, from November to mid-March, is home to hundreds of West Indian manatees.

Blue Spring State Park also has animals including tropical birds, turtles, squirrels and even alligators. Rent a kayak or take a guided boat tour to see the incredible wildlife up close. Don’t forget to bring a picnic or check out the camp store for the essentials.

Canaveral National Seashore is a sanctuary for many endangered species, including the sea turtles who come to the beach to lay their eggs in the sand. Like many seaside cities, the area is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities. You’ll find horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, surfing, swimming, fishing and boating. If you enjoy hiking, there’s a trail near the Visitor’s Center.

Note that there is an entrance fee into the park, but this helps to keep crowds down and ensure the reserve is kept clean and well-maintained. Keep little minds busy with a Junior Ranger activity book from the Visitor’s Center.

The Everglades is a region of subtropical wetlands in the southern portion of Florida, beginning at Lake Okeechobee near Walt Disney World and becoming more prominent about 3 to 4 hours south of Downtown Orlando. The Everglades' environment is ever-changing and mostly untouched. Swamps and mangroves are inhabited by various types of snakes and alligators, and birds of different species make this subtropical wilderness their home.

Guided tours are the best way to see everything this incredible national park has to offer. Whether that’s by airboat, by boat or with an experienced ranger, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind learning experience. Drop by any of the 4 visitor centres for educational displays and the latest safety info.

The Harry P. Leu Gardens covers almost 50 acres of beautiful gardens, lakes, trails and forest. Mr. and Mrs. Harry P. Leu started the Leu Gardens with exotic plants and over 240 varieties of camellias brought home from their travels all over the world. In 1961, the Leu family gifted the property to the city of Orlando to preserve its dozens of lush gardens.

Wander through striking bromeliads, watch colourful butterflies and admire the abundant roses. For a unique visit, register for an art class or horticulture workshop. If you’d like to tour the Leus’ historic home, note that they’re only available at selected times.

Kelly Park is a popular public park in Apopka, Florida. It’s best known for its free-flowing natural spring that remains a comfortable 20°C all year round. Visitors flock to the park no matter the season to swim, tube and kayak in the crystal-clear water. Tent and RV camping is offered, alongside a concession stand and picnic pavilions.

On sunny days, nothing beats a hike on one of the wilderness trails followed by a dip in the spring or a lazy tube ride. If you’ve kids in tow, let them run off some energy at the playground before grilling up a tasty dinner on one of the many grills in the picnic area. Don’t forget to bring your own charcoal.

Lake Eola Park is a pleasant downtown spot for picnics, exercise and paddle-boating, and makes a lovely quick escape from the nearby high-rises. The 23-acre site, located off East Washington Street, has an almost mile-long walkway around the lake edge that gives spectacular views, especially at sunset.

There's also an event amphitheatre which hosts special events throughout the year, as well as children’s playgrounds, a beautiful bright red Chinese pagoda and a famous fountain. A lazy summer’s afternoon wouldn’t be complete without renting a swan-shaped paddling boat and enjoying the sights from the water.

Lake Tohopekaliga, or Lake Toho as it’s also known, is an almost 23,000-acre fishing lake in Kissimmee that's known for its professional bass fishing competitions and birdwatching opportunities. This popular lake is home to a staggering number of freshwater bass, alligators, water snakes and turtles.

Located on the north side of Lake Toho, Lakefront Park has a seating area, a playground and even a miniature lighthouse. If you’re having so much fun you don’t want to go leave, hook up your RV or rent a cabin at the nearby resort.

The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is a scenic nature centre on the west side of Orlando, offering miles of hiking trails. Home to the Vera Carter Environmental Center, visitors can tour a variety of exhibits and displays before heading out on a trek. The well-maintained trails loop through many of Florida’s major habitats, including a pine forest, a swamp and a lakeshore lined by Cypress trees. Elusive fauna and wildlife also make this preserve their home, such as the barred owl and river hawk.

Families in particular enjoy an afternoon at the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve thanks to its vibrant butterfly garden and wheelchair-accessible sandbox. Please note that bicycles and pets aren’t allowed at the park, except for ADA service animals.