Harry P. Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens is a fifty acre site filled with pathways that weave in and out of separate gardens all of which overlook a large lake. Located just North of Center Downtown Orlando and just West of Baldwin Park, Leu Gardens provides an oasis in the center of the city. Visitors can see different garden environments including: a butterfly garden, an herb garden, a tropical stream garden, a rose garden and many more.

Like many public botanical gardens, this one was once someone’s estate and you can see their house within the gardens. The house was built in the 1880’s, which for Orlando is practically prehistoric. Tours start at 10 a.m. and begin every half hour until the last one at 3:30 p.m. Leu Gardens also hosts tons of special events such as Storytelling for kids, Date Night, where you can take a date, friends, or family and bring some chairs and enjoy an outdoor movie on one of the garden lawns.

The gardens are a great place to spend time with family and friends and a great way to enjoy the natural environment of Orlando, the way it was before all the development and concrete came. Being centrally located makes it an attractive destination as well, not just to visit but to hold special events of your own.

Hours:

9am to 5pm (different hours may apply during holidays)

Admission:

$7 for adults and $2 for kids grades K-12.

Location:

1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, FL 32803 and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (different hours may apply during holidays) 407-246-2620

www.leugardens.org

Special Tip: On the really hot summer days, try to go earlier around 10 a.m. when it opens to avoid the major heat. If you do decide to go on a hot day, try to take the tour of the old house on the property, its air conditioned and it’s a great way to split up the time.