Central Florida State Parks and Garden Guide

Want to take a break from the theme parks? Then why not head on over to one of the many Central Florida state parks and gardens around the area. This season is the best time to enjoy the blossoming flowers and array of bright colors. Plus, with over 30 different activities within the central Florida parks from biking, hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, walks and picnic areas plus much more, there’s enough to keep the family occupied all day. Take a look at some of the parks that we recommend you visit during your trip.

Weeki Wachee Springs (diving mermaids)

Weeki Wachee is an enchanted spring — the only one of its kind in the world — and one of Florida’s oldest and most unique roadside attractions. For almost 60 years, the fun, family oriented park has lured in visitors with beautiful mermaids who swim in the cool, clear spring waters.

Leu Gardens

Explore an amazing 50-acre botanical oasis minutes from downtown Orlando. The Leu House Museum located in the heart of the gardens reveals turn-of-the century living for the families who once called this home.

Blue Springs

Blue Spring State Park covers more than 2,600 acres, including the largest spring on the St. Johns River. Blue Spring is a designated Manatee Refuge and the winter home to a growing population of West Indian Manatees.

Florida Eco-Safaris

Florida Eco-Safaris at Forever Florida is a 4700 acre eco-ranch and wildlife conservation area boasting beautifully untamed wilderness, natural streams, wetlands and dense cypress forests.This special place boasts nine distinct Florida ecosystems, home to an endless array of natural flora and fauna including alligators, black bears, white-tail deer, nearly two hundred species of birds and the endangered Florida Panther.