Orlando’s most beautiful parks and gardens for a quiet day out
Lake Eola Park (Downtown Orlando):
Located in the heart of the city, this park is perfect for a leisurely stroll around the lake, with its famous swans and iconic fountain.
Enjoy the swan-shaped pedal boats or sit in the shade for a peaceful picnic.
Events such as farmers’ markets and open-air concerts are held here regularly.
Harry P. Leu Gardens (Near Winter Park):
A 20-hectare botanical garden with tropical plants, roses and shady paths.
It’s the ideal place for a romantic day out or to discover the region’s unique flora.
Mead Botanical Garden (Winter Park):
A tranquil space with walking trails, an outdoor amphitheater, and themed gardens.
Perfect for an educational outing or simply to relax in the midst of nature.
Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake:
This spacious park offers trails, picnic areas, fishing zones and even cabins for rent.
Ideal for families or groups looking for a day in the great outdoors.
Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve:
An unspoilt area with hiking trails surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, perfect for observing local flora and fauna.
Discover the Everglades nearby: excursions and activities
The Everglades, a unique region of Florida, can be reached from Orlando via organized excursions. These swamps and subtropical meadows are home to exceptional wildlife and offer memorable activities:
Hydrofoil excursions:
Discover the Everglades by flying over the marshes aboard a hydrofoil. Companies such as Wild Florida Airboats or Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offer educational and entertaining tours.
Observe alligators, exotic birds and other animals in their natural habitat.
Hikes and trails:
Areas like Shingle Creek Regional Park offer easy trails to explore the Everglades landscape on foot or by kayak.
Nature theme parks:
Wild Florida combines a hydrofoil experience with a wildlife park where you can interact with lemurs, sloths and alligators.
Fishing in the Everglades:
Try your hand at sport fishing in these fish-rich waters, a popular activity for outdoor enthusiasts.
The best lakes and beaches around Orlando to relax in
Lakes around Orlando:
Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho): Located in Kissimmee, this lake is known for its beautiful scenery and activities such as fishing and boating.
Lake Apopka: Florida’s fourth-largest lake, perfect for birdwatching and hiking around its shores.
Lake Ivanhoe (Orlando): An urban lake where you can paddleboard or kayak while enjoying views of the city.
Beaches near Orlando :
Cocoa Beach: Located about an hour’s drive away, this beach is ideal for surfing, swimming and walks on the sand.
Daytona Beach: Known for its drive-in beaches, perfect for a relaxed day out.
New Smyrna Beach: A quieter beach, ideal for families or those seeking a relaxing atmosphere.
Clearwater Beach (West Coast): Although a two-hour drive away, this beach is well worth a visit for its white sands and crystal-clear waters.