Best Parks in Orlando

In Orlando, parks are as abundant as theme parks. If you want to escape the crowds and fast-paced environment of theme parks, spending time in Orlando’s tranquil and scenic parks is an excellent alternative. As an added benefit, these parks are either free or cost a fraction of what theme parks cost, so you can visit several of them during your stay in Orlando, even if you’re on a modest budget. The following are some of the best parks in Orlando.

Big Tree Park
Big Tree Park in Longwood is home to one of Central Florida’s most famous natural landmarks, “The Senator,” a 3500-year-old Bald Cypress Tree that is thought to be the oldest living tree in the United States. Big Tree Park also features marshlands with boardwalks and a picnic area.

Lake Louisa State Park
Lake Louisa State Park is a 4,000-acre park that boasts four different lakes, campsites, and horseback riding trails. You can spot a variety of wildlife in the park, including bobcats, alligators, marsh rabbits, and white tail deer. The park also features marshlands that several different species of migratory birds call home.

Lake Eola Park
Lake Eola Park is a popular destination in downtown Orlando. There’s a 0.9-mile length sidewalk that circles around the lake. Activities that visitors in Lake Eola Park can enjoy include paddling on swan-shaped boats on Lake Eola, feeding live swans and birds, and watching concerts or plays at the park’s amphitheater. Lake Eola Park also features a restaurant called Relax Grill, where you can grab a bite to eat.

Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, Florida is a refuge for West Indian manatees, an endangered species. The best times to see the manatees are in the morning and late afternoon from December to February. Activities that visitors at Blue Spring State Park can enjoy include camping, boating, and swimming.

Wekiwa Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs State Park is home to an underwater trench where you can dive and swim. There are also many lakes and streams at this park that are ideal for canoeing. Other popular activities at Wekiwa Springs State Park include hiking, fishing, camping, and picnicking.

Orlando Wetlands Park
The Orlando Wetlands Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts in Christmas, Florida that boasts 1,650 acres of marshes, lakes, woodland trails, and hardwood hammocks. Popular activities include bird-watching, nature photography, jogging, and cycling. The park is closed between November 15 and January 31.

Orlando Loch Haven Park
Orlando’s Loch Haven Park is a premier cultural park that is home to several museums and theatre groups. The expansive lawns in the central area of this 45-acre park offer stunning views of the lake and feature large oak trees that provide plenty of shade. In fact, one of Central Florida’s largest oak trees, “The Mayor,” grows in the park.

Lake Rowena Park
Lake Rowena Park is located directly across from Orlando’s Loch Haven Park. This scenic park offers wonderful views of the lake and the Harry P. Leu Gardens. You can also spot various species of water birds along the lake’s edge.