Hidden amongst the LEGO bricks and rides at LEGOLAND Florida, lies a magical place where the air is filled with the sound of bamboo stalks colliding in the breeze. It’s where you can get lost in the maze of a banyan tree, which decades ago was planted out of a bucket.
This hidden gem hold lots of childhood memories for me and maintains the charm of Old Florida. I’m talking about Cypress Gardens. Winter Haven’s botanical gardens and theme park closed in 2009, but has been preserved and remains open to visitors at LEGOLAND Florida.
The winding sidewalk allows visitors to take a peaceful stroll through vivid flowers and algae-covered statues. The sound of swimmers, enjoying a warm day at the adjoining water park, can be heard in the distance. The gardens provide unlimited photo opportunities for nature lovers.
Recently, we found something that we had never seen before… a swimming pool in the shape of Florida. It’s called Esther Williams’ Pool. It was built for the 1953 MGM technicolor film, “Easy to Love,” starring it’s namesake.
After the film, the original owner of Cypress Gardens, Dick Pope Sr., used the Florida-shaped pool in Marketing campaigns to attract visitors to Winter Haven. Now, you can see this piece of history on Lake Eloise, nestled amongst the gorgeous cypress trees. It’s tucked away at the northernmost corner of the gardens. Such a great place to relax during a busy day at the theme park!
The oriental gardens nearby are home to a giant golden buddha and respite from the bright sun; a pavilion allows visitors to rest their soles and reflect in the gardens, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The only thing missing are the lovely southern belles known for strolling through the gardens in years past. Well, there is one left sitting at the entrance, but she’s made of LEGO bricks. Always expect the unexpected on your adventures. You never know what you might find!
Stroller Full of Fun 