Harry P. Leu Gardens Orlando
A 50-acre botanical oasis in Orlando, featuring diverse gardens, a historic home, and tranquil beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Flowers in full bloom, cooler temps
Harry P. Leu Gardens Orlando
Best Time
Flowers in full bloom, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 50-acre botanical oasis in Orlando, featuring diverse gardens, a historic home, and tranquil beauty.
"An oasis of tranquility and natural beauty, perfect for a peaceful escape."
🎯 Beat the Heat & Crowds
Visit early morning for cooler temps and fewer people. Bring water!
🎟️ Free Admission Days
First Monday of each month is FREE! Check website for details.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Butterfly Garden
Near the Rose Garden
Witness a vibrant flutter of wings among exotic blooms. A magical spot for all ages.
Historic Leu House Museum
Center of the Gardens
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved 19th-century estate.
Rose Garden
Southwest section
A fragrant paradise showcasing a stunning variety of roses in bloom.
Camellia Collection
Near the entrance
Admire one of the most extensive collections of camellias in Florida.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Orlando Heat
Free Admission Days
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Heat & Crowds
Visit early morning for cooler temps and fewer people. Bring water!
🎟️ Free Admission Days
First Monday of each month is FREE! Check website for details.
🚗 Parking for Events
For Dazzling Nights, use the free shuttle from Audubon Park K-8 school to avoid long waits.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on 50 acres, so comfy shoes are a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Heat & Crowds
Visit early morning for cooler temps and fewer people. Bring water!
🎟️ Free Admission Days
First Monday of each month is FREE! Check website for details.
🚗 Parking for Events
For Dazzling Nights, use the free shuttle from Audubon Park K-8 school to avoid long waits.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on 50 acres, so comfy shoes are a must.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The gardens are incredibly picturesque, especially the butterfly and rose gardens.
🌿 Annual Pass Value
Consider an annual pass if you plan to visit multiple times; it includes access to other gardens.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Harry P. Leu Gardens for its stunning beauty, diverse plant collections, and peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the well-maintained grounds and the charm of the historic Leu House. Some find the admission price a bit high for a single visit, but acknowledge the value for repeat visitors or during free admission days.
"It's beautiful here! And the origami sculpture is fantastic - I tended to use that map to get around because it's smaller. There are nice big open spaces, wandering trails, and little tucked away hidden gardens, so put your exploring feet on. Of course, in the middle of the day in July it was hot hot hot, but still worth the walk around, and they sell ice cream inside the welcome building. Parking is in two "lobes" around the entrance area, and not a ton of it. Beautiful roses, tropicals, and even an arid garden with cacti, they do a good cross-section here.
Don't miss the birdhouses around the trails - they're so cute! Made to look like our houses, there's a plantation mansion, everglades swamp house, even a little English thatched cottage. Super cute and worth looking out for."
Sara Beth Wade
"Absolutely beautiful and peaceful!
Harry P Leu Gardens is the perfect escape into nature. I went with my family and we loved walking through the shady paths, seeing colorful flowers, and just relaxing in the quiet atmosphere. It’s clean, safe, and well-maintained. Great for kids, couples, or anyone needing a break from the busy city. Highly recommend visiting — even one visit fills your heart with calm and joy! 🌺"
Daryika Tagaeva
"I recently visited Harry P Leu Gardens while searching for a possible location to host an outdoor event—and I was absolutely blown away by the beauty and tranquility of this place.
From the moment you enter, you’re surrounded by lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and winding paths that seem to transport you out of the city and into a peaceful oasis. The gardens offer a variety of stunning settings for events, from expansive open lawns and romantic rose gardens to intimate shaded nooks under towering oaks and palms. Each space feels thoughtfully maintained and uniquely beautiful, offering flexibility for both large gatherings and more personal affairs.
One of my favorite spots was the floral clock area—so picturesque and peaceful, with a perfect blend of sunlight and shade. The rose garden, with its charming arches and colorful blooms, would be an unforgettable backdrop for a wedding or vow renewal. Even the lakeside spots are serene, with reflections of trees dancing on the water and the occasional heron adding a touch of magic.
The entire property has a calming energy. Despite being right in the heart of Orlando, it feels private, secluded, and ideal for a meaningful celebration. You can tell the staff take great pride in maintaining this natural sanctuary.
If you’re planning a special outdoor event, I highly recommend touring Leu Gardens. It’s more than just a venue—it’s an experience."
Millo Aldea Venegas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Harry P. Leu Gardens is located at 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803, between downtown Orlando and Winter Park. It's easily accessible by car and is close to other attractions.
On-site parking is available, but can get chaotic during special events like Dazzling Nights. For events, consider parking at the Audubon Park K-8 school and taking the free shuttle. Street parking in the surrounding neighborhood is also an option.
While specific public transport routes can vary, the gardens are generally accessible within the Orlando area. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Leu Gardens is conveniently located near downtown Orlando and Winter Park, making it a great addition to your itinerary. It's a short drive from many other Orlando activities.
Yes, biking is a great way to explore Orlando. There are usually bike racks available at the gardens, but it's always a good idea to secure your bike properly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically $15 for adults and $10 for children aged 4-17. Children under 4 are free. Prices can vary for special events.
Harry P. Leu Gardens offers free admission on the first Monday of each month. This is a popular time, so expect larger crowds.
Hours can vary seasonally. Summer hours are typically 9 am to 6 pm, but it's best to check their official website for the most current operating times.
For general admission, booking in advance is often recommended, especially for free admission days. For special events like Dazzling Nights, advance booking is highly advised as tickets can sell out.
Besides the free admission days, check their website for potential group rates or membership options. Annual passes can also offer good value if you plan multiple visits.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Explore over 50 acres of diverse gardens, including a butterfly garden, rose garden, camellia collection, and a historic 19th-century home. Paved walkways make it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the gardens, but you could easily spend longer if you wish to linger or attend a special event.
Information on guided tours can be found on their official website. These tours can offer deeper insights into the plant collections and history of the estate.
Absolutely! Kids often love the butterfly garden and the open spaces to explore. The paved paths are also great for strollers.
Picnic policies can vary. It's best to check the official website or inquire at the entrance regarding their current policy on outside food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The butterfly garden, rose garden, and the historic Leu House Museum offer stunning photographic opportunities. The diverse plant life provides beautiful backdrops year-round.
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check their guidelines.
Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow.
Yes, Leu Gardens is a popular venue for engagement and wedding photos. Specific permits and fees may apply, so contact their events department for details.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing landscapes and details. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flowers and insects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The expansive grounds provide plenty of space for kids to explore and burn off energy, and the paved paths are perfect for strollers. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visit during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best natural light. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Lovers
The gardens are also a great place to simply sit, relax, and enjoy the beauty around you. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Gardens
Beyond the vibrant blooms, the gardens feature impressive collections of camellias, azaleas, and tropical plants, reflecting Florida's rich biodiversity. Paved pathways wind through these botanical wonders, making them accessible for everyone, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.
The sheer variety ensures there's something new to discover with every visit, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and casual strollers alike. For those interested in the history of the estate, the Leu House Museum stands as a testament to early 20th-century Florida living. This beautifully preserved home offers a glimpse into the lives of the Leu family and the development of the gardens.
Exploring the house after a stroll through the gardens provides a comprehensive understanding of the estate's legacy and charm.Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community
The gardens are particularly stunning in the spring when many flowers are in full bloom, creating a vibrant and fragrant landscape. For budget-conscious travelers, keep an eye out for free admission days, which occur on the first Monday of each month.
+1 This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the gardens' beauty without the entry fee, though it does mean higher crowd levels. If you plan to visit multiple times, consider purchasing an annual pass, which is reasonably priced and often includes reciprocal benefits at other gardens. Comfort is paramount for exploring the 50-acre grounds. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a significant amount of walking.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit