Exploring Winter Haven: Orlando's Hidden Gem of Lakes and Gardens

When planning a vacation to Orlando, most people think of theme parks and crowded attractions. However, just a short drive away lies Winter Haven, a picturesque town that offers a refreshing change of pace. Best known for its chain of lakes, beautiful gardens, and family-friendly attractions, Winter Haven is the perfect complement to your Orlando adventure.

Must-Visit Attractions in Winter Haven

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

At the heart of Winter Haven's family entertainment scene is the popular LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. This colorful theme park is a haven for LEGO® enthusiasts of all ages. With over 50 rides, shows, and attractions, LEGOLAND® offers a blend of entertainment and creativity.

The park features themed areas like LEGO® NINJAGO World, LEGO® City, and MINILAND USA, where you can marvel at miniature LEGO® versions of famous landmarks. Thrill-seekers will enjoy rides like The Great LEGO® Race VR Coaster, while younger visitors can have a splashing good time at the LEGOLAND® water park.

For a comprehensive guide to the park's attractions, check out our article on LEGOLAND® rides suitable for all ages.

Cypress Gardens

While Cypress Gardens is now part of LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, its legacy lives on in the beautifully preserved botanical gardens. These historic gardens, dating back to 1936, offer a serene escape with winding paths, towering cypress trees, and colorful flowerbeds.

Don't miss the famous water ski show, a nod to Cypress Gardens's past as a premier water ski destination. The show combines skillful acrobatics with LEGO®-themed fun, providing entertainment for the whole family.

Winter Haven's Chain of Lakes Park

Winter Haven is known as "The Chain of Lakes City," and for good reason. The Chain of Lakes Park offers access to several of the area's 50 lakes, connected by canals. This water system is perfect for boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the scenery.

You can rent a pontoon boat or kayak to explore the lakes at your own pace. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to catch bass, catfish, and other freshwater species. For those who prefer to stay on land, the park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Theatre Winter Haven

For a dose of culture, visit Theatre Winter Haven. This community theater has been entertaining audiences for over 50 years with high-quality productions of plays and musicals. Check their schedule to see if any performances align with your visit dates.

Planning Your Visit to Winter Haven

To make the most of your trip to Winter Haven, consider the following tips.

Best Time To Visit

Winter Haven enjoys a subtropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the most pleasant weather occurs from October to April, when temperatures are milder and rainfall is less frequent.

If you're planning a vacation that includes both Winter Haven and Orlando, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid peak crowds at the major theme parks.

Getting Around Winter Haven

Winter Haven is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within easy driving distance of each other. Renting a car is the most convenient option for exploring the area, especially if you plan to visit Orlando as well.

For those without a car, the Winter Haven Area Transit (WHAT) provides bus service within the city and to nearby communities. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for point-to-point transportation.

Suggested Itineraries

Here are a few ideas to help you plan your Winter Haven adventure:

1. Family Fun Day: Start with a full day at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, enjoying the rides, shows, and water park. End the day with a relaxing evening stroll through the Cypress Gardens.
2. Nature Lover's Delight: Spend a morning exploring the Chain of Lakes Park by boat or kayak. In the afternoon, visit the gardens at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, followed by a picnic in one of Winter Haven's many parks.
3. Cultural Experience: Begin your day with a matinee performance at Theatre Winter Haven. Afterward, take a historical tour of downtown Winter Haven, learning about the city's rich past.

Enhance Your Visit to Winter Haven With CityPASS® Tickets

While exploring Winter Haven, don't forget that it's just a short drive from Orlando, home to world-famous theme parks and attractions. To make the most of your Central Florida adventure, consider using Orlando CityPASS® tickets.

By combining the charm of Winter Haven with the excitement of Orlando's attractions, you'll create a well-rounded Florida vacation that offers something for everyone in your group.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Haven

What is Winter Haven, Florida, Famous For?

While Winter Haven is now well-known for LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, the city has a rich history that predates the theme park. It was originally founded in the 1880s as a citrus farming community. The city gained prominence in the early 20th century for its role in the Florida land boom and its development as a tourist destination. Winter Haven was also home to the first Publix supermarket, opened by George W. Jenkins in 1940, which has since grown into a major grocery chain in the Southeastern United States.

Why is Winter Haven Famous?

Beyond its current attractions, Winter Haven has made its mark in several unique ways. The city played a significant role in the development of water skiing as a sport. Dick Pope Sr., the founder of Cypress Gardens, is often credited with popularizing water skiing and turning it into a professional sport. Winter Haven has hosted numerous water skiing championships and was home to many world record holders in the sport. Additionally, the city is known for its commitment to the arts, with the Ridge Art Association promoting local artists since 1950.

Is Winter Haven Worth Visiting?

Winter Haven offers experiences that set it apart from typical Florida tourist destinations. For aviation enthusiasts, the city is home to the Jack Brown's Seaplane Base, one of the oldest continuously operating seaplane bases in the world. Visitors can take seaplane flying lessons or enjoy scenic flights over the Chain of Lakes. Nature lovers will appreciate the Street Audubon Center, which offers bird-watching opportunities and educational programs about local ecosystems. For a taste of local flavor, the Winter Haven Farmers Market, held every Saturday, showcases fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items from area vendors. These unique attractions, combined with the city's laid-back atmosphere, make Winter Haven a worthwhile destination for those looking to experience a different side of Florida.

Orlando Lodging

Part of a great vacation is finding a great place to stay. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:

Header Image PHOTO/LEGOLAND Florida, Merlin Entertainments Group, Chip Litherland