Harry P. Leu Gardens | Orlando

Harry P. Leu Gardens is a stunning 50-acre botanical garden located in the heart of Orlando, Florida. Established in 1936 by Harry P. Leu and his wife Mary Jane, the gardens reflect their passion for horticulture and the couple's extensive travel experiences, bringing together a diverse array of plants from around the world. In 1961, the Leu family deeded the property to the City of Orlando, ensuring that it would be preserved as a public garden for future generations to enjoy.

The gardens are a serene, lush oasis and serve as both a tourist destination and a haven for local nature lovers, offering a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its beautiful collections, walking paths, and the historic Leu House Museum, the gardens are a fantastic spot to learn about different plant species, horticulture, and the history of one of Orlando’s oldest estates.

Garden Highlights and Features

Camellia Collection

Description: The gardens feature one of the largest camellia collections in the United States. With over 2,500 plants representing more than 650 cultivars, this collection is a standout. Camellias are known for their stunning flowers, which bloom in winter and early spring, bringing vibrant color to the garden during the cooler months.

Visitor Experience: Visitors can enjoy the collection during its blooming season, taking in the variety of flower colors and shapes. The camellia collection is a signature feature of the garden, attracting many plant enthusiasts.

Rose Garden

Description: The Rose Garden at Harry P. Leu Gardens is the largest formal rose garden in Florida. It showcases a wide array of rose species, including hybrid teas, floribundas, and climbers.

Visitor Experience: Visitors can stroll through this fragrant garden, marveling at the wide spectrum of colors and shapes. The garden is a must-see during the spring when the roses are in full bloom, creating a spectacular scene of color.

Tropical Stream Garden

Description: This shaded, tranquil space features a flowing stream surrounded by tropical plants. The lush environment creates a peaceful, cool atmosphere, providing visitors with a chance to relax and immerse themselves in nature.

Visitor Experience: The stream garden is ideal for visitors who enjoy the peaceful sounds of running water and want to explore tropical plants. It offers the perfect setting for contemplation or photography.

Butterfly Garden

Description: This garden is specifically designed to attract butterflies by providing nectar-rich plants and host plants for caterpillars. It creates a beautiful environment that supports local butterfly populations.

Visitor Experience: The butterfly garden is perfect for visitors who enjoy wildlife watching. It’s a particularly good spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts who wish to see local butterflies fluttering about.

Palm, Bamboo, and Cycad Gardens

Description: These gardens highlight a diverse range of plants that thrive in Central Florida’s subtropical climate. Featuring a variety of palm species, bamboos, and cycads, these sections of the gardens offer visitors a glimpse of unique plants that can withstand the region’s weather conditions.

Visitor Experience: These gardens provide an opportunity to learn about the different species of palms and other exotic plants that flourish in Florida’s climate. It’s an educational experience for anyone interested in tropical and subtropical gardening.

Historic Leu House Museum

Description: The Leu House Museum, the former home of Harry P. Leu and his family, is located on the property and offers guided tours that delve into the history of the estate and its botanical collections. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was the home of the Leu family for over 40 years.

Visitor Experience: The museum offers an enriching look into the life of the Leu family and their contributions to the garden. Guided tours take visitors through the house, providing context for the development of the gardens and the history behind the property. The house is beautifully preserved, showcasing its historical significance and offering a glimpse into early 20th-century Florida life.

Special Events and Programs

Seasonal Plant Sales: The garden frequently hosts plant sales where visitors can purchase rare and hard-to-find plants for their own gardens. These events often feature local plant vendors and gardening experts.

Educational Programs: The gardens offer various educational programs and workshops throughout the year. These cover a wide range of topics, including gardening techniques, plant identification, landscape design, and environmental conservation.

Holiday Light Displays: During the holiday season, the gardens are beautifully lit with holiday lights, creating a magical winter wonderland atmosphere. This event is popular among families and is a festive way to experience the garden during the cooler months.

Visitor Information

Hours of Operation: The gardens are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the last entry allowed at 4:00 p.m. On Thursdays, the gardens stay open later until 8:00 p.m. with the last entry at 7:00 p.m.

Admission Fees:

Adults (ages 18+): $15

Children (ages 4-17): $10

Children under 4: Free

Active-duty Military: Free

Note: Admission includes access to the gardens and a guided tour of the Historic Leu House Museum. Some special events may require a separate admission fee.

Free Admission Days: On the first Monday of each month, the gardens offer free admission to all visitors.

Accessibility: The gardens are mostly accessible, with paved pathways for easy walking. Complimentary wheelchairs are available at the Welcome Center, though they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Location: 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803. It’s conveniently located just minutes from downtown Orlando.

Parking: Free parking is available on-site for visitors.

Dining and Shopping: Visitors can enjoy a meal or snack at the Foxtail Marketplace & Café, which offers a variety of food and beverages. The café also sells gardening tools and souvenirs. Additionally, guests are welcome to bring their own food and picnic in designated areas around the garden.

Photography: Personal photography is allowed throughout the garden. However, commercial photography requires prior authorization.

Visitor Guidelines

Pets: While service dogs are welcome, pets (including therapy support animals) are not allowed in the gardens.

Attire: It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, especially if you plan to walk on the garden’s varied terrain.

Food and Drink: While outside food and drinks are permitted for picnicking, guests should be mindful of maintaining the cleanliness and beauty of the garden.

Why Visit Harry P. Leu Gardens?

Harry P. Leu Gardens offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Orlando, with lush landscapes and a variety of plants that appeal to nature lovers, photographers, and anyone interested in horticulture. The mix of historical and botanical elements makes the gardens a unique spot for learning, relaxation, and exploration. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, the gardens provide an unforgettable experience that showcases Central Florida's beauty and horticultural diversity.

In addition to the gardens' beauty, the educational opportunities, special events, and serene atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a day out in Orlando. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or someone looking for a peaceful place to unwind, Harry P. Leu Gardens offers something for everyone.