A Hidden Gem In Florida

Located in downtown Orlando Leu Gardens is a 50-acre botanical garden and historical site. Its natural settings make up 14 garden sections and attraction areas. The site includes the Leu House Museum, a historic home built in the 1850s. The last family to live in the home was the Harry P. Leu family who fabricated the gardens from seeds and plants they brought back from their travels around the world. The meticulously restored home (with 20th-century décor) and gardens were eventually donated to the city of Orlando in 1961. Open 9am-5pm one can purchase a daily pass to stroll and soak up nature as you enjoy all that Leu Gardens has to offer.

Like a song, the subtle movements of flowers are their voice, the song of Harry P. Leu Gardens for those who listen with more than their ears. The delightful mix of fragrances brought alive by the sounds of the living world. Peaceful walking paths with a vast variety of floral delight painted with enhanced colors that only Mother Nature herself has created. A calming and tranquil oasis tucked away in the city of Orlando, Leu Gardens, where azaleas, camellias, rose’s philodendrons and more flourish captures the hearts of visitors all year long.

Massive trees with incredible winding vines are draped with Spanish moss that are a sight to be seen. Lime oak trees, banana trees and a selection of many colorful tropical plants can be enjoyed as well.  An arid area that displays a wide variety of drought tolerant plants that include agaves, cacti, flowering trees, yuccas and succulents. The citrus grove is a very important part of history of Central Florida and the 50 different kinds of citrus trees grown will not disappoint.  One of my person favorite areas is the color garden. Suited for Center Florida it’s one of the most colorful areas of Leu Gardens. It contains large plantings of annuals, perennials and flowering shrubs.  As you wind your way through the gardens, you will come across many different sculptures commissioned for Leu Gardens. These seven fanciful pieces are permanent fixtures in the garden and I love them all!

Besides the delightful gardens Leu Gardens has rotating exhibits throughout the year. I recently attended the whimsical Fairy Door exhibit where 20 one-of-a-kind fairy doors were scattered about to inspire ones imaginative world of mythical forests and secret gardens. We received a map upon entering Leu Gardens with the locations of the doors. It’s a scavenger hunt of sorts, where every door is different and each fairy has their own story to tell. 

In the hustle and bustle of today society I’d say Leu Gardens is a must! What a relaxing way to spend the day. A peaceful and lovely little gem in Orlando that’s defiantly gained my attention!