The Harry P. Leu Gardens, once attached to a private residence, are now a lovely public gathering place.

And it's a perfect place for a lovely day out!  

The gardens offer free on-site parking. Enter through the large white house that functions as the Garden Welcome Center. This building also has various ballrooms that serve as event spaces and an on-site library. The library provides an opportunity to learn more about the plants and wildlife you will see just beyond its gates. Right outside the home, you will find an ample space perfect for roaming, with shaded decks and views over Lake Rowena. This area is also where you can run freely through the grass or have a picnic on the patio, so plan accordingly before going, or make plans to stop here after your visit for a break!

Just beyond the pathway, you will find your way down various trails to view different garden setups, each unique and offering different views of native Florida plants. Stroll down towards the water and overlook the pier to view animals swimming in the lake, with plaques distinguishing what you will see. Visit the rose garden, a top spot for weddings in the venue, and roam the mazes. Finally, stop by to check on the butterfly garden and see what produce grows there. This place has room to explore!

But what makes it a gem are the traveling exhibits that stop here! From time to time, they will add displays to the gardens that will enhance learning and also make scavenger hunts that much more fun! This is the perfect place to spend a pleasant morning in Florida, especially since the heat (and rain) will catch up with you later in the day. Avoiding both will make for a better visit! 

If you want a different way to visit, the gardens do monthly after-hour events, such as movie nights and date nights. Movie nights are a per-person price and don't allow access to other parts of the garden, but you can bring food and drinks to enjoy as you watch a second run movie on The Landing!  

Need a bite to eat? There is not anything on-site outside of the occasional vendor, so make plans to bring snacks or pack a picnic. A Target and a few Publix grocery stores are conveniently located about two miles away. Or stop by East End Market, one mile away, after you visit. You can sample food from various vendors there, including the original Gideon's Bakehouse!