Travel to Cypress Gardens:
Some of my best vacation memories do not involve Mickey Mouse or thrill rides, but a quieter, more natural sort of theme park. In 2001 and 2002 when I visited Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven, Florida, I was totally impressed with the amount of things there are to see and do, sans the crowds and sans the loud, annoying atmosphere. It was like traveling down to the swampy shores of Key West. The beautiful gardens, paddlewheel boat, and spectucular shows were well worth the long drive from Orlando.
A Change of Hands
Unfortunately, Cypress Gardens has changed quite a bit in the last few years, but that is not necessarily a bad thing considering all the attractions now offered. Yes, there may be more traffic and crowds due to the new rides and events, but it is well worth the hustle and bustle to find your spot. The park has upgraded to some great rides for those who miss Disney-esque attractions but don’t want to face Orlando traffic (bless their hearts, I know the feeling). Like any good park, Cypress Gardens has the regular roster of roller coasters, train rides, and merry-go-rounds, but of course, to attain a higher standard than your average park, there are many new rides as well. Check out the water rides and higher action thrills for anyone who isn’t a tiny tyke.
Amazing Garden Oasis
Think Cypress’ beautiful gardens were eliminated to make way for the improvements? No way! It wouldn’t be Cypress Gardens without this stunning landscape. Walking through the garden trails is literally like escaping to a Caribbean paradise; you won’t believe the photo ops you’ll see. If you’ve never seen a banyan tree, prepare to be amazed. This huge tree, with gigantic limbs stretching out in every direction, looks like many different trees pasted together. It’s stood on this spot for almost one hundred years and is truly a wonder of nature. Paths and sidetrips will take you to other awesome spots in the gardens. For instance, the gazebo, one of Cypress Garden’s most famous photo stops, is still standing. This is a wonderful site for a family photo.
Within the gardens you’ll be amazed to see what a few talented artists and the right set of clippers can do to shrubbery! Bridges and waterfalls grace the landscape everywhere you look. No matter what modern amenities the park now sports, this, in my opinion, will always be Cypress Gardens’ best asset. If you keep walking, you’ll reach Snively Plantation, and will probably think you landed on the set of “Gone With the Wind.” One of the best things about Cypress is it’s “country appeal,” where many things are themed like the country towns of the 19th century.
Tappin’ Your Toes to the Beat
Gardens and rides aren’t your forte? How about some live entertainment? If you’re a fan of musical talent, you’ll often catch famous performers dazzling crowds at the park. Settle down for some good old musical fun. Be sure to check how far ahead you should purchase your tickets, however, because it is entirely possible you won’t be going to the show if you don’t plan in advance. The park’s website, located at http://cypressgardens.com, usually shows the schedule a few months ahead of time.
“Ski” You Later!
Other forms of live entertainment are available too. The water shows are simply amazing; both times I attended, I was struck by the beauty of these themed performances. There isn’t anything much better on vacation than finding a row of empty bleachers, settling back with a drink and an ice cream cone, and watching dazzling “water art” on a hot summer day (although sometimes you wish you could jump in there yourself, depending on how hot it is). Be prepared to snap hundreds of pictures as you watch these qualified professionals “strut their stuff” on the lake.
So Many Shows, So Little Time
Among other shows, you’ll find pirate adventures, holiday-oriented celebrations, and animal shows. Speaking of animals; Cypress Gardens has plenty of variety in this area. From birds to gators, your kids – and you – will be amazed at the kinds of things you will see. It’s Florida, so of course you need to see some alligators on your trip! I was stunned when I first visited Cypress’ animal section and saw seemingly endless rows of gators sunning by the stream. I hoped they weren’t hungry because they weren’t really that far away from the viewing platform. Your kids, especially, should get a kick out of seeing one of Florida’s most famous animals. The lake you will see near the animal area is called Lake Eloise, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see it up close.
An Authentic River Adventure
My favorite “ride” at Cypress Gardens, thankfully still operated by the park, is the “Cypress Belle.” The Belle is a magnificent paddlewheeler with an awesome view of the park’s scenic swampland and the beautiful Lake Eloise. It’s a great feeling on a 90+ Florida day to climb up to the deck and feel the cool breeze hitting you full-force in the face. Of course, if you don’t like the thought of mosquitoes and other pesky creatures, you can lounge inside and sit at a table. Planning on going on the Cypress Belle in the evening? For a little less than $30.00 each, you can enjoy a sumptuous dinner aboard the paddlewheeler. You’ll be served ribs, along with side dishes and a fantastic dessert plate.
The “Cold” Hard Truth . . .
Another show you’ll definitely want to consider is the indoor ice adventure, Cypress Gardens on Ice. What a great attraction! When I visited, they were “Skating the States” and the light effects and ice dances were truly unforgettable. The darkened atmosphere is perfect for the show; you’ll be riveted to your seat the entire time. If you’re visiting on Tuesday, you’ll be out of luck; this is the only day the ice show isn’t available.
The Bare Necessities
Maybe you’re thinking “All right, so there are rides and gardens. Where can I get something to eat?” This is where the sweetly-named Jubilee Junction comes in. Not only will you find eating establishments, but a variety of shopping choices. One of the best offerings is Kara’s Kastle. Do you have a daughter who loves everything “princessy” or admires the beautiful “Cypress Gardens Belles” she saw dressed up in the park? Here you can give her a once-in-a-lifetime memory by letting her dress up like the Belles. Unfortunately, when I went last, it’s only a thing for “little” girls, which was very disappointing because I loved the outfits and would have enjoyed “dressing up” for the day.
