Visit Mead Botanical Garden: A Hidden 47-Acre Public Garden Near Orlando
July 1, 2026
What is Mead Botanical Garden?
Mead Botanical Garden in Winter Park, FL is one of the best free things to do near Orlando. Spanning more than 47 acres of public gardens, trails and wetlands, this historic park sits just minutes away from the major theme parks.
The above video features a tour of the grounds with Executive Director Ashley Fraebel, highlighting the staff, volunteers and community members who keep the green space running.
First established as a nonprofit in 1940, the garden was named in honor of horticulturist Theodore L. Mead (1852–1936). Today, it remains a community-supported space popular for Central Florida birdwatching, nature photography, picnics, and quiet escapes from the busy tourist areas.
What can I see at Mead Botanical Garden?
There is a variety of both flora and fauna that can be seen at Mead Garden, including a collection of plants that are native to Florida. A full list of the native plants can be found on the Mead Garden website.
Mead Garden is also famous for its Night-Blooming Cereus, otherwise known as "The Queen of the Night." This beautiful cactus blooms just once per year, usually in late May or early June. On that day, Mead Botanical Garden stays open until 10pm to allow visitors to see the plant in all its glory.
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The unique and diverse combination of ecological habitats also makes for a space with diverse animal life, including birds.Can I take photographs at Mead Botanical Garden?
At Mead Botanical Garden, photographs are welcome to be taken for personal use. Professionals and businesses need to provide a business license and acquire an Open Space Business Permit with the City of Winter Park.
How can I get involved at Mead Garden?
Mead Botanical Garden is open and free to the public seven days a week. Moreover, it is primarily cared for by community volunteers. Volunteers gather twice weekly on Tuesday and Friday mornings to care for the grounds. More information on volunteering at Mead is available on the Mead Botanical Garden website.
Private events can be hosted at the Azalea Lodge at Mead Botanical Garden.
Plan a Visit
As one of the most beautiful botanical gardens near Orlando, Mead offers a free, easy escape into nature just minutes from downtown Winter Park. Whether it's for a family trip, Spring Break or for no reason at all, a visit to Mead Garden is a great way to disconnect from electronics and reconnect with nature.
1300 S Denning Dr, Winter Park, FL 32789
Open daily, 8 a.m. to dusk
Free general admission
Learn more: https://business.winterpark.org/list/member/mead-botanical-garden-inc-5008380
About the Series
This video is part of a showcase highlighting the destinations of the Winter Park Arts & Culture Alliance, produced by the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce and made possible by a generous grant from the Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation.