Harry P. Leu Botanical Gardens
Harry P. Leu Botanical Gardens is one of our favorite inexpensive day trip ideas and is only 1-1.5 hours away from Tampa Bay. Go there to get away from city noise and find peace and serenity.
Here are some facts about the Harry P. Leu Botanical Gardens:
Southern style gardens feature three miles of paved scenic walkways that take you though 50 acres of serene gardens.
Hours of operation: 9-5. Cost: $7 per person, free on first Monday of every month, $45 annual family membership (go to www.leugardens.org to verify)
Address: Harry P. Leu Gardens 1920 N. Forest Ave. Orlando, FL 32803
Phone: 407-246-2620
Rose garden, Camellia garden, Vegetable and Herb garden, Tropical garden and Citrus garden are some of the gardens you will find here.
The garden was founded in 1930s by Harry P. Leu, an Orlando native and businessman who made his fortune working his way up in an industrial supply company and who along with his wife Mary Jane Schmidli traveled the world and brought many exotic plants and camellias back home.
Leu House Museum tours are offered. View the rooms and original furnishings, kitchen, and hear the life stories of people who owned the garden over the years. 10-3:30 every day, in 30 minute increments. The tours are about 20 minute long.
Other services offered include facility rental for special events and weddings, classes, library of gardening literature, art exhibits and garden gift shop.