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Cypress Gardens
Established in the mid 1930's, Cypress Gardens in Florida ranks as the state's oldest theme park, though there are no thrill rides to frighten visitors here. It's more of a relaxing environment, of plants, animals, and stunning flower displays, through which visitors can wander at leisure. There are also a Paddlewheeler boat ride, the park's impressive signature water-skiing show, a Ice show and other entertainment. An aerial view of the whole park can be obtained by riding the 'Kodak Island in the Sky' - a 153 foot high revolving platform.
The park is 223 acres in size. Over half of which is laid out in stunning floral arrangements, with over 8,000 varieties of plants and flowers, including bougainvillea at over 40ft high, floss silk trees, bird of paradise, chrysanthemums, and of course the Cypress trees after which the park derives it's name.
Cypress Gardens double as a wildlife haven, where visitors can explore nature trails, a large aviary, and a forest area that nurtures threatened and endangered wildlife. There's also a huge climate controlled glass conservatory, which houses more than 50 species of butterflies from around the world.
The park also holds America's most elaborate model railway, with 1,100 feet of track, 400 buildings, and 4,800 miniature animal and human figures, cast in the role of Cypress Junction, recreating a typical American town in various seasonal settings.
Cypress Gardens is located approximately 45 miles southwest of Orlando, near Winter Haven, Florida.
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