Relive a Bygone Era at Cypress Gardens

So you’re on your way to the Orlando area, which probably means you’ve got your sights set on Mickey Mouse’s stomping grounds, but did you know that Florida’s granddaddy of theme parks is in the neighborhood, too? If you’re looking for something different to do while you’re in Central Florida, Cypress Gardens just might fit the bill. For more than 70 years this park has been entertaining tourists with its glorious gardens, ski show and most recently, rides.

Dick Pope Sr. originally created the gardens on 35 of acres swamp land, and today a variety of tropical plants and flowers grow on the property, flooding it with color. The meticulously landscaped grounds make up one of the most naturally beautiful gardens in the world. The famous gazebo is the centerpiece, and there’s a 70-year-old Banyan tree that stands like a patriarch over it all. Other points of interest include the delightful Topiary Trail and Snively Plantation, home to a rose garden, herb garden and butterfly garden. If you like, you can take a guided tour of all the botanical gardens.

The shows at Cypress Gardens are fun and exciting. Crack up with the nutty cowpokes of the Shenaniguns! Comedy Wild West Show. Or for a little sea-faring fun, watch Captain Blackjack Blown-a-part and his crazy cohort in a laugh-filled slapstick show. Last but not least, make sure you catch the world renowned Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show. You can’t help but be impressed by the amazing barefoot skiers, spectacular jumps and famed Cypress Gardens water ski pyramid.

CypressGardens has been revitalized in recent years with the addition of thrill rides and other attractions. Take a nostalgic ride up, down and all around on the Starliner, a classic wooden roller coaster that reaches speeds up to 70 miles per hour. If you like going upside down, swing back and forth on the Inverter until you flip a full 360 degrees. On hot summer days you might enjoy a good splash on Storm Surge, a multi-person white water raft ride. That’s just a taste of the fun, so bring the family and come experience all that Cypress Gardens has to offer.