5 Star update for a park that is beautiful for stolling during Azalea blooming season, as well as for events and weddings. This is one of my favorite parks ever. As the name implies, this park is at its peak during azalea season, but don't be discouraged if these colorful blooms are till hidden- there is so much more to discover in this park. Take a walk along the path that meanders under the bridges and around the creek. You'll find tons of special spots where you'll want to pause, take a picture, and enjoy a moment of peace (just thinking about it is putting me in a zen mood!). The park also has a nice stage area which is small, but can be used as a wedding location (I've been a bridesmaid here!). I wouldn't recommend going to the park at night, as it doesn't have lights and can get a bit creepy, but during the day make sure to get your pup on a leash, pack a light lunch, and get ready for the best picnic ever! read more

What a sweet little park to enjoy a short walk, a picnic or to partake in bird watching. There are benches here and there to sit on. Would be a nice spot with the right eye to take photos. The oaks are old and hold so much wisdom. The hard part is finding where to park. The only spot is on the side of the road. I saw people walking dogs through the park too. It's shaded and if you want sun, there are parts that the sun shines through. Enjoy! read more

Very peaceful little pocket park Sidewalks with calm traffic above, winding trails with multiple bridges over babbling brook below Surprising how few mosquitoes Bathroom and lot at south end read more

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I love the babbling brook that runs fresh water throughout the entire park. It served as a watering hole for cattle herders until it became a city park in 1924.The area is nicely shaded.Makes for a pleasant walk on a hot Florida summer day.I loved the Washington Street Bridge which is rich in history.The scenery is serene and picturesque.Stunning. read more

Wow, I cannot believe it took me this long to discover this little hidden gem of a park -- only a few minutes away from where I live! I learned that this park is actually a historical landmark here in Orlando, and being the flower lover that I am, I don't know how I've missed out on the Azaleas in bloom year after year. I've heard this was a popular photo spot for engagement sessions and maternity shoots, and I definitely saw a few happening during my visit. Just on the other side of the street is Langford Park where my husband likes to play basketball (This is also a good place to park). I decided to tag along with him and do some exploring of my own when I stumbled upon the trail entrance to Dickson-Azalea. I immediately felt like I was on an adventure discovering a secret garden in the middle of downtown. There are a few cute bridges and streams as you walk through. I saw a few yogis practicing in nature and folks walking their dogs here as well. It's not a very long walking path, but it's definitely a more scenic one, and the historic Washington Street bridge is so picturesque. I'm definitely adding the annual Azalea bloom to my Orlando bucket list! read more

A small park that is truly amazing. It is easy to forget that you're in the middle of a busy city simply by being within this park. It may sound cliche, but you walk upon this path and you are transformed into another land. If you have never been here, I strongly recommend a visit. read more

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This is such a beautiful little oasis in the middle of downtown Orlando. Lots of small, peaceful, shaded paths that weave along a creek. When I visited in late summer, there were still some flowers blooming, and I even got close up photos of a butterfly. While it was very enjoyable to experience the fresh air and green scenery, It would have been more relaxing if there weren't so many squirrels doing squirrel things every where you turn. There is parking, a playground, picnic tables, and public restrooms at Langford park nearby, and if you're just strolling it might take 30min - 1 hour to visit both parks, longer if you decide to picnic and take pictures. read more

H. H. Dickson Azalea Park - Parks Near Me - Orlando, Florida

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This park has quiet a storied history. It used to be a watering hole for cattle and in 1924 it became a park. The land now home to Dickson-Azalea Park was purchased in 1916 by State Senator Walter Rose. Rose admired the lands natural setting, flowing creek and proximity to downtown Orlando. He thought he would be perfect for development. He held a contest to name the area and chose the suggestion of Rosearden inspired by Shakespeare's play As You Like It in which the characters Rosalind and Orlando met in the Forest of Arden. The east side of Fern Creek was plotted for homes and he left 5 acres for the park. In 1924 Rose deeded the park on both sides of the creek and known as Fern Creek Park to the City of Orlando but it soon become covered in debris. The park was the first location of a garden center for the Orlando Garden Club. During the Great Depression this group maintained the parks through the Works Progress Administration. They appeared before the City Council and presented plans for the beautification of the park. They planted trees and shrubs to attract birds. They also requested that the name of the be changed to honor Henry Hill Dickson who was a pioneer Orlando businessman and advocate for the beautification of the city. He was gravely ill at the time and the City Council approved the garden club's request. The city of Orlando has since resumed control of the park. Today you can visit the park and enjoy the shade trees, birds, and the bubbling water of Fern Creek which is one of only a few moving waterways in Orlando. Located in the park is the historic Washington Street Bridge built in 1926 during the Great Depression. It is the only bridge of it's kind in Orlando. There are historical markers in the park highlighting the historical importance of both the bridge and the park. There are several wooden boardwalks that cross the water and stone steps that take you up the hill. There is no dedicated parking lot so you have to find street parking in the Thornton Park neighborhood. The park is a popular site for picnics and intimate weddings. Park amenities include trails for biking, jogging, and walking and picnic tables. read more

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This very unassuming from the street but extremely lush garden is my favorite place to walk my dog out of the city. It is a well shaded and creek lined trail that takes about 30 minutes to leisurely complete. The foliage has a rich history and meaning to the city as well which is evident in the size of these plants. There are some of the most impressive monsteras I've ever seen. And plenty of Azaleas as the park is named after. There are plenty of benches a long the way to stop and enjoy the sounds of running water and rusting leaves, as well as many cute areas if you're looking for an outdoor photo location. All in all it is a great, quite little retreat from the usually busy parks we enjoy. read more

H. H. Dickson Azalea Park - Parks Near Me - Orlando, Florida

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Pleasant little walk in the midst of the city. Park either in Langford park or along the street near Langford. Missed most of the azaleas blooming but still a nice little peaceful piece of nature. Great for enjoying a picnic lunch or some quiet meditation read more

One of my favorite parks in Orlando! Every time I visit, I always see a photo shoot happening. That just shows how beautiful this park is. Lots of greenery everywhere with a small stream and a bridge to look at too. My dogs enjoyed this park, smelling all the different types of plants and flowers available here. And since there's a lot of plants and trees, plenty of shade as you walk through the trail. Highly recommend it! read more

H. H. Dickson Azalea Park - Enjoying the nature trail with my dogs and my sister on a quiet weekday morning - Parks Near Me - Orlando, Florida

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This is my all time favorite spot when it comes to photography in Orlando! Love this area so much! So many different spots and super beautiful area near downtown. @cerphotography read more

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Dickson Azalea Park is a small urban park that is rich with history. The park became an Orlando Historic Landmark in 1991. The land used for Azalea Park was donated by a state senator in 1924. The Washington State Bridge was built in 1926 and still stands along with the original rock stairs. Almost all of the pathway through the park is shaded by huge beautiful trees. The water usually flows along the path but with so little rain it was dry or stagnant in many places. They have picnic areas and quiet places to relax. On my last visit there were several people walking their dogs or exercising. This a common place for locals to have photos taken. The homeless population is picking up in the area and are most prevalent in the evening. There were a few using the picnic area to sleep. read more

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This is one of my favorite hidden treasures of Orlando. Just a small park located in the very heart of Downtown. This is one my favorite parks for a small walk on a beautiful little trail. Set down low it was actually a watering hole for cattle herders before it became a park in 1924. What makes this park so special is the flowers. You may have noticed the park is named after the gorgeous Azaleas located all over. The park is also known for the Washington Street Bridge. A beautiful bridge you can walk under along the small clear creek while taking in the green scenery everywhere. Almost the whole park is shaded by beautiful trees. You will often see people getting professional photos done here for modeling, family shoots or even engagement photos. Also attached to this park is a playground and a few great destinations for a small ceremony with a hall available to rent. My only downfall for this park is that sometimes there is trash in creek or along paths ( as with many parks unfortunately). I think it's our duty as people to try to keep special landmarks like this park beautiful and clean for everyone to enjoy including the beautiful birds and other creatures that inhabit this park. Either way if your looking for a gorgeous park that's very quiet and relaxing this is the place!!! P.s. for all my Pokémon lovers this park has tons of stops and it's usually a nest for a rare rotating Pokémon. read more

H. H. Dickson Azalea Park - I love the azaleas everywhere. Hence the name!!! - Parks Near Me - Orlando, Florida

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I lovingly refer to this little park as the secret garden of Orlando. You can tell it has been preserved and looked after for many decades. I'm just glad they decided to keep this area as a public park and not incorporate it into private-owned land. We took my maternity photos here in July with Addie Marie Photography. Yes, it was hot- but the shade in most of the park area and taking the pictures early at sunrise helped keep it more comfortable for all of us. There are plenty of great backdrops for photos. An old staircase, a few bridges above and below, garden and amphitheater areas, etc. As for parking, you can probably street park just before the picturesque white bridge. Or bike from another part of Thornton Park. With the pandemic, we are all looking for things to do away from the house that will still allow us to distance safely. You can put this place on your list! read more

H. H. Dickson Azalea Park - Addie Marie Photography - Parks Near Me - Orlando, Florida

I'm not sure why I haven't reviewed this park before. I thought I did since some of my pre-wedding pictures were taken here. Since then, I've become in love with this park and enjoys taking a stroll when in the area. This park has kind of a romantic vibe to it. Day or night, the trails are breath taking, surround with wooden and cement bridges and with lots of greenery and azaleas. Sure, great for the family too, but definitely one of the most romantic parks in town. Oh, and our pre-wedding and wedding pictures looked amazing!! read more

The azalea flowers are just beautiful in this cute little urban park. It's a nice place to stroll through to enjoy nature in the downtown area of Orlando. read more

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This is a beautiful park just outside of downtown Orlando! We took our family photos here and there were plenty of picturesque locations, even a fallen tree branch practically meant for our family! There are stairs leading down towards the water, but it is definitely not wheelchair accessible from the side we were on. There isn't really anything todo at this park, or many places to sit, but it was a good place for pictures. The worst thing was the SMELL, especially under the bridge. Major sewage smell, and there was some crude graffiti on the walls. Regardless the park served its purpose! read more

H. H. Dickson Azalea Park - Parks Near Me - Orlando, Florida

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Hidden Gem This is a wonderful hidden Azalea Park with a lot of history. I will be coming here for many more morning strolls in the shade. So much flora, I could have forgotten I was in the middle of a major city. Wonderful place for a little photo shoot as well. There is a large stream that runs through the garden so you have the sound of water canceling out any cars etc. The bridge has got to be my favorite part, pulls everything together. Felt like I was transported back in time. read more

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I love this park. I was searching for an engagement picture spot around Orlando and found Dickson Azalea Park. Wow, I didn't think there was something this beautiful in Florida. There were a lot of people taking pictures throughout the park. It is definitely a popular picture destination. The whole park is beautiful and great for any occasion. The bridge and the stairs were a nice surprise and made this park even more beautiful. Definitely a very nice hidden gem to visit! read more

WOW what a beautiful park hidden amongst Orlando. I highly recommend a visit to this park to anyone that is in the area! I love the small bridges that traverse the park and the moss covered stone step that you can find throughout the park. There's a small creek that runs through the park, with some beautiful foliage. There are a few benches and a little amphitheater area. perfect place for a picnic or pictures (as I saw many people getting photos taken here). So happy we stumbled upon this beautiful place and I can't wait to visit again! read more

Beautiful park. Love the old cypress trees, views of the water and the quiet atmosphere

Most of the city parks around Florida that I've visited we're created on government land to benefit the community, but visiting H.H. Dickson Azalea Park has a much richer history. * * * THE BACKGROUND * * * What once began as a stream passing through indigenous land and used as a watering hole for cattle, 40 acres of land was purchased by Senator Walter Rose in 1916 to be used for development. In 1924, the Senator gave 5 acres to the City of Orlando as a park known as Senator Rose Park. In 1933, the Civitan Club requested that the city rename the park in honor of Colonel Henry Hill Dickson, who devoted much of his Life to beautifying Orlando; including planting Azalea throughout the city; but it was until 1935 that the city broke ground to restore the overgrown property. A local landscape architect Mulford Foster designed the new layout of the park to include water features, bridges, paths and landscaping, while the Works Progress Administration (part of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's New Deal program) provided labor to build walls and steps throughout the park. In 1991, H.H. Dickson Azalea Park became an Orlando Historic Landmark. * * * THE PARK TODAY * * * The Park is narrow, lengthy parcel running north/south along Rosearden Drive with the original stream running the length of the park. The landscaping is lush and full; very tropical and as the name of the park suggests includes many azalea. The paths that run through the park are quite romantic and a worthwhile walk. While most of the ground covering on the paths is a thin layer of vegetation or mulch; some path coverings include wood, concrete or sand (where the vegetation is worn). There are many pedestrian bridges crossing the stream at various points and there is even a street crossing through the park at known as the Washington Street Bridge (constructed in 1926) where the walking path goes under the bridge; and the bridge serves as a wonderful backdrop for photo shoots and wedding pictures. The homes surrounding the park are well taken care of and are reflective of the history in the area. Even though there are residences and roadways adjacent to the park, the park is very tranquil... hearing birds and wind through the trees is more noticeable than cars or children playing. * * * OUR LAST VISIT * * * As Marisol and I finished our picnic lunch (takeout from Little Saigon), we began a stroll through the park. Our conversation included, what a lovely place this would make for a wedding. The grounds are extremely well taken care of; the foliage is left very full but trimmed to keep the paths clear and manicured to maintain that inviting charm. As we continued our walk, we did not see a wedding... what we saw was interesting but odd as well. At the tunnel beneath the Washington Street Bridge, there was a full on photo-shoot set up, which looked rather professional; the group included a couple photographers and a couple guys holding those reflective Instruments to angle the light in the right places (looked like silver-lined inside out umbrellas). Nothing seems too odd yet BUT the subject matter that was being photographed was interesting... roughly 5 models (not those skinny-mini type) were hefty girls dressed in animal costumes like the Furries at Com-i-con... it was very sexual and strange. That experience made me think, "I don't think I need my wedding here", but for those that didn't have those Furrydom Fetish images burned into their memory, you can have a wedding or special event here, as the city of Orlando rents out space at the park for up to 100 people (and a lot cheaper than most venues). read more

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We came to this park at the suggestion of a friend to take our engagement pictures and could not be more pleased with it. We went to just check it out for the first time on a weekend around 5ish and saw a couple people taking pictures there and we just did a walk around since neither of us had been. It's SUCH a hidden gem, and I love it. A lot of people do Leu gardens, Kraft Azalea, Winter Park for their pics (all beautiful and some of my fav places) I just wanted a different vibe. I had a look in mind (that enchanted forest/secret garden) for the pics that this park was perfect for. I've attached some unedited pics my friend sent me so you can see without any photog special edits, but seriously SO many different areas for pictures that even when others are there, you can get around them for plenty of other picture spots. We did our pictures from 9-10:30 a.m. on a Sunday morning and only one other person was there taking pictures that we briefly passed. There is about 6 of these wooden bridges, quite a few stone steps that curve around, a little creek, a stone/slate little stage, hills, flowers, a curved tunnel which is underneath a very pretty road that has pretty columns (see pics of us sitting). Just so so many beautiful areas to walk around. You don't even realize you've arrived because from the street you park and then walk down steps so you can't see the park from the road (which is really cool for us Florida folk who are used to flat lands and not going down or up in to areas like this lol). So park on the street, walk down and then you can also walk across the street to another park where there are pavilions and sidewalks with this wooden pavilion/stage. I'm not sure what it's used for, but it was very pretty to walk around. We did pass a few people walking their dogs the first time we went in the evening so it's definitely dog friendly (on leashes). I would say, since it is a darker area and not seen from the street, please don't go by yourself. It's not in a bad area, but I wouldn't have felt that comfortable alone so just practice common sense and be safe! read more

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I can only give it 4 stars as we didn't even get a chance to see the whole.park..we were there for family photos with 3 small kids I should add in and we were in just a small part of the park. There were amazing trees that could be climbed on and amazing scenery as well. We were literally in people's backyard that I could see from the area that we were in. We wore heels and new shoes I don't recommend that as it was very sandy and some parts wet as well. It was such a cute park with little streams and waterfalls as well. Love to come back just to enjoy nature as well as take some more pictures I've lived in orlando.for over 25 yes and have been to downtown a lot specifically to that area and never paid attention to that park. read more

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AMZING EXPERINCE !! I went there and did the paved walking trail, SO GORGEOUS The flowers, trees, plants, etc. BLEW MY MIND. 100/10 Highly recommend. But make sure to bring water because it's hot in Florida , read more

This park is beautiful, small but you can capture some decent pictures here if you're a photographer or just nice for a little walk. read more

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Dickson Azalea is the perfect hidden gem, with an urban city park vibe! It has so much variety for portrait sessions and is easily one of my favorites! ( Photos attached, shot by Everlasting Photography Inc. ) read more

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Favorite spot - always has plenty of space no matter how many people are there and am able to find little hidden spots. Love to bring takeout and a book and zone out for a bit. Pet and family friendly and has some nice little trails but nothing too extensive. Also, has a little lending library at the front entrance. read more

Visited this park while out exploring the city. It was after Hurricane Irma so there was some down trees and debris. I liked the way it was a little hidden area with streams and small waterfalls. Some cichlids were swimming in the small bodies of water. There was some cool plants and great trees. The white bridge was neat with arches. There was a homeless guy napping under it, and it did seem like some may hangout around there. I loved how the squirrels were rushing around gathering acorns, and scolding us from the treetops. Saw a lovely male blue jay and a female cardinal. We didn't go when it is flowering there, I'm sure it looks lovely during that time. read more

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Geek alert! I study and plan parks for a living, so I may get a bit long-winded on this one... Dickson Azalea Park is a beautiful gem of a place in downtown Orlando--yet many people have no idea that it exists! As Lori mentions, it's pretty tucked away...you really need to keep your eyes peeled for it on Robinson. If you're heading east, look for some stairs on your right and there you go. Once you journey down the stairs, you are transported to a tropical sliver of gorgeousness. There are two interlocking pathways that connect over a small creek (Fern Creek, actually...) via small wooden bridges. The creekside paths lead you to a small stage/performance area that you can rent for an obscenely cheap price, and eventually this trail of bridges and stone will lead you under the iconic bridge on Washington. Once through here you are treated to more tropical foliage and a (hopefully) babbling brook. You'll emerge at Langford Park on Central Avenue...be sure to try out the swinging bridge there before you leave! A few caveats: at certain times of year--mostly in winter, when we haven't had rain--the park is less than impressive. The plants are as lush, and the creek is barely running. Try to go after a few super rainy days. Also, I don't recommend coming alone after dusk or so--there are no lights, and I wouldn't feel safe in the dark jungle alone.... read more

Sometimes Orlando gets annoying. All the palm trees, and sunshine, and how everything is so flat. Going to Dickson Park will give you the fresh air/nature recharge you need without even leaving downtown. It is truly one of my favorite spots in the city. To get there I usually park in the parking lot at Langford Park and walk across Central to get to Dickson Park. There are dirt paths that lead you into the park, one path on each side of the small creek. I usually walk down one side and then walk back along the other path. It's a tiny park, and truly enchanting. It's always been pretty empty when I've gone so it's great for a romantic stroll with the hubby. Of course, I had to take the kids too and they love it as well. A walk through the park from end to end is pretty fast. You could easily walk the whole thing in 15 minutes (or you can take as long as you want, no rush.) After this park I would recommend a stop at the neighboring Langford park. A more typical Florida park, but also very nice. read more

I have been visiting this park for the better part of five years. Over this time i have seen this park go from a unique place of paradise to little more than a disturbing experience. It would seem we have a bunch of geniuses making some very short sighted decisions with regards to the management and maintenance of this little gem. Such a shame. I suspect much of the maintenance and policy designs has to do around fear. Yes fear of the homeless invading this public treasury as if suddenly by virtue of one's economic circumstance you are automatically disqualified from being a member of the public. The design emerging from this unsavory conditions is to mow down anything above 40 inches. Turn most planting beds into the high maintenance water gobbling lawns. The second very obvious malady is to inhibit or deliberately remove anything seemingly remote to do with variety and quantity as far as planting material and the likes. They promptly remove trees and limbs that would otherwise be the home for animals and critters, such a the beautiful family of owls and the cute little squirrel which often serve as their meals. There is a complete lack of understanding of nature and the natural processes as evidence in the management decisions of this wonderful resources. This is clearly evident in the use of pesticides and herbicides to eradicate plant material that would colonize the waterline of the little stream. Really unfortunate! The vistas used to be something of extremism beauty. The micro climate created by the plethora of associated plant colonies was breath taking. Now it is water trickling over dry sand. As the beautiful little pockets of fish gathering has efficiently been poisoned. It's not my intention to be a "sour puss". And yes the park is beautiful. But we do need qualified people to make these policy decisions, around maintenance and management. Which I might add is certainly not about resources in this case, but simple knowledge. Sure I will be visiting again if nothing else but to yearn for the day when I will see this park flourish once again under proper management. read more

This is a park that I would love to do a photo shoot in. It's planned in such a way that taking a picture in any direction would almost guarantee you an awesome shot. I'm surprised I haven't actually seen more couples or photographers in this park. It's small, and it's a little hard to find, but it's certainly worth the effort and getting lost numerous times. I actually found out about it through participating in Urban Dare a couple of years ago. And yes, my partner and I literally went in circles 'cos we kept missing it. I cursed at the park for making my feet hurt and making us lose time, but as soon as we found it, all resentment disappeared. It's really, really gorgeous. And peaceful as not too many people know about it. Yet. But there are some parts of the park that I do feel need more work. It's a little sad when you step out of a really dense and interesting part of the park only to find a really "undergrown" area that looked like it had been neglected and forgotten. *tear* My favorite component of this park is the bridge and it's scattered everywhere! They add a whole ton of character and charm to the park. read more

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Dickson Azalea Park is an urban paradise just east of downtown, a two-block garden walk with lots of native species of flora. It's great for photo ops and a beautiful environment to just soak in. A field guide to local plants would be nice to have when visiting here. On my most recent visit, an artist was there painting, and a female couple were having some professional photographs taken of themselves. But it's very peaceful and I've never seen it crowded. Bring your dogs with a leash. They will love to explore here! read more

I live on Washington so this gem is in my backyard. When you walk down into the park, you are transported away from downtown. You are in the forest. I say this because the park resides below street level, in fact, if you drive over the historic white bridge on Washington, then you just drove over the park. Once inside, you forget where you are. I'm not kidding. It is like being on the Halo Deck of Star Trek. Instantly, you are mentally and physically in a different world than where you were 5 minutes ago. There is so much to see. There are three huge attributes that I consider amazing: 1. The oak tree 2. The Stage 3. Fern creek 4. Under the bridge 5. Cobble stone streets 6. Dickenson Park (across from the park. It has swings and benches) 7. Ok, so I got carried away. I'm ok if you don't go to this park. Just means it stays our little secret. read more

Had some photos taken here one Sunday for about 3 hours. We walked ALL OVER! Nice little park that winds its way into other parks through neighborhoods near downtown. Neat little places to walk around and look at. The azaleas weren't in bloom, but looking at the photos that seems like it's amazing at that time of year. Narrow park with few amenities and some homeless people drinking under a bridge, but a nice place for a stroll. Saw at least a half-dozen other families with photographers out taking photos that Sunday morning, so I guess it's popular for that! read more

This is a beautiful, magical hidden gem of Orlando. It only takes up a few blocks tucked in a residential area, but the canopy of trees covers the path in such a way you think you've been transported elsewhere. It's relaxing to walk on the sidewalk that winds along with the small creek, under a bridge and back over. There are a few benches you can stop and "smell the azleas" on, along the way :) read more

Beautiful park! We took our engagement pictures on the hidden gem bridge and under it. They turned out better than I could imagine.

A beautiful hidden gem in Winter Park. I love to wander through here and then into the park across the street (Langston) since it's small-ish. Rather reminiscent of a "secret garden" with all the little walking paths and small bridges. This park is perfect if you are in the area and you want to see something magical and tucked away from the city! read more