If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through a garden bursting with color under Florida’s warm spring sun, 2025 is your year. From historic estates filled with azaleas to tropical paradises with orchids and palms, Florida’s spring gardens are simply unforgettable. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of state, here are ten of the best flower gardens in Florida to explore this spring — each offering its own charm, scenery, and seasonal bloom magic.
Set on one of Florida’s highest hills, Bok Tower Gardens is a peaceful escape where art, music, and nature come together. The centerpiece is the beautiful Singing Tower — a 205-foot art deco carillon that fills the gardens with soothing music throughout the day.
What you’ll see in spring at Bok Tower Gardens
The gardens explode with colorful azaleas, camellias, and tulips in early spring, followed by native wildflowers and lush greenery. Strolling the trails here feels like walking through a living painting.
Visit in March or early April for peak bloom.
Bring a camera — the tower reflections on the ponds make great shots.
Don’t miss the Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden if you’re visiting with family.
- Location: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL
- Official site: boktowergardens.org
2. Harry P. Leu Gardens – Orlando
Just a few minutes from downtown Orlando, Leu Gardens offers 50 acres of botanical beauty right in the city. It’s a local favorite for morning walks, picnics, and photography.
What blooms in spring at Harry P. Leu Gardens
Azaleas, camellias, roses, and a variety of tropical plants. The rose garden is a highlight in April and May, while the butterfly garden attracts tons of pollinators.
Go early in the day — afternoons can get warm and busy.
Check their website’s “What’s in Bloom” page before you go.
Bring a blanket and enjoy a quiet picnic under the oak trees.
- Location: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL
- Official site: leugardens.org
3. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden – Coral Gables (Miami area)
For tropical elegance and a touch of luxury, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables is unbeatable. This 83-acre paradise is known for its rare orchids, palm collection, and butterfly exhibits.
What you’ll see at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Spring brings vibrant orchids, bougainvillea, and countless exotic blooms. The lush landscapes, ponds, and garden architecture make every turn a photo opportunity.
Allow at least two hours to explore the full garden.
Don’t miss the butterfly house and the tropical rainforest trail.
Visit their website for seasonal events and plant festivals — they often host special spring programs.
- Location: 10901 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables, FL
4. McKee Botanical Garden – Vero Beach
If you prefer something smaller and more peaceful, McKee Botanical Garden is a gem on Florida’s Treasure Coast. It’s famous for its serene water-lily ponds and tropical plants that thrive in the coastal humidity.
What blooms in spring at McKee Botanical Garden
Orchids, water lilies, bromeliads, and bright flowering trees. The garden feels like an intimate jungle walk with art installations scattered throughout.
Visit between March and June when water lilies peak.
The garden has a great children’s area called “The Children’s Garden.”
Bring insect repellent — the ponds attract a few mosquitoes.
- Location: 350 US-1, Vero Beach, FL
- Official site: mckeegarden.org
5. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens – Gainesville
In North Florida, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is known for its peaceful walking paths, massive bamboo groves, and spring festivals. It’s less touristy, making it ideal for a calm, scenic day trip.
What blooms in spring at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Azaleas, camellias, and native wildflowers paint the landscape with color. The highlight is the Spring Garden Festival, usually held in March, with vendors, plant sales, and live demonstrations.
Walk the 1.5-mile paved trail for a full view of the gardens.
Bring water and a hat — Gainesville gets warm quickly.
Check festival dates early if you plan to attend.
- Location: 4700 SW 58th Dr, Gainesville, FL
- Official site: kanapaha.org
6. Naples Botanical Garden – Naples
Down in Southwest Florida, Naples Botanical Garden is a tropical paradise covering 170 acres. It’s one of the state’s most diverse gardens, blending art, culture, and exotic plants from around the world.
What blooms in spring at Naples Botanical Garden
\You’ll find orchids, hibiscus, lotus flowers, and bright bougainvillea throughout the season. The Brazilian Garden and Water Garden are especially vibrant in March and April.
Visit in the morning when temperatures are cooler and the light is perfect for photos.
Don’t skip the Kapnick Caribbean Garden — it’s full of colorful tropical trees and blooms.
Check their calendar for special events like the “Blooms & Butterflies” exhibit.
- Location: 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL
- Official site: naplesgarden.org
7. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens – Williston (near Gainesville)
This hidden gem is built inside a reclaimed limestone quarry, giving it a magical, layered landscape. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens combines waterfalls, koi ponds, and lush flower beds surrounded by limestone cliffs.
What blooms in spring at Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens?
Azaleas, irises, camellias, and orchids bloom around the lake areas. The tranquil setting and elevation changes make it a photographer’s dream.
Wear comfortable shoes — there are stairs and uneven paths.
Spring mornings are best for soft light and fewer visitors.
Bring a picnic and sit by the koi ponds for a peaceful break.
- Location: 4990 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL
- Official site: cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com
8. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – Sarasota
Located along Sarasota Bay, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is world-famous for its orchid and bromeliad collections. The garden’s bayfront setting adds coastal charm to the vibrant displays.
What blooms in spring at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens?
Expect a riot of orchids, ferns, and tropical flowers in the greenhouses and gardens. Each spring, Selby hosts special art-inspired exhibits like “Flowers in Bloom” that mix nature and creativity.
The Children’s Rainforest Garden is great for families.
Combine your visit with a stop at nearby Bayfront Park or St. Armands Circle.
Visit the downtown campus or the Historic Spanish Point campus — both are beautiful.
- Location: 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL
- Official site: selby.org
9. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park – Tallahassee
In North Florida, Maclay Gardens State Park transforms into a floral wonderland every spring. The gardens were designed in the 1920s and feature classic Southern charm.
What blooms in spring at Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park?
Masses of azaleas, camellias, dogwoods, and wisteria cover the garden paths — it’s easily one of the most photogenic spots in North Florida during March and April.
Visit in early March for peak azalea blooms.
The reflecting pool area is a must-see (and very Instagram-worthy).
The park also offers hiking, kayaking, and picnicking, making it a great day trip.
- Location: 3540 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL
- Official site: floridastateparks.org – Maclay Gardens
10. Mounts Botanical Garden – West Palm Beach
As Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest public garden, Mounts Botanical Garden is a hidden treasure featuring more than 25 unique themed gardens. It’s perfect for plant lovers and casual visitors alike.
What blooms in spring at Mounts Botanical Garden?
Bougainvillea, orchids, tropical fruit trees, and succulents fill the landscape with vibrant color. The Butterfly Garden and Tropical Forest Walk are spring highlights.
Check out the “Windows on the Floating World” exhibit for stunning water views.
Spring mornings are cooler — plan your visit before 10 a.m.
Bring a reusable water bottle; the garden provides refill stations.
- Location: 531 N Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL
- Official site: mounts.org
Final Thoughts
Whether you want a peaceful escape surrounded by camellias or a tropical getaway among orchids and palms, Florida’s gardens in spring 2025 have something special for everyone.
Plan ahead, bring your camera, and let nature do the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When is the best time to see spring flowers in Florida?
Late February to April is peak bloom season, though some tropical gardens bloom year-round.
2. Which Florida garden has the most flowers in spring?
Bok Tower Gardens and Harry P. Leu Gardens are known for massive spring displays of azaleas and camellias.
3. Are Florida botanical gardens open year-round?
Yes, most gardens like Fairchild, Naples, and Selby are open all year with seasonal events.
4. How much does it cost to visit these gardens?
Admission usually ranges from $10 to $25 per adult, depending on the garden. State parks like Maclay Gardens are often cheaper.
5. Can I bring food or have a picnic inside the gardens?
Some gardens allow picnics in designated areas (like Kanapaha and Leu Gardens). Always check each garden’s policy before visiting.
