Canopy Walk
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Bonnet Springs Park

4.9
·2k reviews·Lakeland, United States

A 168-acre free urban oasis blending nature and art, offering canopy walks, playgrounds, museums, and trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Canopy Walk

Bonnet Springs Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 168-acre free urban oasis blending nature and art, offering canopy walks, playgrounds, museums, and trails.

4.9
(2k reviews)

"This park was just rewarded as USA Today’s best city park! I can definitely see why!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this huge park! :athletic_shoe:

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. There are cafes, but packing your own is smart. :water_wave:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crenshaw Canopy Walk

Crenshaw Canopy Walk

Elevated walkway

Stroll among the treetops for breathtaking views of the park and surrounding lakes. A unique perspective on this urban oasis.

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Florida Children's Museum

Florida Children's Museum

Integrated within the park

An engaging space for little explorers, offering interactive exhibits and hands-on fun for kids of all ages.

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Nature Trails & Gardens

Nature Trails & Gardens

Throughout the park

Wander through diverse natural landscapes, discover winding paths, and enjoy beautiful botanical gardens.

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Interactive Playgrounds

Interactive Playgrounds

Multiple locations

Kids can burn energy on creative playgrounds featuring climbing structures, slides, and water play areas.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Free Fun

Bonnet Springs Park is a sprawling, 168-acre urban oasis that's completely free to enter! This means you can explore its diverse landscapes, playgrounds, and trails without spending a dime. Plan for a full day to truly experience all it offers, from the canopy walk to the nature center. TikTok

Beat the Florida Heat

Florida's sun can be intense, but Bonnet Springs Park offers plenty of relief. Look for shaded areas, a misting station, and even an air-conditioned nature center. The natural creek is also a great spot to cool off. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Best Central Florida Park for kids is *hands down* Bonnet Springs Park.🌳(and also FREE!) this HUGE and very special regional park has a beautiful blend of urban and natural elements, with so many areas for the kids to burn off energy but stay out of the FL sun. ☀️ 📍400 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33815 ⏱️ Gates Open at 6AM, Park Closes at Dusk ☕️ Coffee Shop in the Welcome Center 8AM -...
@cheatdayorl
35.3K likes • 823.6K views

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this huge park! :athletic_shoe: TikTok

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. There are cafes, but packing your own is smart. :water_wave: TikTok

Bonnet Springs Park is a very special regional park with a beautiful blend of urban and natural elements. Big shout out❕There’s plenty of ways to find relief from the heat with shaded areas, an air conditioned nature center, cool spring water to play in, misting area, water stations, and air conditioned bathrooms. 📍400 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33815 Gates Open at 6AM
Park Closes at Du...
@cheatdayorl
30.2K likes • 342.3K views
The Best Central Florida Park for kids is *hands down* Bonnet Springs Park.🌳(and also FREE!) Follow me @cheatdayorl for Orlando kid-friendly finds! ✨ this HUGE and very special regional park has a beautiful blend of urban and natural elements, with so many areas for the kids to burn off energy but stay out of the FL sun. ☀️ 📍400 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33815 ⏱️ Gates Open at 6AM, P...
cheatdayorl
50.1K likes • 3.4M views

☀️ Seek Shade & Cool Spots

Florida sun is no joke! Utilize shaded areas, misting stations, and the nature center. :sunwithface: TikTok

📸 Capture the Beauty

This park is a photographer's dream with diverse scenery. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash: Reddit

Central Florida Food Fest at USA Today’s Best City Park? We’re in🍴 Comment “FEST” + we’ll DM you the event link 🌳 📅 Saturday, October 18 | 5–9PM 📍 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland Central Florida Food Fest at @bonnetspringspark is bringing the flavor this fall and serving up major bites, drinks, and vibes. 🍔 Exclusive dishes + pairings from top restaurants @kingofthecoop_, @nineteen61, and @b...
thatssotampa
989 likes • 46.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this huge park! :athletic_shoe: TikTok

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. There are cafes, but packing your own is smart. :water_wave: TikTok

☀️ Seek Shade & Cool Spots

Florida sun is no joke! Utilize shaded areas, misting stations, and the nature center. :sunwithface: TikTok

📸 Capture the Beauty

This park is a photographer's dream with diverse scenery. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash: Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun

Leashed furry friends are welcome to join the fun! :dog: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.9
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by Bonnet Springs Park, often describing it as magical and majestic. The park's vast size, beautiful landscaping, and diverse attractions for all ages are frequently praised. Its status as a free, community-focused space makes it a highly recommended destination. Reddit+1

"Wow, this was my first time at Bonnet Springs Park and I am completely enthralled. It is magical. The fact that it is free to visit is really amazing. There are activities for kids, of course, but also things that adults would enjoy. The café was also top notch. The prices are reasonable, the staff is friendly and they have ice cream! In addition to homemade kettle chips, a personal fave. I find myself more and more drawn to Lakeland with first Friday, Saturday morning market and now a new place to add to my list. Bonnet Springs Park is such a majestic place and clearly a community gathering spot."

Carol Touchton

"My favorite local park! Its giant and has so much to see and do! I never struggle to find a parking spot and there are so many different areas that you could come here every day and find something new to see. I am a photographer, and I have done many photo sessions here and they always turn out amazing!"

Kelsey Koston

"A five stars beautiful free park. The size is impressive, the design, the artifacts, and different buildings along the park creates a jovial and peaceful environment. I enjoyed it and took lots of photos. If you visit, keep it clean and beautiful as it is."

alduy tor

What People Like

Free admission
Vast size and beauty
Activities for all ages

What People Dislike

Occasional insect stings
Water feature sometimes out of order

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bonnet Springs Park is located at 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33815. It's conveniently situated between Tampa and Orlando, making it an accessible destination for many Central Florida residents and visitors. TikTokInstagram

Yes, ample parking is available. Many visitors note that finding a parking spot is generally not an issue, even on busier days. Reddit

While not explicitly detailed, the park does offer a free trolley service to help you navigate the expansive grounds, which can be a great alternative to walking long distances. TikTok

The park is open daily from 6 AM to dusk (or 7 PM/8 PM depending on the season). It's best to check their official hours before your visit. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! It's about an hour's drive from both Orlando and Tampa, making it a perfect day trip destination for families and individuals looking for outdoor activities. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The best part? Bonnet Springs Park is completely FREE to enter! This makes it an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly destination for everyone. TikTokInstagram+1

No advance booking is required as the park is free to enter. You can simply show up and enjoy the amenities. TikTok

While the park itself is free, some attractions like the Florida Children's Museum may have separate admission fees. It's advisable to check their individual websites for current pricing. TikTok

The park generally follows its regular operating hours, opening daily from 6 AM to dusk. It's always a good idea to confirm holiday hours with the park directly. TikTok

Yes, Bonnet Springs Park is pet-friendly! Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the park with their owners. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Crenshaw Canopy Walk for stunning views, the Florida Children's Museum for kids, the various nature trails and gardens, and the interactive playgrounds. TikTok+2

Absolutely! Adults can enjoy the canopy walk, explore the nature trails, relax by the creek, and utilize the adult fitness equipment areas. Reddit

Yes, it's highly recommended for families! It features dedicated children's play areas, the Children's Museum, and water play opportunities. TikTok+2

Visitors have reported seeing various wildlife, including birds and other small creatures, especially along the nature trails and near the water features. Reddit

Yes, there are plenty of picnic spots available throughout the park, making it a perfect place for a family outing or a relaxing lunch outdoors. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a cafe within the park that offers food and beverages, and even a bar. Visitors have praised the cafe for its reasonable prices and good quality food. TikTokReddit

The cafe offers a variety of options, including ice cream and homemade kettle chips, which have been highlighted as personal favorites by visitors. Reddit

While there are dining facilities, bringing your own food and drinks for picnics is generally allowed and encouraged for a full day of enjoyment. Instagram

Yes, the park hosts events like the Central Florida Food Fest, featuring dishes and drinks from local restaurants. Keep an eye on their event calendar! Instagram+1

Indeed, there is a bar available at Bonnet Springs Park, offering a place to relax and enjoy a drink. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Crenshaw Canopy Walk offers unique aerial perspectives, while the diverse gardens, natural landscapes, and architectural elements provide endless photo opportunities. TikTokReddit

Photographers rave about Bonnet Springs Park, noting that photo sessions here consistently turn out amazing due to the varied and beautiful scenery. Reddit

Late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, the park's diverse features make it photogenic throughout the day. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is welcomed. For professional or commercial shoots, it's always best to check the park's specific policies. Reddit

You can capture images of lush greenery, diverse plant life in the gardens, water features, and potentially local wildlife along the trails. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bonnet Springs Park is a paradise for families! With its free admission, multiple interactive playgrounds, and the engaging Florida Children's Museum, there's endless fun to be had. The park also offers a misting station and a natural creek for cooling off on hot days, ensuring comfort for little ones. TikTokInstagram+2 Don't forget to utilize the free tram service to easily explore the vast grounds. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Bonnet Springs Park to be an incredibly rewarding location. The Crenshaw Canopy Walk provides unique aerial perspectives, while the botanical gardens and diverse natural landscapes offer a stunning backdrop for any shoot. TikTokInstagram+1 Many photographers have noted that sessions here consistently yield amazing results due to the park's varied beauty and well-maintained grounds. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Active Explorers

For those who love to explore on foot, Bonnet Springs Park offers over 10 miles of hiking trails winding through beautiful natural scenery. TikTokInstagram Beyond the trails, you can enjoy the Crenshaw Canopy Walk for an elevated adventure and utilize the adult fitness equipment areas scattered throughout the park. Reddit It's the perfect place to get your steps in while enjoying the outdoors. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Natural Beauty

Bonnet Springs Park is a testament to urban revitalization, transforming a former railyard into a lush 168-acre natural escape. The park boasts an impressive network of over 10 miles of hiking trails, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse flora and fauna. From serene botanical gardens to winding paths that lead to picturesque lakes, there's a sense of discovery around every corner. TikTokInstagram

One of the most celebrated natural features is the Crenshaw Canopy Walk, an elevated pathway that allows you to stroll through the treetops, offering a unique perspective of the park's ecosystem. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; the park's natural setting provides a habitat for various bird species and other small creatures. TikTokInstagram

For those looking to cool off, the park features a natural creek that's perfect for splashing around, especially on hot Florida days. The butterfly habitat is another delightful spot, offering a chance to observe these delicate creatures in a beautiful setting. TikTokInstagram

Family Fun and Activities

Bonnet Springs Park is a dream destination for families, offering a wealth of activities designed to entertain children and adults alike. The park features multiple interactive playgrounds spread throughout the grounds, equipped with climbing nets, slides, swings, and even sand pits. These areas are thoughtfully designed to encourage active play and exploration. TikTokInstagram

A major draw for families is the Florida Children's Museum, which is integrated into the park's offerings. This museum provides engaging, hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity and learning in young minds. TikTok+1 It's a perfect complement to the outdoor adventures available. TikTok

Beyond the playgrounds and museum, the park offers a free tram service to help families navigate the expansive grounds, making it easier to access different areas without tiring out little legs. The combination of natural exploration and dedicated play spaces makes Bonnet Springs Park a top choice for family outings in Central Florida. TikTokInstagram

Events and Community Hub

Bonnet Springs Park has quickly become a vibrant community hub, hosting a variety of events that draw locals and visitors. From cultural celebrations like Hispanic Heritage Month events to culinary gatherings such as the Central Florida Food Fest, there's always something happening. TikTokInstagram These events often feature local food vendors, live music, and family-friendly entertainment, adding an extra layer of excitement to the park experience. Instagram

The park's design, with its blend of natural beauty and accessible amenities like a cafe and bar, makes it an ideal venue for community gatherings. It's a place where people can connect, celebrate, and enjoy the outdoors together. TikTokReddit The park's commitment to being a free, inclusive space further solidifies its role as a beloved gathering spot in Lakeland. TikTok

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