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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Bonnet Springs Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 168-acre free urban oasis blending nature and art, offering canopy walks, playgrounds, museums, and trails.
"This park was just rewarded as USA Today’s best city park! I can definitely see why!!"

🎯 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

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.

Nature Trails & Gardens
Throughout the park
Wander through diverse natural landscapes, discover winding paths, and enjoy beautiful botanical gardens.

Interactive Playgrounds
Multiple locations
Kids can burn energy on creative playgrounds featuring climbing structures, slides, and water play areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Fun
Beat the Florida Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:
☀️ Seek Shade & Cool Spots
Florida sun is no joke! Utilize shaded areas, misting stations, and the nature center. :sunwithface:
📸 Capture the Beauty
This park is a photographer's dream with diverse scenery. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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:
☀️ Seek Shade & Cool Spots
Florida sun is no joke! Utilize shaded areas, misting stations, and the nature center. :sunwithface:
📸 Capture the Beauty
This park is a photographer's dream with diverse scenery. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun
Leashed furry friends are welcome to join the fun! :dog:
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, ample parking is available. Many visitors note that finding a parking spot is generally not an issue, even on busier days.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
No advance booking is required as the park is free to enter. You can simply show up and enjoy the amenities.
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.
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.
Yes, Bonnet Springs Park is pet-friendly! Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the park with their owners.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Absolutely! Adults can enjoy the canopy walk, explore the nature trails, relax by the creek, and utilize the adult fitness equipment areas.
Yes, it's highly recommended for families! It features dedicated children's play areas, the Children's Museum, and water play opportunities.
Visitors have reported seeing various wildlife, including birds and other small creatures, especially along the nature trails and near the water features.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
The cafe offers a variety of options, including ice cream and homemade kettle chips, which have been highlighted as personal favorites by visitors.
While there are dining facilities, bringing your own food and drinks for picnics is generally allowed and encouraged for a full day of enjoyment.
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!
Indeed, there is a bar available at Bonnet Springs Park, offering a place to relax and enjoy a drink.
📸 📸 Photography
The Crenshaw Canopy Walk offers unique aerial perspectives, while the diverse gardens, natural landscapes, and architectural elements provide endless photo opportunities.
Photographers rave about Bonnet Springs Park, noting that photo sessions here consistently turn out amazing due to the varied and beautiful scenery.
Late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, the park's diverse features make it photogenic throughout the day.
Generally, personal photography is welcomed. For professional or commercial shoots, it's always best to check the park's specific policies.
You can capture images of lush greenery, diverse plant life in the gardens, water features, and potentially local wildlife along the trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural Beauty
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.
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.
Family Fun and Activities
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. It's a perfect complement to the outdoor adventures available.
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.
Events and Community Hub
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. The park's commitment to being a free, inclusive space further solidifies its role as a beloved gathering spot in Lakeland.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit