Hollis Garden
A free, 1.2-acre botanical garden in Lakeland, FL, featuring neoclassical architecture, fountains, and diverse flora.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect light
Hollis Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, 1.2-acre botanical garden in Lakeland, FL, featuring neoclassical architecture, fountains, and diverse flora.
"This place was like heaven on earth! Set on Mirror Lake, Beautiful views everywhere."
🎯 Free Entry & Parking
Enjoy this beautiful garden without an admission fee! Free parking is also available nearby.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
With its stunning flora and architecture, Hollis Garden is ideal for photoshoots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neoclassical Architecture
Throughout the garden
Admire the elegant fountains and structures that complement the lush flora.
Vibrant Flower Displays
Various garden beds
Discover over 10,000 blooming flowers, ornamental shrubs, and native trees.
Lake Mirror Views
Garden perimeter
Enjoy serene waterfront vistas from this charming garden situated on Lake Mirror.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Plan Your Visit
Best for Photography & Strolls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry & Parking
Enjoy this beautiful garden without an admission fee! Free parking is also available nearby.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
With its stunning flora and architecture, Hollis Garden is ideal for photoshoots. 
🚶♀️ Stroll Around Lake Mirror
Extend your visit by exploring the adjacent Lake Mirror walkway for more scenic views.
☕ Nearby Cafe Option
A small bistro is available for refreshments, offering a nice break during your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry & Parking
Enjoy this beautiful garden without an admission fee! Free parking is also available nearby.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
With its stunning flora and architecture, Hollis Garden is ideal for photoshoots.
🚶♀️ Stroll Around Lake Mirror
Extend your visit by exploring the adjacent Lake Mirror walkway for more scenic views.
☕ Nearby Cafe Option
A small bistro is available for refreshments, offering a nice break during your visit.
📅 Check Seasonal Hours
Hours vary by season and the garden is closed on Mondays. Plan ahead!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hollis Garden for its beauty, free admission, and tranquil atmosphere, calling it a 'heaven on earth' and a 'slice of paradise.' Many appreciate the well-kept grounds, neoclassical architecture, and the adjacent Lake Mirror walkway. Some note it's a smaller garden, best for a quick visit, and recommend checking seasonal hours.
"A very cool place for a quick visit. Went for an afternoon walk here, and it was delightful. They have parking, a little cafe, and a nice change of scenery. Didn't take a while to get through, but would visit again soon. Definitely a check out if you are in the area."
Brock Grady
"I wish I could give it more stars. This place was like heaven on earth! Set on Mirror Lake, Beautiful views everywhere. Great for walking. Enormous family park adjacent. Garden Bistro had delicious food with lovely outdoor seating at reasonable prices. Worth the drive from Orlando."
Manda Mosoiu
"This place was gorgeous. I got to talk with Aiden who works there. Got some insights into some of the plants that you wouldn't get otherwise. It was a pleasure to visit the garden and lake mirror area surrounding. Will definitely be back to visit."
Danielle Payne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hollis Garden is located at 614 E. Orange Street, Lakeland, FL 33801, within the historic Lake Mirror Park. It's about an hour's drive from Tampa.
Yes, there is free parking available near the garden, making it convenient for visitors.
Absolutely! Hollis Garden is a popular day trip destination from Tampa, located about an hour away.
The garden paths are generally well-maintained, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs for a pleasant walk.
Information on public transport options to Hollis Garden is limited, but driving is the most common and recommended method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hollis Garden offers free admission, making it a wonderful budget-friendly attraction. +1
Hours vary seasonally. Generally, it's open Tuesday through Sunday, but closed on Mondays. Summer hours (June-August) are typically 10 am - 6 am, while September-May has different timings. Always check the latest schedule.
While the garden is a beautiful setting, specific details about booking events like weddings would require direct contact with the park administration. Some users have inquired about it as a venue.
The garden is closed on Mondays. For holiday hours, it's best to check their official schedule as they may observe specific holiday closures.
No, tickets are not required as admission is free. You can visit anytime during their operating hours.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Yes, Hollis Garden is highly recommended for photography due to its beautiful plants, flowers, and neoclassical architecture. It's a popular spot for portraits and nature shots.
The garden features over 10,000 flowers, ornamental shrubs, and native trees, offering a diverse botanical experience.
While the garden itself is a peaceful retreat, there is a kids' playground located nearby within Lake Mirror Park.
Hollis Garden is a relatively small but well-maintained botanical garden, spanning approximately 1.2 acres.
The garden features a neoclassical architectural style, evident in its fountains and design elements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a Garden Bistro located nearby that offers food and drinks with lovely outdoor seating.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check park rules regarding outside food. The presence of a bistro suggests a preference for patronizing their dining options.
The Garden Bistro is known for serving delicious food at reasonable prices, with pleasant outdoor seating.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The free admission and ample parking make it an easy and affordable outing for families looking for a pleasant afternoon. The garden's manageable size means little legs won't get too tired exploring its charming paths. Parents can enjoy a moment of tranquility while children have fun at the adjacent playground. It's a great spot for a family picnic (check park rules on outside food) or simply a relaxing walk amidst beautiful scenery. The nearby Garden Bistro also offers a convenient option for a family snack or meal.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+2 The garden's beauty is consistently highlighted in social media content, making it a popular spot for capturing stunning visuals. +1To maximize your photography experience, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for soft, flattering light, or opt for weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds. The garden's free admission and ample parking add to its appeal as an accessible and cost-effective location for creative projects.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Strollers & Nature Lovers
Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent Lake Mirror walkway for an extended scenic experience. The garden's free entry and accessible paths make it an easy and enjoyable outing for anyone looking to connect with nature and appreciate a beautifully maintained public space.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Hollis Garden: A Visual Feast
Many visitors describe the garden as a 'heaven on earth' and a 'slice of paradise,' highlighting its well-kept grounds and the peaceful ambiance. The proximity to Lake Mirror allows for extended enjoyment, with a walkway offering scenic waterfront views. While the garden is not extensive, its compact beauty ensures a delightful experience for those seeking a serene escape or a picturesque backdrop.
For those interested in the local flora, the garden provides insights into native trees and plants, with some visitors even engaging with staff for more detailed information. It's a place where you can appreciate nature's artistry and the thoughtful design of a public garden.
Photography Opportunities at Hollis Garden
+2The garden's layout, with its nooks and crannies, allows for creative framing and unique perspectives. The changing seasons also bring different blooms, offering fresh opportunities for photographers throughout the year. The soft morning light or the golden hour in the late afternoon can further enhance the photographic appeal, creating a magical atmosphere.
While the garden is free to enter, it's worth noting that its popularity for photoshoots means it can get busy. Visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings, can provide a more serene experience for capturing your desired shots without large crowds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit