Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando

First thing that we found out is that the only Monday that you can get in free is the first Monday of every month between 9am-12pm. We went on a Monday because we had read that it was free. Please make note of this change. The entraince fee is minimal, but it was still unexpected. It is 7.00 per adult, and 3.00 per school age children (plus tax). The place is beautiful. At the overlook, we saw turltles of all sizes. Flowers, trees, plant life, vegetables and more can be seen. Slightly disappointed in the butterfly garden. Because it is an open garden, there is no way that you control the lack of butterflies. We were there in last week of June so the most of the roses were wilted, but it was still beautiful. The tour through the Leu house was a very nice (cool) break from our walk through the gardens.

This is a huge, and hugely beautiful collection of plants with a large and lovely rose garden featuring numerous varieties. Wide easily navigated paths wind over gentle hills and through shaded glades. Sculptures nestle here and there, along with benches and water fountains. It's a photographer's dream in every season. We drive over and spend a day walking and shooting each time we visit my daughter in Melbourne. It never grows old, or boring. And I can't wait to go back this spring.