Leu Gardens
Spread across 50 acres in Orlando’s Audubon Park neighborhood, Leu Gardens is one of the area’s most breathtaking green spaces. As a tranquil oasis from the city bustle, these gardens have been a beloved community treasure since opening to the public in 1961. Wander through themed gardens like the Camellia Collection’s vibrant reds, pinks, and whites or the tropical vibes of the Butterfly Garden. The sprawling oak trees draped in Spanish moss create plenty of shaded areas to unwind. Don’t miss the giant rose garden, home to over 3,000 bushes and 50 varieties. Beyond the meticulously cultivated botanical beauty, Leu Gardens also hosts a variety of events like outdoor concerts, art festivals, and seasonal celebrations. Visit in December to experience their annual holiday light display sparkling throughout the grounds. Leu Gardens is open 9am-5pm daily except Christmas Day. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors 55+, $5 for ages 4-17, and free for children under 4.
Leu Gardens 1920 N Forest Ave Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 246-2620
Harry P. Leu Gardens
Spread across 50 acres in Orlando’s Audubon Park neighborhood, Harry P. Leu Gardens is one of the area’s most breathtaking green spaces. As a tranquil oasis from the city bustle, these gardens have been a beloved community treasure since opening to the public in 1961. Wander through themed gardens like the vibrant Camellia Collection or the tropical Butterfly Garden. The sprawling oak trees draped in Spanish moss create plenty of shaded areas to unwind. Don’t miss the giant rose garden, home to over 3,000 bushes and 50 varieties. Beyond the meticulously cultivated botanical beauty, Leu Gardens also hosts events like outdoor concerts, art festivals, and seasonal celebrations. Visit in December to experience their annual holiday light display sparkling throughout the grounds. Harry P. Leu Gardens is open 9am-5pm daily except Christmas Day. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors 55+, $5 for ages 4-17, and free for children under 4.
Harry P. Leu Gardens 1920 N Forest Ave Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 246-2620
Morse Museum
Gain insight into one of history’s most prolific artists at the Morse Museum of American Art. This museum houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Wander through galleries filled with Tiffany’s stained glass lamps, windows, and other decorative objects. His vivid, nature-inspired designs revolutionized art nouveau style. The museum’s centerpiece is the Tiffany Chapel, an intricate architectural masterpiece that took Tiffany and his team over four years to complete. Beyond the extensive Tiffany collection, the Morse Museum also exhibits American art pottery and paintings from the 19th and 20th century. Don’t miss the museum shop filled with Tiffany-inspired jewelry, home goods, and books. The Morse Museum is open 9:30am-4pm Tuesday-Saturday and 1pm-4pm Sundays, closed Mondays. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $1 for students, and free for children under 12.
Morse Museum 445 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 (407) 645-5311
Mennello Museum of American Art
Nestled beside Lake Eola in downtown Orlando, the Mennello Museum of American Art provides an intimate look into some of the country’s most definitive artists. The museum opened in 1998 through a partnership between the City of Orlando and philanthropists Marilyn and Michael Mennello. The permanent collection features works by Earl Cunningham, a self-taught “folk” artist known for his vibrant, mystical Florida landscapes. Visitors can also view extensive exhibits by American master Alfred Maurer. His expressive portraits and still lifes provide insight into modern art’s development in the early 20th century. Beyond the permanent galleries, the Mennello Museum hosts rotating exhibitions that dive deeper into influential American artists. Don’t miss the museum shop filled with unique jewelry, prints, and books. The Mennello Museum is open 10:30am-4:30pm Tuesday-Saturday and 12pm-4:30pm Sundays, closed Mondays. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children 12 and under.
Mennello Museum of American Art 900 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 246-4278
Tibet-Butler Preserve
Escape into nature without leaving the city at Tibet-Butler Preserve. Spanning over 400 acres just outside downtown Orlando, this nature sanctuary provides a peaceful retreat with eight miles of hiking trails and a variety of ecosystems. The preserve’s habitats range from wetlands to sandhill uplands. Along the trails, you’re likely to spot gators, exotic birds like limpkins and sandhill cranes, and other native wildlife. Make sure to visit the observation deck overlooking Lake Tibet for sweeping views of this urban wilderness. The Tibet-Butler Preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset and admission is free. Remember to bring water, snacks, bug spray, and proper footwear if you plan to hike the trails.
Tibet-Butler Preserve 8777 County Rd 535 Orlando, FL 32836 (407) 836-1505
Orange County Regional History Center
Discover the storied past of Central Florida at the Orange County Regional History Center in downtown Orlando. This Smithsonian-affiliate museum brings the area’s history to life through interactive exhibits and an extensive collection of artifacts. Learn about Orlando’s early frontier days, the citrus industry’s impact on the region, and life in early 20th century Florida. See relics from the Civil War and artifacts from Native American tribes. You can even explore a replicated 1920s-style bungalow. The History Center also hosts regular programs like walking tours, guest lectures, and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss their gift shop filled with unique books and souvenirs showcasing local history. The Orange County Regional History Center is open 10am-5pm Monday-Saturday and 12pm-5pm on Sundays. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors 55+, $6 for youth ages 5-12, and free for children under 5.
Orange County Regional History Center 65 E Central Blvd Orlando, FL 32801 (407) 836-8500
Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum
Journey back in time to the 1930s at Casa Feliz, a beautifully preserved historic home in Winter Park. This Spanish farmhouse style mansion was built in 1933 and belonged to Chicago architect James Gamble Rogers II. The home is an exceptional example of historic architecture in Central Florida. Tour nine rooms filled with original furnishings from when the Rogers family lived there. Gaze out the arched windows and admire the home’s stucco walls, carved wooden doors, and tranquil courtyard. The site also includes historic gardens and a captivating grotto. Casa Feliz offers docent-led tours Friday-Sunday afternoons. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for students with ID, $5 for children ages 6-18, and free for children under 6.
Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum 636 N Park Ave Winter Park, FL 32789 (407) 628-8200
Zora Neale Hurston Museum
Celebrate the life and work of influential Harlem Renaissance writer Zora Neale Hurston at this museum located in her historic Eatonville home. Hurston grew up in Eatonville, one of the nation’s first incorporated African American towns, which heavily influenced her notable novels like Their Eyes Were Watching God. The museum provides an intimate look into Hurston’s upbringing and literary career through exhibits in her three-room home. See authentic furnishings, clothing, photographs, and other artifacts from when Hurston lived there in the 1920s. Outdoors, you can explore the spacious property where she played as a child. The Zora Neale Hurston Museum is open Thursday-Saturday from 2pm-4pm. Guided tours are offered on the hour and admission is $5 for adults, $2 for students over 12, and free for Eatonville residents.
Zora Neale Hurston Museum 227 E Kennedy Blvd Eatonville, FL 32751 (407) 647-3307
Cornell Fine Arts Museum
Located on the campus of Rollins College, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum houses an impressive collection of global art spanning over 5,000 years. The museum originally opened in 1978 and is named after its principal benefactors, George and Harriet Cornell. Explore one of the top college art collections in the country as you wander through galleries filled with ancient artifacts, Old Master paintings, decorative arts, and contemporary pieces. Highlights include Italian Renaissance works, Qing Dynasty porcelain, and 19th century French sculptures. The Cornell Fine Arts Museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, guest lectures, and other cultural programs. Admission is always free.
Cornell Fine Arts Museum 1000 Holt Ave Winter Park, FL 32789 (407) 646-2526
Central Florida Zoo
At the Central Florida Zoo, families can enjoy a day of wildlife encounters and interactive learning. As one of the region’s only AZA-accredited zoos, it’s been a staple in the community for over 35 years. Get up close with exotic animals like clouded leopards, siamangs, and African penguins. Hand-feed a giraffe, ride a camel, or get splashed by a playful sea lion. The zoo also has a splash park, train rides, and a dinosaur exhibit. Special events like BOO-ology, ZooLaLa, and Holiday Magic offer unique seasonal activities. The Central Florida Zoo is open daily from 9am-5pm and admission starts at $19.95 for adults and $14.95 for children ages 3-11.
Central Florida Zoo 3755 NW Hwy 17-92 Sanford, FL 32771 (407) 323-4450
Plan Your Trip With Charter Bus Company Orlando
Orlando offers no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered beyond the theme parks. Let Charter Bus Company Orlando handle getting your group around the city to visit these local favorites and more. Our fleet of charter buses and minibuses can accommodate any size group. Call 321-320-8931 today to start planning your custom Orlando itinerary!