Cypress Gardens: Gone But Not Forgotten (Unless You Forget Your Tickets)
Ah, Cypress Gardens. The Florida of yesteryear, where southern belles glided down canals in swan-shaped boats and water skiers did the hokey pokey before waterskiing was even a thing (probably). But fear not, nostalgia buffs! Cypress Gardens may be a whisper in the annals of theme park history, but its legacy lives on – kind of. Buckle up, history hounds and LEGO enthusiasts, for a trip through time (and a theme park)!
Cypress Gardens: A Southern Belle with Bite (Gator Bite, That Is)
Founded in 1936, Cypress Gardens was a botanical wonderland with Spanish moss draped everywhere and more flowers than your grandma's house on a national holiday. It was also the birthplace of the water ski show, because apparently, Florida Man knew how to entertain himself way back when.
But like all good things, Cypress Gardens eventually closed its doors in 2009. Cue the dramatic music! But wait! Just like that surprise plot twist in your favorite cheesy romance novel, there's more to the story!
Enter LEGOLAND: The Plot Thickens (With Plastic Bricks)
QuickTip: Absorb ideas one at a time.
In 2011, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort rose from the ashes of Cypress Gardens, like a phoenix made of tiny, colorful bricks. While the park got a serious makeover, the developers were sentimental folks. They preserved a section of the original gardens, meaning you can still wander through the botanical beauty that enchanted visitors for decades.
So, Can You STILL Visit Cypress Gardens?
Technically, no. Cypress Gardens as a standalone park is no more. But fret not, history buff! The original gardens are alive and well within LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. Think of it as a historic treasure hidden amongst the rollercoasters and gift shops overflowing with plastic bricks.
Here's the catch: You'll need a ticket to LEGOLAND® to explore the preserved Cypress Gardens. So, while you can't just waltz in for a stroll down memory lane, you can experience a piece of Cypress Gardens magic alongside the thrills of a modern theme park.
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
Can You Still Visit Cypress Gardens In Florida |
Cypress Gardens: A Legacy in LEGO
The LEGOLAND® rendition of Cypress Gardens pays homage to the park's past. You'll find southern belles constructed entirely of LEGO bricks (because, why not?), and the iconic water ski shows are still a thing, albeit with a swashbuckling LEGO pirate twist.
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
Cypress Gardens: FAQ
How to get to Cypress Gardens (well, the LEGOLAND® version)
Cypress Gardens is located within LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven, Florida.
How much does it cost to visit Cypress Gardens?
QuickTip: Repeat difficult lines until they’re clear.
There's no separate admission fee for Cypress Gardens. You'll need a regular LEGOLAND® ticket to access the preserved gardens.
Can you see the water ski shows without going into LEGOLAND®?
Nope. The water ski shows are part of the LEGOLAND® experience.
Are there any original rides from Cypress Gardens left?
Sadly, no. The LEGOLAND® park features its own set of rides and attractions.
Is LEGOLAND® built entirely out of LEGO bricks?
Not quite, but they use a whole lot of them!