Tucked along the shore of Lake Maitland in Winter Park, Kraft Azalea Garden is one of Central Florida’s best-kept secrets: a small, free public garden where centuries-old bald cypress trees — some of the largest and most beautiful you’ll ever see — rise from the water’s edge draped in Spanish moss.
Donated to the city by George Kraft, this quiet lakeside garden is made for slow moments: a shaded bench with a view of the lake, a stroll under the giant cypress canopy, and photos that look straight out of old Florida. In spring, the azaleas bloom in waves of pink and white, and the whole garden glows.
It’s a favorite spot for wedding photos and family portraits, but on most days you’ll have the paths nearly to yourself. Admission is free and it’s open daily — the perfect peaceful stop after exploring Park Avenue. Tip: bring the camera; the cypress trees at golden hour are unforgettable.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Vivianeq (CC BY 3.0)
