Attraction, lakes and a "smaller state of mind" in Central Florida
Cypress Gardens, named after Florida’s first theme park and home to Winter Haven’s biggest attraction, is an appealing mixed-use neighborhood dotted by lakes and anchored by a convenient commercial corridor. Located in the heart of Central Florida, the neighborhood takes center stage in fast-growing Polk County, a popular alternative to buzzier and more expensive locales nearby. The Orlando/Kissimmee area is “pretty tapped out” so people are turning to this region says Emily Ward, a Realtor with EXP Realty and neighborhood resident. “We’re near Orlando and near Tampa, but we have a smaller state of mind” she says. “With lower prices, it’s a great place for people looking for longer-term investments.”
Cypress Gardens is a lake-filled mixed-use neighborhood located in the heart of Central Florida.
Legoland is an all inclusive attraction in the Cypress Gardens area.
1/2
Variety of housing offers several affordable options
The homes in Cypress Gardens are built into residential pockets, surrounded by the neighborhood’s many lakes. They tend to come in two types: older ranch-style with spacious lots or newer contemporary builds in walkable subdivisions. Prices range from the mid $200,000s to the mid $500,000s, though lakefront homes can list for more than $1 million. Ward says the average home here sells for about $350,000. “You can get a lot of house here for that money, usually about 2,000 to 2,500 square feet,” she says. Meanwhile, the amenities-filled Orange Manor offers those 55 and older a selection of manufactured homes ranging from under $40,000 to the high $100,000s.
Residents of Cypress Gardens live within a close nit community full of amenities and friends.
Waterfront homes in Cypress Gardens featuring private docks, highlight an eclectic mix of housing.
1/2
Historic gardens part of popular Legoland theme park
The neighborhood gets its name from the Cypress Gardens, a botanical marvel that has been around since 1936 and is billed as Florida’s first theme park. For context, Disney World didn’t open until 1971. No longer a stand-alone park, the gardens are still an impressive sight. The meticulously landscaped grounds on the shores of Lake Eloise are home to a massive banyan tree planted as a seedling in 1939 and nearly 8,000 flower varieties from 90 countries. The gardens are preserved as part of Legoland Florida, a theme park and resort that attracts about 1.5 million visitors per year. More than just a tourist attraction, Legoland offers discounted rates to Florida residents, making it especially attractive to neighborhood families. The colorful park is anchored by a popular water park, and its attractions include not only an assortment of rides and games but a Lego-themed water-skiing show on Lake Eloise. The park also hosts an annual Pirate Fest, a weekend extravaganza from late January to late February. Pirate-themed shows and Lego character meet-and-greets highlight the festivities. Legoland’s newest addition is a theme park dedicated to Peppa Pig.
More than just a popular vacation destination in Cypress Gardens, Legoland Florida offers colorful, family fun.
Jump into the world of Peppa Pig, Legoland’s newest addition full of attractions for kids, within reach of Cypress Gardens.
1/2
Neighborhood lakes offer an array of water-based recreation
There are more than 50 lakes in Winter Haven. Canals connect all the ones in the southern and northern chains, providing an array of waterfront recreational options. Lake Eloise, a public lake, is the largest in the southern chain at more than 1,150 acres. Eloise, which is home to the Freedom Boat Club, is connected to smaller neighborhood lakes Lulu, Roy and Summit. “Winter Haven is known as the water-skiing capital of the world,” says Ward, who notes that the Cypress Gardens theme park used to employ a world-renowned water-skiing team. The team now puts on a monthly show on Lake Silver in neighboring downtown Winter Haven. Those seeking more relaxing pursuits can launch a kayak or float lazily along with friends and family on a pontoon boat. Fishing is arguably the most popular pastime. Central Florida is famous for its bass fishing, and anglers have myriad options to search for their next big catch. Nature lovers can visit the Lake Region Audubon Nature Preserve, where scenic wooded trails are home to an impressive array of native flora and fauna. The preserve also includes the Street Nature Center, which offers educational programs for children.
Cypress Gardens is a wonderful neighborhood to live, work, and socialize with friends.
Residents of Cypress Gardens can enjoy boating and fishing on Lake Ned.
1/2
Cypress Gardens Boulevard a convenient commercial corridor
The city’s primary commercial corridor, Cypress Gardens Boulevard, runs right through the neighborhood. A full-service Publix at Winter Haven Square is among the shopping options. Paddy Wagon Irish Pub is a popular neighborhood bar. The corridor leads directly downtown, where an even greater concentration of retail and dining options, as well as theater and concert venues, can be found. Back in the neighborhood, Harry’s Old Place, a well-known seafood restaurant on Ned Lake, is a featured eatery. “Harry’s has been around for quite a while,” Ward says. “It’s one of the old family-run businesses in this area.”
Cypress Gardens Blvd is the main commercial corridor in the community, full of retail & dining.
Cypress Station Shopping Plaza is one of the places where Cypress residents can shop and eat.
1/2
Four elementary schools serve neighborhood students
The neighborhood’s youngest students are zoned into four elementary schools. Garden Grove Elementary, rated C-plus by Niche, is the only one located in the neighborhood’s boundaries. The other three elementary schools are Pinewood, rated B-minus; John Snively, rated C-plus; and Elbert, rated C. All students are zoned to Denison Middle, a C-rated school. Older students are zoned to either Winter Haven Senior High, a B-minus-rated school that offers the Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) program through the University of Cambridge, or Lake Region High, a C-rated school that is one of just six county institutions that offers an Esports program for aspiring gamers.
Denison Middle School is home to over 800 students in grades 6-8.
Winter Haven Senior High School, a long-established public high school serving the area since 1916, is a public school located in Winter Haven, FL.
1/2
Buses, nearby state highways provide convenient transportation
Citrus Connection bus stops populate the neighborhood, providing easy access to public transportation. U.S. Highway 17 and U.S. Highway 27 surround the neighborhood, offering convenient travel to nearby points of interest including Bartow, Lake Wales, Haines City and Davenport. Lakeland is less than 15 miles directly west. Winter Haven also is conveniently located between Tampa and Orlando and their international airports. Both cities are about 50 miles away via Interstate 4.
Citrus Connection bus stops populate the neighborhood of Cypress Gardens, providing easy access to public transport.
While out cruising the lakes of Cypress Gardens you just may catch a glimpse of an alligator.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
It's a rather small town, but the transportation amenities are not longer than an hour away.
3.0Niche User
3/9/2016Niche Review
Overall, Winter Haven is a pretty decent community. Many people live here most of their lives. It is a pretty pet friendly place; you can have your dogs outside of restaurants and stores and there are many parks for them to play at. It is also a family oriented place; we have Legoland and pretty decent schools. There are many events in the downtown area and the colleges and high schools also have many events.
3.0Niche User
3/9/2016Niche Review
The quality of houses depends on the area, but for the most part the majority of the community has decent housing. There is not many vacant houses. Recently there has been an increase in the housing market and there are many emerging neighborhoods.
3.0Niche User
7/24/2014Niche Review
Glass, plastic, and aluminum products are recycled along with our trash pick up. Other items are not.
Are you familiar with the Cypress Gardens neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Cypress Gardens
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
3
4
Assault with Weapon
3
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
3
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Cypress Gardens Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven sell after 91 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven over the last 12 months is $300,995, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Sellers say sell sell sell!! Welcome to 115 Lake Mariam Way in Winter Haven, FL, located in the highly desirable Lake Mariam Hills community. This updated 4-bedroom, 2-bath single-family home offers a functional layout ideal for comfortable everyday living, entertaining, or remote work. Homeowners have paid attention to detail! Residents enjoy private community boat ramp access to Lake Mariam,
HERONS, CRANES, EGRETS, AND DUCKS! You'll have a birds eye view of Florida's most beautiful waterfowl from this custom 3 bedroom 3 bath home located in charming Vienna Square. This excellent floor plan offers a private 3rd bedroom with en suite bath perfect for the momma, in-laws, or extra guests. Enjoy the private interior courtyard with an in-ground spa, and space for fun get togethers. Check
Location, Location, Location!Welcome to this beautifully upgraded D.R. Horton home, enhanced with extensive custom finishes and thoughtful owner improvements throughout. Fresh interior and exterior paint complement crown molding, recessed lighting, updated decorative light fixtures, ceiling fans, French doors, and a modern glass front entry door. Window treatments are installed throughout,
SO close to HWY 27, Legoland, shopping, golf, and MORE! This beautifully renovated 2/1 condo comes complete with all new appliance suite, including a gas range for the home chef in you! (Gas is included in your HOA) Brand new cabinetry, ceiling fans, laminate flooring, and so much more. There are no age restrictions, and the LOW HOA covers exterior maintenance, grounds maintenance, gas for
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to this beautifully updated home tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in the well-established Cedar Cove community, just moments from the scenic shores of Lake Eloise. Set on over a quarter-acre lot, this property offers more than 2,000 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space, featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and an enclosed bonus
Whether you are looking for your first home or first rental property, this condominium is a must see! Ideally located off of Overlook Drive in Winter Haven, minutes form Legoland, downtown Winter Haven, and the Chain of Lakes. This unit features an updated kitchen with an upgraded stainless steel gas stove, stainless steel dish washer, and a one-year-old refrigerator. Additionally, there are
Spacious 2,336 SF pool home in the gated, tranquil Overlook Estates. This 4BR/2BA floorplan features a split-bedroom layout and generous living space including an eat-in kitchen, 17x18 vaulted family room, 10x16 dining room with bay window, and a large foyer. The master suite includes a dressing alcove and walk-in closet; an adjacent bedroom makes an ideal office or nursery. High-traffic areas
Welcome to this stunning 2024-built Ensley model located in the highly sought-after Harmony at Lake Eloise community in Winter Haven, Florida. Offering, 2,476 square feet of beautifully designed living space and over 2,900 total square feet under roof and all exterior block construction. This two-story smart home perfectly blends modern style, comfort, and functionality. Step inside to an
Brad Martin
BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE LIFESTYLES REALTY
Welcome to your own slice of paradise on the private shores of Lake Lewis located in the highly sought-after gated community of Orchid Springs Estates! This stunning Mediterranean-style estate offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and timeless elegance. Boasting 4 spacious bedrooms and 4 full baths, this custom-designed home features a beautifully appointed kitchen ideal for entertaining,
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Newly renovated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with all the major updates already done for you — new roof, new floors ,new AC, and new water heater. This is a boater and fisher’s dream property located on beautiful Lake Dexter, Enjoy boating, water skiing, and freshwater fishing right from your backyard playground. The community offers a dock with boat
Located in the highly sought-after gated community of Lakewood, this beautifully maintained home offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, set on a lush, manicured lot with mature trees and attractive landscaping. Inside, you’ll find rich wood flooring throughout the spacious living and dining areas, as well as the kitchen and family room—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. A standout
Welcome to your slice of LAKEFRONT, POOL HOME paradise on the pristine shores of Lake Mariam in Winter Haven, Florida. This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home with a versatile BONUS ROOM offers the ultimate Florida lifestyle, complete with direct lake access, a private dock, and breathtaking water views right from your own backyard. Built to last and designed for low maintenance, this home
Spacious 4-Bedroom, 3-Bath Pool Home in the admired Lakewood Community. Nestled on an oversized lot with mature trees, this remodeled tri-level home offers a perfect blend of modern luxury and comfort. With a spacious layout, a private pool, and an abundance of natural light, this home is designed for both relaxation and entertaining. As you enter, you’ll immediately notice the bright and airy
Opportunities like this rarely come available in the gated Lakewood community. This beautifully updated lakefront pool home sits on a private one-acre lot and offers breathtaking sunset views across Lake Otis from your own backyard.Spend your evenings relaxing on the dock as the sun sets over the water, launch a kayak from the built-in racks, or enjoy weekends boating right from your covered
Flow through the good life at Vista Lake Ned Apartments. The park-like setting, eclectic amenities, and expansive interiors will make you fall in love with our apartments in Winter Haven. Even better, our Cypress Gardens location places you right off Highway 27 and close to Legoland! Add in the top-notch services that have earned us glowing reviews throughout the years, and you know you're in the
3 bedroom 2 bath home with 2 car garage located in SE Winter Haven near Legoland. Modern custom cabinets throughout the home, open island kitchen design with pantry, bedrooms with plenty of closet space. Large master suite with roomy walk-in closet, spacious tiled master bath, and sliding doors to screened porch. Double pane windows throughout. Fenced yard. Located in a family friendly
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $1839.90. That covers your base rent, $1695.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Charming 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Home on a Quiet Street – Available April 1st!Enjoy peaceful Florida living in this adorable home situated on a quiet street with no HOA and a spacious lot—perfect for evening walks and soaking in the sunshine.Inside, you’ll find a freshly painted interior, new vinyl flooring in the bedrooms, and tile flooring in the kitchen and living room for easy maintenance.
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $50 per adult. Security Deposit: one month’s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $35/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Great location. Perfect place to call home. 3 bedroom 2 bath spa/pool home with garage. Located in gated community-overlook estates. Minutes from lego-land. Home offers a kitchen, dining room and a formal dining room. 3rd bedroom has a Murphy bed and built in desk/office area. Master features french doors leading to the pool &spa. Offers walk in closets throughout home. Mature landscaping. Lots
Modern design with comfort in mind! Available for Lease April 1, 2026! Spacious 3-Bedroom, 2-Bath Home in a Charming Winter Haven Neighborhood Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering over 1,700 square feet of living space in a quaint and friendly community. Conveniently located near downtown Winter Haven, with easy access to theme parks, shopping, and dining, this
Comfortable 1BR Apartment in Desirable 55+ Community, well-maintained one-bedroom, one-bath apartment located in a quiet and welcoming 55+ community. Features a functional floor plan with bright living and dining areas, a spacious bedroom with ample closet space, and a clean, well-appointed kitchen. Enjoy community amenities and a peaceful setting designed for active living. Conveniently located
For Rent – Winter Haven, FL Welcome to this beautifully remodeled home located at 112 Lagoon Rd, Winter Haven, FL 33884. This property offers comfort, convenience, and a prime location. “The property includes an efficient that you can rent out to help cover the rent payment.” Property Features: • 3 spacious bedrooms • 2 updated bathrooms • Modern remodeled kitchen with quality finishes • Indoor
Available! Beautiful and modern 1 BD/1 BA apartment featuring luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops; a tastefully designed interior. Convenient location, so call today, this property won’t last long!
This inviting 1,238 sq ft home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style with two spacious bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The thoughtfully designed layout maximizes every inch of space with large windows and a well-appointed kitchen. Outside, the surrounding neighborhood offers a peaceful setting, perfect for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities. With its prime location, you're never
Beautifully renovated 2/1 in Winter Haven’s Orchid Springs. This community is NOT 55+, although the area is quiet and relaxed. The unit features LVP in the living room, stainless steel appliances, and modern features throughout such as a barn door, black switch plates and black trims in the bedroom area, and black ac vents. The condo is truly a sight to be seen. Water, sewer, trash, and gas ARE
Alexios McDonaldTHE K TEAM REAL ESTATE SERVICES LLC
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
