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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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It's a rather small town, but the transportation amenities are not longer than an hour away.
4.0Niche User
1/14/2016Niche Review
There is not a lot of crime tht happens in the area. Every once in awhile schools will get bomb threat and they will go on lock down and police will arrive on the scene very quickly. When accidents happen there is usually a cop right around the corner that can come help and the fire department is not usually far away.
3.0Niche User
7/24/2014Niche Review
There isn't much to do for locals, but tourists always seem to enjoy themselves, especially during the winter months.
3.0Niche User
7/24/2014Niche Review
Glass, plastic, and aluminum products are recycled along with our trash pick up. Other items are not.
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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 81 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven over the last 12 months is $293,990, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2023-built home offering the perfect blend of modern design, functionality, and space to grow! Located in a desirable Winter Haven community, this move-in ready residence feels just like new construction without the wait. This spacious home features 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, with all bedrooms thoughtfully located upstairs for added privacy and separation
Welcome to 118 Browning Circle, Winter Haven, FL, where comfort, thoughtful updates, and an unbeatable location come together to create the perfect place to call home. Nestled in a well-established neighborhood with no HOA, this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is truly move-in ready and offers the ideal blend of functionality and charm. Step inside to a spacious, open great room
Welcome to this charming 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in Orchid Springs, a non–age-restricted community where all ages are welcome, located in SE Winter Haven. Thoughtfully updated, this home features new wood plank tile flooring. The open floor plan is highlighted by a spacious and light-filled great room with vaulted ceilings creating a warm and inviting space ideal for everyday living. Just off
Rare opportunity to own a direct-waterfront pool home on Lake Mariam, now offered at a reduced price. Set on the shores of Lake Mariam in Winter Haven, this home offers direct lake access, a private dock, and open water views from the backyard. Water views extend through much of the home, including the master bedroom, formal living room, family room, kitchen, and guest bedroom, with beautiful
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 room that can easily function as a 4th bedroom. Inside, bright
SELLER VERY MOTIVATED! 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
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
NO LOT RENT! Live the retired life you worked so hard for. Whether you are a snowbird or looking to enjoy full-time residency, Orange Manor West welcomes you. This highly sought-after 55+ gated community in Winter Haven, secondary resident(s) must be 40+. This fully furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a functional layout with recent updates including a 2018 roof, 2022 HVAC, 2021 water heater,
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION! 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.
Brad Martin
BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE LIFESTYLES REALTY
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 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,
Live the lake life you've been dreaming of in this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Winter Haven! Perfectly positioned for those who love being on the water, this property offers lake access with use of two community docks ideal for boating, fishing, or catching stunning Florida sunsets. Step inside to find a bright, comfortable layout enhanced by new windows that fill the home
Welcome to your private Central Florida oasis! This beautifully updated, 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch-style home combines classic mid-century durability with modern, high-end updates. Step inside to an open-concept living and dining area featuring clean, carpet-free flooring and a striking brick, perfect for cozy evenings. The heart of the home is a fully remodeled, bright white kitchen equipped
Introducing the Denham at Harmony at Lake Eloise, in Winter Haven, Florida. A stunning 2,336 square foot, single-story home featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a spacious 3-car garage. As you step inside a grand foyer draws you in, leading you through a thoughtfully designed layout where every detail shines. Bedrooms 2, and 3, and 4 branch off from the foyer, creating a private wing for family
Welcome to the Lakeside, one of our one-story floorplans featured in our Harmony at Lake Eloise community in Winter Haven, Florida. Take your pick between two artfully designed exteriors. Inside this beautiful 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom home, you'll find 2,077 square feet of comfortable living. The living area is an open concept, where your kitchen, living, and dining areas blend seamlessly into a
Welcome to this beautiful 4-bedroom, 2-bath home built in 2024, offering modern style and comfortable living. The open-concept floor plan features a spacious kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet space, flowing seamlessly into the living and dining areas. Enjoy a screened lanai overlooking a fully fenced backyard, perfect for relaxing or entertaining.
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
Property Id: 987474 Spacious 3BR / 2.5BA Townhome in Cypress Gardens Area Welcome to this well maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome located in a convenient and desirable area of Cypress Gardens. This home features a bright, open living space, a functional kitchen, and a comfortable layout ideal for everyday living. All three bedrooms are generously sized, with the primary suite
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.This home is priced to rent and won't be around for long. Apply now, while we make this home ready for you, or call to arrange a meeting with your local Progress Residential leasing specialist
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 $2243.90. That covers your base rent, $2099.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
This property at 5850 Cypress Gardens Blvd unit #607 features 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom within a total of 1,260 square feet. The living room offers ample space for relaxation and entertainment, while the bedrooms provide comfortable accommodations. The bathroom is equipped with standard fixtures. Amenities include air conditioning for climate control, a washer and dryer for laundry convenience,
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-story home offering an open-concept layout, modern finishes, and plenty of indoor and outdoor living space. The kitchen features white cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a subway tile backsplash, recessed lighting, and an oversized center island with generous seating, storage, and preparation space. The kitchen flows
Centrally located 2 bedroom 2 bath. This home has been updated with new flooring and paint throughout. 2 car garage, screen lanai, fenced yard.Administration Fee:Upon approval tenants will be subject to a $250 one-time administration fee.**This home comes with high speed internet up to 1 Gig at an exclusive group rate of $60/month (In addition to advertised rent), and includes
Welcome to easy, low-maintenance living in this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo located in a peaceful 55+ community tucked away from the main road. This spacious home features an open-concept layout with a large living and dining area, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Enjoy your morning coffee or unwind in the beautiful Florida room overlooking a serene lagoon. The community offers a
Discover comfortable living in Unit 3, a spacious 725 sq ft 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment at 1210 Avenue Z SE, Winter Haven, FL. This inviting home features modern amenities including air conditioning, vinyl flooring, in-unit washer and dryer, dishwasher, and microwave, designed to enhance your daily convenience. Enjoy a well-laid-out space perfect for relaxation and entertaining. Located in a
3 Bedroom 2 bath home for lease AVAILABLE OCTOBER 2026: Ideally located near the Lake Summit Boat Ramp and Park, 2005 N Lake Eloise is a beautifully maintained and spacious single-family home offering comfort, convenience, and charm. Enjoy relaxing evenings, morning coffee, or peaceful outdoor living from the private screened-in patio overlooking the fully fenced backyard. The patio also features
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