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 90 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven over the last 12 months is $297,490, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover affordable luxury and modern Florida living in this beautifully designed brand-new 2025 home located in the growing Peach Crossings community of Winter Haven. Perfectly positioned for first-time homebuyers, growing families, remote professionals, and buyers seeking more space without sacrificing style, this move-in ready 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers the ideal combination of
Don't miss out on this very rare opportunity to secure a home in the prestigious Eloise Pointe Estates, as homes in this gated subdivision rarely come on the market. This split-bedroom, open-plan POOL home is on an oversized lot and features 4 bedrooms, a den, and 2 baths. Upon arrival, the twin large oak trees that dominate the front yard serve to bracket the home. The mature landscaping is
Welcome to your slice of LAKEFRONT, LAKE VIEW, 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,
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
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
PRICE REDUCTION! 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.
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
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. 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
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
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: 987474Spacious 3BR / 2.5BA Townhome in Cypress Gardens AreaWelcome 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
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
1 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath condo located in the 55+ community of San Miguel. Water, Sewer, Trash, and Gas all included in rent. Tenant is responsible for electric. All Pro X Property Management The Swain Group. LLC residents are enrolled in the Resident Benefits Package (RBP) for $40/month which includes renters insurance, HVAC air filter delivery (for applicable properties), credit building
3 Bedroom 2 bath home for lease: 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 a convenient pet door
FOR RENT – 3BR / 2BA Home Features a covered back porch, garage workshop, and fenced yard. Conveniently located near a gym, great restaurants, and plenty of shopping.
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
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
Like New Home in Haines City offers, two-story layout with four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The open, spacious floor plan includes a loft and a bonus room that can adapt to your needs, while the kitchen features granite countertops, a central island, and stainless steel appliances open to family room. All bedrooms are on 2nd floor for added privacy. A large fenced-in yard provides outdoor privacy
Kristen Ackley ChowdhuryACKLEY FLORIDA PROPERTY MANAGEMENT INC
Modern design with comfort in mind! MOVE IN READY! SUMMER MOVE IN SPECIAL: $1,950.00/month! 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,
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.
