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.
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.
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 79 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 $295,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Spacious 4-Bedroom, 3-Bath Pool Home on a Corner Lot in Winter Haven! Ideally located in a convenient area of Winter Haven and situated across from lakefront homes, this 2,955-square-foot home offers a spacious layout with plenty of room to make it your own. The triple-split bedroom floor plan provides privacy and flexibility, while the oversized family room features two sets of sliding glass
HOME SWEET HOME! This sweet 4 bedroom 3 bath home is ready for its next happy homeowner. Located in a small gated community in SE Winter Haven this one has the perfect combination of location, and comfort. Check out the homey kitchen with granite countertops and wood cabinets. The corner pantry can hold all your treats for those football weekend get togethers. The rooms have large windows
NATURE CALLS, flies, and strolls by this beautiful NEW CONSTRUCTION Villa. Complete, and ready for its 1st happy homeowner. Bright, fresh, and relaxing 2 bedroom 2 bath with 2 car garage. The beautifully finished kitchen comes complete with a full stainless steel appliance package, granite tops, and modern gray cabinets. These lovely cabinets, and countertops also complement both the primary
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! WHY BUY NEW? THIS ONE IS IN AN ESTABLISHED, BUILT OUT ENCLAVE AND LIKE NEW FOR $136 A SQ FT. 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
Brad Martin
BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE LIFESTYLES REALTY
Available for immediate occupancy, this lovely condo is updated and features low maintenance lifestyle with superb location. Located close to golf, fishing and water sports, close to LegoLand and shopping. The location is private and off the beaten path, ideal for a starter home or winter retreat. Upon entering the unit, you will note the fresh interior, open living area, and updated kitchen
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
2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom downstairs Condo in Orchid Springs. Laminate flooring throughout. Kitchen with gas stove, stackable washer/dryer, and pass thru window to Dining area. Primary Bedroom has a walk in closet. Close to shopping, Legoland, and minutes to HWY 27. Call today for an appointment to view.
OSPREY ESTATES IS A SMALL, GATED COMMUNITY LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL SE WINTER HAVEN, FLORIDA. THE COMMUNITY HAS A TOTAL OF FOUR LOTS--THREE HAVE UPSCALE RESIDENCES AND THIS IS THE LAST ONE AVAILABLE. THE LOT IS .75 ACRE. THIS LOCATION IS CLOSE TO SHOPPING, MULTIPLE RESTAURANTS, LEGOLAND AND BOTH TAMPA AND ORLANDO. HOA REQUIRES A MINIMUM 3,500 SQ FEET OF LIVING AND A MAXIMUM 5,500 SQ FEET OF
Introducing the Cali floorplan at Harmony at Lake Eloise, in Winter Haven, Florida, where every square foot is put to use with sophistication and comfort. Inside this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, you’ll find 1,828 square feet of comfortable living. This meticulously designed residence combines modern convenience with timeless elegance, showcasing quartz counters and luxury vinyl plank floors
The Robie is a two-story floorplan featured in Harmony at Lake Eloise in Winter Haven, Florida. With 2 exteriors to choose from, the Robie is sure to turn heads.Inside this inviting 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home, you’ll find 2,447 square feet of comfortable living. This impressive all concrete block construction, two-story plan features a versatile floorplan to fit your needs. A spacious
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 the Baldwin, a stunning four-bedroom, two-bathroom home located in the heart of Winter Haven, Florida at our Harmony at Lake Eloise community. As you enter the foyer to this beautiful designed home, you are greeted by with an open concept living space featuring luxury vinyl flooring throughout. The kitchen overlooks the dining and living room, while having a view to the oversized
What a view! Enjoy pristine lake views from this resort style home located directly on Lake Dexter, one of the cleanest lakes in all of Polk County and home to LEGOLAND Beach Resort. This home is ideal for avid water skiers or pontoon cruisers. Enjoy just about any water related activity right from your yard featuring a custom dock system with floating jet ski dock as well as a white sand beach.
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
Beautiful Move-In Ready Home – 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms + Private Anex with Independent EntranceThis spacious and fully updated home is ready for immediate occupancy and includes ALL UTILITIES in the monthly rent: electricity, water, internet, and trash.The main home features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, along with a separate anex with its own private entrance, perfect for extended
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.0 bathrooms, and approximately 1,656 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING JUST STEPS FROM LEGOLAND! This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome-style condo in Royal Crescent Condominiums offers comfortable living in a convenient Southeast Winter Haven location. The two-story floor plan features all bedrooms upstairs, including a spacious primary suite with a walk-in closet, private bathroom, and balcony overlooking the community pool. The second and
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the lease is signed by all applicants and security deposits are collected. Rent this home by September 30, 2026 and receive $500 Interested in this home? You clearly have exceptional taste. This charming 3.0-bedroom, 2.0-bathroom home is not only pet-friendly, but also equipped with smart
2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom downstairs Condo in Orchid Springs. Laminate flooring throughout. Kitchen with gas stove, stackable washer/dryer, and pass thru window to Dining area. Primary Bedroom has a walk in closet. Close to shopping, Legoland, and minutes to HWY 27. Call today for an appointment to view.
What a view! Enjoy pristine lake views from almost every room of this home located directly on Lake Dexter, one of the cleanest lakes in all of Polk County and home to LEGOLAND Beach Resort. This home is ideal for avid water skiers or pontoon cruisers. Enjoy just about any water related activity right from your yard. Kayaking, paddle boarding, water skiing, sailing and of course fishing.
Limited-time offer: Receive half off the second month’s rent! No HOA! Pet Friendly!Welcome to this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home featuring a spacious driveway, an open floor plan, and an oversized Florida room that's perfect for relaxing or entertaining year-round.This home boasts luxury vinyl flooring throughout and tastefully upgraded bathrooms. The bright
Centrally located 2 bedroom 2 bath. This home has been updated with new flooring and paint throughout. 2 car garage, screen lanai, fenced yard.**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 24/7 premium support and setup to help get you connected at move-in**Administration Fee:Upon
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
ABOUT THE HOMEWelcome to this spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bath executive pool home in the prestigious gated community of Eloise Pointe Estates. Offering 2,670 square feet on a large 0.67-acre lot, the home features fresh paint, newly renovated cabinetry, tile and luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout—no carpet—oversized closets, and a three-car side-entry garage. Enjoy the screened-in pool,
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.
