The best parks & outdoor spots in Orlando

“Casual property offering simple cottages with decks, plus trails, an outdoor pool & weekend events.”

“Nature preserve, arboretum and park at the University of Central Florida, with trails, a lake and wildlife.”

“84-acre park with trails, river, canoeing, fishing & picnic tables plus courts & fields for sports.”

“Ease along the one-way, 11-mile Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive at a mellow 10 mph and watch restored marshes come alive with birds and butterflies. It’s a breezy, bring-your-curiosity kind of reset when you want real Florida nature without lacing up the hiking boots.”

“Whether you're corralling energetic kiddos or craving a low-stress afternoon, Friendship Park delivers simple, breezy vibes. Pack snacks, claim a shady spot, let the little ones climb themselves tired, and enjoy a no-fuss breather that makes weeknights just a tiny bit easier.”

From the Apopka newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Downtown Winter Park is having a moment, with Park Avenue getting a refresh, public art to stumble upon, and a lively Farmers’ Market keeping the energy up. If you need an easy reset, take a wander, people-watch, and let the charm do the heavy lifting.”

From the Alafaya newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Dr. P. Phillips Community Park brings playgrounds that actually tire kids out, a splash pad when the humidity wins, a dog park for your furry goofball, and the LongHorn Steakhouse Loop Trail when you want an easy walk.”

From the Celebration newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Bithlo Community Park keeps summer sane this week with a splash pad for the kids, a new playground that actually delivers, and a no-frills workout room for you. Low-key, local, and easy to make an hour feel like a whole reset.”

From the Orlando newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Park at the Lake Mary Sports Complex featuring a splash pad, play equipment & shaded picnic tables.”

“Fountain and splash pad area with tables, benches and umbrellas amid shaded grass, plus a restroom.”

“A 47-acre park with splash playground, baseball complex, picnicking, lake, sand volleyball & more.”

“Landscaped park offering a dog run, picnic facilities, sports fields, a hockey rink & a skate park.”

“2-acre secluded lakefront public grounds featuring the Exedra Monument & massive cypress trees.”

“Leisurely park with play areas for toddlers up to older kids, a splash pad and sand pits.”

“Green space with plenty of shade & a fitness path, plus splash & toddler-oriented playgrounds.”

“Park with basketball courts, a splash pad and miniature golf for families.”

“Lakefront venue with grassy areas for picnics, playgrounds and splash pads.”

“Clean park featuring a small beach for swimming and boat ramps, plus kayak and paddleboard access.”

“Spacious preserve with roaming peacocks featuring campground, butterfly garden & bike paths.”

“Large green space with courts for basketball, tennis & racquetball, plus softball & soccer fields.”

“This small tree-shaded park features a spray area, plus a number of benches & picnic tables.”

“An 11-acre park with fountains & a rose garden, plus seasonal events & festivals. No dogs allowed.”

“Park with trails, disc golf, playgrounds, fitness classes, plus basketball & volleyball courts.”