City

Voice your opinion on Harry P. Leu Gardens’ transformation

Orlando’s beloved botanical retreat is branching out with big upgrades and community-driven plans for the future.

November 4, 2025 • 
Morgan O’Neal
Rendering of a modern two-story glass and wood building surrounded by lush greenery at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando. People are dining on the upper terrace and walking along a landscaped path that winds toward a lake, with butterflies and birds visible in the background under a clear blue sky.

You could soon enjoy a meal at the gardens while gazing at Lake Rowena. | Rendering via Harry P. Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens is getting ready to grow, and you can help shape its future.

The 50-acre outdoor oasis has unveiled a conceptual Master Plan packed with new additions, including:

  • A new Visitor Center complex with a restaurant overlooking Lake Rowena, a plant shop, and curated retail
  • A lakefront amphitheater for outdoor concerts + cultural and community events
  • A Children’s Garden featuring treehouses, waterfalls, streams, and hands-on learning gardens
  • More parking + horticulture facilities to better support visitors and staff
Rendering of a modern visitor center at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando. People walk along a landscaped pathway surrounded by colorful flowers and lush greenery toward a sleek, glass-walled building with a flat roof. Families and groups are gathered outside under a partly cloudy sky.

The new Visitor Center would also feature new interpretive exhibits, modern ticketing systems, and updated signage. | Rendering via Harry P. Leu Gardens

Several garden areas would also see new life under the plan:

  • The Arid Garden would grow with additional desert plants.
  • The Camellia Collection would receive new plantings and preservation efforts.
  • The Rose Garden would be refreshed with sustainable rose varieties and seasonal displays.
  • The Palm and Tropical Gardens would get updated designs and plantings to showcase even more botanical diversity.

Want to weigh in? Orlando residents are invited to share their thoughts.

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