Florida Guide > State Parks
ALFRED B MACLAY GARDENS STATE PARK
Should you venture up to the Tallahassee region of Florida, this beautiful State Park is well worth a visit.
In 1923, Alfred and Louise Maclay created this stunning garden in their winter residence. Famed for its Camellias and Azaleas, you will find a walled garden, a reflective pool and very pretty brick walkways.
There are also 2 walking trails that skirt round the lake for about 4 miles if you are feeling active (or you may cycle).
There are lots of good areas for a picnic so do take a packed lunch and plenty to drink.
On most saturdays and sundays they have guided tours or you can pick up a self tour leaflet from the rangers office. If there are sufficient of you, they will organise a tour any day of the week so long as they have 3 weeks notice.
You may swim in the Lake Hall area so long as you stick to the designated area and his being Florida that could be very welcome!
There is a really good playground to reward the little ones for their tramping round the gardens and there are boating, cycling and fishing opportunities
Among the wildlife you may see are bobcats, white tailed deer, masses of birds. . . . and can you guess? alligators!
Best time to go is January to April and the very best time is latter end of March when the flowers truly are a picture. Also the house is normally open during these months (though currentlt it is closed for restoration).
You will find this State Park half a mile or so North of the 1-10 on US 319 If you need to phone the number is 850 487 4556 .
In common with most State Parks it is open from 8 am til sun set and garden entrance is $4 and park entrance is $4 per car (max 8 people). House entrance is extra.
As you leave do ask the park ranger for a booklet on all the State Prks of Florida and chat to him about nearby parks that you may be able to visit the samr day.
All State Parks are worth a visit, so diverse and beautifully kept. Also they usually cost a dollar or so per person and can make a lovely respite from the (wonderful )theme parks in Orlando.
Please do try one next time you are in Florida-you will be hooked for life.
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