Cypress Gardens has the honor to be Florida's first theme park. Established in 1936 Cypress Gardens became well known for its diverse botanical gardens, the thrills of the world class ski shows, and the beauty of the Southern Belles. Since it's opening Cypress Gardens has undergone several ups and downs and due to financial difficulties closed. However, due to large support from the local community, plans to reopen the park went into motion though were delayed due to a highly active hurricane season.
The new plans for Cypress Gardens were to add thrill rides and a water park in an effort to compete with other attractions such as Disney and
SeaWorld. Cypress Gardens is located in Winter Haven, a small city only 45 minutes away from the much larger Orlando. The Cypress Gardens Adventure Park opened with the Triple Hurricane, a roller coaster named from the hurricane season that had affected central Florida so badly.
Splash Island, the water park section of the new Cypress Gardens opened shortly afterwards.
Today, Cypress Gardens Adventure Park still retains some of its original attractions that had made the park so popular in decades past. The ski show is bigger and better and the park still serves as a botanical reserve. Other rides include 7 roller coasters, 7 thrill rides, a handful of classic family rides like Boardwalk Carousel and the Fun Slide.
Splash Island is home to such favorites as the Polynesian Adventure which is a huge water play structure where visitors can explore, climb, and play. The Paradise River is a relaxing journey over calm waters; a perfect place for parents.
Cypress Gardens can be found in Winter Haven, a favorite vacationing spot. There are several accommodations and restaurants that cater to tourists and to those passing through. However, with Cypress Gardens in the city many tourists find themselves staying in Winter Haven for the duration of their vacation.
