6000 Cypress Gardens Boulevard, Winter Haven, Florida 863-324-2111 Originally opened in 1936 as Florida’s first theme park, Cypress Gardens Adventure Park reopened in December 2004 with beautiful botanical gardens, dozens of thrill rides, kiddie rides, live concerts at the Star Haven Amphitheater (see 2008 Cypress Gardens concert schedule below), spectacular water-ski shows, figure skating shows in the Royal Palm Theater, and specialty shops and eateries at the lively Jubilee Junction. The adventurous will want to experience the Triple Hurricane wooden roller coaster and Storm Surge, a six-person raft ride.
New Cypress Gardens attractions that opened in 2007 included the Starliner, a wooden roller coaster, and Bugsville, an interactive children's play area. Cypress Gardens will also feature Phobia, a Halloween scarefest, and An Old-Fashioned Christmas celebration.
In addition, Splash Island Water Park opened at Cypress Gardens Adventure Park in summer 2005 with such attractions as Kowabunga Bay, Paradise River and VooDoo Plunge. Cypress Gardens Adventure Park is located less than 60 minutes from Orlando. Take Interstate 4 West to Exit 55 (Highway 27 South). Turn right at State Road 540 (Cypress Gardens Boulevard). Cypress Gardens Adventure Park is 4 mile down on the left-hand side.
Admission to Cypress Gardens for 2008 is $44.95 for adults and $39.95 for ages 3-9 and ages 55+ (a second day free is included with admission within 6 days of purchase).
