It’s hard to live somewhere that is a sauna most of the year. If you like to be active in the outdoors, you either must have a great acclimation to our sweltering summers, or have a pool or have the time for several beach days.

The winter months in Florida are my favorite time to get outside and take full advantage of our State Parks, walking trails, local Springs, and reserves. Whether it’s for photography, wildlife spotting, or just good old plain exercise, we have a vast number of options both locally and outside of Orlando. I compiled a few places I’ve gone, and some that have been recommended to me by my helpful Instagram community.

Also helpful is a website I found that has a large map of the entire state with walking and bike trails. If anything listed below isn’t in your area this is a great resource. Just click HERE.

Black Bear Wilderness Area

Address: 5298 Michigan Avenue Sanford, FL 32771

A rugged, 7.1-mile loop just below the Lower Wekiva River Preserve, this trail hugs the St. Johns River and winds through cypress swamps and wetland forest. Winter is the best time to visit — cooler temperatures, fewer mosquitoes, and more comfortable hiking on uneven terrain; however, in many spots there is a lot of shade.

It’s very possible to see wildlife here, like deer, otters, birds of prey, and even black bears (from a safe distance).

There is a mix of Boardwalks and natural trails, but know there are muddy, rooty forest paths — so wear proper footwear and pay attention to your steps.

Lake Lotus - Altamonte Springs

A quiet, 150-acre nature preserve centered on a beautiful lake, cypress swamp, and protected wetlands. Extensive boardwalk trails make it an easy, scenic winter walk — shady, calm, and full of “real Florida” nature.Great wildlife viewing: expect turtles, herons, egrets, and the occasional otter or gator in the distance. The Education Center & Observation Tower offer elevated views over the lake, especially pleasant in cooler months. Mostly shaded paths mean the mild winter weather feels extra comfortable, perfect for slow wandering or photography.

Some boardwalks have been damaged and not repaired after recent storms, so check which are open before you go. No dogs allowed.

Mead Gardens - Winter Park

Address: 1300 S Denning Dr, Winter Park, FL 32789

A 47-acre mix of gardens, trails, wetlands, and open greens, tucked into scenic Winter Park — great for a relaxed winter nature day. Shady walking trails and wooden boardwalks wind through cypress groves and butterfly gardens. Popular birding location, especially in cooler months when migratory species pass through.

Leu Gardens - Winter Park

Address: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

The gardens span ~ 50 acres of lush, landscaped grounds with lakes, old oak trees, and a mix of temperate and tropical flora. Winter (December–March) is wonderful thanks to blooming camellias — a nice contrast to chilly-season gloom elsewhere. On-site is the restored historical home, now known as the Leu House Museum — a glimpse into 19th- and early-20th-century Florida living. Garden paths are mostly paved and accessible (wheelchair/stroller friendly); a good option for families or casual strolls.

There is a cost for admission, unless you plan your trip around a free entrance day which is the first Monday of every month.

Lake Eola - Downtown Orlando

The waterfront, skyline backdrop, and lake fountain (which lights up at night) make it a picturesque spot — especially in comfortable winter weather. There’s also a playground, a Chinese pagoda, and an outdoor stage (Walt Disney Amphitheater) — so it suits both families and people looking for events or mellow nightlife vibes.

Orlando Wetlands

25155 Wheeler Rd, Christmas, FL 32709

The wetlands offer a wide-open, marsh-and-wetlands landscape — very different from manicured gardens or city parks: think boardwalks, marsh views, birds, and natural Florida wetlands. Activities are low-impact and nature-focused: wildlife viewing, birdwatching, photography, hiking, non-motorized biking, and (in some areas) horseback riding. There’s a shaded wooded trail around the park perimeter — handy if you want a break from direct sun — but much of the area is open and exposed, so dress accordingly. Free tram tours (Fridays/Saturdays) during the cooler months (typically through April) — a good option if you want an easy introduction to the wetlands without strenuous walking.

No dogs are allowed.

Maitland Art Museum - Maitland

Address: 231 W Packwood Ave, Maitland, FL 32751

If you aren’t someone who wants to walk a full nature trail, but get outside and walk some smaller, but beautiful grounds, check out the Maitland Art Museum. The architecture and open spaces make it a pleasant spot for walking, photography, or quiet reflection — ideal for a mellow winter outing when Floridian weather is mild. Its blend of art and outdoors appeals to people who want more than just nature or water—a kind of serene cultural-nature hybrid.

Blue Springs - Orange City

Address: 2100 W. French Ave. Orange City FL 32763

Blue Spring is a “first-magnitude” spring whose waters stay warm (~ 72–73°F), which during winter attracts many of Florida’s manatees — perfect for winter wildlife watching. The park offers a variety of outdoor options: boardwalk walking, hiking, kayaking / canoeing/boating, fishing, birding, and — outside manatee season — even swimming or diving. Observation platforms and trails make it easy to view manatees, birds, and other wildlife without disturbing them — a peaceful nature experience during crisp winter weather.

Gemini Springs - DeBary

Address: 37 Dirksen Drive, DeBary

Peaceful, sprawling 200-acre park centered around two freshwater springs that bubble up into a clear basin — great for quiet nature moments. While it looks enticing, you cannot swim here. Mild winter weather makes the oak-shaded trails and boardwalks extra comfortable, ideal for leisurely walks, birdwatching, or photography. It is picnic-friendly with pavilions, open grassy areas, and shady spots — perfect for a laid-back winter afternoon outdoors. Easy to pair with Blue Spring State Park, just a short drive away, if you want a two-stop winter nature itinerary.

Open sunrise to sunset.

Parks outside of Central Florida

Myakka River State Park

Address: Myakka River State Park main entrance gate. I cannot stress how important it is to use the correct gate. We thought we had the right entrance, but it was closed, so we had to drive an additional 40 minutes around the park to get in. That’s how massive it is.

One of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks, showcasing expansive prairies, wetlands, hammocks, and the wild, scenic Myakka River. The Canopy Walkway and Observation Tower offer treetop views and sweeping panoramas over the park’s vast landscapes.

Per Vehicle Admission Allows admission for 2 to 8 people per vehicle; over 8 people require additional per-person fees $5.00 - $10.00

Bok Tower Gardens - Lake Wales

Address: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853

A historic, 250-acre garden sanctuary anchored by the iconic Singing Tower — a pink marble and coquina-carved bell tower that looks stunning in winter light. I visited once in the Summer, and I’ll never do that again. Take advantage of the cooler months. You will hear daily carillon music from the 205-foot tower, which creates a peaceful, atmospheric backdrop while you explore. You’ll find lush gardens designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., blending native Florida habitats with formal garden elements.

Bok Tower Gardens is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day) with the last admission at 5 p.m.

Adults: $20
Children (ages 6-17): $10
Children (5 and under): Free
Dog admission $10

Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens - Williston, FL

Admission: Adults (Ages 13+): $12.00 + TAX Children (Ages 6 - 13): $7.00 + TAX Children 5 and Under: Free

A botanical garden built inside a reclaimed limestone quarry, creating dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, koi ponds, and island pathways. Winter’s mild temperatures make exploring the multi-level paths and bridges much more enjoyable than in warm months when the quarry retains heat. Dozens of small garden “rooms” connected by winding trails, steps, and wooden bridges give the whole place a magical, maze-like feel.

Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Last admission into the gardens is 4:45 PM.

Accessibility: It is NOT handicap accessible.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens — Gainesville

Address: 4700 SW 58th Dr, Gainesville, FL 32608

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a 68-acre non-profit facility comprising 24 major collections, accessible via a 1 ½-mile paved walkway. Home to Florida’s largest public bamboo garden, the park features include a giant herb garden, water lilies, azalea areas, and a tranquil lakefront overlook, offering a relaxed, scenic experience.

Dogs on Non-Retractable Leashes Welcome.Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun: 9am-5pm* LAST TIME OF ENTRY IS 45 MINUTES BEFORE CLOSING AT 4:15 PM Thursday: Closed

Admission Price: Adults: $12 + TAX Children (ages 5-13): $7 + TAX Children under 5: Free (when accompanied by parent)

Silver Springs State Park - Ocala

Address: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488

One of Florida’s oldest and most iconic natural attractions, famous for its crystal-clear spring and historic glass-bottom boat tours. They still offer glass-bottom boats that provide views of underwater springs, turtles, fish, and sunken artifacts, and in the winter months, you may even see manattes.

For hiking, there are miles of shaded walking and paddling trails, including boardwalks through forested river habitats — perfect for hiking or kayaking in crisp winter air. If you park at the Main Entrance on SR 40, the cost of admission to Silver Springs is $2.00 per person. Children 5 and under are free.

Silver Springs State Park is open 7 days a week year-round, including ALL holidays, from 8 am. to sundown.

Edward Medard Conservation Park

Hours: Spring/Summer: 8 AM to 7 PM Fall/Winter: 8 AM to 6 PM

Fees: $2 per vehicle. Up to 8 people per vehicle.

This 700-acre reservoir includes a 3-mile trail that offers equestrians, hikers, and birdwatchers a pleasant route through pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks. The park also has a disc golf course for Frisbee enthusiasts who want to enhance their disc-throwing skills, while the beach volleyball court offers players a scenic view of the sunset. Edward Medard Park also offers picnic shelters, a boardwalk, a playground for the kids, and an observation platform overlooking the reservoir.