Just an hour from both Orlando and Tampa, Lakeland is home to one of Florida’s most exciting new destinations for families: Bonnet Springs Park. This massive, privately funded green space blends nature, art, play, and culture in a way that makes it feel like an instant classic. And at the heart of it all is the Florida Children’s Museum, a world-class space designed for learning through exploration. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a quiet nature walk, or looking for a new event venue, Bonnet Springs Park has something for everyone.
WELCOME CENTER
Your visit begins at the Bonnet Springs Park Welcome Center, a sleek and modern space that sets the tone for the day. Here you’ll find maps, helpful staff, and a gift shop featuring locally inspired merchandise. It’s also a great spot to pause, grab a quick photo, and get your bearings before you set off to explore the 168 acres of lakes, gardens, and attractions that await.
BONNET SPRINGS PARK
Bonnet Springs Park itself is nothing short of breathtaking. Built on a reclaimed rail yard, the park has been transformed into a lush landscape where nature and design come together seamlessly. Miles of walking and biking trails wind through forests, wetlands, and scenic overlooks, making it easy to spend the entire day outdoors.
The park is dotted with attractions for all ages. There’s the Kiwanis Kid’s Treehouse, a whimsical, multi-level play structure that feels like it came straight out of a storybook, and the Crenshaw Canopy Walk, where visitors can stroll among the treetops with sweeping views of the park. Art lovers will enjoy the Harrell Family Botanical Gardens and outdoor sculptures, while those who crave a little relaxation can simply spread a blanket by the Great Lawn or along the lakeside.
What makes Bonnet Springs Park unique is its balance of recreation and tranquility. It’s large enough to feel like a nature escape, but also thoughtfully designed with shaded areas, water features, and plenty of benches to make it family-friendly. Whether you’re walking your dog, jogging, or just out to enjoy a picnic, there’s space for every pace and purpose.
FLORIDA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
The crown jewel of Bonnet Springs Park is the Florida Children’s Museum, designed to spark curiosity in kids of all ages. Formerly known as Explorations V, the museum moved into this brand-new, two-story facility that’s brimming with interactive exhibits.
Highlights include the Design Park, where budding engineers can experiment with building and problem-solving, and the City Play area, a miniature town where kids can role-play as shopkeepers, doctors, or even news reporters. Upstairs, there’s a rotating gallery of traveling exhibits that bring in fresh experiences throughout the year, making every visit unique.
One of the most popular areas is the Front Yard, a giant outdoor play zone that encourages hands-on fun with climbing structures, water features, and room to run. Parents will love that the museum blends play with purposeful learning—kids may think they’re just having fun, but they’re also exploring science, technology, engineering, art, and math along the way.
Best of all, the museum is built with inclusivity in mind. From sensory-friendly spaces to exhibits designed for a range of abilities, it’s a place where every child can engage at their own level. For families, it’s an easy win: educational, active, and endlessly entertaining.
BONNET SPRINGS PARK CAFÉ
After all that exploring, the Bonnet Springs Park Café is a welcome stop. With fresh sandwiches, salads, and snacks, it’s the perfect spot to refuel without leaving the park. Grab a coffee or an ice cream, relax on the patio, and enjoy the view—it’s casual, affordable, and convenient for families on the go.
EVENT CENTER
If you’re scouting for a venue, the Bonnet Springs Park Event Center is worth a look. With stunning architecture and flexible indoor/outdoor spaces, it’s designed to host everything from weddings to corporate gatherings. Surrounded by natural beauty, events here feel both elevated and relaxed—exactly the kind of setting that leaves a lasting impression.
VISITOR’S GUIDE
Before you plan your trip, here are some helpful tips and details to make the most of your visit:
Tips for First-Timers
- Plan for a full day: Between the park trails, gardens, museum, and play areas, you’ll easily spend several hours here. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen.
- Start early: Mornings are cooler, and it’s easier to find parking. Plus, you’ll have time to enjoy both the museum and the park at a relaxed pace.
- Pack smart: Bring a refillable water bottle—hydration stations are located throughout the park. A picnic blanket also comes in handy for relaxing on the Great Lawn.
- Museum first, park after: If you’re visiting with kids, hit the museum in the morning while they’re fresh, then let them burn energy outdoors later.
- Check the calendar: Bonnet Springs Park hosts concerts, festivals, and family events throughout the year. Visiting during an event can add even more fun to your day.
GENERAL INFORMATION
- Bonnet Springs Park Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Florida Children’s Museum Hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Address: 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33815
- Phone: (863) 413-0081
- Website: bonnetspringspark.com | floridachildrensmuseum.org
- Admission: Bonnet Springs Park is free to enter. The Florida Children’s Museum has a separate admission fee (check their website for current pricing and memberships).
Images by Jeremy Bittermann & Matthew Arielly
