The Gardens in Every Season: A Visual Tour
The beauty of Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens is always changing. Because our 100-year-old limestone quarry creates a unique, sheltered microclimate, we are home to a vibrant mix of temperate and semitropical plants that thrive year-round.
Whether you are looking for the lush, shaded canopy of summer or the rare, striking autumn foliage of North Central Florida, every visit offers a new perspective. Explore our seasonal galleries below to see how the gardens transform throughout the year.
Spring: A Season of Renewal and Color
Springtime in the quarry is an explosion of life. As the temperatures warm, our floral displays reach peak bloom, painting the rock walls with vibrant colors. This is an ideal time for wildlife and nature photography, as songbirds, butterflies, and our resident swans, Ivy, Jasmine, and Olivia, are highly active around the cascading pools.
Summer: A Lush, Tropical Oasis
During the Florida summer, the gardens transform into a shaded, emerald-green retreat, contrasted by blooms of all colors. The deep quarry walls and dense canopy of oaks and cedars provide a naturally cooler environment. Summer is the perfect time to capture the contrast of the bright Florida sun filtering through the trees, highlighting our cascading waterfalls and the deep, reflective waters of our koi ponds.
Fall: Autumn Foliage in Florida
Fall is one of our best-kept secrets. Thanks to our diverse species, visitors can experience a true change of seasons. Wander the concrete trails to photograph the rich, warm hues of our Bald Cypress trees and Japanese Maples as they display their autumn golds and reds, and experience unique blooms that you can’t find any other time of year.
Winter: Crisp Views and a Magical Light Displays
Winter brings a crisp, peaceful serenity to Cedar Lakes by day and a breathtaking, illuminated wonderland on select nights. With the canopy thinned, the trails offer unobstructed views in the clear daytime air, while Florida’s mild winter climate ensures that select plants remain beautifully in bloom. As the sun sets during the holiday season, the gardens are completely transformed by our spectacular Christmas light display. Thousands of twinkling lights drape across the landscape and reflect beautifully off our cascading pools, creating an unforgettable, magical backdrop for your family's holiday photos.
