Legoland Florida officially replaced Cypress Gardens, taking over its historic site in Winter Haven, Florida.
The Legacy of Cypress Gardens
Cypress Gardens holds a special place in Florida's history, predating many of the state's more famous attractions as its original theme park. For decades, it charmed visitors with its stunning botanical gardens, famous water ski shows, and Southern belle hostesses. To remain competitive as new Florida theme parks emerged, Cypress Gardens expanded and changed ownership throughout the 1970s and 1980s. However, despite these efforts, the park eventually faced challenges that led to its closure.
From Closure to Reimagination
Cypress Gardens officially closed its gates for good in September 2009. Following its closure, the site did not remain dormant for long. It was eventually absorbed and transformed into a new, vibrant attraction.
In 2011, the property was reborn as Legoland Florida, a theme park centered around the popular Lego toy brand. This transition marked a significant shift for the historic site, moving from a classic Florida attraction to a modern, interactive family resort.
Key Milestones in the Transition:
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cypress Gardens Closes | September 2009 | The original theme park ceases operations permanently after years of struggling to compete with newer, larger parks. |
| Site Acquired | 2010 | Merlin Entertainments, operators of Legoland parks worldwide, acquires the Cypress Gardens property with plans for a new theme park. |
| Legoland Florida Opens | October 2011 | The new Legoland Florida Resort opens to the public, incorporating elements of the former Cypress Gardens into its design and attractions. |
Preserving a Piece of History
While Legoland Florida brought a completely new identity to the site, it also made conscious efforts to preserve and integrate some of Cypress Gardens' most beloved features. This decision honored the site's heritage while introducing a fresh experience for visitors.
- The Botanical Gardens: The stunning historic botanical gardens, a cornerstone of Cypress Gardens, were meticulously preserved and remain a tranquil and beautiful area within Legoland Florida.
- Water Ski Show: The iconic water ski shows, a hallmark of Cypress Gardens, were reimagined with a Lego theme, continuing the tradition of thrilling aquatic performances for a new generation.
Legoland Florida has successfully transformed the former Cypress Gardens site into a thriving family destination, blending the nostalgia of its predecessor with innovative, brick-themed entertainment.
