Hey there, park hoppers. Recently, we had the chance to tour Bonnet Springs Park (1025 George Jenkins Blvd ) for a sneak peek of all 168 acres of the park’s developments.
Hollis Family Welcome Center | Photo courtesy of Bonnet Springs Park
After finding one of 600 parking spots, guests will be greeted by the Hollis Family Welcome Center. The 14,000-sqft center houses the Watson Clinic gallery, the Rodda family playground + a restaurant space with seating for 80.
Guests can walk or bike the 2½ mile Lakeland Regional Health Circulator, a wide path designed to help families comfortably navigate the park to their next destination.
Explorations V Children’s Museum, Cafe + Franklin Family South Mountain | Photo courtesy of Bonnet Springs Park
The 2-acre great lawn , backed by the Explorations V Children’s Museum + flanked by the Franklin Family South Mountain + Clyne Family North Mountain , will be a place for guests to enjoy live performances and large-scale events.
Families can enjoy 47,000-sqft of indoor + outdoor exhibits at the Explorations V Children’s Museum . The Museum anticipates over 115,000 guests yearly. Just steps away from the museum lies The Cafe, where guests can relax + gather for lunch, coffee, or cocktails at the rooftop bar.
Event Center | Photo courtesy of Bonnet Springs Park
The Event Center features the Citizens Bank and Trust Ballroom and the Maya + Wesley Beck Patio. This 7,000-sqft space overlooks the Harrell Family Botanical Gardens + accommodates up to 400 guests for private events.
Some other spots that you’ll have to see with your own eyes:
- Nicholas + Ashley Barnett Peace Pagoda | Connect with nature + quiet your mind at this peaceful location in the valley.
- Kiwanis Cares for Kids Treehouse | Experience a birdseye view of the park in this 500-sqft aerial treehouse.
- Wetlands Boardwalk | Observe + walk among Florida’s flora + fauna.
- Ann + Ward Edwards Boathouse | Grab a snack or hit the lagoon in the aquatic vessel of your choice.
Crenshaw Canopy Walk | Take the elevated walking path through the Bonnet Springs treetops.
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