Off the beaten path: Kraft Azalea Garden
Located off the beaten path, Kraft Azalea Garden is the type of public space that the average visitor to Central Florida may not realize exists. Located on the shore of Lake Maitland, the secluded and unique 5.22-acre park is said to be Winter Park's secret garden.
Established by George and Maud Kraft in 1938 and open all year from 8 a.m. until dusk, the garden is also said to be the location of the northern-most banyan tree in the state. Native to India, Sir Lanka and Pakistan and considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists, banyan trees are not cold tolerant and rarely seen in existence north of Miami. However, the large collection of enormous cypress tress may be what gives this waterfront park its old Florida charm.
If you’re looking for a unique experience in Central Florida, Kraft Azalea Garden is located in Winter Park, Florida at 1365 Alabama Drive.