Summary
About Lake Eola Park
In the heart of downtown Orlando, FL, right where Thornton Park meets the Central Business District, lies the fun, beautiful Lake Eola Park. It’s an ideal place to spend an afternoon with or without the kids, allowing visitors to experience the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Orlando. Moreover, it is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy nature right in the city.
The park is situated on land acquired by Jacob Summerlin, a significant figure in Central Florida history, in 1873. Not long after this acquisition, Lake Eola formed as a natural sinkhole filling with water from an aquifer located 200 feet below and rainwater.
Initially known as Sandy Beach, area settlers often enjoyed cooling off here. In 1883, Summerlin generously donated the land for public use, renaming it Lake Eola in memory of his late girlfriend. By 1888, the lake officially became a public park of the City of Orlando.
Today, Lake Eola Park is home to numerous wildlife species including wading birds, waterfowl, and turtles, with the park’s most iconic residents being the swans, whose presence dates back to 1922. The park proudly hosts various species of swans, including trumpeter swans, black-neck swans, whooper swans, royal mute swans, and Australian black swans. Visitors can purchase approved food from feeders around the lake to feed these elegant birds.
Lake Eola Park Points of Interest
One of Orlando’s most famous landmarks, the Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain, is located near the center of Lake Eola. This tiered, art deco-style fountain, constructed in 1957 and refurbished in 2011, features a spectacular water display synchronized to music and light shows at night.
The lake is encircled by an almost one-mile-long scenic walking path. Along this path, visitors can discover various sites of interest while enjoying the natural beauty and wildlife.
The historic Eola House, a Mediterranean Revival-style home built in 1924, currently houses park offices and is open to the public daily from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. While it has not undergone renovations, it offers a glimpse into the park’s past. Close by, a large, unique playground caters to children with separate areas for younger and older kids.
In 1911, the United Daughters of the Confederacy gifted the Confederate Monument to the City of Orlando, which was later moved to Lake Eola Park in 1917. Additionally, the park houses a Battle of the Bulge monument dedicated to World War II veterans on December 16, 1999.
Another notable structure is the Chinese Ting, a large pagoda originally built in Shanghai and reassembled at the lake. Visitors can also explore a Japanese rock garden featuring a remarkable 19.5-foot long, 12.5-ton slab of black marble, a gift from Su Nan-Cheng, former Mayor of Tainan, Taiwan.
The octagonal Sperry Fountain, although less famous than the central fountain, adds artistic charm to the park with its wrought iron figure adorned with a large acanthus leaf and ducks at its base. This fountain was presented to the City of Orlando in 1914 by former Mayor E. Frank Sperry.
The “band shell,” now referred to as the Walt Disney Amphitheater, has been a cherished feature of the park since 1886. However, the original structure was demolished, and a new one was built on the west side of the lake, frequently hosting free concerts and live performances.
Entertainment at Lake Eola Park
In addition to the expansive playground, scenic walking path, and various shows at the amphitheater, Lake Eola Park offers numerous entertainment options. For instance, visitors can rent a paddleboat shaped like a swan for just $15 per half hour. Each paddleboat accommodates up to five people, and children are warmly welcomed.
The park regularly hosts a variety of public events, including activities for kids, dog owners, and a grand 4th of July celebration complete with a fireworks show. Additionally, a free outdoor movie series known as Movieola takes place at the park, featuring food vendors and engaging activities for families.
Surrounded by a range of shopping, dining, and drinking options, Lake Eola Park offers delightful eateries, such as World of Beer Downtown Orlando, Relax Grill at Lake Eola, or Spice Modern Steakhouse.
Sunday Lake Eola Market
Every Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, visitors can explore the Downtown Orlando Farmer’s Market held at Lake Eola Park. This market showcases a diverse array of arts, crafts, clothing, beauty products, artisanal foods, beverages, and fresh produce, primarily from local vendors.
This beloved downtown tradition has provided Orlando residents with a Sunday market experience since its inception under I-4, across from Church Street Station in 1987.
Now situated conveniently at Lake Eola Park, near the intersection of Osceola Avenue and Central Blvd., this upscale market is the perfect locale for discovering fresh produce, delectable treats, handmade items, plants, and beautiful jewelry.
