Lake Nona Sculpture Garden – A Local’s Travel Guide to Orlando’s

Last updated: October 27, 2025 at 2:01 pm by Mariah Cannon

Orlando is loved for its theme parks and sunshine, but it also hides an unexpected treasure – the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden.
This 50,000-square-foot art space sits beside the modern Lake Nona Wave Hotel.
Here, art and nature mix beautifully. More than 300 palm trees, soft garden paths, and fragrant flowers surround sculptures from some of the greatest artists in the world.

For locals, it’s a peaceful break from the city.
For travelers, it’s a refreshing surprise just minutes from the airport.

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Best 🎨 Why the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden is Special 2025

“A young couple exploring the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden in Orlando at sunset, surrounded by modern art and lush greenery.”

The garden’s sculptures come from The Lewis Collection, one of the most respected private modern-art collections.
Each piece here is an original – not a replica – created by world-famous artists such as Henry Moore, Fernando Botero, Arturo Di Modica, Enzo Plazzotta, Philip Jackson, and local talent JEFRË.

As you walk through the paths, you move from one masterpiece to another.
Moreover, the open-air setting lets you enjoy art under Florida’s bright sky instead of inside museum walls.

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Best 🐂 The Iconic Charging Bull by Arturo Di Modica 2025

“A young couple viewing the famous Charging Bull sculpture by Arturo Di Modica in golden light, symbolizing strength and optimism.”

At the heart of the garden stands Charging Bull, one of the world’s most recognized bronze sculptures.
Arturo Di Modica created it after the 1987 stock-market crash as a symbol of strength and optimism.

While the original bull stands in New York’s Financial District, a second one now lives peacefully in Lake Nona.
Here, you can take photos without crowds and truly appreciate its power.

Best 👩‍👧 Mother and Child by Henry Moore 2025

“A couple admiring Henry Moore’s Mother and Child sculpture in a serene garden setting, symbolizing love and connection.”

British sculptor Henry Moore focused much of his career on the theme of motherhood.
His Mother and Child piece shows protection, love, and balance between forms.
As sunlight filters through the palm leaves, the sculpture’s gentle curves seem alive – a timeless reminder of human connection.

Best 💃 Jeté II by Enzo Plazzotta 2025

“A couple appreciating Enzo Plazzotta’s Jeté II sculpture at Lake Nona Sculpture Garden during sunset, highlighting movement and grace.”

Another favorite is Jeté II, showing a dancer mid-leap.
Italian artist Enzo Plazzotta captured British ballet star David Wall in motion, freezing a single graceful moment in bronze.
In the evening light, the dancer appears weightless – a true celebration of movement.

Best 🕊️ Leda and the Swan by Fernando Botero 2025

“A couple admiring Fernando Botero’s Leda and the Swan sculpture in Lake Nona Sculpture Garden, surrounded by warm sunset light and greenery.”

Colombian master Fernando Botero is known for his rounded “Boterismo” style.
His Leda and the Swan retells the Greek myth through full, soft shapes that blend humor and elegance.
It’s playful yet powerful – one of the most photographed sculptures in the park.

Best 👤 Post Modern Man by Eric Goulder 2025

“A couple admiring Eric Goulder’s Post Modern Man sculpture in Lake Nona Sculpture Garden during evening light, reflecting modern art and emotion.”

Post Modern Man represents modern society’s inner struggle.
Artist Eric Goulder portrays a man who feels trapped by the fast pace of technology and information.
This theme fits Lake Nona perfectly – a community famous for innovation and smart-city design.

Best 🕴️ Cloister Conspiracy and The Don by Philip Jackson 2025

“A couple admiring Philip Jackson’s Cloister Conspiracy and The Don sculptures in Lake Nona Sculpture Garden, surrounded by soft golden light and artistic mystery.”

Scottish sculptor Philip Jackson brings theatrical mystery to bronze.
His long-robed figures seem to whisper secrets under the palms.
At night, when soft lighting highlights their silhouettes, they look like silent actors frozen in time.

Best 🧱 Faith, Empowerment, Time and Passion by JEFRË 2025

“A couple exploring JEFRË’s Faith, Empowerment, Time, and Passion sculptures in Lake Nona Sculpture Garden at sunset, symbolizing inspiration and love.”

Local Filipino-American artist JEFRË adds a bold modern touch.
His four block-style figures symbolize different human emotions and social energy.
Each piece connects art, architecture, and identity – a perfect reflection of Lake Nona’s creative spirit.

Best 🌿 Nature as the Gallery 2025

“A young couple walking through the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden, surrounded by modern art and lush greenery, showing how nature becomes the gallery.”

Beyond the artwork, the garden itself is a living masterpiece.
Almost 300 palm trees were chosen for their unique shapes and arranged in flowing “waves” to echo the nearby hotel design.
Between the trees grow fragrant ylang-ylang, gardenia, and night-blooming jasmine.
As a result, the air always feels alive with tropical scent.

In the evening, subtle colored lights make the garden glow.
It turns into a magical place – romantic, peaceful, and perfect for photos.

Best 🧭 Quick Facts at a Glance 2025

“A couple reading a guide at Lake Nona Sculpture Garden surrounded by sculptures and greenery, representing quick facts and visitor information.”

📍 Location: Beside Lake Nona Wave Hotel, 6000 Wave Hotel Dr, Orlando FL 32827
🕓 Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
🎟️ Admission: Free
🅿️ Parking: Free near the hotel
♿ Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths
🌸 Best Season: November – April

Best 🚗 Getting There 2025

“A couple driving through sunny Orlando toward the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden, capturing a romantic and scenic journey.”

The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden lies only 10 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO).

By Car: Take Exit 19 from FL-417 Toll Road toward Lake Nona Blvd. Free parking is available at the Wave Hotel.
By Rideshare: Uber and Lyft can drop you at the main entrance.
By Bus: Lynx Bus Routes stop near Lake Nona Town Center, a short walk away.

If you stay at the Wave Hotel, the garden is steps from the lobby – perfect for a morning stroll.

Best 📸 Tips for Your Visit 2025

“A couple taking photos at the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden during golden hour, surrounded by sculptures and greenery, symbolizing travel tips and memories.”

Go early or late. Golden hours (8–10 AM / 5–7 PM) give the best photos.
Wear comfy shoes. You’ll want to explore every corner.
Don’t rush. Pause to enjoy each sculpture and scent.
Visit at night. Lighting transforms the mood completely.
Plan a meal nearby. Try Canvas Restaurant or Boxi Park for dining after your visit.

Best 🧭 Nearby Attractions in Lake Nona 2025

“A young couple exploring nearby attractions around the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden, enjoying the art, cafés, and lakes in a warm, tropical setting.”

Boxi Park: Outdoor food-truck park with live music.
Lake Nona Town Center: Shops, cafes, and digital art displays.
UCF College of Medicine & Medical City: A hub of innovation and design.
Orlando Watersports Complex: Wakeboarding fun just 15 minutes away.

For more Orlando ideas, check Visit Orlando’s official site.

Best 🌅 Why You Should Visit Lake Nona Sculpture Garden 2025

“A couple admiring sculptures at the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden during sunset, surrounded by greenery and golden light, symbolizing why it’s worth visiting.”

This garden isn’t just about sculptures. It’s about how art, nature, and community connect.
Whether you’re a local resident, an art lover, or a curious traveler, you’ll find peace and inspiration here.
Best of all, entry is completely free.

Instead of another crowded theme-park queue, spend an hour under palm trees surrounded by creativity.
You may discover that the most magical part of Orlando isn’t a roller-coaster – it’s a sculpture.

Best 🧐 Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Nona Sculpture Garden 2025

1. Is Lake Nona Sculpture Garden free to visit?
Yes! The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden is completely free and open to the public. There are no tickets or reservations required — you can simply walk in and enjoy the art at your own pace.

2. What are the opening hours for the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden?
The garden is open daily, from early morning until late evening. However, the best time to visit is during the golden hours (8–10 AM or 5–7 PM) when the lighting is perfect for photography and the weather is most pleasant.

3. Where exactly is the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden located?
It’s located beside the Lake Nona Wave Hotel, at 6000 Wave Hotel Drive, Orlando, FL 32827 — about 10 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO). You can easily reach it by car, Uber, or Lynx Bus routes to Lake Nona Town Center.

4. How long does it take to explore the garden?
Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes walking through the garden, but art lovers and photographers often stay longer to enjoy every detail — especially during sunset.

5. Are pets allowed inside the sculpture garden?
Leashed pets are welcome in the outdoor areas, but visitors are encouraged to be mindful of other guests and keep the garden clean. Always check updated hotel or property rules before bringing pets.

6. Can I take photos or videos of the sculptures?
Absolutely! Photography is encouraged. The garden’s lighting and design make it one of Orlando’s most Instagram-worthy spots — especially near the Charging Bull and Jeté II sculptures.

7. Is the garden wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. The entire Lake Nona Sculpture Garden features smooth, paved walkways, benches, and shaded rest stops, making it fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

Best 💬 Final Thoughts 2025

The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden shows that art doesn’t belong only in museums.
With global masterpieces and tropical beauty, it brings creativity into everyday life.
So next time you’re in Central Florida, make this hidden art oasis part of your itinerary – and let art, light, and nature inspire you.

Mariah Cannon

🌴 Lake Nona Sculpture Garden Guide | Orlando’s Hidden Art Oasis