**Cypress Gardens is currently closed until further notice due to flood damage.** You don't have to travel to Hollywood to see the backdrop of famous movies and television scenes! Stars such as Patrick Swayze, Mel Gibson, Jude Law, Heath Ledger, Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams and Katherine Heigl have all spent time filming at Cypress Gardens. Cold Mountain (2003) North and South (1985) TV Miniseries Rear View Mirror (1984) TV Sell This House on AETV (2010) TV Swamp Thing (1982) The Notebook (2004) The Patriot (2000) Our exciting swamp boat rides offer a unique view of our vast garden landscape. Revel in the reflections of the tall bald cypress and tupelo trees mirrored in the dark, black water. Paddle along a marked trail looking for alligators, birds, turtles, lily pads and other swamp life. Enjoy picturesque views along 3.5 miles of walking/hiking paths which loop through the swamp and gardens. Stroll along original dikes from the rice-growing era, keeping an eye out for wildlife. A local favorite, visitors enjoy observing the splendors of nature in this large greenhouse filled with flowering plants, live butterflies, birds, a pond, an arthropod exhibit, and a observation beehive. As you search for the different stages of the butterfly's life cycle, you may even see butterflies actively feeding and laying eggs. We have redeveloped the aquarium/reptile center! Large tanks and terrariums feature fish, amphibians, and reptiles (including venomous snakes) native to swamp and nearby waterways. Representative animals from swamps of the world are also displayed such as a South American anaconda and African crocodiles.