Best lakes around Orlando provide a range of natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region features numerous freshwater lakes, many of which are interconnected, supporting diverse ecosystems and outdoor activities. These lakes contribute to the area's natural appeal, offering spaces for water sports, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Highlight โข Lake
Translated by Google โข
Tip by
Highlight โข Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight โข Lake
Tip by
Highlight โข Lake
Tip by
Highlight โข Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Orlando.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park in the South Eola neighborhood is home to hundreds of events and activities, welcoming over two million visitors each year. This park has wildlife, historical monuments, and public artwork in just under a one mile loop. Well worth the morning, afternoon or evening time spent.
0
0
Lake Highland Park is a serene park on the banks of Lake Highland. It is connected to the Orlando Urban Trail and has a large grassy area and some benches.
0
0
artwork on Lake Orlando
0
0
A historic park where you can relax
0
0
East Lake Tohopekaliga, often called East Lake Toho, is a scenic lake located in Osceola County, Florida, known for abundant wildlife and scenery.
0
0
East Lake Tohopekaliga, often called East Lake Toho, is a scenic lake located in Osceola County, Florida, known for abundant wildlife and scenery.
0
0
Lake Highland Park is a historic and scenic park that offers a relaxing escape from the city. The park is located on the shore of Lake Highland, one of the oldest lakes in Orlando.
0
0
This sculpture depicts a flock of birds taking off from the lake. Take some time to truly study this piece of art, as the welding and craftsmanship are truly impressive.
0
0
For a scenic walk or jog, Lake Eola Park Loop in Downtown Orlando is highly recommended. It features a paved sidewalk approximately 0.9 miles long. Another option is the city park at the northern end of Lake Tohopekaliga, which offers scenic walking trails. You can also explore various routes around Orlando, such as the Lake Eola Loop or the Gaston Edwards Park loop.
Many lakes in Orlando offer family-friendly activities. Lake Eola Park Loop is a great choice with a playground, picnic areas, and swan-shaped paddle boats. East Lake Tohopekaliga and Lake Highland Park are also noted as family-friendly spots, offering relaxing escapes and natural beauty.
Orlando boasts excellent fishing opportunities. Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho) is renowned for trophy bass fishing and is considered one of Florida's best fishing spots. The Conway Chain of Lakes and the Butler Chain of Lakes are also prime locations for largemouth bass and other species. Lake Kissimmee is a vast lake teeming with bluegill, bass, catfish, and crappie, while Lake Ivanhoe is known for consistent catches of 3 to 5-pound fish.
Absolutely! The Winter Park Chain of Lakes is excellent for paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, sailing, and water skiing. Lake Ivanhoe is also a popular spot for paddleboarding, water skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and pedal boats. The Butler Chain of Lakes is ideal for swimming, skiing, and boating, while the Conway Chain offers wide-open spaces for waterskiing, tubing, and wakeboarding.
For diverse wildlife viewing, Lake Tohopekaliga offers airboat tours to see alligators, otters, and various birds. The Butler Chain of Lakes is known for its abundant wildlife in a pristine environment. Lake Kissimmee provides extensive opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, and Martin Pond in Split Oak Forest is a serene spot to watch for gopher tortoises, indigo snakes, and birds.
Lake Eola Park Loop is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering a paved path around the lake. This urban park provides an inclusive environment for visitors to enjoy the scenery.
Martin Pond, located within the Split Oak Forest Wildlife And Environmental Area, is considered a hidden gem for nature lovers. It offers serene views and opportunities to observe local wildlife away from the bustling city.
Yes, Lake Eola Park Loop in Downtown Orlando has restaurants within the park area. Additionally, Lake Ivanhoe is surrounded by the Ivanhoe Village, which offers boutique shops and eateries, making it a great place for people-watching and dining.
You can find various cycling routes near Orlando's lakes. For example, the Lake Baldwin Park loop offers an easy ride. Other options include the Cady Way Trail or the Little Econ Greenway, which provide moderate to difficult cycling experiences through natural areas and near waterways.
Lake Eola Park is known for its pet-friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot to visit with your dog for a walk around the lake.
The Winter Park Chain of Lakes is unique for its six interconnected lakes with clear waters and upscale surroundings. You can navigate through narrow canals connecting lakes like Virginia, Mizell, Osceola, Maitland, Nina, and Minnehaha. The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is a popular way to experience the chain, offering insights into the area's history and estate homes.
While many lakes offer picnic opportunities, the city park at the northern end of Lake Tohopekaliga provides designated picnic spaces. Lake Eola Park Loop also has picnic areas, offering a tranquil escape within the city.


Still not found your perfect lake around Orlando? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.