One thing we have learned about Florida in our years of exploring, it’s not just about the quiet little towns or the once-famous attractions, it’s also about the amazing wildlife that calls Florida home. While folks living in less-populated areas have a greater chance of seeing a few deer in their backyard or a bobcat roaming in the pasture, those of us living in the city also have opportunities to view these creatures in the wild – at nature preserves, parks, or wildlife drives.
The Orlando Wetlands Park is a man-made wetland wastewater treatment system located in Christmas. The 1,650 acres the park sits on were purchased in 1987 by the City of Orlando with a primary purpose of providing advanced treatment of the nearly 14 million gallons of reclaimed water it receives daily, for safe discharge into the St. Johns River. The water is monitored daily and monthly through a variety of measures – automatic and manual collections – so that adjustments can be made to provide optimal water treatment. Read more about the history behind the park here.
Although the park has been open to the public in a limited capacity since the 1990s, it was opened year-round in 2015 and provides opportunities for nature lovers and photographers.
Getting Around the Park
With 18 miles of berm roads, there is plenty to see. Visitors can opt to hike, walk, bike or take the guided tram tour.
Tram Tours
Tram tours offer visitors a 45- to 60-minute ride, accompanied by volunteers from the Friends of the Wetlands. While one volunteer drives the tram, the other acts as tour guide and points out different areas of interest. On our trip, the tram stopped below a red-shouldered hawk perched atop a dead tree. Other birds we saw along the way included herons, glossy ibises, ospreys, and a roseate spoonbill. We were also able to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle’s nest, but it took a little bit of effort since it was off in the distance beyond a tree line.
No visit to a park with water is complete without seeing alligators. They could be seen from both sides of the tram, some along the shoreline, others gliding through the water. In 2015, the latest year data is available, there were an estimated 1,700 gators in the park. Whether you step off the tram or are walking along the berms, it’s always a good idea to mind the signs!
Walking and Biking
Walking or biking the berm roads offers the same views as the tram tour. While you don’t get to hear the history of the park, or learn about the birds or alligators, you do get to see more of the park, or linger a little longer for those once-in-a-lifetime photos. However, you could also be missing out on the old alligator nest. Our advice – do both! Take the tram tour, then walk back to some of the areas highlighted on the tour or take a different road and see what new adventure awaits.
What You May See
The park is home to more than 30 species of wildlife listed on the state’s threatened and endangered wildlife list. The wildlife may include otters, foxes, deer, turtles, snakes and alligators. There are also about 200 species of birds within the park. Stop by the Education Center for handy guides on birds, wildlife and plant life. If you forget to stop and pick them up, the guides are also available online.
Location and Hours
Orlando Wetlands Park is located at 25155 Wheeler Road in Christmas, just a short drive from Fort Christmas Historical Park in east Orange County. Get there by taking County Road 420 off State Road 50 in Christmas.
The park is open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week, 365 days a year. There is parking onsite and it is free to get in, although donations are accepted. The park also holds the Wetlands Festival in February of each year. Make plans to attend.
What to Take
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Binoculars
Pets are NOT allowed.
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For more photos of our trip to Orlando Wetlands Park, please view our slideshow below.
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