Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Effective Jan. 8, 2024: The formal gardens at Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park will be closed for maintenance.
Hours
8 a.m. until sundown, daily
Fees
$6 per vehicle. Does not include gardens entry, January through April.
Location
3540 Thomasville Road
Tallahassee FL 32309
Contact Info
Welcome to Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
A masterpiece of floral architecture, the gardens feature a picturesque brick walkway, secret garden, reflection pool, walled garden, and hundreds of camellias and azaleas.
The beautiful ornamental gardens were first planted in 1923 by Alfred B. and Louise Maclay after they purchased the property for their winter home.
Lake Hall provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Boats without gas-powered motors are allowed. Pavilions and grills along the lakeshore provide the perfect setting for a picnic.
For walking enthusiasts, two short nature trails meander through the woods overlooking the lake. Hikers, bicyclists and equestrians can enjoy six miles of shared-use trails and five miles of designated biking trails winding through the woods surrounding Lake Overstreet, located on park property adjoining the gardens.
Peak blooming season is from January 1 through April 30, with the floral peak in late February, During these months, a special fee is charged for visiting the gardens and the historic Maclay House.
Annual special events include Tour of Gardens in May, Scarecrows, Moon Over Maclay - Jazz in the Gardens, and Camellia Christmas in December. Other events and ranger programs are offered throughout the year.
Plan Your Visit
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park Photo Gallery
Barred Owl at Maclay Gardens
Photo credit: Park Ranger Scott Groves
Deer Enjoying Foraging for Food on the Park Drive
Photo credit: Scott Groves
Photo Credit: Park Ranger Scott Groves
Juvenile American Alligator
Photo credit: Park Ranger Scott Groves