Best Orlando Lakeside Hangouts

Anyone in Orlando looking for water views and a breeze can use this guide to lakeside parks, gardens and patios in downtown Orlando, Winter Park, the Turkey Lake area and Kissimmee. At Lake Eola Park, walk the loop, rent a swan-shaped paddle boat and watch the color-changing fountain against the skyline at night. Lake Baldwin Park in Winter Park has sandy beaches where dogs run off leash during posted hours. Kraft Azalea Garden sets giant cypress trees and a columned exedra on the shore of Lake Maitland. In Kissimmee, the Lakefront Park promenade looks over Lake Toho, a favorite sunset spot known for bass fishing. Hillstone's patio steps down to Lake Killarney, where guests can arrive by boat or even seaplane.

Parking at Kraft Azalea Garden is tight, so come early or on a weekday.