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Maclay Gardens

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park

A masterpiece of floral architecture and rich history

Hours

8 a.m. until sundown, daily

Fees

$6 per vehicle. Does not include gardens entry, January through April.

See all fees

Location

3540 Thomasville Road
Tallahassee FL 32309

Get directions

Contact Info

850-487-4556

Park Menu

  • Hours & Fees
  • Experiences & Amenities
  • Events
  • History
Download Park Map

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.


Pay Online, Single-Use Day Pass

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

A park ranger in front of a flower bush
Learn

Manager's Message

This is a great time of year to take a stroll through our beautiful 28-acre historic, ornamental garden. Visit the walled garden, reflection pool, Black Pond and the hidden garden.
Wedding at Maclay
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Special Events at Maclay Gardens

Whatever the occasion might be, make your wedding, reception or other gathering memorable at Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park.
Annual Pass displayed over water and sky.
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Florida State Parks Annual Pass

Annual entrance passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year.

Experiences

Bicycling
Bicycling
Fishing
Fishing
Geo-Seeking
Geo-Seeking
Hiking
Hiking
Horseback Riding
Horseback Riding
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking
Paddling
Paddling
Picnicking
Picnicking
Reunions and Gatherings
Reunions and Gatherings
Swimming
Swimming
Tours
Tours
Walking and Running
Walking and Running
Weddings
Weddings
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife Viewing

Amenities

Accessible Amenities
Accessible Amenities
Boat Ramp
Boat Ramp
Canoe Kayak Launch
Canoe Kayak Launch
Equestrian Trail
Equestrian Trail
Gardens
Gardens
Historic Site
Historic Site
Interpretive Exhibit
Interpretive Exhibit
Meetings and Retreats
Meetings and Retreats
Museum
Museum
Nature Trail
Nature Trail
Parking
Parking
Picnic Pavilion
Picnic Pavilion
Playground
Playground
Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities
Visitor Center
Visitor Center
Water Fountain
Water Fountain

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park Photo Gallery

Barred Owl at Maclay Gardens

Barred Owl at Maclay Gardens

Photo credit: Park Ranger Scott Groves

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Information
Deer Enjoying Foraging for Food on the Park Drive

Deer Enjoying Foraging for Food on the Park Drive

Photo credit: Scott Groves

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Information
weddings
pond overlook
Bald Eagle at Maclay Gardens

Photo Credit: Park Ranger Scott Groves

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Information
Juvenile American Alligator

Juvenile American Alligator

Photo credit: Park Ranger Scott Groves

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Information
Maclay House
pond overlook in fall
Kayakers and Swimmers
Garden Gate
Girl in gown stands on far end of blue waters of reflection pond.
plants, insects, garden
hiking, horseback, riding, biking, bicycling, walking, running
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Lake Overstreet trails

The Lake Overstreet Trail is a thriving trail system that has something for everyone. Gently sloping hills and ravines characterize the uplands portion of the property.
flowers, festival
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Historic Garden at Maclay

Visit Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park's garden where you can enjoy viewing a historical landscape that combines history and beauty.

Upcoming Events

See More Events
Event

Food Truck Fun Night

Fri, May 9, 2025 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm EST

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, your appetite, and the whole family!
Maclay Gardens

Tallahassee, FL

Event

Tour Of Gardens

Fri, May 16 - 17, 2025 9:00 am - 3:00 pm EST

Tour some of Tallahassee's finest gardens!
Maclay Gardens

Tallahassee, FL

People Make the Parks

Wilburt Gilliam

Staff Spotlight: Public Service Award

Wilburt Gilliam has received the Public Service Award.
A group of students from ACE School volunteer to remove exotic plants.

Volunteer Spotlight

Recently, 10 students from the ACE school volunteered for five days to help remove invasive plants.
Friends of Maclay Gardens

Friends of Maclay Gardens

Friends groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. They share one thing in common – passion for parks.

This Park is Recognized by:

Florida Women's Heritage Trail

Park Map

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Florida State Parks

Main Menu

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Have Questions?

Contact the Statewide Information Line:

(850) 245-2157

Or send an email to:

FSP.Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov

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