Peggy C's photos with the keyword: a80

© All rights reserved Cypress Gardens, one of the oldest tourist attractions in Florida (USA), was started by the Pope Family (Dick & Julie) in the 1930's. This theme park was 'the one' to visit before Disney and several others made bigger=better. Several changes of owenership have not been kind to the Gardens; financial problems caused a bankruptcy sale in 2007, yet the new owners didn't make a go of it.. closing the Gardens in September 2009. It saddens those of us who have been to see all the floral displays; watched the talented water skiers; enjoyed a laid-back Florida style park. (Don't ever remember having to wait in line like at D-World or the other Orlando places.) Purchased by Merlin Entertainments Group with headquarters in England, this is reported to become"Legoland Florida". Merlin is 2nd only to Walt Disney Co. in tourism based companies. Wish them well; it is a beautiful area and we are good neighbors. Welcome to Florida, Legoland ! (The Ledger newspaper 21 Jan 2010 used as a reference)