35 Must Visit Places In Lakeland
Lakeland, Florida, might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip, but this charming city has plenty to offer. Known for its beautiful lakes, historic sites, and vibrant arts scene, Lakeland is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or art enthusiast, you'll find something to enjoy. From the stunning Hollis Garden to the fascinating Polk Museum of Art, there's no shortage of attractions. Don't miss the chance to stroll through Munn Park or catch a game at Joker Marchant Stadium. Ready to discover the best spots in Lakeland? Let's dive in!
Discover the Charm of Lakeland
Lakeland, Florida, is a hidden gem brimming with natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or art lover, Lakeland has something for everyone. Let's dive into the must-visit places in this charming city.
Outdoor Adventures Await
Lakeland offers numerous outdoor activities for those who love nature and adventure. Here are some top spots to explore.
Circle B Bar Reserve This wildlife reserve is a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers. With its scenic trails and diverse wildlife, including alligators and eagles, it's a perfect spot for a day out in nature.
Hollis Garden Located in downtown Lakeland, Hollis Garden is a beautifully manicured botanical garden. It features over 10,000 flowers, ornamental shrubs, and native trees, making it a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Lake Mirror Park This picturesque park offers stunning views of Lake Mirror and the surrounding cityscape. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Common Ground Park A favorite among families, this park features unique playground equipment designed to be accessible for children of all abilities. It's a fun and inclusive place for kids to play and explore.
Lake Parker Park With its expansive green spaces, walking trails, and fishing opportunities, Lake Parker Park is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. It's also a great spot for bird watching and enjoying the natural beauty of Lakeland.
Dive into History
Lakeland's rich history is reflected in its many historic sites and museums. Here are some must-visit places for history enthusiasts.
Polk Museum of Art This museum offers a diverse collection of art, ranging from contemporary pieces to ancient artifacts. It's a cultural hub that hosts rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
Florida Air Museum Aviation enthusiasts will love the Florida Air Museum, which showcases a variety of aircraft and aviation memorabilia. It's a fascinating place to learn about the history of flight and its impact on Florida.
Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center Located at Florida Southern College, this center celebrates the architectural genius of Frank Lloyd Wright. The campus features the largest collection of Wright's buildings in one location, making it a must-see for architecture buffs.
Munn Park Historic District This historic district in downtown Lakeland is home to beautifully preserved buildings from the early 20th century. It's a great place to take a walking tour and learn about the city's past.
Explorations V Children's Museum Perfect for families, this interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits that teach children about science, art, and history. It's an educational and fun experience for kids of all ages.
Embrace the Arts and Culture
Lakeland's vibrant arts scene is showcased through its galleries, theaters, and cultural events. Here are some top cultural spots to visit.
Lakeland Community Theatre This local theater company produces a variety of performances throughout the year, including musicals, plays, and children's theater. It's a great place to enjoy live entertainment and support local talent.
Polk Theatre Built in 1928, this historic theater is a beautiful example of Mediterranean Revival architecture. It hosts a variety of events, including classic film screenings, live performances, and concerts.
Arts on the Park This gallery and cultural center showcases the work of local artists and offers art classes and workshops. It's a great place to experience Lakeland's thriving arts community.
Lakeland Symphony Orchestra Music lovers will enjoy the performances by the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, which offers a range of classical and contemporary concerts throughout the year.
First Friday Held on the first Friday of every month, this downtown event features live music, art displays, food vendors, and more. It's a lively celebration of Lakeland's arts and culture scene.
Family Fun and Entertainment
Lakeland offers plenty of family-friendly attractions that are sure to entertain visitors of all ages. Here are some top picks.
Safari Wilderness Ranch This unique attraction offers guided safari tours where you can see exotic animals like zebras, lemurs, and water buffalo. It's an exciting and educational experience for the whole family.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort Located just a short drive from Lakeland, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a must-visit for families with young children. The theme park features rides, shows, and attractions based on the popular LEGO toys.
Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo This annual event is one of the largest aviation expos in the world, featuring airshows, aircraft displays, and educational exhibits. It's a thrilling experience for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
Family Fun Center This entertainment complex offers a variety of activities, including mini-golf, go-karts, arcade games, and laser tag. It's a great place for a fun-filled day with the family.
Cobb Theatre Catch the latest blockbuster movies at Cobb Theatre, which offers comfortable seating, state-of-the-art sound, and a variety of snacks and refreshments.
Shopping and Dining Delights
Lakeland boasts a variety of shopping and dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences. Here are some top spots to check out.
Lakeside Village This open-air shopping center features a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great place to spend an afternoon shopping and dining.
Downtown Farmers Curb Market Held every Saturday, this market offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food from local vendors. It's a great place to support local businesses and enjoy the community atmosphere.
Antique Mall of Lakeland Antique lovers will enjoy browsing the unique and vintage items at this large antique mall. It's a treasure trove of collectibles, furniture, and memorabilia.
Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu of seafood dishes with a New Orleans flair. It's a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro Located in downtown Lakeland, this cozy coffee house offers a variety of coffee drinks, sandwiches, and pastries. It's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.
Unique Experiences
Lakeland offers some unique attractions that you won't find anywhere else. Here are a few must-visit spots for a one-of-a-kind experience.
The Poor Porker This quirky food truck and outdoor market offers delicious beignets and coffee, along with a variety of handmade goods from local artisans. It's a fun and unique place to visit.
Circle B Bar Reserve Tram Tours For a different way to experience Circle B Bar Reserve, take a guided tram tour. You'll learn about the area's wildlife and ecosystems from knowledgeable guides.
Florida Southern College Water Dome This impressive water feature, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is a stunning example of his architectural vision. It's a must-see for fans of Wright's work.
The Joinery This modern food hall offers a variety of dining options, from sushi to pizza to craft beer. It's a great place to try different cuisines in a vibrant and social setting.
Lakeland Escape Room Test your problem-solving skills at Lakeland Escape Room, where you and your team must work together to solve puzzles and escape from themed rooms. It's a fun and challenging activity for groups.
Natural Wonders
Lakeland is home to some beautiful natural attractions that are worth exploring. Here are a few top picks.
Lake Hollingsworth This scenic lake is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking. The 3-mile loop around the lake offers beautiful views and a chance to see local wildlife.
Loyce E. Harpe Park This park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf. It's a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of Lakeland.
Tenoroc Fish Management Area Anglers will love the fishing opportunities at Tenoroc, which features several lakes stocked with a variety of fish. It's also a great place for bird watching and wildlife photography.
Se7en Wetlands This expansive wetland area offers miles of hiking trails and opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and turtles. It's a peaceful and scenic place to explore.
Lake Morton Known for its large population of swans, Lake Morton is a beautiful spot for a leisurely walk or picnic. The lake is surrounded by historic homes and offers a tranquil setting in the heart of the city.
Lakeland Awaits Your Adventure
Lakeland's got a bit of everything. Whether you're into outdoor activities, historical sites, or local cuisine, this city won't disappoint. Stroll through Hollis Garden for some peace, or check out the Polk Museum of Art for a dose of culture. Don't miss Circle B Bar Reserve if you're a nature lover.
Hungry? Downtown Lakeland offers a variety of eateries that'll satisfy any craving. For a unique experience, visit Safari Wilderness and get up close with exotic animals.
Lakeland's charm lies in its mix of modern attractions and natural beauty. It's a place where you can relax, explore, and create lasting memories. So pack your bags and get ready to discover all that Lakeland has to offer. Your adventure starts now!
