Lakeland, Florida is a charming city located between Tampa and Orlando. It is home to a variety of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and historic sites, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best places and things to do in Lakeland:
This beautiful botanical garden is a must-see for nature lovers. It features a variety of flowers, plants, and water features, and offers stunning views of Lake Mirror.
This museum features a collection of over 2,500 works of art from around the world. It offers a range of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.
This nature reserve offers hiking trails, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. Visitors can see alligators, bald eagles, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
This private college is home to the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the campus and see the unique and beautiful buildings.
Joker Marchant Stadium is a popular sports venue located in Lakeland, Florida. It is best known as the spring training home of the Detroit Tigers baseball team. The stadium was built in 1966 and was named after former Lakeland Parks and Recreation Director, Joker Marchant. It has a seating capacity of 8,500 and features modern amenities such as luxury suites, a picnic area, and a children’s play area.
Lake Mirror is a beautiful lake located in the heart of Lakeland, Florida. It covers an area of approximately 25 acres and is surrounded by lush parks, historic landmarks, and modern amenities. The lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. There are several public boat ramps and docks around the lake, making it easy to launch your own boat or rent one from a local vendor.
Lake Hollingsworth is another beautiful lake located in Lakeland, Florida, just a few miles south of Lake Mirror. It is larger than Lake Mirror, covering an area of approximately 350 acres and has a circular shape. The lake is surrounded by a 3-mile-long paved trail, which is popular among walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The trail offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape, including lush parks, stately homes, and historic landmarks.
Bonnet Springs Park is a beautiful 180-acre park located in the heart of Lakeland, Florida. It features a variety of amenities and attractions for visitors of all ages, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park includes several gardens, including a butterfly garden, a wildflower meadow, and a sensory garden. There is also a playground for children, a splash pad, and a dog park for pets.
Aerospace Discovery at the Florida Air Museum at Sun ‘n Fun is a fascinating museum dedicated to aviation and aerospace located in Lakeland, Florida. The museum is part of the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo, which is held annually at the Lakeland Linder International Airport. The museum features a wide range of exhibits and displays that showcase the history of aviation and aerospace, as well as its impact on modern society.
Safari Wilderness is a unique wildlife preserve located in Lakeland, Florida. It offers visitors the opportunity to experience a true African-style safari right in the heart of Florida. The preserve is home to a variety of exotic animals, including zebras, water buffalo, ostriches, and antelopes. Visitors can take a guided safari tour through the preserve in a custom safari vehicle or by camelback, where they will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these incredible animals.
Munn Park is a historic park located in the heart of downtown Lakeland, Florida. It was originally established in the late 19th century as a gathering place for the community and has since become a beloved landmark and popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The park features beautiful landscaping and architecture, with historic monuments and statues throughout the grounds.
Barnett Family Park is a spacious and family-friendly park located in Lakeland, Florida. It was named in honor of the Barnett family, who were longtime residents and supporters of the community. The park features a wide range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors of all ages. There are multiple playgrounds, including a splash pad and a large, modern play structure with slides, swings, and climbing features. The park also has multiple picnic areas with grills and tables, making it a great spot for a family picnic or BBQ.
Saddle Creek Park is a 740-acre park located in Lakeland, Florida. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, with its scenic lakes, hiking trails, and a wide range of recreational activities. One of the main attractions of Saddle Creek Park is its lake, which covers over 500 acres and provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a great spot for anglers of all levels.
The Frances Langford Promenade is a beautiful waterfront park located in downtown Lakeland, Florida. The park is named after the late Frances Langford, a popular singer and actress who was also a longtime resident of the city. The promenade runs alongside Lake Mirror, offering stunning views of the water and the city skyline. It features a paved walkway that is perfect for jogging, walking, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. The park also has multiple benches and picnic tables, making it a great spot for a picnic or to simply relax and take in the scenery.
Holloway Park is a beautiful park located in Lakeland, Florida. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including cross-country meets and trail runs. The park covers over 400 acres and features a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and running trails. The trails wind through the park’s natural terrain, providing a challenging and scenic workout for runners and hikers of all levels. The park also has a disc golf course, which offers a fun and challenging game for players of all skill levels.
Gator Creek Reserve is a nature reserve located in Lakeland, Florida. The reserve covers over 2,000 acres and is home to a diverse array of wildlife and habitats, including wetlands, pine forests, and prairies. The reserve is popular among outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.
The Silvermoon Drive-in is a classic drive-in theater located in Lakeland, Florida. It is one of the few remaining drive-ins in the state and has been in operation since 1948. The theater features two screens that show double features on weekends and select weekdays. The movies are shown on large outdoor screens, and visitors can watch from the comfort of their cars or bring lawn chairs to sit outside. The sound is transmitted through FM radio, so visitors can tune in on their car radios or portable radios.
Lakeland offers a great mix of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and family-friendly destinations. Whether you’re interested in art, history, nature, or sports, there’s something for everyone in this charming Florida city.
