Things To Do
in Lake Wales
Lake Wales is a charming city in central Florida known for its scenic beauty and historic architecture. The city is home to Bok Tower Gardens, a renowned botanical garden and bird sanctuary with a stunning singing tower. Lake Wales is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating on its many lakes.
The community is welcoming and vibrant, with a strong sense of local pride and a rich cultural heritage.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk through the beautiful Bok Tower Gardens. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning landscapes as you take in the sights.
Visit the Lake Wales Museum to learn about the area's rich history and cultural heritage. The exhibits are engaging and provide a deep dive into the region's past.
Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants with delicious southern cuisine. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll around Lake Wailes Park as the sun sets.
Go for a hike at the nearby Lake Kissimmee State Park. Experience the natural beauty of Florida's wildlife and flora.
Pack a picnic and relax by the lake at the park. Take time to appreciate the serene environment and maybe spot some alligators.
Return to Lake Wales and treat yourself to some ice cream from a local shop. Enjoy it while watching the evening sky turn shades of pink and orange.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including lakes and parks.
- Small-town charm with a tight-knit community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Mild climate, ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
- Rich history and cultural attractions, including art galleries and museums.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Less access to major urban amenities and services.
- Potential for hurricanes and tropical storms during the season.
- Public transportation options may be lacking.
- Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable for some residents.
Best Activities in Lake Wales
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the natural beauty of Lake Wales Ridge State Forest with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and opportunities for birdwatching.
Visit the nearby Frostproof History Museum to dive into local history and then enjoy a picnic at the associated outdoor park.
Enjoy fishing, boating, and kayaking along the Kissimmee River at Camp Mack's River Resort, which offers a range of outdoor activities.
Take a leisurely walk or bike ride around Lake Wailes, or relax in the park's picnic areas and playgrounds.
Experience stunning gardens and hiking trails at Bok Tower Gardens, and listen to the carillon bells while enjoying the serene landscapes.
Engage in fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing at Lake Kissimmee State Park, offering beautiful scenery and abundant nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lake Wales with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lake Wales
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Singing Tower, lush gardens, and surrounding landscapes, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Provides picturesque views of the rolling hills, pine flatwoods, and diverse vegetation, ideal for nature photography and hiking.
Features scenic overlooks of the surrounding area and Lake Pierce, great for capturing sunset or sunrise photos and enjoying the outdoors.
Food in Lake Wales
Lake Wales Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in the tangy and sweet flavors of this iconic Floridian dessert made with a graham cracker crust, a zesty lime filling, and topped with whipped cream. Sample this treat at the famous family-owned bakery, Mike's Pies.
Must-Try!
Experience a unique local delicacy by trying fried alligator tail, often served with a zesty dipping sauce, at the historic Chalet Suzanne, known for its traditional Southern cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lake Wales better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a variety of fresh produce, local honey, artisanal cheeses, and homemade jams at this vibrant market on a Saturday morning. You can also savor authentic street food like Southern fried chicken and barbecue ribs from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lake Wales, as in much of the United States, politeness is highly valued. Always greet people with a smile, say 'please' and 'thank you,' and make eye contact during conversations to show respect and engagement.
Americans generally value personal space and prefer to keep a comfortable distance during conversations. Approach individuals with an appropriate physical distance to make them feel at ease.
Being aware of and respecting local customs is important. For example, participating in community events, acknowledging local history, and being considerate of different cultural backgrounds will foster goodwill and positive interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lake Wales with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lake Wales
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lake Wales, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is typical to tip servers in restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill before tax. For other services such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, tipping norms vary but usually range from 10-20% or a few dollars for small services.
Payment practices in Lake Wales generally align with national standards. Most establishments accept various forms of payment, including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options. For larger transactions, it's advisable to check if the service provider accepts card payments, as some small businesses may prefer cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lake Wales.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Lake Wales is in spring, from March to May, when the weather is mild and the city is in full bloom with colorful flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.
Summer in Lake Wales, from June to August, can be hot and humid. However, this is the best time for water activities as the lakes are warm and inviting. Expect occasional thunderstorms and higher tourism during this season.
Fall, from September to November, is another fantastic time to visit Lake Wales. The weather is still warm, and the foliage begins to change with beautiful autumn colors. It's an ideal time for exploring nature trails and enjoying outdoor events.
Winter, from December to February, sees cooler temperatures in Lake Wales. While it's not as cold as northern states, it's a pleasant time for outdoor activities like cycling and golfing. The city also hosts various holiday events and festivals during this season.
Lake Wales at Night
Hiking in Lake Wales
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offers several miles of hiking trails through scenic pine forests, hills, and wetlands. A great spot to enjoy nature and spot wildlife.
A popular hiking area with marked trails, this reserve features a variety of ecosystems and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
Features a network of trails winding through a variety of habitats, including cypress swamps, palm hammocks, and oak canopies, ideal for a peaceful hike.
A local park in Lake Wales that offers shorter hiking trails and is perfect for a casual stroll while enjoying views of the lake.
Located a bit further out, this park offers diverse trails with unique ecosystems, providing a chance to experience Florida's natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lake Wales through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lake Wales by plane.
The largest and busiest airport serving the Orlando area, located approximately 50 miles northeast of Lake Wales.
One of the major airports serving the Tampa Bay area, located approximately 60 miles west of Lake Wales.
Serves the Sarasota and Bradenton areas, located approximately 75 miles southwest of Lake Wales.
Located in Fort Myers, it serves the Southwest Florida region, approximately 85 miles south of Lake Wales.
Located northeast of St. Petersburg, approximately 70 miles southwest of Lake Wales.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Lake Wales, representing a significant portion of the population.
A notable demographic group contributing to the cultural diversity of Lake Wales.
This group includes individuals from various Latin American countries, adding to the cultural fabric of the community.
A smaller demographic group that includes individuals of various Asian descents.
A minority demographic that reflects the indigenous peoples of the region.
This group includes individuals identifying with more than one racial category.
The Soul of Lake Wales
Discover the essence of Lake Wales through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Lake Wales, with local high schools fielding competitive teams that engage the community during the football season.
Basketball is widely played in local schools and community leagues, promoting both recreational play and competitive tournaments.
Soccer has gained popularity among youth and adults alike, with various leagues and clubs supporting the sport throughout Lake Wales.
Baseball is a traditional pastime in Lake Wales, with many youth teams and local leagues fostering talent and community involvement.
Fishing is a popular recreational activity in Lake Wales due to its proximity to lakes and parks, attracting both locals and visitors.
Running has a strong presence in Lake Wales, with many residents participating in local races and charity runs, often held in local parks and trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lake Wales.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Lake Wales offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as fresh salads, veggie wraps, and tofu stir-fries, ensuring those with plant-based preferences are well catered to.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find an array of gluten-free choices in Lake Wales, including gluten-free pizzas, pasta dishes, and desserts, ensuring a stress-free dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lake Wales with these cultural adventures.
