Things To Do
in Lakeland
Lakeland is a vibrant city located in central Florida, known for its beautiful lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city has a lively downtown area with historic architecture, boutique shops, and dining options. Lakeland is home to Florida Southern College, famous for its collection of Frank Lloyd Wright-designed architecture.
The city hosts popular events such as the Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo and the annual swan parade.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your morning at the picturesque Lake Mirror Park, where you can enjoy a stroll and take in the scenic views. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the beautiful historic buildings along the waterfront.
Grab lunch at one of the many delightful cafes in downtown Lakeland. Afterward, check out the Polk Museum of Art to immerse yourself in local and contemporary art.
In the evening, head to Florida Southern College to admire the stunning architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. End your day with a relaxing dinner at a lakeside restaurant.
Start your day at the Lakeland Botanical Garden, which features beautiful landscapes and diverse plant collections. Take your time wandering through the trails and enjoying the serene environment.
Continue your nature exploration with a visit to the Circle B Bar Reserve, renowned for its wildlife and scenic trails. Don’t forget your binoculars to catch sight of the local bird species.
Wrap up your day with a sunset picnic at Lake Parker Park, where you can enjoy the view as the sun sets over the water. Bring along some snacks and drinks for a perfect evening in nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable housing compared to larger cities in Florida
- Pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers
- Access to numerous lakes and outdoor recreational activities
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
- Growing job market and economic development in the area
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities
- Public transportation can be limited, making a car necessary
- Potential for hurricanes and tropical storms during the season
- Higher humidity levels in summer months may be uncomfortable for some
- Some areas may have a higher crime rate compared to national averages
Best Activities in Lakeland
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore various trails and encounter native wildlife at this popular nature reserve.
Enjoy a day on the water with options for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
Tee off at this scenic and challenging golf course surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lakeland with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lakeland
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque lake with a 2.85-mile walking path, perfect for capturing sunrise or sunset views.
Offers scenic views of rolling hills, beautiful landscapes, and a variety of flora and fauna.
Features diverse wildlife and expansive marshes, providing countless opportunities for stunning nature photography.
Food in Lakeland
Lakeland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious sandwich with layers of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami, pressed between Cuban bread. Recommended at Silver Ring Cafe.
Must-Try!
A local delicacy, gator bites are bite-sized pieces of alligator meat, typically breaded and fried. Enjoy these at Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille for an authentic taste.
Lakeland is known for its luscious strawberries, and the classic strawberry shortcake is a delightful treat. Head to Fred's Market Restaurant for a heavenly serving.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lakeland better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively market is a melting pot of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local street food vendors. Don't miss the diverse food options available every Saturday morning.
Lakeland hosts regular food truck rallies where you can savor a variety of cuisines from tacos and BBQ to gourmet grilled cheese and vegan options. Keep an eye on Munn Park for these events.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lakeland, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversations.
It is customary to greet others with a friendly and polite demeanor, such as saying 'hello' or 'good morning' when meeting someone for the first time or entering a business establishment.
Being respectful and open-minded towards local customs and traditions, such as showing appreciation for the local cuisine, cultural events, and historical landmarks, is key to fostering positive interactions in Lakeland.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lakeland with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lakeland
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lakeland, tipping is customary in the service industry, including restaurants, bars, and hotels. A standard tip of 15-20% of the total bill is commonly given for good service.
Payment in Lakeland, United States is primarily done using credit/debit cards, cash, or electronic payment methods such as mobile apps. Major credit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment options are also becoming more popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lakeland.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Lakeland, with mild temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. It's a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting local parks.
Summer brings hot and humid weather to Lakeland, making it prime time for water activities and enjoying the many lakes in the area. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms.
Fall offers pleasant temperatures and the chance to see the changing colors of the foliage around Lakeland. It's a great time for outdoor events and festivals.
Winter in Lakeland is mild, with occasional cold fronts bringing cooler temperatures. It's a good time for birdwatching and exploring the city's historic sites.
Lakeland at Night
Hiking in Lakeland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature reserve with several scenic trails, offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
A picturesque garden located in downtown Lakeland, featuring walking paths and a variety of plant species.
A park with natural trails suitable for hiking, surrounded by lush scenery and a peaceful environment.
A multi-use trail that provides a great hiking experience along with biking and walking paths, stretching through scenic landscapes.
This center offers educational trails and hiking opportunities, focusing on the local ecosystem and natural history.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lakeland through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lakeland by plane.
Located approximately 45 miles east of Lakeland, MCO is one of the busiest airports in the United States, offering flights to numerous international and domestic destinations.
About 30 miles southwest of Lakeland, TPA is a major airport serving the Tampa Bay Area, with a variety of international and domestic flights.
Located approximately 75 miles south of Lakeland, RSW serves the Fort Myers area and offers several international routes.
About 40 miles southwest of Lakeland, PIE offers a mix of commercial flights including international and domestic services, primarily catering to the Tampa Bay Area.
Located roughly 50 miles northeast of Lakeland, SFB provides additional international flight options, primarily focusing on low-cost airlines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Caucasian population without Hispanic or Latino ethnicity.
Includes individuals of any race who identify as Hispanic or Latino.
Individuals with origins in any of the Black racial groups of Africa.
Includes individuals with origins in the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the Indian subcontinent.
Individuals identifying with more than one racial category.
Individuals with origins in any of the original peoples of North America.
Individuals with origins in the Pacific Islands.
The Soul of Lakeland
Discover the essence of Lakeland through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Lakeland is home to the Detroit Tigers' spring training and has a rich history in baseball, with various local teams and leagues.
Basketball is widely played in Lakeland, with community leagues, school teams, and recreational opportunities available for all ages.
Soccer has grown in popularity in Lakeland, with numerous youth leagues and clubs supporting the sport.
American football is popular at the high school level, with many local teams competing in regional leagues.
Lakeland features several golf courses and clubs, making golf a popular recreational activity for residents.
With its numerous lakes and waterways, fishing is a favored pastime for many residents in and around Lakeland.
Running clubs and events, including marathons and fun runs, are popular in Lakeland, promoting fitness and community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lakeland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Numerous eateries in Lakeland offer diverse vegetarian and vegan selections, from plant-based cafes like Born & Bread Bakehouse to vegetarian-friendly options at local restaurants such as Nutwood.
Visitors can find a range of gluten-free offerings at restaurants like Black & Brew, which provides gluten-free bread and menu items, and at the Downtown Farmers Curb Market, known for its assortment of fresh gluten-free produce and snacks.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lakeland with these cultural adventures.
