Lakeland

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Lakeland's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Beauty of Lakeland
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Arts and Culture Adventure
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a visit to the Hollis Garden, a scenic botanical garden with stunning floral designs. It's a great area for a leisurely walk and some morning meditation.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore local galleries and artisan shops, especially the Downtown and South Lakeland area. You can find unique artworks and handcrafted goods to take home as souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy an evening performance at the RP Funding Center, where you can catch a concert or a local theater performance. After the show, grab a bite at a trendy nearby eatery.

day 4
Active Lakeland
morning
:

Get your blood pumping with a morning bike ride along the scenic trails of the Lakeland Chain of Lakes. The fresh air and beautiful surroundings are sure to energize you for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Lake Mirror Park again, this time for paddleboarding or kayaking on the water. It's a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and see the lake from a different perspective.

evening
:

End your active day with a relaxing yoga session at one of the local studios or parks. Finish with a healthy dinner at a health-focused restaurant nearby.

day 5
Foodie Exploration
morning
:

Start the morning with a delicious breakfast at a local diner known for its homemade dishes. Enjoy classic favorites to fuel you for the day.

afternoon
:

Join a food tour to sample delicious local cuisine from various restaurants around Lakeland. You'll get a taste of the city's diverse culinary scene while learning about its history.

evening
:

Dine at a popular restaurant that offers a mix of traditional and modern American cuisine. Don't forget to try their signature dishes and perhaps a craft cocktail to complement your meal.

day 6
Wildlife Wonders
morning
:

Visit the nearby Common Ground Park for bird watching; it's an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts. Bring your camera for some great wildlife photography opportunities.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Lake Kissimmee State Park for an afternoon of hiking and observing the beautiful landscapes. Discover the unique ecosystems and perhaps even spot some alligators.

evening
:

Return to Lakeland for a casual dinner at a local pizzeria or grill. Share your day’s experiences over a hearty meal.

day 7
Parks and Recreation
morning
:

Spend your morning at the scenic Tiger Creek Preserve, where you can immerse yourself in natural beauty and maybe spot some local wildlife. Enjoy the tranquility of the wooded trails.

afternoon
:

Afterward, visit the nearby Lake Hollingsworth for a relaxing afternoon of fishing or picnicking by the water. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking to unwind.

evening
:

Visit a local brewery for a casual dinner and a tasting flight of craft beers. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere while mingling with locals.

day 8
Photography Lovers Dream
morning
:

Begin your day at the stunning Bonnet Springs Park, with its diverse landscapes perfect for photography. Capture the beauty of nature and clever architectural structures.

afternoon
:

Take a photo walk through downtown Lakeland, exploring its vibrant murals and historic districts. Challenge yourself to find the best angles and compositions.

evening
:

End your photography adventure with a relaxing dinner featuring photography-themed decor in a local eatery. Share your favorite shots from the day with fellow diners.

day 9
Shopping and Strolling
morning
:

Start your morning at the Lakeland Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce and handmade goods. It's a great way to receive local flavors and meet the farmers.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon shopping at the local boutiques in the historic downtown area. Support small businesses while finding unique clothing and gifts.

evening
:

Wrap up your shopping day with a dinner at a nearby pub or grill. Enjoy some live music as you relax and reflect on your purchases.

Discover Lakeland

Read more in our Lakeland 2024 Travel Guide.

Lakeland Travel Guide