Attractions and Places To See around Lakeland - Top 9

Lakeland is home to the world's largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture at Florida Southern College. You can take guided tours to see 13 of his structures, including the iconic Annie Pfeiffer Chapel. Additionally, the Frances Langford Promenade at Lake Mirror is a picturesque landmark designed by Charles Leavitt, listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Yes, Circle B Bar Reserve is a significant nature preserve spanning over 1,200 acres, known for abundant wildlife, including alligators, bald eagles, and osprey. The Alligator Alley Trail is a popular spot for sightings. Another option is Colt Creek State Park, offering over 5,000 acres with diverse wildlife and multi-use trails.

Families can enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Florida Children's Museum or the inclusive play area at Common Ground Playground. For a unique animal encounter, Safari Wilderness Ranch offers tours to see over 50 species. The urban-nature park, Bonnet Springs Park, also provides playgrounds and scenic trails suitable for all ages.

Hollis Garden is a beautifully landscaped botanical garden overlooking Lake Mirror Park, featuring neoclassical architecture and over 10,000 vibrant plants. It's free to enter. You can also enjoy a walk around Lake Hollingsworth on its popular three-mile walking and biking trail, which is also a bird sanctuary.

The Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College (The AGB) offers a diverse collection of art from pre-Columbian to contemporary periods, with free admission. For history buffs, the Munn Park Historic District features charming historic buildings, and the Polk Theatre, opened in 1928, is a historic venue with Mediterranean-inspired design.

Absolutely. You can find numerous trails for hiking and cycling. For example, Shelby Farms Park offers extensive trails through woodlands and around lakes, including the paved Shelby Farms Greenline, which is over 10 miles long. The Hyde Lake loop within Shelby Farms Park is also popular for walks, runs, and cycles. For more hiking options, explore the hiking guide around Lakeland.

The paved path around Hyde Lake in Shelby Farms Park is a favorite for runners. The Shelby Farms Greenline also provides a long, paved route connecting to various parks. For more running routes, check out the running trails guide around Lakeland.

The Polk Theatre, a historic venue from 1928, is known for showing classic movies. For a retro experience, the Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre is one of the few remaining drive-ins. Sports fans can catch Detroit Tigers Spring Training at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, and the annual Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo in April is a major aviation event.

The paved path around Hyde Lake in Shelby Farms Park is an easy, scenic option. The Shelby Farms Greenline also offers a flat, paved surface suitable for leisurely walks. The Fort Fraser Trail is another paved, seven-mile path connecting Lakeland to Bartow, ideal for easy strolls.

Visitors particularly appreciate the extensive green spaces and well-maintained trail networks, especially within Shelby Farms Park. The variety of landscapes, from woodlands to lakes, and the opportunities for wildlife observation are frequently highlighted. The paved paths like the Hyde Lake loop are popular for their accessibility and scenic beauty.

Yes, the Florida Air Museum is dedicated to aviation history, featuring a unique collection of aircraft including warbirds, antiques, and ultralights. It also provides year-round educational programs in partnership with the Aerospace Center for Excellence.

The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a weekly event where you can find fresh produce and local goods, offering a great way to experience the community and support local vendors.