Lakeland, Florida is a vibrant city located in the Central Florida region of the United States. It is situated between Tampa and Orlando, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway or a mid-week escape. With a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural attractions, Lakeland has something for everyone.
The city has a long and interesting history. It was founded in 1885 by Abraham Munn and is known as the “City of Murals” due to its many murals that can be found around town. It is also home to one of the oldest continuously operating airports in the United States.
The downtown area is full of restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries. You can find a variety of cuisines, ranging from classic American fare to Mexican, Japanese, and more. There are also plenty of parks and outdoor activities to enjoy. There are also plenty of cultural attractions, such as the Polk Museum of Art, The Polk Theatre, and the Historic Bok Tower Gardens.
Lakeland is also home to some of the most beautiful lakes in Florida. With its many lakes, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, swimming, and more. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore.
Overall, Lakeland offers a unique mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a mid-week escape. With its convenient location, beautiful scenery, and a variety of activities, Lakeland is a great place to visit for both locals and visitors.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Lakeland: Downtown Lakeland is a vibrant and historic area with plenty of restaurants, shops, art galleries, and attractions. It is located near the shores of Lakeland and offers easy access to the city’s many parks, trails, and outdoor recreation spots.
2. South Lakeland: South Lakeland is a residential area with a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. It is also home to many businesses and is conveniently located close to Interstate 4 and the Florida Turnpike.
3. North Lakeland: North Lakeland is a residential area with a variety of housing options. It features great schools, parks, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. It is also close to major highways and public transportation.
4. East Lakeland: East Lakeland offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with easy access to major highways and public transportation. It is home to a great selection of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
5. West Lakeland: West Lakeland is filled with parks, trails, and outdoor recreation spots, making it an ideal area for nature lovers. It is also home to a variety of housing options and is conveniently located near major highways and public transportation.
1. Lake Morton: This lake is located in downtown Lakeland and is home to a variety of wildlife, including swans, pelicans, and various species of fish. Visitors can rent paddleboats or kayaks to explore the lake and admire its beauty.
2. Lakeland Square Mall: This mall is one of the largest shopping centers in the area, with over 140 stores, restaurants, and a movie theater. It is a great place to spend the day browsing the shops and trying out the local cuisine.
3. Polk Museum of Art: This museum displays art from around the world, ranging from contemporary to classic works. It also hosts a variety of cultural events, classes, and workshops.
4. Florida Air Museum: This museum is dedicated to aircrafts and aviation history. It features a variety of interactive displays and exhibits, as well as a flight simulator.
5. Hollis Garden: This 17-acre botanical garden is filled with lush greenery, fountains, and sculptures. It is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as jogging, bird watching, and picnicking.
1. Catfish and grits: A classic southern dish that combines catfish with creamy cheese grits, this dish is a staple of Lakeland cuisine.
2. Cuban Sandwich: This classic sandwich is made with slow roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles served on Cuban bread.
3. Smoked Wings: Chicken wings that are smoked over a wood fire, giving them a unique smoky flavor.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes: Sliced green tomatoes that are breaded and fried until golden brown and served with a side of ranch dressing.
5. Pecan Pie: A classic southern dessert made with a rich, buttery pastry and topped with a sugary pecan filling.