Polk County Vacation Guide

Vacation Guide

VisitCentralFlorida.org

LEGOLAND® Water Park

Two Parks, Three Hotels One Awesome Vacation

Kids r o F t s u J Buy Online & Save VisitCentralFlorida.org

Pirate Island Hotel Coming April 17, 2020

NOW OPEN! The LEGO® Movie™ World

LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob conngurations, the Miniigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2019 The LEGO Group.

LEGOLAND® Theme Park

Contents Features 10

Family Friendly Options

40

Arts, Culture & Heritage

60

On the Water

69

What’s Inside Map

34

Dining Directory

Welcome

44

Shopping

8

Top 5

46

Accommodations

14

Family Fun

62

Outdoor Adventures

18

Attractions

64

Nature Trails

24

Dining

66

Event & Festivals

28

Nightlife

69

Golf

30

From Coffee to Cruffins

72

Spectator Sports

32

Baked Goodies

74

Chambers/ Transportation

4-5 6-7

18

24

46

PUBLISHED BY:

LURECREATIVEDESIGN.COM

330.907.8710

MIKE@LURECREATIVEDESIGN.COM

62

2701 Lake Myrtle Park Rd, Auburndale, FL 33823 (800) 828-7655, 863-551-4750 FAX: 863-551-4740 VisitCentralFlorida.org Polk County Sports Marketing CentralFloridaSports.com Every effort has been made to provide an accurate comprehensive guide. However, phone numbers, hours and prices are subject to change without notice. The omission of any business does not imply a negative judgment or quality rating, nor does the listing of a business imply recommendation or assurance of quality. The official Vacation Guide for Visit Central Florida is designed and published by: Lure Creative • 2350 Valley View Dr., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223 • 330-907-8710 Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part prohibited without written permission of the publisher. Photo Credit: All photos presented in this guide are the property of Visit Central Florida who has been given exclusive rights for use in this guide.

Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

3

Map of Polk County Clermont

Lake Buena Vista

Walt Disney World ResortsÂŽ

10

A RL

O

Kissimmee

Moore Rd.

36

3 Old Polk City Rd.

16

Polk City 29

Drane Field Rd.

45

Lakeland Linder International Airport

14

27

Lake Alfred 34 35

18

5 11

Airport Rd.

23

13

Auburndale

Lakeland 24

Davenport

49 30

50

TAMPA

48

32 9 8

Eagle Lake

Haines City

37

Winter Haven

28

33

26

12 20

44

Homeland

Dundee 19 6

2

31

43 22 41

Lake Hamilton

1

Bartow Mulberry

O

ND

Lake Wales Highland Park Babson Park

40 39

Fort Meade Streamsong Resort

4 Vacation Guide

21

Frostproof

Interstate Divided Hwy. Highway Toll Road

38

Must See

47

Attraction Visitor Information Center

17

Amtrak Railroad Station Lakeland Linder International Airport

7

51

Jacksonville Tallahassee

Panama City

Daytona

Orlando Clearwater

46

Downtown Lakeland

2

15

Tampa

5

25

Sarasota Fort Myers

Miami

KEY TO ATTRACTIONS TOP 5 MUST SEES

1 _LEGOLAND® Florida Resort F-7

2 _Bok Tower Gardens G-7 Downtown Lake Wales Insert 3 _Safari Wilderness D-4 4 _Westgate River Ranch Resort K-9

42

5 Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture & Visitor Center C-6 Downtown Lakeland Insert ATTRACTIONS

Downtown Lake Wales

6 Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park H-7

7 Barnett Family Park/Sunflower Preschool Playground C-6 Downtown Lakeland Insert 8 Bartow Airbase History Museum E-7 9 Circle B Bar Reserve/Polk Nature Discovery Center D-7

G-7 Downtown Lake Wales Insert

43 Luster All African American Heritage Museum D-8 44 Mulberry Phosphate Museum C-8

27 Webb’s Citrus Candy Factory G-5

45 PicassoZ Art Café C-7

11 Common Ground Park C-6

ADVENTURES

12 Davidson of Dundee – Citrus Candy G-6

28 Auburndale Speedway E-6

13 Fantasy of Flight Museum (Seasonal) D-5

30 Elite Cable Park D-5

14 Florida Air Museum B-7 15 Florida’s Natural Growers Grove House (Seasonal) G-7 Downtown Lake Wales Insert 16 Florida Sports Hall of Fame F-4 17 Hollis Garden C-6 Downtown Lakeland Insert 18 International Market World Flea Market D-6

29 Balloons and Beyond D-5 31 Florida Skydiving Center G-8 32 Mark'em All Paintball E-7 33 Off the Wall Adventures B-7

SPECTATOR SPORTS 49 Lake Myrtle Sports Park D-5

34 Preston Aviation, Biplane Rides and Instruction E-6

35 Waldo Wright’s Flying Service E-6 36 Wallaby Ranch F-3

19 Lake Kissimmee State Park I-7 20 Margaret Kampsen Historic Depot G-6

ARTS & CULTURE 38 Explorations V Children’s Museum C-6 Downtown Lakeland Insert

22 Polk County History Center and

Historical and Genealogical Library D-8

46 Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College C-6 Downtown Lakeland Insert

47 Polk Theatre C-6 Downtown Lakeland Insert 48 Ritz Theatre F-6

37 Winter Haven Watersports F-6

21 O’Hara Restorations, Inc. – Classic Cars H-9

Visit Central Florida

25 Spook Hill G-7 Downtown Lake Wales Insert 26 The Living Water Boat Cruises F-7

42 Lake Wales History Museum

24 Silver Moon Drive-In Theater C-6

10 Colt Creek State Park B-3

4

23 Ridge Island Groves (Seasonal) F-5

39 Fort Meade Historical Museum E-9 40 Homeland Heritage Park D-9 41 L.B. Brown House Museum E-8

• Tropics SC

50 Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium C-6

• Lakeland Flying Tigers • Detroit Tigers Spring Training 51 RP Funding Center C-6 Downtown Lakeland Insert • Florida Tropics

• Lakeland Magic

Visitor Information Center F-4 Florida Sports Hall of Fame

DISCOUNTED ATTRACTION TICKETS Vacation Guide

5

Fun Radiates IN ALL DIRECTIONS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

Paddleboard Winter Haven

6 Vacation Guide

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

Welcome to Central Florida’s Polk County— the epicenter of Florida fun.

F

lip through these pages and you’ll see what we mean. There’s adventure around every corner and something new to discover at every turn. Perhaps you’ll find yourself eye level with a great blue heron, paddleboarding through Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes as the sun melts into the horizon. Drinking in Elvis-approved air at the Polk Theatre? Clutching a fly ball in your claws at a Detroit Tigers game? From outdoor excursions to theme park thrills, you’ll find a head-spinning variety of stuff to see and do here.

And don’t forget—just a short drive connects you to another unlimited spread of scrumptious activities.

White sand beaches, Florida’s legendary attractions, and more heart-racing, stomach-flipping roller coasters than you can count are all less than an hour away.

When we say Visit Central Florida, we mean all of it.

Cue the highlighting, note scribbling and daydreaming now.

Safari Wilderness Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

7

Top

5

I

t goes without saying that there is so much to see and so little time, so if you have limited time in Central Florida you might ask, “Any suggestions on where to start?” To which we might reply, “Glad you asked.”

Must-Sees

1

8 Vacation Guide

2

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort YOUR MODEL VACATION STARTS HERE.

Bok Tower Gardens PARADISE IS IN FULL BLOOM.

LEGO® MOVIE™ World. Miniland.

Heartlake City. Your favorite LEGO® lands are waiting to be explored at this bricktacular theme park built just for kids, home to more than 50 spectacular rides and attractions—including a water park! From “pink-knuckle” roller coasters to live-action stunt shows, you’re in for unforgettable days of imagination-expanding excitement. Want to fully immerse yourself in the LEGO® experience? Book a stay at the “5-gazillion star” LEGOLAND® Hotel, totally tubular bungalows at the LEGOLAND® Beach Retreat, or the new Pirate Island Hotel.

No, this isn’t a mirage. It is, however, an oasis from work, worry and whatever else makes life’s treadmill go too fast.

Sitting atop the summit of Florida’s Iron Mountain, this hidden sanctuary will elevate your spirit with its heavenly botanical gardens, Singing Tower carillon and family-friendly nature trails.

Don’t miss Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden, which features three acres of fun, including areas for active and creative play, from water fun to musical instruments and more.

3

4

Safari Wilderness Ranch BREAK AWAY FROM THE HERD.

Westgate River Ranch Resort RUSTLE UP A MESS OF MEMORIES.

This is not a zoo. This is not a theme park. This is an up-close-and-personal nature paradise nestled right in Florida’s Green Swamp. Hop up on your camel or climb aboard your safari vehicle to traverse the wide-open savannah in our own backyard. You’ve just embarked on an unforgettable expedition into 260 acres of pristine Florida wilderness, home to more than 400 species of exotic animals including elands, zebra and ring-tailed lemurs. If you want more water buffalo and less mouse, this is the place.

Before citrus groves, theme parks and seaside resorts, Florida was all cowboy. Grab your kin and saddle up for a one-of-a-kind family vacation at this 1,700-acre dude ranch, which features everything from horseback riding to trap and skeet shooting to swamp buggy rides. Saturday night brings the action with the longestrunning championship rodeo in the United States. Rough it (in style) with glamping tents or rent a cabin for even more creature comforts.

Visit Central Florida

5

Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture GET SCHOOLED BY AN AMERICAN MASTER.

Head to Florida Southern College for an intimate look at the largest one-site collection of this influential architect’s work. Featuring 13 stunning structures in all, Frank Lloyd Wright’s “College of Tomorrow” is still considered one of the country’s most strikingly unique campuses nearly 80 years later.

Whether you choose to take the guided tour or explore on your own, you’re sure to leave inspired. Don’t miss the Child of the Sun Collection’s crown jewel, the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, or Wright’s newly brought-to-life piece of domestic bliss, the Usonian House.

Vacation Guide

9

Family– Friendly

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

visit to Polk County means plenty of family-friendly options. From museums built to expand the mind to waterparks and even a taste of Africa, family fun is as easy as done.

LEGOLAND® FLORIDA RESORT Polk County is also home to Florida’s newest theme park: LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. The 150-acre interactive theme park features more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, restaurants, shops, a water park, two hotels, a beach retreat and a botanical garden.

Of course, everything is awesome at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, including LEGO® NINJAGO® World, the super fun rides and “pink knuckle” roller coasters, Miniland USA, DUPLO® Valley and Pirates’ Cove, just to name a few.

10 Vacation Guide

And don’t miss THE LEGO® MOVIE™ WORLD, the largest expansion in LEGOLAND® Florida Resort history. There you can hop aboard Emmet’s Triple Decker Couch at THE LEGO® MOVIE™ Masters of Flight ride, which will send you flying through a magical world created completely from LEGO® bricks.

When it comes to fun in the sun, LEGOLAND® Water Park can’t be beat. From the LEGO® Wave Pool to the interactive water-play structures of Joker Soaker and DUPLO® Splash Safari, your kids will soak up tons of fun. But there is more to do than just splash and spray. At Build-A-Raft River, you can imagine, design and build your own unique vessel before taking it along the 1,000-foot-long lazy river.

Having opened in spring 2020, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort’s

LEGOLAND® Hotel

LEGOLAND® Beach Retreat has its own swimming pool, surrounded with plenty of beach sand for sandcastles.

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is located at 1 Legoland Way in Winter Haven. For more information visit legoland.com/florida or our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

BOK TOWER GARDENS Reigning high above the Central Florida landscape – more than 200 feet high, in fact – Lake Wales’ world-famous art deco and neo-Gothic legend, Bok Tower Gardens, was a tourist attraction the day it opened in 1929. Built upon one of the highest elevations in peninsular Florida, guests can stroll in the shadow of the tower that houses a carillon – an instrument comprised of a series of bells played by a keyboard. Built on Iron Mountain, what was once a desolate sand hill was transformed into a 250-acre lush tropical landscape that is both a contemplative garden as well as a bird sanctuary.

A recent addition to the grounds, Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden, has turned 2.7 acres of that area into a childhood delight.

Pirate Island Hotel is the first LEGO® Pirate themed hotel in North America. The newest on-site accommodation invites brick fans to vacation like a pirate just steps from the entrance to the theme park built for kids.

Another unique feature is the LEGOLAND® Beach Retreat, where visitors can extend their time in the warm Florida sun.

Filled with LEGO® themed items both inside and out, the village-style vacation resort features brightly colored bungalows grouped into 13 horseshoe-shaped coves. Looking like largerthan-life LEGO® homes, each bungalow features a cozy area for the kids as well as a privacy curtain for the main bedroom. Ideal for families and groups traveling together, each cove-worth of bungalows features its own outdoor play area. Additionally, the Visit Central Florida

Bok Tower Gardens Vacation Guide

11

However, don’t discount the other options. On the kayak safari, you’ll navigate through freshwater areas for close-up encounters with wetland species such as Defassa waterbuck and red lechwe. Mid-way through the kayak safari, visitors navigate to the lemur island, where they can hand feed grapes to two different species of lemurs. If you’d rather your transportation be fur covered, the camel option is available.

Safari Wilderness Ranch is located at 10850 Moore Rd., Lakeland. For more information visit safariwilderness.com or visit our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

Safari Wilderness

With nearly 20 different elements wrapped into the experience, from water features to a stage and space to perform, there is plenty to keep both the young and the young-at-heart busy. Not long after walking through the child-sized Gateway arch, stone mosaics of different animals greet the young adventurers on their way to the irresistible Indigo Pass. A giant, inky-black snake sculpture, perfect for climbing, surrounds a sand play area. Just steps away, a ledge complete with nooks and crannies leads to the River Walk, where cooling sprays of water from fountains, jets, misters and foggers help refresh the explorers.

Creative outlets are also incorporated, including the Sabal Stage, complete with different costumes available for play and performances, as well as an art station, tuned instruments including a giant xylophone, and even a fairy house trail.

Bok Tower Gardens is located at 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. For more information on Bok Tower Gardens, visit boktowergardens.org or our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

SAFARI WILDERNESS RANCH Just moments from downtown Lakeland is Safari Wilderness Ranch, an African safari experience where cattle still roam. Mind you, the cattle are Watusi – the African version of the longhorn, known by their distinctive upright horns that reach eight feet in length.

EXPLORATIONS V CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Focusing on the five senses – thus, the roman numeral V – Explorations V is three floors of kid-powered interactive exhibits and programs aimed at toddlers to 9-year-olds.

Pint-sized shoppers can mimic an outing to the local supermarket while filling their own kid-sized grocery cart in the Explore Store. If they would rather be in the middle of the action, the First Responders Gallery, complete with a handmade fire truck and police car, both built by first responders themselves, gives them plenty of room to explore the lives of their heroes.

Young minds can delve into breaking news or Florida’s whacky weather live on the set at the News Station or play as if they are beyond the clouds after they hop on the Space Shuttle in the Travel section.

If your child enjoys creative endeavors, tiny actors and playwrights can perform on stage in the Theatre area, or learn all about the wonders of music and sound, as well as behind-the-scene magic, in the Music and Sound Studio. For those kids who are more hands-on, the Maker Space – with an ever changing variety of materials with which to build – is available as well.

Explorations V Children’s Museum is located at 109 N., Kentucky Ave. in Lakeland. For more information, either visit explorationsv.com or our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

Opened in 2012, the ranch – a 260-acre expanse – is not a zoo.

The animals roam free: eland, water buffalo and antelope mingle with zebras and Watusi cattle, while lemurs dance away on an island in the middle of it all. There are even breeds that are no longer found in the wild, such as the Scimitar-horned oryx.

Visitors have their choice of excursion types – safari bus, kayak safari, camel expedition and ATV safari. Most opt for the safari bus, which offers the most shade from Florida’s intense sun and allows visitors to enjoy up-close encounters with all the wildlife the park offers. Many animals simply walk up to the bus, seemingly as interested to look at the passengers as the passengers are to look at the wildlife.

12 Vacation Guide

Explorations V Children’s Museum

Discover the Singing Tower, acres of historic Olmsted Gardens and estate tours, a children’s garden and more!

BOKTOWERGARDENS.ORG

1151 TOWER BOULEVARD | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 | 863-676-1408

Family Fun

RAINY DAY FUN Luckily, rain in Central Florida usually means an afternoon shower. But for those rare rain-out occasions, here are some indoor options.

AMF Lanes - Lakeland

Family Fun Center - Lakeland 4825 Florida Ave. S. • thefamilyfuncenter.com

Cinemark Lakeland Square Mall and XD

Florida's Natural Grove House - Lake Wales

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas IMAX - Davenport 5500 Grandview Pkwy. • cinepolisusa.com

iPanic Escape Room Lakeland

Cobb Grand 10 Cinemas - Winter Haven 920 Spring Lake Square NW. • cobbtheatres.com

Lakeland Escape Room - Lakeland 308 E. Pine St. • lakelandescaperoom.com

4111 S. Florida Ave. • amf.com

3800 US Hwy. 98 N. • cinemark.com

Cobb Lakeland 18 & IMAX - Lakeland 1650 Town Center Dr. • cobbtheatres.com Cypress Lanes - Winter Haven

2010 Dundee Rd. • cypresslanes.com

20160 US Hwy. 17 • floridasnatural.com

3800 US Hwy. 98 N. • ipanicescaperoom.com

Mulberry Phosphate Museum - Mulberry 101 SE. 1st St. • mulberryphosphatemuseum.org

Orange Bowl Lanes - Lakeland

4318 US Hwy. 98 N. • orangebowllanes.net

DEFY Lakeland - Lakeland

PicassoZ Art Café — Lakeland 4632 Cleveland Heights Blvd. • picassoz.com

Escapology - Lakeland 210 East Pine St. • escapology.com

100 E. Main St. • polk-county.net

Explorations V Children's Museum - Lakeland

Regal Eagle Ridge Mall - Lake Wales 955 Eagle Ridge Dr. • regmovies.com

6220 US Hwy. 98 N. • defy.com

109 N. Kentucky Ave. • explorationsv.com

14 Vacation Guide

Polk County History Center - Bartow

Mulberry Phosphate Museum

PLAYGROUNDS

These playgrounds are big on fun, light on the wallet and perfect for those “play it by ear” kind of days.

AUBURNDALE

Downtown City Park 119 W. Park St.

HAINES CITY

Lake Eva Community Playground & Aquatic Park 555 Ledwith Ave.

LAKELAND

Barnett Family Park & Splash Pad 730 E. Orange St.

Common Ground Park 1000 E. Edgewood Dr.

Dobbins Park & Playground 514 Ariana St.

Barnett Family Park & Splash Pad

KIDS MEAL DEALS

Looking for a family-friendly restaurant in Polk County? We can help. Below you will find restaurants with extra special offerings for families. Some restaurants offer a free kids meal with the purchase of an adult meal, while others have a specific day/ time when kids eat free. Call before you go.

AUBURNDALE

Beef O'Brady's • 863-968-0010

BARTOW

Sonny's Real Pit BBQ • 863-534-1429 Ruby Tuesday • 863-519-9622

DAVENPORT

Bob Evans • 863-424-1500

HAINES CITY

Manny's Chophouse • 863-422-3910

LAKELAND

Abuelo's • 863-686-7500 Applebee's (North) • 863-853-8400 Applebee's (South) • 863-701-7400 BD's Mongolian Grill • 863-603-3544 Beef O'Brady's (North) • 863-853-9464 Beef O'Brady's (South) • 863-646-7757 Bob Evans (North) • 863-688-0039

Bob Evans (South) • 863-647-5280 Buffalo Wild Wings • 863-853-7722 Chop Shop • 863-603-4040 Crispers Downtown • 863-606-6466 Crispers Lakeside Village • 863-413-0685 Duke's Brewhouse • 863-647-9464 Fish City Grill • 863-683-1243 Fred's Market Restaurant • 863-603-7080 Gator's Dockside • 863-619-7619 Little Greek Fresh Grill • 863-940-3270 Louis Pappa's Market Café • 863-284-1010 Miller's Ale House • 863-709-9262 Planet Grilled Cheese • 407-353-1724 Ruby Tuesday • 863-701-7829 Sonny's Real Pit BBQ (North) • 863-853-8283 Sonny's Real Pit BBQ (South) • 863-646-2990 Teriyaki Madness • 863-500-8623 Texas Roadhouse • 863-603-7427 Village Inn • 863-683-7700

Rotary Playground in Hernando’s Landing at Lake Parker 910 E. Granada St.

LAKE WALES Kiwanis Park

1000 N. Lake Shore Blvd.

WINTER HAVEN Simmers-Young Park 339 American Spirit Rd.

Winter Haven Chain of Lakes Trailhead Park & Splash Pad 684 4th St. NW.

LAKE WALES

Bob Evans • 863-679-2974 Manny's Chophouse • 863-678-0370 Woody's Bar-B-Q • 863-678-1844

WINTER HAVEN

Applebee's • 863-294-7777 Beef O'Brady's • 863-293-9464 Duke's Brewhouse • 863-576-9464 Manny's Chophouse • 863-293-0069 Ruby Tuesday • 863-324-6300 Woody's Bar-B-Q • 863-297-5330

FURRY KIDS

AUBURNDALE

Auburndale Dog Park at Lake Myrtle Park 318 Denton Ave.

DAVENPORT

Northeast Regional Park 50901 US-27

LAKELAND

Lake Crago Dog Park 525 Lake Crago Dr.

Dog Leg Woods

3326 Cleveland Heights Blvd.

Cook Park Dog Park

955 Wedgewood Estates Blvd.

DiOGi Park at Loyce E. Harpe Park 500 W Carter Rd.

WINTER HAVEN Simmers-Young Park 339 American Spirit Rd.

Bark Park at Veterinary Healthcare Associates 3025 Dundee Rd.

LAKE WALES

John C. "Doc" Haromy Dog Park 9th St & Grove Ave.

Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

15

FLORIDA’S NEW FAVORITE ATTRACTION Situated amid 16,000 acres of stunning scenery and hushed seclusion in Central Florida, Streamsong is a one-of-a-kind resort created in complete harmony with its natural surroundings. A destination defined by what you’ll discover here as much as by what you won’t. No traffic, no condos, no theme parks—a quiet place far from the concrete, crowds and chaos. Here, you will experience a modern lakeside lodge featuring spacious, amenity-rich accommodations, exquisite dining, 54 holes of nationally-ranked golf, a spa and exhilarating outdoor activities such as guided bass fishing, sporting clays, archery and so much more.

There is a new favorite attraction in Florida with no long lines, just a lifetime of special memories.

1000 Streamsong Drive • Bowling Green, Florida 33834 • 888.534.2307 streamsongresort.com

Attractions Whether you’re in search of

exhilarating thrills or an uplifting escape, Central Florida’s Polk County has you covered.

H

ere, family fun, outdoor adventure and incredible tastes are always on the horizon. Nestled in the very heart of the Sunshine State, this epicenter of Florida fun puts you close to top Florida attractions that include LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, Bok Tower Gardens and Safari Wilderness.

Here, you can take time to savor the sunny skies and natural beauty we’re known for, all while embarking on an action-packed vacation that’s sure to satisfy the whole family. Cuisine and culture, food and drink, history and hospitality…you’ll find it all here as you explore the diverse attractions, exciting activities and captivating sights that help to make this Florida’s Sweetest Spot.

Bok Tower Gardens

18 Vacation Guide

Visit Central Florida

Hours and prices are subject to change without notice. Please call attraction to confirm. (Prices reflect one adult paying regular admission.)

Prices

$ = under $10 $$ = $10 - $20

$$$ = $21 - $49 $$$$ = over $50

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort — Winter Haven At LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, everyone is a hero. Built just for families with children age 2 to 12, LEGOLAND® Florida is a 150-acre interactive theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, including spectacular LEGO® models and other interactive elements; it’s an entire day of family fun! LEGOLAND® Water Park features more than four million LEGO® bricks while offering interactive water-play fun for the entire family. The five-story LEGO®-themed hotel features 152 brightly colored rooms and suites, LEGO® décor, interactive play areas, a pool and a restaurant.

LEGOLAND® Beach Retreat features a village-style layout with 83 beach-themed bungalows offering 166 separate rooms, each with whimsical LEGO® décor. The new LEGOLAND® Pirate Island Hotel, the first LEGO® Pirate themed hotel in North America, opened in April 2020, adding another 150 rooms and suites to the resort.

LEGOLAND® Florida is located 45 minutes from Orlando and downtown Tampa. Check website for days and hours. $$$$ One LEGOLAND Way MAP GRID F-7 legoland.com/florida 877-350-LEGO (5346)

Circle B Bar Reserve

Davidson of Dundee – Dundee Florida citrus candy, jelly and marmalade factory. Take a free tour and watch candies, chocolates, marmalades and jellies being made and enjoy free samples! Visit our Citrus Fruit Packing House next door. Davidson’s was featured on the Food Network.

Free attraction for family fun with interactive play areas, climbing structures, splash pad and picnic Nov. – Apr.: Open 7 days a week 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; pavilions. Park open daily 8 a.m. – dusk.

May – Oct.: Mon. – Sat. 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. FREE – $ Splash pad open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. closed Wed. FREE MAP GRID G-6 28421 US Hwy. 27 730 E. Orange St. MAP GRID C-6 DavidsonOfDundee.com 863-439-1698 LakelandGov.net/ParkRec Barnett Family Park/Sunflower Preschool Playground — Lakeland

863-834-2280

Bartow Airbase History Museum — Bartow

See memorabilia from WWII when this complex was the Bartow Army Air Field, and from 1951-1961 when a flight school training cadets for military service was operating. Open daily 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. FREE 5993 Airport Blvd.

MAP GRID E-7 Bartow-Airport.com/Museum-Room.html 863-533-1195

Bok Tower Gardens — Lake Wales

Discover the real Florida at this “must-see” attraction located among Central Florida’s rolling hills of citrus in beautiful Lake Wales. Explore the historic landscaped gardens and enjoy seasonal bursts of color among acres of ferns, oaks and palms. The 205-foot Singing Tower carillon features daily bell concerts at 1 and 3 p.m. Tours of the 20-room Mediterranean style Pinewood Estate are offered daily. Delicious, farm-fresh food is served at the Blue Palmetto Café, and unique gifts and plants are available in the Tower & Garden Gift Shop. Families can explore the new Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden, a place for kids to learn through the power of the natural world and experience art in a tactile, meaningful way. Check website for details and special events. Open daily 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.) $$ 1151 Tower Blvd.

MAP GRID G-7 BokTowerGardens.org 863-676-1408

Safari Wilderness Ranch — Lakeland Knowledgeable tour guides will lead the way through 260 acres in custom safari vehicles, answering questions and helping you interact with huge herds of fascinating exotic wetland species found on the ranch.

Hands-on activities, such as lemur and budgie feeding, are offered to visitors; but please keep in mind these activities are scheduled on a limited basis in order to protect the animals. Tours daily by reservation. $$$$ 10850 Moore Rd. MAP GRID D-4 SafariWilderness.com 813-382-2120

Westgate River Ranch Resort — River Ranch Rooted in the history of the nation’s first cowboys, Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo lies on 1,700 lush acres in the heart of Florida’s cattle lands and is surrounded by approximately 400,000 acres of protected wetlands. The ranch offers Florida cowboythemed accommodations, ranging from campgrounds and glamping (“glamorous camping”) to Luxe Teepees, rail cars, cottages and two-bedroom cabins. The ranch boasts a multitude of recreational activities, including horseback riding, swimming, mini golf, a petting farm, nature hikes, trap and skeet shooting, archery, rock climbing wall, zip line, mechanical bull, hayrides, cookouts and full-service marina complete with boat rentals, fishing, airboat and swamp buggy rides, and the longest-running Saturday night championship rodeo in the United States. Day guests welcome. Call for activity reservations. Rodeo Sat. at 7:30 p.m. FREE – $$$ 3200 River Ranch Blvd.

MAP GRID K-9 WGRiverRanch.com 863-692-1321

Circle B Bar Reserve — Lakeland

A prime destination for hiking, bird watching and cycling. Visit the Polk Nature Discovery Center and learn about Polk County’s ecosystems through hands-on activities or climb around on the indoor play area that’s perfect for kids. A trip wouldn’t be complete without an alligator sighting, which can be safely done from the preserve’s pier or shoreline.

Nature Discovery Center hours: Tues. – Sat. 9 a.m.– 4 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Reserve open daily. FREE 4399 Winter Lake Rd. MAP GRID D-7 PolkNature.com 863-668-4673

Common Ground Park — Lakeland

Common Ground was Polk County’s first “inclusive play experience,” a term used to describe nontraditional play areas. Children of varying abilities and disabilities are able to play together side by side.

Open Mon 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Tues.– Sun. 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. FREE 1000 E. Edgewood Dr. MAP GRID C-6 LakelandGov.net/ParkRec 863-834-2233

Elite Cable Park – Auburndale Elite Cable Park removes the need for a boat to wakeboard, waterski, kneeboard and more. 2-hour, 4-hour and daily passes are available. Lessons and gear rental are available. Great for all ages – even kids under 10. Call for hours. $$$-$$$$ 330 Denton Ave. MAP GRID D-5 elitecablepark.com 863-662-5200

Fantasy of Flight Museum — Polk City

Aviation-related attraction allows guests to get upclose with vintage aircraft from the world’s largest private collection. The small museum features approximately 25 aircraft at any given time. Open seasonally, Fri. – Sun., 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Check website for days and hours. $$ 1400 Broadway Blvd., S.E. MAP GRID D-5 FOFCollection.com 863-984-3500

Florida Air Museum — Lakeland Along with historic and informative displays around the facility such as Howard Hughes’ personal aviation collection, and Innovations in Propulsion, interactive hands-on learning stations challenge students of all ages. Simulators offer the in-flight experience.

Open Mon. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. $$ 4175 Medulla Rd. MAP GRID B-7 floridaairmuseum.org 863-644-2431 Florida’s Natural Growers Grove House — Lake Wales

For a relaxing, educational and fun option, check out the Florida’s Natural Growers Grove House visitor center in Lake Wales. Kids (and kids at heart) will love the free orange juice samples, and visitors of all ages can enjoy exhibits depicting the history of the state’s official fruit. Open Oct. – May: Mon. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. FREE 20160 US Hwy. 27 MAP GRID G-7 FloridasNatural.com 888-657-6600

Explorations V Children’s Museum — Lakeland Fun and learning are inseparable as families explore hands-on exhibits designed to awaken imaginations. Whether you star in a musical production, report breaking news or treat broken bones, Explorations V, located in charming Downtown Lakeland, launches you into adventure!

Open Mon. – Sat. 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. $ 109 N. Kentucky Ave. MAP GRID C-6 ExplorationsV.com 863-687-3869

Florida Air Museum Vacation Guide

19

Homeland Heritage Park — Homeland

This unique park is home to several original structures from 19th-century pioneer life in Florida, including an 1800s farmhouse, school and church.

Open Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat. by appointment only. Call for a tour. FREE MAP GRID D-9 249 Church Ave. Facebook.com/HomelandHeritagePark 863-534-3766

L.B. Brown House Museum — Bartow

Florida Sports Hall of Fame

Florida Sports Hall of Fame at Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center — Davenport The Hall of Fame includes memorabilia from some of Florida’s biggest sports stars, including legendary NASCAR drivers Bobby and Donnie Allison, National Hot Rod Association legend “Big Daddy” Don Garlits, golfer Jack Nicklaus and more.

Open Daily 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. FREE 101 Adventure Ct. MAP GRID F-4 flasportshof.org/hall-of-fame 863-420-2586

Fort Meade Historical Museum — Fort Meade

Housed in Fort Meade’s first school building, the museum features an extensive collection of area artifacts, a wooden wagon, historic train and an original trolley car replica.

Open Tues. – Thur. & Sat. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. FREE 1 N. Tecumseh Ave. MAP GRID E-9 fortmeadeflmuseum.com/contact-us 863-285-7474

Frank Lloyd Wright at Florida Southern College Explore the genius of America’s greatest architect through his most fully articulated vision: the National Historic Landmark campus of Florida Southern College. Located in the heart of sunny Central Florida, the campus is home to thirteen remarkable Wright structures, including the previously unbuilt Usonian Faculty House; Wright’s largest water feature, the stunning Water Dome; and the iconic Annie Pfeiffer Chapel. Follow us on Facebook! Tours meet and tickets are sold at the GEICO gift shop located at 840 Johnson Avenue, Lakeland, Florida MAP GRID C-6 www.flsouthern.edu/fllw 863.680.4597

Lawrence B. Brown, a former slave and self-taught master carpenter, built this house, now on the National Register of Historic Places, in 1892. Call Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., guided tours by appointment only. Weekend tours may be available if arranged several days in advance. However, visitors are welcome to walk around, take photos and peek through windows without appointment. FREE MAP GRID E-8 470 L.B. Brown Ave. LBBrown.com 863-944-6136

Lake Kissimmee State Park — Lake Wales This park offers outstanding fishing, bird watching, picnicking, camping, boating and hiking. Nature lovers and photographers will enjoy the tremendous variety of plant and animal life. A Cow Camp recreating ranch life in Central Florida in the 1800s hosts a cow hunter talking about his life in a living history demonstration. Cow Camp Open Sat. – Sun. 9:30 a.m. – 4:30p.m. (Oct.-April) Closed summer.

Park open daily 7 a.m. – dusk. $ MAP GRID I-7 14248 Camp Mack Rd. floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails 863-696-1112

Lake Wales History Center — Lake Wales Hollis Garden — Lakeland Featuring permanent exhibits from Lake Wales A formal garden gifted to the city of Lakeland by history, its industries, a railroad layout and caboose the Hollis family. Home to more than 10,000 flowers as well as seasonal displays. Open Tues. – and ornamental shrubs, shade trees and a Grand Sat. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. FREE Staircase. Hours adjusted seasonally. FREE 325 S. Scenic Hwy. MAP GRID G-7 MAP GRID C-6 702 E. Orange St. lakewalesfl.gov/763/Visit LakelandGov.net/ParkRec 863-834-2280 Luster All African American Heritage Museum — Bartow Luster All African American Heritage Museum is a place where visitors can learn about the rich and diverse experiences of being a person of African American descent in Central Florida, and how our black ancestors’ lives helped shape the history of our great state. The Museum seeks to educate people of all races to value the countless contributions of black Americans to the United States. Open Mon., Thurs., Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. or by appointment. FREE 585 E Summerlin St. MAP GRID D-8 lusterafrican-americanmuseum.com 863-800-6872

Margaret Kampsen Historic Depot — Dundee

This depot was the first on the Haines City to Sebring line of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad.

Climb aboard a 1968 red caboose. Open Tues., Thurs., Sat., 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. FREE MAP GRID G-6 103 W. Main St. townofdundee.com/departments/parks 863-419-3145

Hollis Garden

20 Vacation Guide

L.B. Brown House

Polk County’s Cultural Arts Resource

elitecablepark.com

Calendar of Events Art-i-facts Magazine

Visit Central Fl 2019.indd 1

8/15/2019 2:36:55 PM

Music & Dance

Toulouse-Lautrec

Seen & Unseen

2.8.20

6.20.20

9.26.20

in Painting of the Dutch Golden Age

VCFGuideHalf.indd 1 Visit Central Florida

and the Belle Époque

Photographs by Imogen Cunningham

12/20/2019 3:51:57 PM

Vacation Guide

21

Mulberry Phosphate Museum — Mulberry A local history museum featuring the story of fossils to food. On-site fossil dig for all ages.

Open Tues. – Sat. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. FREE 101 S.E. First St. MAP GRID C-8 MulberryPhosphateMuseum.org 863-425-2823

Polk County History Center— Bartow Housed in a 1908 courthouse, this museum showcases the history of Polk County. Galleries rotate exhibits every two months. Includes a gift shop and children’s gallery. Open Tues. – Sat. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Closed holidays. FREE MAP GRID D-8 100 E. Main St. Polk-County.net/History-Center 863-534-4380 Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College – Lakeland

Fine arts museum that presents world-renowned exhibitions, engaging public events and communitydriven educational programming. Offering free admission and eight unique gallery spaces, Polk Museum of Art strives to be an accessible destination for museum visitors, and its ever-changing exhibitions ensure a new experience with each new visit. Open Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m.

– 5 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Sun. June 1 – Labor Day FREE MAP GRID C-6 800 E. Palmetto St. polkmuseumofart.org 863-688-7743

Ridge Island Groves — Haines City Fresh juice, oranges, marmalades, orange ice cream, grove tour with you-pick citrus. Come out and try our fresh-squeezed orange juice! Open Oct. – May: Mon. – Sat. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. FREE – $$$ MAP GRID F-5 6000 Polk City Rd. RidgeIslandGroves.com 863-422-0333

22 Vacation Guide

Silver Moon Drive-In Theater — Lakeland The Silver Moon has two screens usually showing first-run movies. Each screen has a double feature seven nights a week. You’ll enjoy listening to the movie through your FM car radio, but we also have in-car speakers available on some rows. Large pick-ups and vans are encouraged to park to the rear as a courtesy to other patrons. Visit website for showtimes. $ MAP GRID C-6 4100 New Tampa Hwy. SilverMoonDriveIn.com 863-682-0849 Spook Hill — Lake Wales The mystery of Spook Hill has fascinated thousands from around the world. Cars parked at the bottom of the hill defy gravity and seem to roll uphill.

Open anytime. FREE N. Wales Dr. and J.A. Wiltshire Ave. MAP GRID G-7 LakeWalesChamber.com/Spook-Hill 863-676-3445

The Living Water Boat Cruises – Winter Haven

Get on the water and experience Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes with The Living Water Boat Cruises.

See alligators, otters, turtles, bald eagles, blue herons, white ibis and more. Take a day tour or sunset cruise, pair a cruise with lunch or dinner at Harborside, or schedule a cruise around the fireworks and waterski shows at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. Book online.

Tours available Mon. – Sat. Tours depart from various locations within Winter Haven. $$$-$$$$ livingwatercruises.com 877-257-1529

Webb’s Citrus Candy Factory — Davenport

Watch the making of fudge, citrus candy, peanut brittle, hand-dipped chocolate and many other delights.

Open daily 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. FREE – $ MAP GRID G-5 38217 US Hwy. 27 863-422-1051

Local History

National Traveling Exhibits

OPEN:

Tuesday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

ADMISSION:

Free to the public

Train Cars & Fire Truck Group Tours Special Events

863.676.1759

325 S Scenic Hwy ♦ Lake Wales, FL 33853 lakewalesfl.gov/museum

Attractions continued

Aviation Adventures Bartow Flying Service - Bartow

Learn to fly or go for the ride! You will have the chance to take the controls and experience what it feels like to fly with a professional flight instructor. Having the freedom to control the aircraft while you soar above the skies of Central Florida is a truly unique experience. You will learn to pilot an aircraft in straight and level flight, learn to do climbs, turns, descents as well as learn about the basic principles of flight. $$$$ 5993 Airport Blvd. bartowflyingservice.com 863-533-1195

Balloons & Beyond — Polk City

Enjoy the adventure of a lifetime with a sunrise hot air balloon flight over Central Florida. Ride the wind and see this beautiful area from a bird’s eye view as you’ve never dreamed. Not only will you experience the thrill of flight, but you will be able to see the area’s great natural attractions. Open 7 days a week. Reservations required. $$$$ MAP GRID D-5 533 Edgewater Dr. Balloons-And-Beyond.com 813-240-4844

Preston Aviation, Biplane Rides and Instruction — Winter Haven

You TOO can fly a Stearman! Preston Aviation offers 15and 30-minute single passenger flights in their open cockpit Boeing Stearman Biplane. Rides are catered to you. Take the controls and see how gently they fly. Mild to Wild! Flight training by a Certified Flying Instructor is also available in the Stearman and Piper Cub to licensed pilots. Preston Aviation is open year round and reservations are recommended. $$$$ MAP GRID E-6 2073 US Hwy. 92 At Winter Haven Airport FlyTailWheel.com 863-956-2526

Florida Skydiving Center — Lake Wales Nothing gives you the amazing feeling of free falling quite like skydiving. Whether you’re working up the courage to take your first skydive or gearing up for your 100th, Florida Skydiving Center will be a winning addition to your itinerary. Tandem skydiving is the ideal choice for a rookie. Open 7 days a week, weather permitting. Reservations required. $$$ – $$$$ MAP GRID G-8 440 S. Airport Rd. FloridaSkydiving.com 863-678-1003

(863)533-1195 www.bartow-airport.com • Discovery Flights • Flight Lessons • Free Bartow Airbase Museum & Tours • Restaurant • Open 7 Days a Week 6AM-6PM

Wallaby Ranch – Davenport

During a Tandem Discovery Flight with a well-trained instructor, you will enjoy a bird's eye view of Central Florida while being towed 2,000 feet into the air. Once released from the tug, you will free fly for approximately 15 minutes. $$$$ MAP GRID F-3 1805 Deen Still Rd. wallaby.com 863-424-0070

Waldo Wright’s Flying Service —

Winter Haven & Polk City Established in 1995 with the dream of introducing people of all ages to the thrill and romance of open cockpit biplane flight, Waldo Wright’s Flying Service offers various flying experiences. Vintage aircraft include a Travel Air E-4000 and Boeing Stearman PT-17. Flights available daily. Seasonal operation, call for appointment. $$$$ MAP GRID E-6 1855 US Hwy. 92 W., Winter Haven MAP GRID D-5 1400 Broadway Blvd., S.E., Polk City waldowrights.com 863-873-1339

Waldo Wright’s Flying Service

Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College Visit Central Florida

Ridge Island Groves Vacation Guide

23

Dining

Food, unlike anything else, expresses cultural identity.

I

n Central Florida’s Polk County, that identity might be a little confusing.

When it comes to food, we defy labels. Sure, you’ll find barbecue and Southern cooking as well as Mexican and Italian cuisine. But if you are looking for mash-ups and cultural callbacks, as well as one of the top-10 best restaurants in the state, you’ve come to the right place.

We think confused tastes great.

Consider Nineteen61, for example. Is the cuisine Cuban, Latin, Spanish or Peruvian? Honestly, you won’t care about a label when it comes to your table. From ceviche to Spanish salads, Cuban standards such as ropa vieja and Peruvian style Chinese fried rice – arroz chaufa – this culinary mash-up has been considered one of the top-10 Spanish restaurants in the state since the day the doors opened. Open for both lunch and dinner, locals get here early and take advantage of the tapas menu at the bar before dinner, from the fried calamari in a jalapeno caramel to the empanadas.

215 E. Main St., Lakeland.

Red Door Lakeland

24 Vacation Guide

For a complete listing of Restaurants see pg. 34 Visit Central Florida

SOME OTHER LOCAL DINING FAVORITES INCLUDE: ANDY’S IGLOO: From the crinkle fries to the burgers and hot dogs, if you want to step back in time to the days of the drive-in, Andy’s is the place. A favorite of locals – who’ll save room for ice cream – the menu is so diverse even the pickiest eaters will find something.

703 3rd St. S.W., Winter Haven.

THE PROPER PIE COMPANY: Anglophiles rejoice! From steak pies to fish and chips and everything in between, this culinary trip to the UK is a favorite among both British expats and locals. But remember to save room for a scone and a cup of tea afterwards.

145 Ridge Center Dr., Davenport.

RED DOOR LAKELAND: Open for both lunch and dinner, Red Door offers a wide variety of eclectic season dishes as well as a solid standard menu, this wine bar bistro also offers vegetarian and gluten free options.

733 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland.

Café Zuppina

FIRE: Open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch, steaks, chicken and seafood as well as sandwiches and pasta fill out the menu.

Locals go for the Gator Bites – which doesn’t really taste like chicken.

325 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven.

CAFÉ ZUPPINA: Featuring a unique, healthy take on Mediterranean faire, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free meals, this Lakeland small restaurant is a popular spot, so reservations may be needed around lunch or dinner time.

4417 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland.

BISTRO PIZZA: Part of the popular Arabellas Ristorante, this vegetarian friendly restaurant is more than just New York style pizza.

From standards like lasagne or Stromboli to subs and calzone, this refined Italian American eatery is a popular lunch or dinner stop.

326 West Central Ave., Winter Haven.

Bistro Pizza

PEEBLES BAR-B-Q: Don’t be scared away by this restaurant tucked away on a side road, housed in an old chicken shack.

You’ll see patrons lined up outside to get their hands on the smoky goodness of this barbecue original that defies simple regional definitions. And they must be doing something right – it’s been family owned since 1947. Closed July and August.

441 Dixie Hwy., Auburndale.

HARRY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL: From casual drinks at the bar or a lunch with friends to a business meeting, Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille’s Louisiana inspired food and atmosphere will fit the bill. Grab a Hurricane, dive into their fried green tomatoes and an entrée of catfish etouffee or red beans and rice, but leave room for the signature Oreo beignets.

101 N. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland.

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

Vacation Guide

25

Harborside

NUTWOOD: It seems like everyone is doing farm to table these days, something Nutwood started years ago.

Their seasonally changing menu may include Korean-style roasted pork belly or a Portobello mushroom sandwich one day, steak or potato gnocchi another. No matter what the entrée, stick around for the warm bread pudding at the end.

132 Ave. B S.W., Winter Haven.

LANG’S TASTE OF FLORIDA CAFÉ: Featuring family recipes prepared fresh daily, their grapefruit pie has been featured on the Food Network. Don’t miss the connecting store if you are looking for some fresh local honey or a bottle of wine to go.

5900 US 17, Haines City.

26 Vacation Guide

FRED’S MARKET RESTAURANT: You’d better be hungry if you head to Fred’s. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this buffet style eatery offers farm fresh Southern favorites including fried chicken, catfish, skillet cornbread and even casseroles.

2120 Harden Blvd., Lakeland.

ARABELLAS RISTORANTE: Upscale dining in an intimate setting, from the food to the drinks to the ambiance, Arabellas can’t be beat. Seafood, chicken, veal, beef and, of course, pasta are all offered with Italian flair.

364 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven.

HARBORSIDE: On the shores of massive Lake Shipp, Harborside offers unparalleled sunset dining, but this restaurant is more than just the view. Their signature menu of seafood, steak and oysters has been pleasing locals and visitors for years while their bar is a popular nighttime spot.

2435 7th St. S.W., Winter Haven.

HARRY’S OLD PLACE: A bit of rustic Key West charm on the shores of Winter Haven’s Lake Ned, when locals hanker for seafood on a Friday night, this is the spot. An eclectic menu includes gator bites, duck fingers and sweet and spicy shrimp as well as fresh seafood. Locals will tell you to try the Harry in the Bag. 3751 Cypress Gardens Rd., Winter Haven.

AZTECO D’ORO: With two locations in Polk County, this small, family owned chain features a tortilla kiosk for hot, griddled quesadilla snacks, as well as standards such as enchiladas, carne asada and a fair amount of seafood.

1235 N. Parkway Frontage Rd., Lakeland; 5860 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven.

BACK PORCH RESTAURANT AT THE STABLE HOME DÉCOR: A stop here will make you wonder why others don’t follow suit – soup, salad, sandwich, dessert and a drink – all at one low price, delivered to your table in a picnic basket. The recipes and menu have remained unchanged since the doors opened in 1986. Vegetarian and gluten free options are available, as is outdoor seating, the Back Porch is part of a massive antique and accessories store and barn.

101 Hwy., 557A, Lake Alfred.

OVATION BISTRO AND BARBECUE: With three locations in Central Florida, Ovation offers not only steaks and ribs – smoked in-house daily – but a wide range of other favorites as well. They also offer a complete line of gluten free items.

42605 US 27, Davenport; 7130 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven; and 4715 Florida Ave. S., Lakeland.

ABUELO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT: Southwestern styled Mexican food offered in an open, airy dining area reminiscent of a Mexican courtyard. Abuelo’s offers both traditional Mexican items, such as fajitas and enchiladas, as well as Tex Mex favorites such as chile rellenos and chimichangas.

3700 Lakeside Village Blvd., Lakeland.

Arabaellas Ristorante Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

27

Nightlife

Beer– and the culture around unique drinking establishments – has become a nationwide craze. Gone are the bars and saloons featured in the Great American songbook. Joe may still set up the drinks, but he’s probably slinging an IPA or a chocolate stout.

O

bviously, Joe isn’t from Central Florida.

Here you’ll find beers inspired by the very citrus industry that continues to be a major part of daily life. And nowhere is that more apparent than at Winter Haven’s GROVE ROOTS & BREWING CO. Established in an old packing house – today, it is a tasting room, the brewery, a beer garden and lounge – the craft beers all reflect the city’s citrus history, from the ever popular Rind & Shine citrus beer to Wakes of Grain, an amber ale or the breakfast coffee stout 6am Pickers. Other seasonal beers, as well as wine and ciders, are available. And while the establishment is dog friendly, it does not serve food. But you are free to visit the variety of food trucks that stop by.

302 3rd St. S.W., Winter Haven.

28 Vacation Guide

Grove Roots Brewing Co.

SOME OTHER LOCAL FAVORITES INCLUDE: SWAN BREWING: With a second Lakeland location opening soon and a pale ale dedicated to the local soccer team, you can’t be more Lakeland than Swan Brewing. What started as a 10-by-10 tent at the Downtown Farmers Curb Market today occupies what was, once upon a time, a 1940s automobile repair shop. Offering well over 20 beers on tap, the majority of them are brewed in town. Family and dog friendly, they are also food truck friendly.

115 W. Pine St., Lakeland, on Lake Wire.

UNION TAPROOM: How about a bar, minus the bartenders?

Welcome to Union Taproom, where the craft brews, ciders, wine and more are all self-serve. With more than 40 different taps to choose from, you can’t say you couldn’t find anything to try. Two and four legged family members are welcome.

245 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven.

CRAFT AND KITCHEN: Offering 25 rotating taps of craft beer and wine – and more than 300 different bottled beers to try – their food menu includes handy finger foods, flatbreads, sandwiches and a kids menu. Weekly events include Bingo night, Taco Tuesday, live music and specials.

3234 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland.

JENSEN’S CORNER BAR: Nonsmoking and pet friendly, Jensen’s Corner Bar features a large outdoor patio from which to enjoy the extensive selection of wine, spirits and craft beers.

118 3rd St. S.W., Winter Haven.

Swan Brewing The Poor Porker

BREW HUB: Lakeland’s Brew Hub offers brewing, packaging and distribution for small craft breweries. But you are probably more interested in the tasting room, where many of the premier local beers are on tap. They also offer an extensive list of ciders and wines, but not food, which can often be purchased via a rotating menu of food trucks.

3900 Frontage Rd. S., Lakeland.

REVIVAL: Cosmopolitans aren’t just for watching reruns of “Sex and the City” any longer. Those retro drinks of lore are making a comeback, and nowhere is that more evident than at Revival in Lakeland. Gin, whiskey, vodka and more can be served either shaken or stirred, or you can choose from their menu of beers.

119 S. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland.

AVENUE BAR: Offering an extensive array of drinks as well as food, this trendy downtown bar is a great place to gather before dinner in Arabellas, the adjoining restaurant, or just to stop in.

346 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven.

THE POOR PORKER: Beignets and tacos and beer, oh my! A mix of food trucks, shabby chic and beer hall, The Poor Porker is as diverse and eclectic as its clientele. And while the beignets – hot, fresh and dosed in powered sugar – may be the stars of the show, the bar, with an array of beer, cider, wine and even sake to sample, shouldn’t be missed.

801 E. Main St., Lakeland.

Ave Bar

GRAPE EXPECTATIONS: With a name like Grape Expectations, of course they serve wine. However, beers, sangria, champagne and more are also on the menu, as are cold sandwiches, wraps and salads.

5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Suite 150, Winter Haven.

UNION HALL: An entertainment and event venue, Union Hall features live music acts, a full bar and plenty of room to mingle. A bevy of food trucks provide a variety of culinary treats.

1023 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland.

Cob & Pen Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

29

Chocolate to Cuban sandwiches, a wave of diverse and derivative food options has swept through the palates of the average American. With that in mind, here are a few area favorites from a wide range of gastronomic genres that are sure to please.

From Coffee to Cruffins

I

t may have started in Ethiopia – or Yemen or Cairo – but no beverage has become more uniquely identified as American as coffee. The highly caffeinated cup of Joe – whether you drink it hot or cold, pressed, dripped or poured over – has gone from gas station standard to high falutin’ fare.

We are no exception. In fact, the coffee scene explosion here has been so extensive that it ensures nearly every person in Polk has a caffeine problem.

But it is Lakeland’s CONCORD COFFEE – 1037 S. Florida Ave. – that has taken java to a scientific standard. Roasting their own beans not far away from their Dixieland neighborhood establishment, the options include espressos, drip, pressure brewed with nitro, French Press and Chemex, just to name a few.

But don’t worry, if you aren’t up on all the latest coffee combinations the folks behind the counter are more than helpful.

If you prefer your beverages a tad bit more leafy, they also offer a variety of teas, including seasonal favorites. Of course, you can’t have coffee without something to snack on, and Concord Coffee is no exception, offering an ever changing variety of healthy – and not so healthy – options.

SOME OTHER POLK COUNTY FAVORITES INCLUDE: N+1 COFFEE: Connected to The Bike Shop, N+1 offers a variety of coffee and tea favorites as well as fresh goods from a local bakery. The shop may have started as a place for cyclist refreshments, but it has grown into an urban-vibe coffeehouse in the heart of downtown Winter Haven. 251 3rd St. S.W. 30 Vacation Guide

HILLCREST COFFEE: Located a little off the beaten path in a converted 1925 bungalow, Hillcrest Coffee is both a place to get a cup of coffee and a location where folks gather. Featuring a variety of locally roasted beans and baked good from nearby Honeycomb Bread Bakers, they also feature open mic nights, board games, plenty of tables and a cozy feel.

119 Hillcrest St., Lakeland.

RICHARD’S FINE COFFEE: Not much goes better with coffee than a good book. At Richard’s in downtown Winter Haven, you have an entire library at your disposal – literally. Constructed as part of a new public library built near the park, Richard’s offers a wide variety of hot and cold coffee choices, numerous sweet coffee creations and both sandwiches and salads.

330 Ave. A N.W., Winter Haven.

MITCHELL’S COFFEE HOUSE: Founded by a local family more than 20 years ago, Mitchell’s is an eclectic mix of coffee shop and eatery. Not only do they feature coffees, lattes, frappes and nitro brews, but also burritos, omlettes, soups, salads and “sandmitches.”

235 N. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland.

BLACK & BREW: More than just a coffee shop – they offer beer and cider in the evenings – Black & Brew has been serving more than just downtown’s coffee needs. With a morningto-evening menu, it would be easy to overlook the variety of handcrafted seasonal coffee and tea drinks offered.

Downtown location: 205 E. Main St., Lakeland.

Lake Morton address: 100 Lake Morton Dr., Lakeland.

UNPACK ONCE AND SEE IT ALL!

LAKELAND IS EVERYTHING YOU LOOK FOR IN A FLORIDA VACATION AND MORE!

LOCATED IN THE MIDDLE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

800-828-7655 visitcentralflorida.org

Lakeland Visitors & Convention Bureau

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce

Visit Central Florida

35 Lake Morton Dr.•Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 688-8551•LakelandChamber.com

Vacation Guide

31

Baked Goodies THE COOKIE JAR BAKESHOP: Sure, they have cakes,

pies and muffins. But they also have handmade candies, scones and cinnamon buns. Here’s the best part – since they offer both breakfast and lunch, you can have something sweet as both an appetizer and dessert.

305. E. Main St., Bartow.

Born & Bread Bakehouse

HONEYCOMB BREAD BAKERS: Who knew there were three different styles of sourdough bread? The folks at Honeycomb Bread Bakers, who are dedicated to creating a flaky bite of heaven every day. From baguettes to challah, bagels to cinnamon rolls, everything is handcrafted.

213 E. Bay St., Lakeland.

Cookies, cakes, pies, breads, cookies – we really like cookies, so we listed them twice – are just a few of the goodies you can find at the various artisanal bakeries located in Polk County. But don’t fear – if you’d rather gelato or perhaps a Turkish coffee, we’ve got you covered.

What started as a stall at the Saturday Lakeland Farmer’s Market has grown into an early morning rite of passage for folks in the Central Florida area. From European style pastries and bread to cheesecakes, biscuits and cruffins – a hybrid between a croissant and a muffin – you’ll quickly see why people stand in line, often around the block, for treats from Born & Bread Bakehouse.

Honeycomb Bread Bakers

Open only on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Wednesday evenings from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., they are located at 1113A S. Florida Ave., Lakeland.

SOME OTHER LOCAL FAVORITES INCLUDE: GOURMET GOODIES BAKE SHOP: From cake pops to brownies, if your sweet tooth must be satiated, you can’t go wrong here. Their selection changes daily, but lucky for you, their knowledgeable staff will give you any guidance you might need.

68 4th St. N.W., Winter Haven.

Cookie Jar Bakeshop

32 Vacation Guide

LAVENDER N’ LACE TEA ROOM: Nestled into the rolling hills of Lake Alfred, Lavender N’ Lace offers not only an array of sweets, salads, entrees and sandwiches, but a dizzying array of teas.

Snow monkey plum tea? They’ve got it.

There is also a garden to stroll and an antique shop full of surprises.

430 N. Lake Shore Way, Lake Alfred.

THE MARKET AT CAFÉ ZUPPINA: You might not be able to find a more international experience anywhere in the state than the Market at Café Zuppina, which features a menu that includes Turkish coffee, French pastries including millefeuille and macarons, Greek baklavla and Italian gelato.

4417 Florida Ave. S., Lakeland.

SUGAR AND SLICE BAKERY: Best known for their specialty cupcakes – the flavors offered vary daily – Sugar and Slice also offer cake pops, filled or decorated cookies, specialty rice krispie treats and even hand dipped chocolate pretzels. They also offer an array of seasonal goodies.

222 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven.

Video Tour • Exhibits • Free Juice Family Friendly • Gift Shop Monday-Friday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Closed: Saturday and Sunday Open seasonally: October - May 20160 Highway 27, Lake Wales, FL 33853 1-800-237-7805 ext 4110 www.FloridasNaturalGroveHouse.com

Vacation Guide

33

Dining

Peebles Bar-B-Q

Directory

Tom’s Chicken Shack 901 E. Main St. 863-533-6268 American

BOWLING GREEN

The Shake Shoppe 101 N. Main St. 863-967-3528 Dessert

■

2323 Hwy. 92 W. 863-967-1230 • chilis.com American

■

193 E. Main St. 863-533-7600 haciendamexicobartow.com Mexican

■

Sweet Magnolia Tea Bistro

■ ■

■

■ ■

■ ■

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s - Davenport 45653 US Hwy. 27 863-420-3350 beefobradys.com/Davenport American

■

Davenport’s Ale House 1260 Posner Blvd.

863-420-8000 Beer, Wine and Spirits

■

DiRomio’s Pizza & Grill

Mike’s Grill

101 Divine Dr., Suite 2 863-420-2001 • diromiospizza.com Italian

1590 N. US Hwy. 98 863-533-2060 • mikesgrillonline.com American

Palace Pizza - Bartow

105 E. Main St. 863-533-9300 • palacepizzabartow.com Italian

1000 Streamsong Dr. 888-294-6322 streamsongresort.com Italian

113 Ambersweet Way 863-438-4324 • adlersburgers.com American

485 E. Van Fleet Dr. 863-519-0271 • lennys.com American

■

•

SottoTerra Ristorante at Streamsong Resort

DAVENPORT

Lennys Grill & Subs

■

■

Adler’s

Hacienda Mexico Restaurante

Smokin Jim’s Bar-B-Q

34 Vacation Guide

■

550 E. Main St. 863-537-6373 American

Pizza Connection

212 Howard St. 863-965-1684 magnoliatearoomandgiftshop.com Tea Room

135 S. Central Ave. 863-533-1365 • coolschoolshoppe.com Dessert

Especially 4 U Restaurant & Catering

Peebles Bar-B-Q

3615 Havendale Blvd.

863-965-0230 • smokinjimsbarbecue.com Barbecue

1000 Streamsong Dr. 888-294-6322 • streamsongresort.com American

■

Cool Shoppe Ice Cream Shop

330 Old Bartow/Eagle Lake Rd. 863-533-5685 • curlytailsbbq.com Barbecue

1902 US Hwy. 92 863-967-8886 Asian

220 E. Lake Ave. 863-967-9349 • eatpizzaconnection.com Italian

Restaurant Fifty-Nine

Curly Tails Barbeque

Osaka Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar

441 Old Dixie Hwy. 863-967-3085 peeblesbbq.com Barbecue

Fine Dining

Outdoor Seating

Local Flavor

Chili’s Grill & Bar

■

Cookie Jar Bakeshop

305 E. Main St. 863-519-3333 Baked Goods

1000 Streamsong Dr. 888-294-6322 • streamsongresort.com American 1000 Streamsong Dr. 888-294-6322 streamsongresort.com American

Catfish Country

2400 E.F. Griffin Rd. 863-646-6767 • catfish-country.com Seafood

Bone Valley Tavern

P2O5 at Streamsong Resort

BARTOW

AUBURNDALE

■

■ ■

D’oro Palazzo 2200 Posner Blvd.

863-424-1100 Italian

■

■

Grand China Buffet

FROSTPROOF

■

Miller’s Ale House - Davenport

8170 Laura Ln. 407-274-9731 • millersalehouse.com American

■ ■ ■ ■

■ ■

145 Ridge Center Dr. 863-438-2705 • properpiecompany.com British Cuisine

■

True Blue Winery

■ ■

Zen Asian Grill

4812 Grandview Pkwy.

863-420-9958 • zenasiangrilldavenport.com Asian

201 E. Hinson Ave. 863-419-8669 Italian

Lavender N Lace Tea Room & Gift Shop

430 N. Lake Shore Way 863-956-3998 • lavendernlacetearoom.com Tea Room

35562 US Hwy. 27 863-422-6474 Italian

Luigi’s Italian Restaurant 228 S. Lake Shore Way

101 E. Main St. 863-438-8010 American

1740 Scenic Hwy. 98 859-837-2022 • theback-porch.com/#home Soup & Sandwiches

Manny’s Chophouse - Haines City

■

LAKE HAMILTON 29400 US Hwy. 27 863-353-2670 • floridinositaliankitchen.com Italian

35510 US Hwy. 27 863-353-2698 • nikkoseggcity.com Breakfast, Lunch

LAKE WALES

Abriana’s Pizza

■

218 State Rd. 60 E. 863-676-3838 • kevinspizzawings.com Italian

All Star Grill - Lake Wales

2019 State Rd. 60 E. 863-679-9689 • allstargrillfl.com American

Al’s Place

1530 N. Scenic Hwy. 863-241-3070 • alsplace.us Seafood

5147 US Hwy. 98 S. 863-619-7619 gatorsdockside.com/restaurants/ locations/highland-city-lakeland American

■

Eagle Lake Family Diner

■

Linksters Tap Room - Highland City 5125 US Hwy. 98 S. 863-937-9313 linksterstaproom.com/highlandcity-linksters Beer, Wine & Spirits

■

Floridino’s Italian Kitchen

Nikko’s Egg City 50s Diner

Gator’s Dockside

Blackburn’s Barbecue

■

The Back Porch Restaurant

HIGHLAND CITY

EAGLE LAKE

■

■

863-956-9100 • luigifl.com Italian

94 Maxcy Plaza Cir. 863-422-2200 Mexican

Taste of Florida Café 5900 US Hwy. 17-92 W. 863-956-1460 langsuncountry.com/pages/ taste-of-florida-cafe Soup & Sandwiches

660 E. Alfred Rd. 863-956-5055 • garysoysterbar.com Seafood 185 S. Lake Shore Way 863-956-1200 lake-alfred-diner-inc.business.site Breakfast, Lunch

HAINES CITY

35496 Hwy. 27 N. 863-422-3910 • mannyschophouse.com American

Gary’s Oyster Bar & Seafood House

■

Lake Alfred Diner

35523 US Hwy. 27 863-421-1304 American

Golden Rays Tavern & Sub Shop

Visit Central Florida

7315 Hwy. 27 863-635-7927 • .orangeboxcafe.com American

The R-Place Eatery

DUNDEE

185 S. 5th St. 863-294-4222 American

Orange Box Cafe

La Fiesta Mexicana

The Proper Pie Company

169 5th St. 863-287-9975 Barbecue

■ ■

Dora’s Pizza

604 Pink Apartments Rd. 863-419-4400 • truebluewinery.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

801 N. Scenic Hwy. 863-635-4222 • frostbitefl.com American, Dessert

Big Tony’s Pizza

Sunday’s Grill

175 E. Haines Blvd.

863-875-8913 • cornerstonegrill.org Craft Food & Wine

Frostbite Ice Cream & More

2440 Sand Mine Rd. 863-420-3336 • miapizza.net Italian

301 W. Maple St. 863-421-0827 Tea Room

LAKE ALFRED

Cornerstone Grill

5298 US Hwy. 27 863-635-2951 American

The Hotel Tea Room & Flower Corner

Taste of Florida Café

Four Seasons Restaurant

Mia Pizza

2414 Sand Mine Rd. 863-588-2162 British Cuisine

403 W. Broadway St. 863-285-6411 Italian

17 N. Charleston Ave. 863-285-9680 American

Kumo Japanese Restaurant

Ovation Bistro & Bar - Davenport 42605 US Hwy. 27 863-354-6967 • ovationbistro.com American, Barbecue

Classic Pizza & Subs

John’s Drive-In & Restaurant

207 Ambersweet Way 863-420-7779 kumojapaneserestaurant.com Asian

Mannino’s Pizza 43362 US Hwy. 27 S. 863-424-4222 Italian

451 N. 5th St. 863-294-9400 giovannisnewyorkpizza.com Italian

FORT MEADE

42641 US Hwy. 27 863-438-6634 • giopizzafl.com Italian 43554 US Hwy. 27 863-420-2064 Asian

Fine Dining

Outdoor Seating

Local Flavor

Giovanni’s Pizza & Subs

Giovanni’s New York Pizza

Blue Palmetto Cafe

1151 Tower Blvd.

863-676-1355 • boktowergardens.org Sandwiches, Salads & Soups

■

Cherry Pocket Steak & Seafood Shak

3100 Canal Rd. 863-439-2031 • cherrypocket.com Seafood

■ ■ ■

Vacation Guide

35

Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant

Scarpa’s Italian

Cafe Zuppina

Fine Dining

Outdoor Seating

Local Flavor

4417 Florida Ave. S. 863-644-5144 • cafezuppina.com Mediterranean

Crazy Fish Bar and Grill

802 Henry St. 863-676-6361 • crazyfishlakewales.com Seafood

205 E. Main St. 863-682-1210 • blackandbrew.com Soup & Sandwiches

L’Incontro Italian Cuisine

1113 S. Florida Ave. bornandbreadbakehouse.com Baked Goods

■

Norby’s Steaks & Seafood

■ ■

Sizzling Grill Steak & Seafood

19501 US Hwy. 27 863-678-1844 • woodys.com/locations/ lake-wales Barbecue

LAKELAND

■ ■

Bay Street Bistro

211 E. Bay St. 863-683-4229 • baystreetbistro.net American

36 Vacation Guide

1037 Florida Ave., S. #135 561-312-3974 • concordcoffeeco.com Coffee Shop 1201 E. Orange St. 863-802-8121 • cozyoaksrestaurant.com American

Britt’s Café

■ ■ ■

Burger 21

1601 Town Center Dr. 863-937-8002 • burger21.com American

Cafe Roti

116 S. Tennessee Ave. 863-688-2800 • caferotifl.com Indian-Pakistani

■ ■

Cozy Oaks Restaurant

■

■

Craft + Kitchen

234 S. Florida Ave. 863-455-9555 • cklakeland.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

■

Crispers

217 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-682-7708 • crispers.com Soup & Sandwiches

■

Crispers

Buffalo Wild Wings

Abuelos Mexican Restaurant

Charlie’s Mini Donuts & Coffee

Concord Coffee

■

3900 S. Frontage Rd. 863-698-7600 • brewhub.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

3750 US Hwy. 98 N. 863-853-7722 buffalowildwings.com/en/locations/ detail/3559 American

6645 S. Florida Ave. 863-647-5900 • champstogo.net American

5369 N. Socrum Loop Rd. 863-859-9075 Italian

2444 US Hwy. 92 863-665-4049 bubbaquesbbq.com/BubbaQuesLocations.html Barbecue

Woody’s Bar-B-Q

Champs Sports Bar & Grill

Ciao Bella Pizza & Pasta

Brew Hub

3662 Harden Blvd.

863-607-9637 • brittscafelakeland.com American

6617 N. Socrum Loop Rd. 863-937-8866 • champinos.com Italian

1023 E. County Rd. 540A 863-500-1414 Baked Goods

BubbaQue’s - Lakeland South

21400 US Hwy. 27 863-676-4898 sizzlinggrilllakewales.com American

3700 Lakeside Village Blvd.

863-686-7500 • abuelos.com Mexican

■ ■

Born & Bread Bakehouse

■

Market Café

2425 SR 60 E. 863-676-0296 Seafood

■ ■

225 W. Pipkin Ln. 863-701-9480 bonefishgrill.com/locations/fl/lakeland Seafood

Manny’s Chophouse

20 N. Market St. 863-676-8510 American

Champino’s Italian Restaurant

Bonefish Grill - Lakeland

■

■

115 S. Kentucky Ave. 863-937-8451 • cakemakersstudio.com Baked Goods

Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro

763 Eagle Ridge Dr. 863-676-0099 • hersheyicecream.com Dessert

210 State Rd. 60 W. 863-678-0370 • mannyschophouse.com American

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s - South Lakeland 4810 S. Florida Ave. 863-646-7757 beefobradys.com/SouthLakeland American 100 Lake Morton Dr. 863-500-9500 • blackandbrew.com Soup & Sandwiches

Hershey’s Ice Cream

35 State Rd. 60 W. 863-676-7400 • lincontrofl.com Italian

Cake Makers Studio Cakes & Sweets

Black & Brew at Lake Morton

■

■

■

1568 Town Center Dr. 863-606-6466 • crispers.com Soups & Sandwiches

■

Cuban Delights Cafe

■

1039 E. County Rd. 540A 863-701-0190 restaurantportals.com/Cuban DelightsCafe Cuban

Divicious Deli and Coffee Shop 128 E. Main St. 863-940-9779 Soup & Sandwiches

■

■ ■

Fine Dining

Outdoor Seating

Local Flavor

Downtown Diner 126 W. Main St. 863-583-4300 Breakfast, Lunch

119 Hillcrest St. 863-398-9155 Coffee

2246 E. Edgewood Dr. 863-665-3333 Cuban

■

First Watch

4316 US Hwy. 98 863-709-8833 • firstwatch.com Breakfast, Lunch

■

Fish City Grill

1485 Town Center Dr., Suite D112 863-683-1243 fishcitygrill.com/locations/lakeland Seafood

■

Ford’s Garage

879 Lakeland Park Center Dr. 863-337-3673 fordsgarageusa.com/locations/lakeland American

■

■ ■

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop

■

■

La Imperial Bakery

830 E. Main St. 863-500-4422 • imperiallakeland.com Baked Goods

Lakeland Loft

108 S. Tennessee Ave. 863-210-5327 • lakelandloft.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

■

■

Golden Corral - Lakeland

■

Good Thyme

■ ■

Gosh! Asian Bistro & Sushi

Miller’s Ale House - Lakeland 5650 S. Florida Ave. 863-709-9262 millersalehouse.com/locations/lakeland American

■

GrillSmith

■ ■

130 S. Tennessee Ave. 863-937-4226 mojobbq.com/locationsmojo-federal Barbecue

■ ■

Mojo’s Wings, Burgers, Beer

■

111 S. Kentucky Ave. 863-686-6231 • mollymchughs.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

■

New Moon Sushi Japanese Restaurant

■

215 E. Main St. 863-688-1961 • nineteen61.com Latin

■

■

Ovation Bistro & Bar - Lakeland 4715 Florida Ave. S. 863-262-3000 • ovationbistro.com American, Barbecue

■ ■

Palace Italian Restaurant - North Side 6120 US Hwy. 98 N. 863-853-1316 palacerestaurantlakeland.com Italian

■ ■

Palace Italian Restaurant - South Side 4780 S. Florida Ave. 863-619-5919 palacerestaurantlakeland.com Italian

■ ■

■ ■

■

Palace Pizza - Downtown

114 S. Kentucky Ave. 863-688-0045 • palacepizzadowntown.com Italian

■ ■

Palace Pizza - Highland City

■

Mission BBQ

4014 Florida Ave. S. 863-225-8433 • mission-bbq.com Barbecue

1747 E. Edgewood Dr. 863-816-6950 • mjsnewyorkpizza.com Italian

Nineteen61

Masons Live

5501 S. Florida Ave. 863-333-0096 • masonslive.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

MJ’s New York Style Pizza & Wings

■

3737 Lakeside Village Ct. 863-682-8300 longhornsteakhouse.com/locations American 1318 Town Center Dr. 863-284-1010 • louispappas.com Mediterranean

■ ■

4231 S. Florida Ave. 863-647-1212 • newmoonsushi.com Asian

Louis Pappas Fresh Greek

4705 US Hwy. 98 N. 863-815-9774 • goldencorral.com American

235 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-680-2944 • mitchellscoffee.com Coffee Shop

Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub

Linksters Tap Room - North Lakeland

■

Mitchell’s Coffee House

1853 E. Memorial Blvd.

863-583-9119 • getmojod.com American

Linksters Tap Room - Lakeland

209 E. Main St. 863-683-7195 linksterstaproom.com/lakeland-linksters Beer, Wine & Spirits

■ ■

Mojo Federal BBQ

LongHorn Steakhouse

3790 Lakeside Village Ct. 863-225-8958 • glorydaysgrill.com American

Visit Central Florida

125 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-688-3118 • jimmyjohns.com Soup & Sandwiches

Little Greek Fresh Grill 4756 S. Florida Ave. 863-940-3270 • littlegreekrestaurant.com Mediterranean

Glory Days Grill

1569 Town Center Dr. 863-688-8844 grillsmith.com/location/lakeland American

■ ■

Jimmy Johns

■

Gelati Joe’s

4742 S. Florida Ave. 863-701-9818 store7.geomerx.com/gosh Asian

1215 E. Memorial Blvd.

863-683-3777 jimbospitbarbeque.com Barbecue

Mister Fish

715 E. Palmetto St. 863-688-4280 • misterfish.org Seafood

Jimbo’s Pit Bar B-Q

5189 US Hwy. 98 N. 863-606-5926 linksterstaproom.com/northlakeland-linksters Beer, Wine & Spirits

Garden Bistro

3601 S. Florida Ave. 863-646-3500 • gelatijoes.com Dessert

■ ■

4320 S. Florida Ave. 863-701-8787 • lingsbuffetusa.com Asian

Frescos

702 E. Orange St. 863-686-3332 American

3615 S. Florida Ave. 863-607-6030 ilforno-italian-restaurant.com Italian

Ling’s Buffet

■

3950 Florida Ave. S. 863-617-6163 • fuzzystacoshop.com Mexican

Concord Coffee

Il Forno Italian Restaurant

■

4620 S. Florida Ave. 863-272-7929 • firstwatch.com Breakfast, Lunch

1037 Dixieland Mall Ln. 863-603-8296 • goodthymelkld.com Breakfast, Lunch

■

213 E. Bay St. 863-813-3143 • honeycombbread.com Baked Goods

First Watch

132 S. Kentucky Ave. 863-683-5267 • frescoslakeland.com American

■

Honeycomb Bread Bakers

Fat Jack’s Deli-Pub

Fred’s Market Restaurant 2120 Harden Blvd.

863-603-7080 • fredsmarket.com American

101 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-686-2228 • hookedonharrys.com Seafood

Hillcrest Coffee

Elena’s Cuban Cafe

2940 Florida Ave. S. 863-687-0262 • fatjacksdelipubinc.com American

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

■

5235 US Hwy. 98 863-709-8683 palacepizzahighlandcity.com Italian

Patio850

850 S. Tennessee Ave. 863-940-2030 • patio850.com Craft Food & Wine

■ ■ ■ ■ Vacation Guide

37

Fine Dining

Outdoor Seating

Local Flavor

Pita Pit

127 S. Kentucky Ave. 863-603-7482 • pitapitusa.com Soup & Sandwiches

■

640 E. Main St. thejoinerylkld.com Food Hall

■ ■

4295 S. Florida Ave. 863-225-5961 • juiceboxcafe.com Lunch, Juices & Smoothies

■

Scarpa’s Italian

■

■

Scream’n Tuna Sushi

270 E. Bay St. 863-413-0264 • screamntunasushi.com Asian

■ ■

1023 Florida Ave. S. 863-999-1013 Beer, Wine & Spirits

743 E. Memorial Blvd.

863-682-2222 • thestrawberryhut.com Cuban

■ ■

126 S. Kentucky Ave. 863-816-5407 • taco-bus.com Mexican

■

Tapatios Restaurante Mexicano

6645 S. Florida Ave. 863-646-2199 • tapatiostogo.com Mexican

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

709 E. Canal St. 863-425-1983 Barbecue

Arabellas Ristorante

346 W. Central Ave. 863-293-1797 arabellas.us/the-restaurant Italian

■ ■

Ave Bar

346 W. Central Ave. 863-293-1797 • arabellas.us/ave-bar Beer, Wine and Spirits

Azteca D’Oro

5860 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-295-9080 • aztecadoro.com Mexican

Bambu Café

371 3rd St. N.W. 863-280-6346 Lunch, Juices & Smoothies

Bistro Pizzeria

■

Carter’s Bar-B-Que

■

■

300 Cypress Gardens Blvd. S.E. 863-293-9464 • beefobradys.com American

Carol’s Cafe

113 W. Badcock Blvd.

863-869-9155 American

1498 Havendale Blvd. N.W. 863-299-4564 andreasgreekfood.com Mediterranean

Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub

2215 S. Combee Rd. 863-606-5954 Cuban

MULBERRY

Taco Bus

Tapatios Restaurante Mexicano - South Lakeland

■ ■

West Caribbean Cuban Restaurant

Swan Brewing

■

WINTER HAVEN

703 3rd St. S.W. 863-293-0019 American, Dessert

The Terrace Grille

Union Hall

Strawberry Hut

734 E. Memorial Blvd.

863-686-6958 tapatiostogo.com Mexican

316 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-688-5590 • restaurantwebx.com/ PurpleOnion American

221 N. Hwy. 33 863-874-4740 • lakelandbbq.com Barbecue

Andy’s Igloo Drive-In Restaurant

The Purple Onion Deli & Grill

329 E. Main St. 863-688-0800 • terracehotel.com Specialty Cuisine

Silver Ring Cafe

115 W. Pine St. 863-703-0472 • swanbrewing.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

■

The Poor Porker

801 E. Main St. 863-712-3740 • thepoorporker.com Specialty Cuisine

POLK CITY

Polk City BBQ Company

Andrea’s Family Restaurant

The Market at Café Zuppina

119 S. Kentucky Ave. 863-606-6090 • revivallakeland.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

106 N. Tennessee Ave. 863-687-3283 Cuban

■ ■

4417 Florida Ave. S. 863-603-8113 cafezuppina.com Baked Goods

Revival Bar

1833 E. Edgewood Dr. 863-937-8940 • scarpasitalian.com Italian

■ ■

The Juice Box

Reececliff Family Diner

940 S. Florida Ave. 863-686-6661 • reececliff.com American

124 S. Tennessee Ave. 863-816-3968 • federalbarlakeland.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

The Joinery

Red Door Lakeland

733 E. Palmetto St. 863-937-9314 • reddoorlakeland.com Craft Food & Wine

The Federal Bar/Restaurant

■

346 W. Central Ave. 863-875-4894 • arabellas.us/bistro Italian

■

Central Tavern

273 W. Central Ave. 863-229-5027 Beer, Wine and Spirits

■

Ole’ Tampa Cubans 713 N. Church Ave. 863-943-5556 Cuban

■

■

Tea Largo Beverage Co.

4634 Cleveland Heights Blvd.

863-688-6816 • tealargo.com Coffee Shop

■

Teriyaki Madness

304 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-500-8623 • teriyakimadness.com Asian

■

Texas Cattle Company

735 E. Main St. 863-686-1434 • texascattlecompany.net American

■ ■

The Brass Tap

1515 Town Center Dr. 863-680-9994 • brasstapbeerbar.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

■

The Chop Shop

118 S. Kennedy Ave. 863-603-4040 • chopshopburgers.com American

38 Vacation Guide

■ Andy’s Igloo Drive-In Restaurant

Andy's igloo Drive-In Restaurant

416 Citi Centre St. 863-875-9525 • crispers.com Soups & Sandwiches

■

DiMaggio’s Pizzeria

6980 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-293-9200 Italian

■

Duke’s Brewhouse

1708 6th St., S.E. 813-638-5770 • dukesbrewhouse.com American, Barbecue

■

El Olivo Mexican Restaurant 223 W. Central Ave. 863-293-5885 Mexican

■

Fire Restaurant

325 W. Central Ave. 863-875-5544 • thefirerestaurant.com American

■ ■

First Watch

Cypress Gardens Blvd. firstwatch.com Breakfast, Lunch

■

Flightline Cafe & Catering 2073 Hwy. 92 863-875-5869 American

■

Floridino’s Italian Kitchen 1919 6th St., N.W. 863-293-0077 floridinositaliankitchen.com Italian

■

Giovanni’s New York Pizza

Grape Expectations

■ ■ ■

Harborside

■ ■

Harry’s Old Place

■ ■

Hurricane Grill & Wings

6370 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-324-5157 hurricanewings.com American

Jensen’s Corner Bar

100 3rd St., S.W. 863-298-6788 • jensenscornerbar.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

Visit Central Florida

Louise’s Hershey Ice Cream Parlor 1654 1st St., N. 863-288-7358 Dessert

Mama Dilo’s Deli

93 1st St., S. 863-294-3397 Soup & Sandwiches

Harborside

N+1 Coffee

251 3rd St., S.W. 863-662-5416 Coffee Shop

Schack’s Bar B-Que

■ ■

Nutwood

132 Ave. B., S.W. 863-229-7770 • nutwoodwh.com Craft Food & Wine

Old Man Frank’s

1005 S. Lake Howard Dr. 863-294-9179 • oldmanfranks.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

■ ■

3000 Cypress Gardens Rd. 863-324-1537 Barbecue

Scores at Downtown

■ ■ ■

Osaka Japanese Steakhouse

324 Ave. A., N.W. 863-875-8499 Breakfast, Lunch

Smoothie Squad

319 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-662-4435 Lunch, Juices & Smoothies

Southeast Eatery

620 3rd St., S.W. 863-291-0295 osakajapanesesteakhousefl.com/# Asian

3378 Cypress Gardens Rd. 863-326-1110 American

Ovation Bistro & Bar

Tanner’s Lakeside Restaurant & Bar

7130 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-656-1972 • ovationbistro.com American, Barbecue

1006 Lake Howard Dr., S.W. 863-662-5948 • tannerslakeside.com Seafood

■

Tempo 1930

58 4th St., N.W. 863-875-5323 • tempo1930.com American 309 W. Central Ave. 863-291-8085 • thaihaven.com Asian

Richard’s Fine Coffees

The Deli Basket

330 Ave. A., N.W. 863-291-3082 • richardsfinecoffees.com Coffee Shop 204 6th St., S.W. 863-299-0354 • ricksbarbq.com Barbecue

■ ■

6366 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-875-2753 • thekrazygreek.com Mediterranean

The Twisted Teapot 200 1st St., S. 863-299-5000 Tea Room

Royal Asian Fusion Restaurant

Tsunami Sushi

787 3rd St., S.W. 863-299-3388 sakurajapanesesteakhousefl.com Asian

San Diego’s Mexican Grill 1300 3rd St., S.W. 863-268-6515 Mexican

■

The Krazy Greek

276 West Central Ave. 863-662-3317 American

Sakura Japanese Steak House and Sushi House

■ ■

3078 Cypress Gardens Rd. 863-325-9800 • thedelibasket.com Soup & Sandwiches

Rocco’s Downtown

844 6th St., N.W. 863-293-6888 Asian

■ ■

Thai Haven

3064 Cypress Gardens Rd. 863-875-7408 • pelicanssnoballs.com Dessert

Ricks Bar-B-Q

Grove Roots Brewing Co.

3751 Cypress Gardens Rd. 863-324-0301 • harrysoldplace.com Seafood

875 1st St., S. 863-295-7740 • longhornsteakhouse.com American

Pelican’s Snoballs

68 4th St., N.W. 863-318-1400 • ggcupcake.com Baked Goods

2435 7th St., S.W. 863-293-7070 • harborsidefl.com Seafood

Longhorn Steakhouse

5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-875-5708 Beer, Wine and Spirits

Gourmet Goodies Bake Shop

302 3rd St., S.W. 863-291-0700 • groveroots.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

118 3rd St., S.W. 863-298-9815 • jessieslive.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

Paddywagon Irish Pub

6959 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-324-9100 giovannisnewyorkpizza.com Italian

5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Ste. 150 863-318-8800 grapeexpectationsfinewine.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

Fine Dining

Outdoor Seating

Local Flavor

Crispers

Jessie’s Lounge

317 W. Central Ave. 863-293-2395 Asian

■

■

Union Taproom

245 W. Central Ave. 863-268-4921 uniontaproomwh.com Beer, Wine and Spirits

Woody’s Bar-B-Q

1088 Havendale Blvd.

863-297-5330 woodys.com/locations/winter-haven Barbecue

■

Vacation Guide

39

Arts, Culture & Heritage Fabled architecture? Check.

Long lost civilizations? Yup. Art, culture and living history? Got that covered too.

If you prefer to mix a dash of history or a dribble of artistic creativity into your vacation, you’ve come to the right place.

From vibrant museums and historic landmarks to living history, a Polk County vacation can immerse you in the culture of the deep South – especially if you prefer it citrus flavored.

How about a college inspired by a citrus grove?

More than 80 years after then-campus president Ludd M. Spivey convinced famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright to construct a “College of Tomorrow” on the grounds of Florida Southern College in Lakeland, people still visit from around the world to see the largest one-site collection of the architect’s work.

40 Vacation Guide

Envisioning the campus rising out of the ground, Wright dubbed it the “Child of the Sun.” The buildings, constructed of concrete blocks with native sands and shells added, also have square pieces of glass embedded in the blocks. When struck by direct sunlight, the glass inside the blocks cast an array of kaleidoscopic beams throughout the inside of the buildings.

Wright laid out the buildings in a manner inspired by the orange groves he walked through.

Still considered one of the country’s most striking campuses, no matter if you choose to take a guided tour or explore on your own, you’re sure to leave inspired. Don’t miss the crown jewel, the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, or Wright’s recently brought to life piece of domestic bliss, the Usonian House.

Located nearby, and just blocks from Lake Morton in Lakeland, you’ll find one of the top-10 art museums in the state. And you can enjoy it for free.

Visit Central Florida

The Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College offers an extensive permanent collection of contemporary and modern art, as well as Pre-Columbian, Asian, European and American decorative arts. Around 20 exhibitions rotate throughout its nine galleries each year, and it remains home to rare 19th-century Japanese woodblock prints, as well as ceramic plates made by Pablo Picasso. The outdoor garden area showcases a number of permanent sculptures.

There are also workshops led by experienced art educators on the first Saturday of every month that give families time to create artwork together.

Lake Wales History Museum

The museum is closed Mondays as well as on major holidays, and hours of operation vary by season, so be sure to check the website, polkmuseumofart.org, before heading out.

For a more rurally inspired look at Polk County’s history, visit the Lake Wales History Museum. The city was formed more than 100 years ago to capitalize on the growing citrus and turpentine industry. Not long after they opened their doors, trains were stopping at the Lake Wales depot.

Today, that same depot – now painted pink – houses the Lake Wales History Museum. Featuring a 1926 caboose behind it, the museum offers a self-guided glimpse into the history of the people of the Lake Wales Ridge, from its prehistoric Native American canoe and Seminole Indian clothing to a 1938-era freight room, highlighting the prominent industries of the day, as well as permanent collections including old telephone directories and letters. There are even paintings from nearly forgotten Florida African American artists who today are called The Highwaymen. These artists captured the landscapes of Florida from the 1950s to the 1980s and often sold their original pieces of art from the trunks of their cars.

For more information on the Lake Wales History Museum, visit lakewalesfl.gov/museum.

Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College

Bok Tower Gardens

Vacation Guide

41

Wonder House Tours

U-PICK

Itself a monument to the history of the county it represents, the Polk County History Center, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989, calls Bartow home. The building, which served as the county courthouse from 1908 to 1987, today houses a diverse collection on its three floors. From a fully restored turnof-the-century courtroom to the seven permanent first floor galleries that explore just what makes Polk County unique, the museum takes an unblinking look at the pioneers, industrialists, veterans and leaders of the area and their contributions.

The History Center also hosts an extensive section on the Paleo Indians who once inhabited the area as well as kid friendly exhibits featuring play areas, a pioneer cracker home and even a few fossils. Check their website for more information at polk-county.net/history-center.

But nothing is more interconnected to the history of Polk County than the citrus industry. Since the earliest days of its founding, citrus – in particular, oranges – have been the backbone of Florida’s agricultural industry. Polk County was its epicenter.

For the most up-to-date U-Pick schedules, visit these farms on Facebook before you visit in person.

Citrus: Nov. – Feb. Blueberries: Mar. – Jun. Peaches: Mar. – Jun. BMB Farms - Bartow

4277 Old Bartow Eagle Lake Rd., FL 33830 863-412-1566

C&W Farms – Lakeland

5704 Hendricks Rd., FL 33881 863-412-8104 Facebook

James Blueberry Farm – Bartow

2101 Dynamite Rd., FL 33830 863-412-1748 Facebook

Joyner Peach Orchard - Lakeland

Today, this history is remembered through the Citrus Label Tour. A partnership between the Polk County History Center and the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame, it is a driving experience that explores not only the artistic history of citrus marketing, but also the history of the county itself. There are more than 40 different label examples on display in more than half a dozen Polk County towns.

But citrus is far from history in Polk County. In fact, you should load up on some fresh produce while you are on your tour.

One location is Ridge Island Groves in Haines City, still in operation today. Not only do they still ship citrus around the world, you can stop in for produce, grab some fresh orange juice or a custom made seasonal produce flavored soft serve ice cream or buy a citrus-inspired gift. If you’d rather see just how the product comes from grove to stand, hop aboard a citrus tour. You can even pick your own fruit.

Ridge Island isn’t the only grove in Polk County, that’s for sure. For a list of places to get not only citrus but also other fresh Florida produce, request a copy of our Savor Central Florida Guide from VisitCentralFlorida.org.

42 Vacation Guide

3830 Hamilton Rd., FL 33811 863-644-4021

Kirkland Farms - Lakeland 2632 Old Medulla Rd., FL 33811 863-248-8351 • kirklandfarms.net Lonesome Oak Blueberry Farms - Winter Haven 2851 Thornhill Rd., FL 33880 863-221-6548

Luna Berry Farms – Auburndale 3132 K-Ville Ave., FL 33823 863-262-6491 Facebook

Oponay Farms - Lakeland

5129 Hancock Lake Rd., FL 33812 863-698-7995 • oponayfarmsllc.com

Parish Family Farm – Eagle Lake 100 Mitchell Rd., FL 33880 863-412-2626 Facebook

Ridge Island Groves – Haines City 6000 Old Polk City Rd., FL 33844 863-422-0333 • ridgeislandgroves.com

Shady Oak Farm & BMB - Lakeland

3320 Shady Oak Dr. E., FL 33810 863-512-1547

Whitehead’s Blueberry Farm – Winter Haven

1024 Macon Rd., FL 33884 863-860-4575 Facebook

ARTS & CULTURE Bartow Art Guild - Bartow

1240 E. Main St., FL 33831 863-534-1877 • bartowartguild.com

TheatreWorks Florida - Davenport 8 W. Palmetto St., FL 33837 407-340-0473 • theatreworksfl.org

Frostproof Art League & Gallery - Frostproof

12 E. Wall St., FL 33843 863-635-7271

Lakeland Art Guild - Lakeland P. O. Box 353, FL 33802 863-205-0345 • lakelandartguild.clubexpress.com Lake Wales Arts Council — Lake Wales 1099 SR 60 E., FL 33853 863-676-8426 • LakeWalesArtsCouncil.org Polk State College Lakeland Art Gallery - Lakeland

3425 Winter Haven Lake Rd., FL 33803 863-297-1050 • polk.edu/the-arts

Mulberry Cultural Center - Mulberry 103 E. Canal St., FL 33860 863-354-6570 • Mulberryculturalcenter.org Polk State College Winter Haven Art Gallery - Winter Haven

Ramon Theater – Frostproof The Ramon Theater currently hosts four Mystery Dinner programs each year as well as a wonderful music series program that runs from January through March. The Ramon Theater is located at 15 East Wall Street in picturesque downtown Frostproof. For more information about the Ramon Theater and for dates and times of upcoming events, contact us.

15 E. Wall St. RamonTheater.com 863-635-7222

999 Ave. H N.E., FL 33881 863-297-1050 • polk.edu/the-arts

Ridge Art Association - Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., FL 33880 863-291-5661 Ritz Theatre - Winter Haven

263 W. Central Ave., FL 33881 863-295-9900 • ritzoncentral.com

Wonder House Tours – Bartow

1075 Mann Rd., FL 33830 wonderhousebartow.com

PERFORMING ARTS Lake Wales Little Theatre - Lake Wales

421 E. Park Rd., FL 33853 863-676-1266 • lwlt.org

Florida Dance Theatre - Lakeland

305 W. Main St., FL 33815 863-802-0399 • floridadancetheatre.org

Florida Southern College Festival of Fine Arts - Lakeland 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., FL 33801 863-680-4111 • flsouthern.edu/ffa

Imperial Symphony Orchestra - Lakeland 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., FL 33801 863-688-3743 • imperialsymphony.org Lakeland Community Theatre - Lakeland 121 S. Lake Ave., FL 33801 863-603-7529 • lakelandcommunitytheatre.com RP Funding Center - Lakeland 701 W. Lime St., FL 33815 863-834-8133 • rpfundingcenter.com Theatre Winter Haven - Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., FL 33880 863-294-7469 • theatrewinterhaven.com

Downtown Lake Wales

Polk County History Center Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

43

T

Shopping

he most important thing you’ll take home from a vacation in Central Florida is a gallery of memories…but that doesn’t mean it’s the only thing you’ll take home. Hundreds of unique shops, boutiques and markets here are stocked with every sort of souvenir you can imagine, and a few you’ve likely never thought of as well.

Art galleries here feature talented local artists. Antique and vintage shops offer the opportunity to purchase furnishings and fashion from bygone eras. And handmade candies, fiery hot sauces, locally grown fruit, orange blossom honey and other delicious treats let you capture the taste of Central Florida and enjoy it wherever you call home. (At least until it runs out, and it’s time to come visit us again.)

Rafa Natural

Century Cottage Antiques and Gifts 29890 US Hwy. 27 863-438-0200 Home Décor & Antiques

BARTOW

Antiques on Main 375 E. Main St. 863-533-4383 Shopping

Rafa Natural

175 S. Central Ave. 863-712-7620 • rafanatural.com Specialty Shop

Top Buttons Boutique and Designer Thrift 160 E. Summerlin St. 863-220-2464 • topbuttons.org Boutique

DAVENPORT

Marqueen’s Treasures 124 W. Bay St. 863-421-3533 Home Décor & Antiques

44 Vacation Guide

Posner Park Shopping Mall 42650 US Hwy. 27 863-438-3333 Mall

The Pointe Gallery & Studio 2 Allapaha Ave. S. 321-624-4071 Home Décor & Antiques

Webb’s Candy Shop 38217 Hwy. 27 863-422-1051 webbscandyshop.com Citrus

DUNDEE

Bless This Mess

129 E. Main St. 863-287-0459 Home Décor & Antiques

Davidson of Dundee

28421 US Hwy. 27 N. 863-439-1698 • davidsonofdundee.com Citrus

Southern Comfort Antiques 29119 US Hwy. 27 N. 863-439-4944 southerncomfortantiques.com Home Décor & Antiques

FORT MEADE

Chinoiserie Antiques

110 W. Broadway St. 863-285-8050 Home Décor & Antiques

HAINES CITY

Ridge Island Groves

6000 Polk City Rd. 863-422-0333 • ridgeislandgroves.com Citrus

LAKE ALFRED

Biggar’s Antiques

140 W. Haines Blvd.

863-956-4853 • biggarantiques.com Home Décor & Antiques

Downtown Farmers Curb Market

Potpourri Antiques & Gifts and Molly’s Paperie

200 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-944-7907 downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org Farmers Market

Ron’s Tackle Box

3715 Hopewell Ave. 863-853-1702 mallsinamerica.com/florida/lakeland-park-center Mall

144 W. Haines Blvd.

863-956-5535 Home Décor & Antiques

380 S. Lake Shore Way 863-956-4990 • ronstacklebox.com Sports

Tela’s Cottage Fabrics

204 Ave. B S.E. 863-956-1890 telas-cottage-fabrics.business.site Home Décor & Antiques

The Stable Home Decor

101 CR 557-A 863-956-1363 • stablehomedecor.com Home Décor & Antiques

LAKE WALES

All About Antiques

415 N. Scenic Hwy. 863-676-7411 Home Décor & Antiques

Bridgemaster Fishing Products 2131 State Rd. 60 E. 863-676-1009 fishermanscandystore.com Sports

Eagle Ridge Mall 451 Eagle Ridge Dr. 863-676-2300 Mall

Inglenook Antiques & Collectibles 3607 N. Scenic Hwy. 863-678-1641 goantiques.com/members/Inglenook Antiques Home Décor & Antiques

The Gallery and Frame Shop 249 E. Stuart Ave. 863-676-2821 thegalleryandframeshop.com Home Décor & Antiques

LAKELAND

360⁰ Unlimited 911 S. Florida Ave. 863-683-0000 Boutique

5th and Hall

117 S. Kentucky Ave. 5thandhall.com Boutique

Amelia Page Boutique

223 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-409-7815 • ameliapaigeboutique.com Boutique

Bungalow Boutique and Gifts 1026 S. Florida Ave. 863-225-9778 bungalowboutiqueandgifts.com Boutique

Coppertree Boutique and Studio 229 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-816-6364 coppertree-beads.myshopify.com Gifts

Dixieland Relics

949 S. Florida Ave. 863-559-8356 facebook.com/DixielandRelics Home Décor & Antiques

Visit Central Florida

Lakeland Park Center

Lakeland Square Mall

3800 US Hwy. 98 N. 863-859-5414 • lakelandsquare.com Mall

Lakeside Village

1479 Town Center Dr., Suite 203 863-616-9825 • shoplakesidevillage.net Mall

Twenty Seven

213 E. Bay St. twentysevenlkld.com Gifts

WINTER HAVEN

Amy’s Cards, Party & Gifts

6000 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-875-1500 • shop.amyspartystore.com Gifts

Andy Thornal Company

336 Magnolia Ave., S.W. 863-299-9999 • andythornal.com Sports

Lloyds of Lakeland

Confection Candy Shop

301 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-682-2787 • lloydslakeland.com Home Décor & Antiques

254 W. Central Ave. 863-207-6007 Specialty Shop

Low Country Vintage

Country Primitives Vintage Market

Mayzie’s Monograms Merriment and More

Elonka Fashions

Nathan’s Men’s Store

Four Purls Yarn Shop

221 E. Main St. 863-682-2811 • nathansmensstore.com Boutique

334 3rd St., N.W. 863-662-8288 • fourpurls.com Specialty Shop

Proud Gator

Little Studio Interiors

Pumpernaks Vintage Store

Macy’s Citi Center

913 Florida Ave. S. 863-603-3986 Home Décor & Antiques 4636 Cleveland Heights Blvd.

863-535-6299 Boutique

700 S. Florida Ave. 863-683-3434 • proudgator.com Sports 233 N. Tennessee Ave. 863-944-9827 Gifts

Rafa Natural

244 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-712-7620 • rafanatural.com Specialty Shop

Scout & Tag

244 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-225-2426 • scoutandtag.com Home Décor & Antiques

Stationery Loft and Gift Boutique 230 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-248-4438 • stationeryloft.com Gifts

The Raven Faerie

201 Frank Lloyd Wright Way 863-904-2086 • theravenfaerie.com Specialty Shop

The Shop Across The Street 110 W. Highland St. Gifts

Thom Downs Antiques, Inc. 235 N. Florida Ave. 863-688-3269 Home Décor & Antiques

Top Buttons Boutique and Designer Thrift 236 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-220-2464 • topbuttons.org Boutique

Traditions Unlimited

221 N. Kentucky Ave. 863-683-7978 Home Décor & Antiques

251 Ave. A S.W. 863-291-3131 Home Décor & Antiques 130 S.E. Plaza Rd. 863-293-5689 Boutique

60 4th St., N.W. 863-299-1099 Home Décor & Antiques 231 Citi Centre St. 863-297-6300 • l.macys.com/winter-haven-fl Mall

My Gallery The Art Cottage 185 Ave. D N.W. 863-294-2350 Home Décor & Antiques

Orchid Springs Curiosities and Antiques 605 Overlook Dr. 863-206-8782 Home Décor & Antiques

Rafa Natural

226 W. Central Ave. 863-229-5158 • rafanatural.com Specialty Shop

Sherman’s Antiques

1103 6th St. N.W. 863-224-0395 Home Décor & Antiques

The Red Geranium 605 E. Central Ave. 863-291-8585 Boutique

The Shop

329 W. Central Ave. 863-297-8027 Gifts

Top Buttons Boutique and Designer Thrift

226 W. Central Ave. 863-220-2464 • topbuttons.org Boutique

Vacation Guide

45

Stay

Where to

46 Vacation Guide

Airbnb

Westgate River Ranch Resort

Visit Central Florida

Streamsong Resort

Unique

Accommodations

W

hen you stay in Florida’s Sweetest Spot, your accommodations are far more than just a place to rest your head—they are part of the fun.

At the LEGOLAND® Florida Hotel, LEGOLAND® Beach Resort, or LEGOLAND® Pirate Island Hotel, families are invited to literally build their dream destination one colorful brick at a time. And they’re just the first of our many one-of-akind accommodation options.

If you have dreamed of the Wild West, Westgate River Ranch Resort has just the teepee for you. Far more than you’d ever see in the movies, these “glamping” luxe teepees and top-notch tents pack all the amenities of a 5-star resort into their canvas-

topped expanses, including fireplaces, private bathrooms and even air conditioning, all under a canopy of majestic oaks. If you prefer walls, why not check out a Saddle Club Rail Car, a cabin, or even a suite in the lodge.

The 16,000-acre Streamsong® Resort might be known for its three award-winning golf courses, but that’s not the whole story.

With a world-class spa, top-notch dining and activities ranging from sporting clays to archery and bass fishing, there is plenty to do besides golf. But let’s not forget the Lodge itself with its 216 rooms and two restaurants. In fact, each room is perfect for those looking to unplug from daily life – spacious and modern, including mini-libraries so you can find that perfect book to read while sitting next to the heated infinity pool.

Other accommodations include many of the top chains including Hilton, Marriott and Hyatt, all featuring state of the art amenities. You’ll also find Airbnbs and quaint bed and breakfasts packed with local flair, run by folks ready to show off the place they call their hometown.

LEGOLAND® Beach Retreat

48 Vacation Guide

a kitchen, a great price, the hotel that’s just right.

SM

Hampton Inn by Hilton Bartow 89 •

FROSTPROOF

• F $$$

• • F $$$ Proud to be Bartow’s premier area Hotel, Holiday Inn Express & Suites is newly renovated featuring state of the art modernly designed guest rooms, great onsite amenities and complimentary Express Start Breakfast!

•

Price Range

• F $-$$

863-635-5527

HAINES CITY

Florida FFA Leadership Training Center 57 • •

5000 Firetower Rd. FLALTC.org

• F $$-$$$ 863-439-7332

Lake Hatchineha Resort & RV Park 5 • • • F $-$$ 151 Catfish St. LHRVPark.com

1565 N. Broadway Ave. 863-533-8070 HIExpress.com

Wireless Internet

863-439-3276

Sun Ray Motel 30 • • 5290 US Hwy. 27

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites 66 •

Pets Allowed

Monticello Motel 25 • • F $-$$

28500 US Hwy. 27 •

Handicapped Access

DUNDEE

BARTOW 205 Old Bartow Eagle Lake Rd. 863-535-5007 HamptonInn3.Hilton.com

Pool

Camp Mack’s River Resort

Complimentary Breakfast

• F $$$

Centrally located between Orlando and Tampa attractions, near I-4. Only 12 miles from LEGOLAND ® Florida Resort.

Deluxe 100% non-smoking rooms and suites, including in-room computers, high-speed Internet access, microwave, refrigerator. Enjoy our sparkling heated pool and wake up each morning to a deluxe continental hot breakfast.

1008 US Hwy. 92 W. 863-551-3400 BestWestern.com/AuburndalesInnAndSuites

Kitchen/Efficiencies

AUBURNDALE

Hotels & MOTELS Number of Rooms

Price Range

Wireless Internet

Pets Allowed

Pool

Handicapped Access

Complimentary Breakfast

Kitchen/Efficiencies

•

Number of Rooms

Best Western Auburndale Inn & Suites 55 •

$ = under $59 $$ = $60-99 $$$ = $100 and up Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

863-242-0174

Rodeway Inn & Suites 50 • 102 • • • • F $$ Stay Inn & Suites 1035 N. Broadway Ave. 863-533-0711 StayInnBartow.com

605-B Moore Rd. RodeWayInn.com

• • • F $$ 863-421-1310

DISNEY AREA/DAVENPORT

State Motel 28 • 35509 US Hwy. 27 863-422-1331

Comfort Inn & Suites Maingate South 74 • • • • F $-$$ 4095 Hotel Dr. 863-353-4510 ComfortInnDavenportFl.com

Stay Plus Inn 110 • F $-$$ 33224 US Hwy. 27 863-422-8621 StayPlusInnHaines.com

Coral Ridge Inn 11 • • 40990 US Hwy. 27 863-438-7475 CoralRidgeInn.com

LAKE WALES

• F $-$$

Days Inn & Suites Davenport by Wyndham 104 • • • • F $-$$ 2425 Frontage Rd. 863-424-2596 WyndhamHotels.com/Days-Inn

• F $-$$

Bert's Hideaway Resort 15 • $-$$ 2854 Tindel Camp Rd. 863-439-7570 BertsHideaway.com Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort 50 • •

Hampton Inn Orlando Maingate South 83 •

• • F $$$ 44117 US Hwy. 27 863-420-9898 HamptonInn3.Hilton.com

• C $$-$$$ 14900 Camp Mack Rd. 800-243-8013 GuyHarveyCampMack.com

Holiday Inn Express Orlando South 95 • • • F $$-$$$ 4050 Hotel Dr. 863-420-6611 HIExpressDavenportFl.com

Cherry Pocket Fish Camp 6 • • $$

Quality Inn Maingate South 100 •

• • • F $-$$$ 44199 US Hwy. 27 863-852-1735 QualityInn.com/Hotel/flc70

Green Gables Inn 56 •

Quality Inn Maingate West 73 •

Hampton Inn & Suites

Ramada by Wyndham (Davenport) 104 • • • • F $$-$$$ 43824 US Hwy. 27 863-420-5676 WyndhamHotels.com/Ramada

Holiday Inn Express - North 82 • • • • F $$$ 2953 Ridge Way 863-949-4800 HIExpress.com/LakeWalesNorth

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Clermont Theme Park West 52 •

Jennings Resort 13 • • • F $$$ 4325 Jennings Fish Camp Rd. 863-439-3811 JenningsResort.com

9330 West US Hwy. 192 ChoiceHotels.com

9240 US Hwy. 192 BestWestern.com

• • F $-$$$ 863-547-8804

• • • F $$-$$$ 863-424-6099

Woodspring Suites Davenport 63 • • 141 Bella Cita Blvd.

50 Vacation Guide

•

863-578-3658 no cats

F

$$

3100 Canal Rd. CherryPocket.com

21380 US Hwy. 27 GreenGablesFL.com

863-439-2031 • • • F $$-$$$ 863-676-2511

78 • • • F $$$ 22900 US Hwy. 27 863-734-3000 LakeWalesSuites.HamptonInn.com

Prince of Wales Motel 21 • 513 S. Scenic Hwy. PrinceOfWalesFl.com

• F $ 863-676-1249

COURTYARD WINTER HAVEN

LEGOLAND Florida Resort preferred hotel. Only 0.4 miles from the park.

Welcome to Winter Haven’s newest hotel across from LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

Located on beautiful Lake Dexter, the Courtyard Winter Haven provides convenient accommodations for visiting families.

Hotel Features: • Spacious Guestrooms with flexible spaces • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout hotel • 24-hr Fitness Room, Laundry & Market Pantry • Bistro Restaurant for breakfast & dinner with Starbucks Coffee

(863)292-3000 www.marriott.com/mcocw

6225 Cypress Gardens Blvd SE , Winter Haven, FL 33884

Dive into a Vacation Rental

Make your getaway a splash hit with a stay at relaxing Holiday Inn Club Vacations® Orlando Breeze Resort.

Enjoy an assortment of family-friendly amenities and close proximity to Walt Disney World® Resort and other Orlando attractions.

Save 25% on a fun-filled getaway today!

19-MRP-0375

Call (855) 441-2617 and mention Stay and Play discount code ILHK3 or visit discoverhcv.com/florida-resorts.

Holiday Inn Club Vacations® Orlando Breeze Resort 100 Orlando Breeze Circle, Davenport, FL Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

51

LAKE WALES (continued) • F $-$$

19071 US Hwy. 27 S. 863-676-7963 RoyaleInnLakeWalesfl.com

Vintage Inn 62 • •

• F $$ 863-676-7925

541 W. Central Ave. LAKELAND

• • • F $$-$$$ 863-940-0866

4375 Lakeland Park Dr.

Comfort Inn & Suites 102 • 3520 US Hwy. 98 N. ChoiceHotels.com/FL713

• • F $$-$$$ 863-859-0100

• F $$$ 863-802-9000

4141 S. Florida Ave.

Price Range

Wireless Internet

Pets Allowed

Handicapped Access

Pool

Complimentary Breakfast

• • • F $$-$$$ 863-647-3000

La Quinta Inns & Suites - East 103 • 4315 Lakeland Park Dr. LQ.com

• • • • F $$-$$$ 863-815-0606

1024 Lakeland Park Dr. LQ.com

• • • F $$-$$$ 863-859-2866

Lake Wire Inn 46 •

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham

72 • • • F $$-$$$ 4502 N. Socrum Loop Rd. 863-797-4606 WyndhamHotels.com/Days-Inn

Extended Stay America-Lakeland 121 • • • • • F $$-$$$ 4360 Lakeland Park Dr. 863-904-2050 ExtendedStayAmerica.com Hampton Inn & Suites Lakeland South 117 • • • F $$$ 3630 Lakeside Village Blvd. 863-603-7600 HamptonLakeland.com Hampton Inn Lakeland 73 • • • F $$$ 4420 N. Socrum Loop Rd. 8 63-816-2525 HamptonInn3.Hilton.com Hilton Garden Inn Lakeland 105 • • • • F $$$ 3839 Don Emerson Dr. 863-647-0066 Lakeland.StayHGI.com Holiday Inn Express & Suites South 80 •

• • F $$-$$$ 863-606-1000

Holiday Inn Express & Suites North I-4 87 • • • F $$-$$$ 4500 Lakeland Park Dr. 863-595-4500 HIExpress.com/LakelandN Home2 Suites By Hilton Lakeland 3610 Lakeside Village Blvd. 863-500-6869 hilton.com 52 Vacation Guide

Hyatt Place Lakeland Center 127 • • • • F $$$ 863-413-1122 525 W. Orange St. HyattPlaceLakelandCenter.com

La Quinta Inns & Suites - West 119 •

Courtyard by Marriott 78 •

4305 S. Florida Ave. IHG.com

Howard Johnson by Wyndham 118 • • • • F $-$$$ 863-688-7972 939 W. Robson St. WyndhamHotels.com/HOJO.com

Imperial Swan Hotel & Suites 168 •

Baymont Inn & Suites 67 •

3725 Harden Blvd.

Marriott.com

Kitchen/Efficiencies

Price Range

Wireless Internet

Pets Allowed

Handicapped Access

Pool •

Kitchen/Efficiencies

Royale Inn Lake Wales 48 •

$ = under $59 $$ = $60-99 $$$ = $100 and up Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

Number of Rooms

Complimentary Breakfast

Streamsong® Resort

Number of Rooms

Hotels & MOTELS

110

•

•

•

•

• F $$$

244 N. Florida Ave.

• F $

863-687-2530

Motel 6 123 • • • C $-$$ 863-682-0643 3120 US Hwy. 98 N. Motel6.com Ramada by Wyndham 150 • • • F $$-$$$ 3260 US Hwy. 98 N. 863-688-8080 WyndhamHotels.com/Ramada Residence Inn by Marriott 78 • 3701 Harden Blvd.

Marriott.com/tpald

• • • • F $$-$$$ 863-680-2323

A.P.T. Suites Lakeland 144 • • • • F $-$$$ 4645 N. Socrum Loop Rd. 863-858-1411 APTSuites.com/Lakeland Sleep Inn & Suites 48 • • • F $$-$$$ 4321 Lakeland Park Dr. 863-577-1170 ChoiceHotels.com/Hotel/fl728 SpringHill Suites by Marriott 126 • • • F $$-$$$ 511 W. Lime St. 863-413-1700 springhillsuites.marriott.com Staybridge Suites 3855 Don Emerson Dr. IHG.com

79 • • • F $$-$$$ 863-225-2886

Suburban Extended Stay 138 • • • F $-$$ 4335 Williamstown Blvd.

863-816-1700 SuburbanHotels.com The Terrace Hotel 88 • • 329 E. Main St. TerraceHotel.com

• F $$$ 863-688-0800

TownePlace Suites Lakeland 112 •

•

•

•

• F $$$

Experience our new hotel located in the NW corner of I-4 exit 32.

Our suites offer full kitchens with: refrigerator, microwave oven, stove top and dishwasher! Enjoy our 32” flat screen smart tvs, complimentary wifi and hot breakfast. Grab a workout in our fitness center or a dip in our outdoor pool. Just minutes from Tigertown,LEGOLAND ® Florida Resort, SUN ’n FUN Campus and most Central Florida attractions.

3370 US Hwy. 98 N. 863-680-1115 Marriott.com/TPAXL

Travelodge by Wyndham 54 • • 3425 US Hwy. 98 N. WyndhamHotels.com

• • F $-$$ 863-797-4597

• F $ 4000 N. Florida Ave. 863-284-5760 WoodSpring.com

MULBERRY

Best Western Mulberry 63 •

• • F $$-$$$ 863-425-2500

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo 170 • • • • F $-$$$ 3200 River Ranch Blvd. 863-692-1321 WGRiverRanch.com STREAMSONG • F $$$ 1000 Streamsong Dr. 863-428-1000 StreamsongResort.com ®

Price Range

Wireless Internet

Pets Allowed

Pool

Complimentary Breakfast

Kitchen/Efficiencies

Handicapped Access

• F $

5651 Cypress Gardens Rd. 863-318-1246

Hampton Inn Winter Haven 88 • • • F $$$ 202 Cypress Gardens Blvd. S.E. 863-299-9251 Hilton.com Holiday Inn Winter Haven 112 • • F $$$ 200 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

863-292-2100 IHG.com/HolidayInn Howard Johnson by Wyndham 90 •

• • • F $$ 863-259-4232 1300 3rd St. S.W. WyndhamHotels.com/HOJO

Lake Roy Beach Inn & Suites 34 • • • • • F $$-$$$ 1823 Cypress Gardens Blvd. 8 63-324-6320 LakeRoyBeachInn.com Lakmar Resort Motel Winter Haven 35 • • F $$ 863-956-1867

LEGOLAND Beach Retreat 166 • • • F $$$ 100 Legoland Way 877-350-5346 LEGOLAND.com/Florida ®

LEGOLAND ® Hotel 152 • • • F $$$ 877-350-5346 1 Legoland Way LEGOLAND.com/Florida LEGOLAND ® Pirate Island Hotel

RIVER RANCH

Streamsong Resort

Cypress Inn 21 • •

2520 US Hwy. 92 W.

WoodSpring Suites Lakeland 121 • •

2525 SR 60 E. BestWestern.com

$ = under $59 $$ = $60-99 $$$ = $100 and up Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

Number of Rooms

Price Range

Wireless Internet

Pets Allowed

Handicapped Access

Pool

Complimentary Breakfast

Kitchen/Efficiencies

Number of Rooms

$ = under $59 $$ = $60-99 $$$ = $100 and up Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

228 •

WINTER HAVEN

Courtyard by Marriott 111 • • F $$$ 6225 Cypress Gardens Blvd. SE 863-292-3000 Marriott.com/mcocw

150 • • • F $$$ 877-350-5346 1 Legoland Way LEGOLAND.com/Florida

Rodeway Inn & Suites 53 • • • • • F $-$$ 863-324-5994 1911 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

ChoiceHotels.com Econo Lodge 178 • • • F $$-$$$ 5665 Cypress Gardens Blvd. 863-324-5950 ChoiceHotels.com Winter Haven Gardens Inn 119 •

• • F $$ 863-294-4451 1150 3rd St. S.W. WinterHavenGardens.com

Travelodge by Wyndham 44 • • • F $-$$ 2275 8th St. N.W. 863-401-8211 WyndhamHotels.com/Travelodge

Home2 Suites By Hilton Lakeland Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

53

Price Range Per Night

Wireless Internet

Children Welcome

Pool

Credit Cards

Private Bath

Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

Number of Rooms

Bed & Breakƒasts

Bahama Bay Resort & Spa

AUBURNDALE

Town Manor on the Lake

555 S.R. 559 TownManor.com

863-984-4008

4 • • • 12+ F $179-$299

LAKE WALES

Three Oaks Bed & Breakfast 33 N. Lakeshore Blvd.

863-676-4470 ThreeOaksBedandBreakfast.vpweb.com

• • F $139-$189

4

Price

Wireless Internet

Pets Allowed

F

D-$100

1st for Orlando Vacations

100 3 • •

F

D-$60+

A+ Property Management

75 3 • • • F D-$110+ 866-655-9014 W-$700 M-$2100+ APlusVacationHomes.com 352-242-0351 Sunstate-Rentals.com

•

C

D-$99+

75 3 • • C D-$109 800-527-2262 W-$700 AdvantageVacationHomes.com M-$200 352-243-4726 AmazingVacationHomesOrlando.com

American Homes Rental and Management 863-420-4072 AmericanHomesRentals.com

54 Vacation Guide

Price

Wireless Internet

Pets Allowed

Handicapped Access

Pool

Dream Orlando Vacation Rentals

20 5 • F D-$125 863-582-1005 DreamOrlandoVacationRentals.com

Easy Choice Property Management

90 3 • F D-$80+

Excel Villa Rentals

25 5 • F

D-$100

Exclusive Villas Florida

69 3 • • • C

D-$105

321-401-4215 EasyChoiceFL.com

863-420-3535 FairwaysFlorida.com

First Class Florida Villas

90 3 • F D-$100+

140 4 • F D-$110+

Five Palms Property Management & Villa Rentals

30 3 • F D-$89 352-432-3226 W-$563 5PalmsVillas.com

Flamingo Properties

30 7 • • F W-$500 863-420-9152 FloridaVillas.com

Florida 5 Star 407-396-6511 Florida5Star.com

12 3 • • F

D-$99

Florida Dream Homes

Advantage Vacation Homes

Amazing Vacation Homes Orlando

3 6 • F D-$120 863-424-8837 W-$840 DisneyExecutiveVillas.com M-Call

866-681-4977 FirstClassFloridaVillas.com

80

• F D-$100+

Disney Executive Villas

Fairways Property Management

12 5 •

AAA Sunstate Management

8 3 • •

407-459-7878 MyFloridaVisit.com

D-$79

300 5 • F Prices 863-969-9180 Vary ExecutiveVillasFlorida.com

1st American Leisure

863-424-0008 1stForOrlando.com

Celebration Home and Garden Property Management

• F

Executive Villas Florida

DISNEY AREA/DAVENPORT 877-247-5032

498

863-438-2756 4EVF.com

Minimum Night Stay Pool Handicapped Access

= Florida Vacation Rental Managers Association Member

Number of Units

D = Daily W = Weekly M = Monthly Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

407-344-2007 ExcelVillaRentals.com

Vacation

HOMES & CONDOS

863-547-1200 BahamaBay.com

Minimum Night Stay

Number of Units

Tropical Escape Vacations

32 3 • •

•

F

D-$120

80 3 • • F D-$100+

32 7 • • F W-$600 407-896-2233 FloridaDreamHomes.com

Florida Finesse Properties

88 5 • • • F D-$85+

Florida Group Vacation Homes

23 3 • • F D-$100+

863-353-4500 FloridaFinesse.com 863-420-2840 FloridaGroup.com

877-486-8226 Florint.com

32 5 • • • F D-$100+

52 3 • F D-$150+ 863-588-1680 ReallyFlorida.com

22 3 • • F D-$79+

877-477-2567 RegalPalms.com

Regal Palms Resort & Spa

Flynns of Florida

407-996-2148 FlynnsofFlorida.com

RMG Vacation Villas

Gemini International Vacation Villas 407-397-1215 GeminiWorldWide.com

GreenWay Property Management and Vacation Rentals 407-517-4693 GreenWayPropertyManagement.com 407-932-0388 HayesVacationRentals.com

20 3 • F D-$80+

35 4 • • F W-$787+

27 3 • • C

D-$110

863-420-7775 HomesOfAmericaRealtyGroup.com

100 3 • • F

407-847-5330 Homes4UU.com

D-$99

863-547-1050 IPGFlorida.com

400 3 • • • F

D-$90

Orlando 4 Ever 55 5 • • F D-$120+ 407-201-1521 Orlando4Ever.com Orlando Property Services

48 3 • • F D-$100+

Orlando Rent A Villa by Eagle Management 225 3 • • • F D-$125 863-877-0424 W-$850 OrlandoRentAVilla.com M-Call

Our Florida Concierge

20 3 • • • F D-$100+

863-420-4092 OurFloridaConcierge.com

Outdoor Resorts at Orlando

38 7 • • • F M-$1250+

863-424-1407 RentWithORO.com

Personal Touch Vacation Villas 35 5 • • F D-$100 863-438-4007 W-$700 PersonalTouchVacationVillas.com M-$2200 Premier Home Management

2 7 • F W-$1100

Southern Select Villas

12 7 • • • F W-$875

Sovereign Vacation Villas

28 5 • F

Special Dreams Vacations

50 5 • • • F D-$99

Stoneman Vacation Villas

16 3 • • • F D-$90+

407-348-9166 SovereignVacationVillas.com

407-408-4602 StonemanVacationVillas.com

IPG Florida Vacation Homes

863-421-6115 PremierVacationHomesOrlando.com

38 4 • • • F D-$110+

D-$99

Sandy Ridge Villas

888-486-4132 Special-Dreams.com

Homes4UU Vacation Homes

300 2 • F D-$99+

26 5 • F

863-420-1488 SouthernSelectVillas.com

866-420-6555 OPSETC.com

866-552-2764 RMGVacationHomes.com

416-532-3557 SandyRidgeVillas.com

Homes of America 250 4 • • • F D-$90+

Visit Central Florida

Price

Really Florida Vacation Homes

Florint Vacations

Hayes Vacation Homes

D-$125

Wireless Internet

65 5 • F

863-424-2578 MyFloridaVacationVillas.com

Pets Allowed

Florida Vacation Villas

Handicapped Access

100 3 • • • C Rates 407-396-4441 Vary FloridaSpiritVacationHome.com

Pool

Florida Spirit Vacation Homes

Minimum Night Stay

Number of Units

Price

Wireless Internet

Pets Allowed

Handicapped Access

= Florida Vacation Rental Managers Association Member

Pool

D = Daily W = Weekly M = Monthly Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

Number of Units

HOMES & CONDOS

Minimum Night Stay

Vacation

D-$59

Sunsplash Vacation Homes 80 • • • F D-$120 800-505-1359 W-$800 M-$2300 Sunsplash.com Time Out Florida Villas

8 3 • F

D-$85

Tropical Escape Vacations 866-409-8598 TropicalEscapeVacationHomes.com

65 3 • • F

D-$175

Vacasa

53 2 • • • F D-$99+

407-267-1123 TimeOutFloridaVillas.com

866-322-0560 Vacasa.com/USA/Florida/Orlando

Vacation A Way 4 5 • F D-$100+ 863-227-5281 VacationHomes-Pools.com

Villa4U Florida

407-965-5093 Villa4UFlorida.com

Vista Cay Resort 407-965-5091 CosyCasas.com

70 3 • • • F

D-$155

45 2 • • F D-$130+

Welcome Homes USA

50 3 • F D-$79 800-818-4552 W-$550 WelcomeHomesUSA.com M-$1750

Vacation Guide

55

Balmoral Resort Florida

84 2 • • • F Prices 866-584-5527 Vary FeltrimResorts.com/Balmoral-Resort-Florida

Florida International Homes

125 4 • • • F D-$99+

Frontline Florida Property Management

24 5 • • F D-$70+

407-363-1031 FrontlineFloridaRealty.com

Neptune Property Management 863-353-9878 NeptunePropertyManagement.com

863-647-1590 AugustImperial.com/Contact

Native Palm Properties 863-647-1679 NativePalmOnline.com

50 4 • • F D-$80+

440-946-9044 FLCondos4Rent.com

John Wood Realty 800-248-2491 JohnWoodRealty.com

7 14 • F M-$2000+

Wireless Internet

Handicapped Access

Pets Allowed Showers

Pool

• • • • • • •

800-245-6017

Hickory Oaks 18 • • • F 267 Chipman Ln.

863-984-4150

Lake Juliana Boating & Lodge 600 Lundy Rd. Lundyville.com

10 • • 863-984-1144

The Good Life RV Resort 400 • • • • • • 6815 SR 60 E. 863-537-1971 sites.google.com/site/goodlifervresorts/ DISNEY AREA/DAVENPORT 1000 Main St. FloridaCampInn.net

863-424-2494

503 • • • • • • • • F

Kissimmee South RV Resort 3700 US Hwy. 17-92 N. 863-424-1286 SunRVResorts.com/Resorts/Florida

30

• • F W-$425

5 14 • • • F M-$1295+

20 30 • M-$1200+

Head to polk-county.net/parks-and-recreation/campgrounds for even more opportunities to experience Central Florida’s great outdoors.

220 • • • • • • • C

Lake Magic RV Resort 470 • • • • • • • C 9600 US Hwy. 192 W.

Campgrounds Abound 56 Vacation Guide

361 Denton Ave. fivestarrvfl.com

Florida Camp Inn

WINTER HAVEN

FLCondos4Rent.com

Five Star RV Resort on Lake Myrtle – Opening 2020

BARTOW

MULBERRY

August Imperial Management

Laundry

201 Fish Haven Rd. 863-984-1183 FishHavenLodgeFla.com

HAINES CITY

863-421-6357 FloridaInternationalHomes.com

Tent Camping Dump Station Hookups

Fish Haven Lodge Mobile Home & RV Park 20 • F

Price

Wireless Internet

AUBURNDALE

Pets Allowed

Handicapped Access

= Florida Vacation Rental Managers Association Member

Pool

D = Daily W = Weekly M = Monthly Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

Number of Units

HOMES & CONDOS

RV & MORE

Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

Minimum Night Stay

Vacation

Campgrounds

Number of Sites

Balmoral Florida Resort

863-420-1300

Mouse Mountain RV Camping Resort

302 • • • • • • F

Orlando SW/Fort Summit KOA

250 • • • • • • • • F

Outdoor Resorts at Orlando

979 • • • • • • • F

7500 Osceola Polk Line Rd. 863-424-2791 mousemountainrvresort.com

2525 Frontage Rd. 863-424-1880 KOA.com/Campgrounds/Orlando-SW 9000 US Hwy. 192 RentWithORO.com

863-424-1407

Rainbow Chase RV Resort 160 • • • • • • • F 6300 Lake Wilson Rd. 863-424-2688 RainbowChaseRV.com

Themeworld RV Resort 282 • • • • • • • • F 2727 Frontage Rd. ThemeworldRV.com

863-424-8362

DUNDEE

Greenfield Village RV Park 1015 SR 542 W.

12 • • • • • • •

863-439-7409

97 • • • • • F

1801 US Hwy. 17 S. 863-285-9560 HammockLakeMobilePark.com

Camp Inn RV Resort 796 • • • • • • CampInnRVResort.com

863-635-2500

Wireless Internet

Handicapped Access

Pets Allowed Showers

Pool

Laundry

Tent Camping Dump Station Hookups

4325 Jennings Fish Camp Rd. 863-439-3811 JenningsResort.com

Lake Wales RV & Campsite 112 • • • • • • • • F

Resort at Canopy Oaks – Opening 2020

412 • • • • • • • F

16950 Co Rd. 630 863-213-0346 resortatcanopyoaks.com LAKELAND

Rainbow RV Resort 325 • • • C 700 County Rd. 630A 863-635-7541 SunRVResorts.com/Community/RBW

Gator Creek Seniors RV Park 10545 US Hwy. 98 N.

Southern Pines Resort 315 • • • • • • • C 1622 Hwy. 630 W. 863-635-5713 SouthernPinesRVResort.com

863-858-0340

50 • • • • • •

Lakeland Carefree RV Resort

230 • • • • • • • C 900 Old Combee Rd. 863-687-6146 SunRVResorts.com/Resorts/Florida/Lakeland

Morgan’s RV Park 32 • • • • • •

HAINES CITY

4411 SR 542 E.

Central Park of Haines City 1501 W. Commerce Ave. SunRVResorts.com

10511 Monroe Ct. 863-696-1194 TheHarborWaterfrontResort.com

15898 US Hwy. 27 863-638-9011 LakeWalesCampgroundRVResort.com

FROSTPROOF 10400 US Hwy. 27

Harbor Waterfront Resort 12 • • • • • • • C

Jennings Resort 12 • • • • • • • • F

FORT MEADE

Hammock Lake MH & RV Park

Number of Sites

Wireless Internet

Handicapped Access

Pets Allowed Showers

Pool

Laundry

Wireless Internet: F = Free, C = Charge

Tent Camping Dump Station Hookups

RV & MORE

Number of Sites

Campgrounds

351 • • • • • • • • C 863-422-5322

863-665-9631

SanLan RV and Golf Resort 500+ • • • • • • • F 3929 US Hwy. 98 S. Sanlan.com

863-665-1726

Oak Harbor Lodging & RV Park 200 • • • • • • F

POLK CITY

100 Oak Harbor CP OakHarbor-RV.com

Lelynn RV Resort 347 • • • • • • C

877-956-1341

Paradise Island RV Park 180 • • • • • • F 32000 US Hwy. 27 863-439-1350 ParadiseIslandRVPark.com

1700 Tiger Lake Rd.

863-696-2274

31 • • • • • • •

Bullock’s Landing 44 • • • • • 2041 Thompson Nursery Rd. BullocksLanding.com

863-984-1495

RIVER RANCH

River Ranch RV 554 • • • • • C

LAKE WALES

Bud’s RV Park & Marina

1513 SR 559

863-676-0000

30529 River Ranch Blvd. 863-692-1116 RiverRanchRV.net

Westgate River Ranch Resort 3200 River Ranch Blvd.

WGRiverRanch.com

863-692-1321

15 • • • • • • • C

WINTER HAVEN

Camp Lester 6 • • • • F

Cypress Campground & RV Park

Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort 265 • • • • • F

Cypress Gardens Mobile Home & RV Park 120 • • • • • • F

14400 Reese Dr.

863-696-1123

200 • • • • • • • • F

7400 Cypress Gardens Blvd. 863-324-7400 CypressCampground.com

14900 Camp Mack Rd. 800-243-8010 GuyHarveyCampMack.com

1951 Lake Daisy Rd. 863-324-3136 CypressGardensOnline.com

Camp’n Aire RV Resort 100 • • • • • • • F

East Haven RV Park 73 • • • • •

15860 US Hwy. 27 CampnAire.com

863-638-1015

Cherry Pocket Fish Camp 22 • • • • • F 3100 Canal Rd. CherryPocket.com

863-439-2031

Coleman Landing at Shady Oaks Recreation Area 54 • • • • • • 1450 Shady Oaks Dr.

863-692-9882

4320 Dundee Rd. SR 542 863-324-2624 EastHavenRVPark.com

Hammondell Campsites 48 • • • • • • F 5601 Cypress Gardens Rd. 863-324-5775 HammondellCampsites.com

Lakeshore Palms Travel Park 4800 Eloise Loop Rd. LakeshorePalms.com

40 • • • • • • • F 863-324-1339

Grape Hammock Fish Camp 69 • • • • • • • F 1400 Grape Hammock Rd. 863-692-1500 GrapeHammock.com Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

57

Balmoral Resort Florida

Your home away from home in central Florida Hyatt Place® Lakeland Center offers you a convenient location connected to the RP Funding Center. You’ll be treated to modern spacious guest rooms and deluxe amenities and services including free Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining.

Hyatt Place® Lakeland Center 525 W Orange St. Lakeland, FL 33815 863-413-1122 HyattPlaceLakelandCenter.com

BRAND NEW LUXURY RV RESORT ON LAKE MYRTLE COMING FALL 2020 Spacious RV Sites and Cottages Multiple Dog Parks Pool and Recreation Areas Lodge and Activities Center Modern Laundry and Bathhouses Much More!

361 DENTON AVE. AUBURNDALE FL, 33823 800-245-6017 INFO @ FIVESTARRVFL . COM

F IVE S TAR RVFL. COM 58 Vacation Guide

FLORIDA’S NEWEST LUXURY RV & MANUFACTURED HOME RESORT

Paradise

MEET US AT THE TIKI BAR

FALL 2020

IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

Just minutes from all the excitement, guests at Bahama Bay Resort & Spa will love returning to amenity-filled villas after fun-filled days at Disney® parks.

Two and three bedrooms now available.

(863) 213-0346

BahamaBay.com|888-656-1398

RESORTATCANOPYOAKS.COM

©2019 Wyndham Vacation Rentals North America, LLC. 14 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054. Wyndham Vacation Rentals and related marks are registered trademarks and/or service marks in the United States and internationally. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

MANAGEMENT@ RESORTATCANOPYOAKS. COM

®

Balmoral is more than your typical vacation home.

Central Florida’s newest vacation home resort provides all the space and amenities you need.

• • • •

3-6 Bed Luxury Vacation Homes with Private Pools Spacious 2-3 Bedroom Townhomes Water Park, Fitness Center, Resort Pool, Game Room, Fishing and more!

On-site Reception and Bar & Grill

Start Planning Your Next Vacation: 866-584-5527 | BalmoralResortFlorida.com Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

59

On the

While many areas claim it, the undisputed largemouth Bass Capital of the World titleholder is Polk County. Home to the state certified largest largemouth black bass ever caught – at 17.27 pounds – holding the title isn’t another fish tale. Of the top 15 bass lakes in the state, you’ll find five of them right here, including Lake Kissimmee, Tenoroc Fish Management Area and Winter Haven Chain of Lakes. But don’t forget our lesser known lakes – Crooked Lake and Lake Walk-in-Water (or Weohyakapka), for example – where you’ll find many a local cast their lines.

Water

I

f you think you don’t need to pack a bathing suit when you come to Polk County, think again.

Blessed with 554 lakes – more than 10 percent of the county is covered in water – if your ideal vacation or weekend plans include some time getting wet, we’ve got you covered.

TMC Guide Services

60 Vacation Guide

Visit Central Florida

Lake Kissimmee

Other fish found in area lakes include blue bream, shellcrackers, black crappie, redear sunfish, stripers, speckled perch and catfish. And of the more than 250 species of freshwater fish in Florida lakes, you can eat most of them.

According to estimates from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, more than 74,000 people fish Polk County lakes each year. Just make sure you stop by a local marina or bait and tackle shop to get a fishing license, or visit the website for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at myfwc.com.

But that’s just the start.

Polk County also has the distinction of being the Water Ski Capital of the World, a title first earned during World War II when impromptu shows entertained soldiers at the state’s first theme park, Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven, now the site of LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. Since then, the variety of towed water sports have become a way of life here, as evident by the number of world records earned on our waters or the number of schools that teach water skiing that call Polk County home.

Members of the original Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team continue to wow central Florida audiences, and work to pass on their water skiing skills to the next generation. The Team puts on quite a show on the 3rd Saturday of each month on Lake Silver in Winter Haven.

Living Water Pontoon Boat Cruises

canoe or even a pontoon boat and venture out onto the waters.

A favorite spot to explore, for both locals and visitors alike, are Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes. If you’re not looking for a workout and want someone else to do the driving, book a tour with The Living Water Boat Cruises. Take a day tour and catch the water ski show at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort or book a sunset cruise that includes dinner at Harborside.

The Chain is comprised of two sections, northern and southern, interconnected by canals. At certain times of year low water levels may inhibit you passing from one to another via canal. The northern half is made up of 10 lakes: Lake Haines, Lake Rochelle, Lake Echo, Lake Conine, Lake Fannie, Lake Smart, Lake Henry, Lake Hamilton, Middle Lake Hamilton, and Little Lake Hamilton. The southern half is comprised of 18 lakes, 16 are interconnected: Lake Howard, Lake Cannon, Lake Shipp, Lake Jessie, Lake Hartridge, Lake Lulu, Lake Roy, Lake Eloise, Little Lake Eloise, Lake Winterset, Little Lake Winterset, Lake May, Lake Mirror, Lake Idylwild, Spring Lake and Lake Summit.

If you are hungry after cruising around The Chain – as the locals call it – you can always paddle on up to the dock of one of the many lakeside restaurants for a bite. Both Harborside, on Lake Shipp, and Tanner’s Lakeside, on the canal that connects Lake May and Lake Howard, have docks as well as outdoor dining. Both are great locations to view those spectacular Central Florida sunsets.

And now, beginners don’t even need a boat to try it. Both wakeboarders and water skiers slice through the rippling waters of Lake Myrtle in Auburndale at the Elite Cable Park, pulled not by a boat but by a series of overhead cables. Think of it like a ski lift, minus the lift and – this being Florida, of course – the snow.

Participants simply grab onto the handle and hold on, enjoying all the action of wakeboarding or water skiing, complete with ramps and obstacles if they so choose.

See the breathtaking diversity of life that call Florida waterways home when you step onboard an airboat. Fast and flat-bottomed, these fan-driven Ferraris cut through the water in places other boats cannot. From swamps and marshes to wetlands, airboats are a way to get out into the real “Old Florida,” and see its inhabitants – alligators and bald eagles, great blue herons to nearly four-foot-tall Florida sandhill cranes – live as they have for thousands of years. With such a diverse amount of wildlife to enjoy, no two airboat trips are alike.

But if you’d rather be dry – well, mostly dry – while on top of the water, we have that covered as well. A variety of rental facilities makes it a breeze to hop on a paddleboard or into a kayak,

For more ideas on how to enjoy your time in, on or around any of our more than 500 bodies of water, see our listings in this guide or check our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

61

Alley’s Memory Makin’ Guides – Dundee Central Florida’s premier Bass Fishing Guide Service. We are a full-time professional guide service located minutes from local area attractions. We have the best bass fishing guides in Florida. Bass boats and Pontoon service for 4-8 people. We are on Facebook and Trip Advisor. 4-hr., 6-hr. and 8-hr. day trips.

Open daily. 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

800-749-2278 863-632-0304 MemoryMakinGuides.com reno@memorymakinguides.com

On the

Water

FISHING Central Florida Bucketmouths - Winter Haven 2403 7th St. S.W., FL 33880 863-661-7226 • www.cfbucketmouths.com

Lake Juliana Boating and Lodging - Auburndale 600 Lundy Rd., FL 33823 863-984-1144 • lundyville.com

Lake Kissimmee - Lake Wales

14248 Camp Mack Rd., FL 33898 863-696-1112 • myfwc.com/fishing/freshwater

Ray Frenette Pro Guide Service - Lake Wales

3136 N. Marina Pkwy., FL 33898 863-696-1843

Southern Outdoorsman Guide Service - Indian Lake Estates

4200 Eldorado Dr., FL 33855 888-692-2208 • bassfishingguide.com

Outdoor Adventures

F

rom skydiving 14,000 feet from an airplane to summersaulting through the air on a wakeboarding adventure, outdoor excitement is around every corner in Central Florida. With over 554 natural lakes to choose from and a vast selection of parks to hike, bike and explore, you can kickstart your adrenaline and fill your days with the very best of Florida’s great outdoors.

You can bring you own gear, or rent it from a local outfitter. You can rev the engine on an ATV, or provide your own leg power on an aggressive mountain bike ride. You can get your heart pumping here on land, atop the water or high in the air. But no matter what you choose to do, prepare to make memories that will be seared into your mind for decades to come.

Tenoroc Fish Management Area - Lakeland

3829 Tenoroc Mine Rd., FL 33805 863-499-2422 • visitcentralflorida.org

TMC Guide Services - Winter Haven 238 Towhee Rd., FL 33881 855-354-8433 • tmcguideservice.com

62 Vacation Guide

Visit Central Florida

ADVENTURE/EXTREME

WATERSPORTS SCHOOL

Auburndale Speedway - Winter Haven

Barefoot Etc. - Winter Haven 3754 Crystal Beach Rd., FL 33830 863-299-3613 • barefoot-etc.com

5640 E. County Rd. 542, FL 33880 863-551-1131 • auburndalespeedway.net

Mark ‘Em All Paintball - Winter Haven 1715 7th St., S.W., FL 33880 863-299-4042 • markempaintballfl.com

Briscoe’s Ride Center Inc. - Winter Haven 217 Ave. D S.W., FL 33881 863-521-1076 • thewakeboardcoach.com

AERIAL Balloons & Beyond - Polk City

Lucky Lowe Ski School - Lake Alfred 1116 Old Lake Alfred Rd., FL 33850 863-956-1115 • LuckyLowe.com

533 Edgewater Dr., FL 813-240-4844 • balloons-and-beyond.com

Bartow Flying Service - Bartow

5993 Airport Blvd., FL 33830 863-533-1195 • BartowFlyingService.com

Bob’s Balloon Charters, LLC - Champions Gate

8279 Champions Gate Blvd., FL 33896 407-466-6380 • bobsballoons.com

Brown’s Seaplane Base - Winter Haven 2704 Hwy. 92 W., FL 33881 863-956-2243 • brownsseaplane.com Florida Skydiving Center - Lake Wales 440 S. Airport Rd., FL 33859 863-678-1003 • floridaskydiving.com

Preston Aviation - Winter Haven 2073 US Hwy. 92, FL 33881 863-956-2526 • flytailwheel.com

Off the Chain Kayak Company We are a kayak rental company, we offer scheduled drop off and pick up in the Winter Haven Chain of Lake area. Kayak rentals in Winter Haven, Florida. We come to you! Drop off and pick up kayak equipment rental service. You pick the lake, we deliver the kayak & safety equipment. Suggested itineraries for historical tours, Legoland ski shows, nature viewing, fishing, bars and music lake locations.

Explore hundreds of lakes including the 24 lakes on Chain of Lakes. $10 per hr 863-225-0934 otckayak.com otckayak@gmail.com

Ski Fluid - Polk City

1251 Holy Cow Rd., FL 33868 407-625-4139 • SkiFluid.com

World Barefoot Center - Winter Haven 3915 Lake Conine Dr. E., FL 33881 863-877-0039 • worldbarefootcenter.com

Waldo Wright’s Flying Service - Winter Haven 1855 US Hwy. 92 W., FL 33881 863-873-1339 • waldowrights.com

Wallaby Ranch - Davenport 1805 Deen Still Rd., FL 33897 863-424-0070 • wallaby.com

AIRBOAT TOUR Alligator Cove Airboat Nature Tours - Lake Wales 14900 Camp Mack Rd., FL 33898 863-696-0406 • alligatorcoveairboatnaturetours.com Alligator’s Unlimited Airboat Tours - Lake Wales 14400 Reese Dr., FL 33898 863-696-0313 • airboatnaturetours.com Captain Fred’s Airboat Nature Tours - Winter Haven 4700 Crump Rd., Ste. C., FL 33881 863-696-1637 • captfreds.com Grape Hammock Fish Camp - Lake Wales 1400 Grape Hammock Rd., FL 33898 863-692-1500 • GrapeHammock.com Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo - River Ranch

3200 River Ranch Blvd., FL 33867 863-692-1321 • WGRiverRanch.com

BOAT/KAYAK RENTAL Marine Supply, The Boating Center - Winter Haven

717 6th St., S.W., FL 33880 863-293-1156 • marinesupplyboats.com

Off the Wall Adventures & Outfitters - Lakeland

2055 Shepherd Rd., FL 33811 863-709-9253 offthewalladventures.com

CYCLING Auburndale TECO Trail - Auburndale

318 Denton Ave., FL 33823 863-965-5545 • traillink.com

Fort Fraser Trail – Lakeland, Bartow

Main trailhead: 4th St., S.E. in Highland City friendsoftheparks.net

LAKE ACTIVITY Elite Cable Park - Auburndale 330 Denton Ave., FL 33823 863-662-5200 • elitecablepark.com Paddleboard Winter Haven - Winter Haven

W. Lake Summit Dr., FL 33884 863-845-5307 paddleboardwinterhaven.com

The Living Water Boat Cruises - Winter Haven

2403 7th St. SW., FL 33880 877-257-1529 • livingwatercruises.com

Winter Haven Watersports - Winter Haven 3915 Lake Conine Dr. E., FL 33881 863-293-2753 • winterhavenwatersports.com

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Bone Valley ATV Park - Mulberry

10427 County Rd. 630 W., FL 33960 863-428-0525 • bonevalleyatv.com

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo - River Ranch

800 US Hwy. 98, FL 33801 863-834-2233

SHOOTING

151 Racepit Rd., FL 33880 863-299-4853 • myipgc.com

3115 Thornhill Rd., FL 33880 863-534-7377 • polknature.com

Scott Taylor’s Central Florida Bass Fishing Guide Service - Lake Wales, FL

SKATE PARK ADVENTURE

Loyce E. Harpe Park - Mulberry Marshall Hampton Reserve – Winter Haven

Official Partner & Guide for

VisitCentralFlorida.org

Lakeland Skate Park at Lake Bonny - Lakeland

Florida Sporting Clays - Haines City 5000 Firetower Rd., FL 33844 863-838-1207 • floridasportingclays.com

500 W Carter Rd., FL 33813 863-534-6911

855-FL-GUIDE (855-354-8433)

3200 River Ranch Blvd., FL 33867 863-692-1321 • WGRiverRanch.com

General James A. Van Fleet State Trail - Polk City

7683 Berkley Rd., FL 33968 352-394-3969 • floridastateparks.org

Senior Pro Guide

Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort TRAVEL INSPIRED www.TMCGuideService.com Reservations:

Imperial Polk Gun Club - Winter Haven Shoot Straight - Lakeland

230 N. Lake Parker Ave., FL 33801 863-937-8021 • shoot-straight.com

Lessons - Tours - Rentals - Sales Explore the Chain of Lakes!

Certified PaddleFit Instructor - Kami

863-845-5307

www.paddleboardwinterhaven.com

Vacation Guide

63

Nature Trails W

ith 25,000 acres of wetland preserves, Old Florida scrub land and wildlife habitats located within our footprint, Central Florida offers a seemingly endless number of trails to explore. From simple footpaths to single-track mountain bike routes to fully paved mixed-use tracks, a vast network of trails winds its way under tree canopies dripping with Spanish moss, around waterways glistening in the Florida sun and throughout Florida’s Sweetest Spot.

On foot, bike or horseback, you’ll witness the incredible natural beauty of our diverse flora as it thrives in the warm weather we enjoy year round. Look a bit more closely, and you’re apt to find you have plenty of company as well, with herons, eagles, otters, owls, alligators and more dotting the landscape. It’s an active, yet rejuvenating way to take a break from everyday life and see Florida at its most serene.

64 Vacation Guide

Visit Central Florida

Circle B Bar Reserve

NATURE TRAILS Alafia River Reserve - Mulberry

Gator Creek Reserve - Lakeland 9725 US Hwy. 98 N., FL 33809 863-534-7377 • polknature.com

Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park - Haines City

Hampton Tract at Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve - Polk City

Arbuckle Tract at Lake Wales Ridge State Forest - Frostproof

Hickory Lake Scrub - Frostproof 1628-1698 S Scenic Hwy., FL 33843 863-534-7377 • polknature.com

4872 Indian Oak Dr., FL 33860 863-534-7377 • wfwmd.state.fl.us

4335 Firetower Rd., FL 33844 863-696-1112 • floridastateparks.org

851 County Rd. 630 E., FL 33843 863-589-0545 • freshfromflorida.com

Avon Park Air Force Range - Avon Park 29 South Blvd., FL 33825 863-452-4254 • avonparkafr.net

Circle B Bar Reserve - Lakeland 4399 Winter Lake Rd., FL 33803 863-668-4673 • polknature.com Colt Creek State Park - Lakeland 16000 SR 471, FL 33809 863-815-6761 • floridastateparks.org Crooked Lake - Prairie - Babson Park 971-999 Ohlinger Rd., FL 33827 863-534-7377 • polknature.com Crooked Lake - Sandhill - Babson Park

801 Hollister Rd., FL 33827 863-534-7377 • polknature.com

East Tract at Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve - Webster

28057 SR 471, FL 33597 800-423-1476 • swfwmd.state.fl.us

Florida Hikes! Mosaic Peace River Park - Bartow

2200 CR 640, FL 33830 863-534-6000 • FloridaHikes.com

Fort Meade Outdoor Recreation Area - Fort Meade 1639 Frostproof Hwy., FL 33841 863-285-1111 • cityoffortmeade.com

18490 Rock Ridge Rd. & 12221 US 98N., FL 33868 352-796-7211 x4470 • swfwmd.state.fl.us

Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve - Lake Alfred 945 Mackay Blvd., FL 33850 863-291-5272 • mylakealfred.com

Marshall Hampton Reserve - Winter Haven 3115 Thornhill Rd., FL 33880 863-534-7377 • polknature.com

Pine Ridge Nature Preserve at Bok Tower Gardens - Lake Wales

Holloway Park - Lakeland

1151 Tower Blvd., FL 33853 863-676-1408 • boktowergardens.org

KICCO Wildlife Management Area - River Ranch

200 N. Crooked Lake Dr., FL 33827 863-638-1355 • ridgeaudubon.com

2402 Holloway Park Dr., FL 33803 863-640-0573 • hollowaypark.org FL Highway 60, FL 33867 800-250-4200 x3333 myfwc.com

Lake Hollingsworth - Lakeland 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., FL 33801 863-834-2233 • facebook.com

Lake Kissimmee State Park - Lake Wales

14248 Camp Mack Rd., FL 33898 863-696-1112 • floridastateparks.org

Lake Marion Creek Horseshoe Scrub Tract - Davenport 661 Huckleberry Rd., FL 33837 863-648-3200 • swfwmd.state.fl.us

Lake Region Audubon Society - Winter Haven 115 Lameraux Rd., FL 33884 863-259-8497 • lakeregionaudubon.org

Lake Wales Ridge State Forest - Frostproof

Ridge Audubon Society Inc. Babson Park Saddle Creek Park - Lakeland 3716 Morgan Combee Rd., FL 33801 863-499-2613 • saddlecreekpark.com SUMICA - Lake Wales

14020 Hwy. 60 E., FL 33898 863-534-7377 • polknature.com

Tiger Creek Preserve - Babson Park 674 Pfundstein Rd., FL 33827 863-635-7506 • nature.org

Upper Hillsborough Preserve - Zephyrhills

41404 CR 54, FL 33540 800-423-1476 • swfwmd.state.fl.us

Walk-In-The-Water Tract at Lake Wales Ridge State Forest - Frostproof

851 County Rd., 630, FL 33843 863-635-8589 • freshfromflorida.com

851 County Rd. 630 E., FL 33843 863-589-0545 • freshfromflorida.com

Lakeland Highlands Scrub - Lakeland 6998 Lakeland Highlands Rd., FL 33813 863-534-7377 • floridahikes.com

Vacation Guide

65

Events &

F

rom planes in the skies to rolling works of art, Florida frontiersmen to the next possible Miss America, Central Florida’s Polk County has no shortage of festivals and special events. Here is a glimpse of what you might see when you visit. To see specific events based on your travel dates, go to VisitCentralFlorida.org/events.

Festivals

Look, up in the sky…

For a week each year, The SUN ‘N FUN Aerospace Expo turns the City of Lakeland into the epicenter of the aviation world. Held near the first week of April, the annual Fly-In features performers, exhibitors and sponsors, evolving into a cultural event for everything aeronautical.

Airplanes of all kinds, shapes and sizes are on display, of course, and there are rows of tents and hangars full of flight gear and electronics. Classic planes – think warbirds from World War II – are on display as well. There is also a section where fabled pilots tell their stories to the crowd and even take questions.

But this is more than just an airshow. There is a career fair for jobs in the aeronautics industry, hands-on workshops staffed by instructors, an aviation themed Kid Zone and even the Veteran’s Plaza, where both past and present military can mingle while they educate the public about the contributions the military has made to the United States.

For more information on the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, visit flysnf.org or our web site, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

MIDFLORIDA AUTO SHOW Take a gorgeous 1920s art deco inspired promenade, the centerpiece to the city of Lakeland, and ring it with rolling works of art and you have the MIDFLORDIA Auto Show & Lake Mirror Concours event.

66 Vacation Guide

These are your average weekend hobbyists getting together to show off their drivers.

Every year in mid October, the city of Lakeland is invaded by an army of rare vintage vehicles, from Silver Ghosts and experimental vehicles to classic VW Bugs, the original Detroit muscle Mustangs and Chargers, and even a smattering of motorcycles. Not only will the more than a half mile circumference of Lake Mirror be full of cars, but so will many of the areas around Munn Park in downtown Lakeland.

Known previously as the Lake Mirror Classic Auto Festival, more than 35,000 spectators will flock to Lakeland’s Lake Mirror Promenade to view more than 600 show vehicles.

ALAFIA RIVER RENDEZVOUS Step back in time – and we mean way back – to before 1840 as the members of the Florida Frontiersmen host the annual Alafia River Rendezvous, the largest pre-1840 living history encampment in the Southeast.

And we mean large – more than 1,700 adults and hundreds of children create this encampment. Teepees and tents, blacksmiths, bakers and textile weavers are all on hand to show as realistically as possible the hardships of life on the Florida frontier. There will also be a Metis Indian traditional native village in the camp.

Artisans are on hand to demonstrate crafts such as flint knapping, broom making, blacksmithing, soap making, weaving and more. There are also food vendors and primitive merchandise on sale. But take note – this event, held near Bartow toward the middle of January, is a cash only event.

MISS FLORIDA COMPETITION Young women from across the state compete in June for the right to wear the Miss Florida tiara – and go on to compete for the fabled title of Miss America – during the Miss Florida competition.

Titleholders from around the state are judged on a private interview, an onstage interview, talent and evening wear. The winner then undergoes a rigorous program to have a shot at winning the internationally watched Miss America contest, the world’s largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women and one of the nation’s largest achievement programs.

For tickets and more information, visit missflorida.org or our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

ORANGE CUP REGATTA What’s more than 80-years-old and goes over 100 mph?

The Orange Cup Regatta, Polk County’s second oldest sporting event, that’s what.

The regatta – really, it’s a powerboat race – takes to the usual placid waters of Lake Hollingsworth around the first week of March every year. Dubbed “the Lake of Records” by powerboaters, it lived up to its name a few years ago when a boat hit 102.087 mph.

The race serves as the first stop of the powerboat racing season, giving Northern-dwelling owners a chance to get their boat out of mothballs. And it gives fans a chance to ring the lake in their blankets and lawn chairs while working on that early season tan.

The second oldest sporting event held in Polk County – only Spring

Alafia River Rendezvous

Training has been in the area longer – the regatta was cancelled twice for World War II. For more information on the Orange Cup Regatta, visit our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

CITIZENS BANK & TRUST MAYFAIRE-BY-THE-LAKE Held over Mother’s Day Weekend in mid-May, Mayfaire by-thelake is a two day fine arts festival along scenic Lake Morton in downtown Lakeland.

Having grown into one of the largest outdoor art festivals in the state, Mayfair is an area tradition for everyone from the serious art buyer to the casual nosher. Works are on display for both judging and sale, everything from jewelry, drawings, paintings, sculptures and photography. Additionally, there is an entertainment stage and kids area.

Of course, no festival is complete without food, and Mayfaire sports the usual carnival faire, including the always popular elephant ear (or fried dough). Proceeds from the sale of food and drink helps support the Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College, which is open during the festival.

On Saturday night, live music, food vendors and fireworks cap off the evening.

Orange Cup Regatta Visit Central Florida

Vacation Guide

67

2fame Halls of

in one county

Trophy The

Shop

TROPHYSHOPONLINE.COM

Party Rentals Tents Weddings Events 118 Avenue A, SE • Winter Haven, FL 33880

www.partyrentals1.com

863-294-2802

Golf

With more than its share of good golf courses – and quite a few great ones – fantastic golf abounds throughout Central Florida’s Polk County.

Streamsong Resort

H

ome to more than 40 public access courses offering nearly 700 holes of golf, Polk County boasts one of the top golf course collections in the country, making it easy for golfers to find a course that suits their abilities.

With so many course offerings, it is difficult to pick a favorite.

But for distinctive course design, the conversation must begin with Central Florida’s championship golf courses, Streamsong® Resort’s Red, Blue and Black. Built upon reclaimed phosphate mining land, Streamsong Resort’s courses are atypical of most Florida golf courses. Both Streamsong’s Red Course, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, and Blue Course, designed by Tom Doak, utilize natural contours, sand dunes and native grasses to offer a golf experience that is reminiscent of the links-style courses of the British Isles. Meanwhile, the Black Course, designed by Gil Hanse, is a 300 acre, par-73 expanse featuring dramatic, wideopen wavy dunes and hidden greens. All of Streamsong’s Courses trade palm trees, manicured flower beds, beach sand bunkers and house lined fairways for towering sand dunes, native grasses and sweeping vistas. Golf publications world-wide continue to recognize Streamsong as some of the most spectacular golf holes in the Southeastern United States. Golf Magazine ranked both the Red and Blue courses in the top-15 courses you can play for 20162017, while the Black Course was named “2017’s Best New Course” by the same publication.

Not to be forgotten is Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club. This course stretches out to more than 7,200 yards and its demanding

layout features high ornamental grasses and decorative plantings paired with 180 distinctively colored bunkers, providing spectacular visual appeal throughout a round of golf. Southern Dunes challenges golfers with more than 100 feet of elevation change, rolling fairways and large undulating greens that surely impacts not only club selection, but bragging rights at the end of a round.

The Club at Eaglebrooke provides a challenging but fair test for players of all ability levels. Oak trees, lakes and strategically placed mounding define the rolling fairways and frame each hole. Once you reach the fairway a premium is placed on your approach shot as Eaglebrooke features large rolling greens, many of which are wellguarded by bunkers and waste areas.

If you are looking for a historic golf challenge, look no further. For while many Florida golf courses are celebrated for a variety of reasons, in Polk County, that’s history. Dating back to the 1890s, golf courses began to be built for those vacationing in the Florida Sunshine. To help enhance the awareness and increase the appreciation for Florida’s historic golf courses the Florida Department of State has recognized 51 public-access golf courses that were built prior to 1930 to be placed on Florida’s Historic Golf Trail. Polk County is home to four historic courses designated on the list, more than any other Florida county, including Bartow Golf Course (1926), Cleveland Heights Golf Course (1925), Wedgewood Golf Club (1929) and Lekarica Hills Golf Course (1927).

For more information on golf in Central Florida’s Polk Count y, visit visitcentralflorida.org Vacation Guide

69

C

entral Florida is an absolute paradise for avid golfers of any skill level.

Both beautiful and affordable, our public-access courses are seemingly around every corner, offering a low-key way to brush up on your skills or just enjoy 9, 18 or 36 holes with friends before challenging one of the championship-level courses you’ll also find here. There are wide-open links style courses, winding courses featuring plenty of water, sprawling parkland courses and virtually any other style of course you can imagine, some designed by the biggest names in golf. And of course, there are plenty of pro shops where you can pick up a souvenir shirt, or an extra sleeve of balls or two.

We’re Not Your Parent’s Country Club PLAY HERE, EAT HERE, LIVE HERE! We are a golf course community, open 365 days a year. Open to the public with a fullservice restaurant & bar, our clubhouse is one of the largest event venues in the area.

1099 Clubhouse Rd Winter Haven, FL 33884

CypresswoodCC.com Pro Shop 863-324-6174 Restaurant 863-326-9506

70 Vacation Guide

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

•

18

863-533-9183

190 Idlewood Ave.

863-428-1000

Deer Creek RV Golf & Country Club Highlands Reserve Golf Club

Restaurant(s)

$

Lessons

# of Holes

900 Southampton Blvd.

Range

Golf Club Rental

863-666-8442

Public or Semi-Private

Price Range

Golf Courses

P = Public SP = Semi-Private

$ = $5 - $25 $$ = $26 - $50 $$$ = $51 - $100 $$$$ = over $100

SP

•

•

•

$$

• 18 P •

•

•

1000 Streamsong Dr.

$$$$

• 54 P •

•

•

863-424-2839

42749 US Hwy. 27 N.

$

• 18 P •

•

863-420-1724

500 Highlands Reserve Blvd. $$

• 18 P • • 9 P •

AUBURNDALE

The Hamptons Golf Club BARTOW

Bartow Golf Course BOWLING GREEN

Streamsong Resort ®

DAVENPORT/DISNEY AREA

Polo Park East

863-424-0093

525 Polo Park East Blvd. $

Polo Park Golf Course

863-424-3341

1744 Challenger Ave.

$

• 9 SP

Providence Golf & Country Club

863-420-2652

1518 Clubhouse Blvd.

$$

• 18 P •

•

•

Ridgewood Lakes Golf Club & Country Club

863-424-8688

200 Eagle Ridge Dr.

$$

• 18 P •

•

•

863-292-2021

2501 Dundee Rd.

$

• 0 P •

•

863-635-2676

6603 US Hwy. 27 S.

$

• 9 SP

Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club

863-421-4653

2888 Southern Dunes Blvd. $$$

Stonegate Golf Club at Solivita

863-427-7150 ext. 4711

404 Village Dr.

$$

• 36 SP •

•

•

Westgate Grenelefe Golf Course

863-422-7511

3200 SR 546 E.

$

• 36 SP •

•

•

863-692-1514

7510 Red Grange Blvd.

$

• 18 P •

•

•

863-956-4179

1000 Cypress Creek Blvd. $

Highland Florida Golf Club

863-679-9478

1503 Highland Park Dr.

$ 18 P •

•

•

Lake Wales Country Club

863-676-2422

2925 SR 60 E.

$$$ 18 SP •

•

•

Oakwood Golf Club

863-676-8558 ext. 3301

3301 Old Wailes Rd.

$$ 18 P •

•

•

Big Cypress Golf & Country Club

863-859-6871

10000 US Hwy. 98 N.

$$

• 36 SP •

•

•

Cleveland Heights Golf Course

863-834-2377

2900 Buckingham Ave.

$ 27 P •

•

•

Huntington Hills Golf & Country Club

863-859-3689

2626 Duff Rd.

$

• 18 SP •

•

•

Sandpiper Golf & Country Club

863-859-5461

6001 Sandpiper Dr.

$

• 18 P •

Sanlan Golf Course

863-667-1988

2505 Sanlan Golf Dr.

$

• 27 P •

•

Schalamar Creek Golf & Country Club

863-666-1623

4500 Hwy. 92 E.

$

• 18 SP •

•

The Club at Eaglebrooke

863-701-0101

1300 Eaglebrooke Blvd.

$$

• 18 SP •

•

Wedgewood Golf & Country Club

863-858-4451

401 Carpenters Way

$$

• 18 P •

•

YMCA Par 3 – The Home of the 1st Tee of Lakeland

863-577-0236

1740 George Jenkins Blvd. $

• 9 SP •

•

863-425-1153

6 Country Club Ln.

863-692-1321 ext. 41031

30529 River Ranch Blvd. $

• 9 P •

Cypresswood Golf & Country Club

863-324-6174

1099 Clubhouse Rd.

$$

• 18 P •

•

Lake Bess Golf Club

863-326-9171

218 Golf Aire Blvd.

$

• 9 P •

•

Willowbrook Golf Course

863-291-5899

4200 SR 544 E.

$$

• 18 P •

•

DUNDEE

Dundee Road Golf Range FROSTPROOF

Lily Lake Golf Resort HAINES CITY

• 18 P •

INDIAN LAKE

Indian Lake Estates Golf & Country Club LAKE ALFRED

Cypress Greens Golf & Tennis Community

• 9 SP

LAKE WALES

LAKELAND

•

MULBERRY

Imperial Lakes Golf & Country Club

$

• 18 P • •

RIVER RANCH

Westgate River Ranch Resort WINTER HAVEN

• •

Central Florida is your ticket to some of the most amazing, and approachable, sports experiences the Sunshine State has to offer. It’s the home of Minor League Baseball’s Lakeland Flying Tigers, and the heart of the spring training circuit when Major League teams including the Detroit Tigers, Atlanta Braves and New York Yankees compete each year. The Lakeland Magic of the NBA G-League also call our area home.

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium

Spectator Sports

F

rom baseball to basketball, soccer to, well, more soccer – if you are looking for a spectator sport to enjoy, you have plenty to choose from in Central Florida’s Polk County.

BASEBALL Long before two Major League Baseball teams made the Sunshine State their home, baseball found Florida. The Detroit Tigers made Lakeland their Spring Training home more than 80 years ago. Today, Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium is considered the crown jewel in the Spring Training circuit and numerous current and former Tigers players can be found on area golf courses during the off-season.

72 Vacation Guide

Just a short drive away, the NBA’s Orlando Magic, the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning and MLS’s Orlando City Soccer offer professional athletes competing at the highest level of their sports. So take the opportunity to explore the area, take in a few games, feast on stadium food and root, root, root for our home teams.

But baseball season in Lakeland doesn’t end when the Major Leaguers leave town. Home to the Florida State League High-A Lakeland Flying Tigers, an illustrious list of big time talent have started their playing days on this field, including Hall of Fame members Jack Morris and John Smoltz. Justin Verlander, Rick Porcello, Carlos Guillen and others all played as minor leaguers on this field.

Another way to get up close to the stars of tomorrow is to catch a game during the college baseball RussMatt Florida Invitational. Nearly 300 teams from around the nation and at every level of college baseball, from junior college to NAIA and NCAA programs, converge on Central Florida from February to March, making it the largest event of its kind in the nation. It is a great time to catch both future Major League Baseball stars on the field while chatting with former Major League stars – now coaches or even parents – from the stands.

For information on the Major League Detroit Tigers spring training games, visit tigers.com or our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org. For more information on RussMatt, visit either russmatt.com or our website.

BASKETBALL In Central Florida, all the magic isn’t found at the theme parks.

The Lakeland Magic, the National Basketball Association Orlando Magic’s G League team, call Lakeland home court. The G League is the NBA’s developmental league, where the prospects play to become the stars of tomorrow.

Names like Jeremy Lin, Dwayne Bacon, Eric Bledsoe, Rudy Gobert and recent Toronto Raptors hero Fred VanVleet all toiled in the G League, polishing their game to NBA standards. Plus, there is always a chance an NBA star, rehabbing from an injury, might just be on the court.

Playing in the recently renovated RP Funding Center, a Lakeland Magic game gives fans an NBA experience just feet away from the players. And with 25 home games a season – most clustered around the weekends – the games are easy to fit into any schedule.

You can find more information on the Lakeland Magic at lakeland.gleague.nba.com or at our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

SOCCER Once written off as the sport of Europeans, soccer – yes, it is futball everywhere else in the world – continues to expand its base in the United States. According to a recent Gallup

Florida Tropics SC

poll, Major League Soccer, the top domestic league here, has experienced a 27 percent rise in interest since 2012.

Nowhere else is the growth of the sport more evident than in Central Florida’s Polk County, where two professional teams, under the banner of Florida Tropics SC, call the county their home pitch.

Of the two teams, one plays outdoors. The Tropics SC club plays at the UPSL Pro level in Auburndale at the Lake Myrtle Sports Complex. Just this past season the club went 15-0 en route to winning the UPSL National Championship.

The main team, the Florida Tropics SC of the Major Arena Soccer League, plays indoors at the RP Funding Center. Playing a 24-game schedule, all of these Tropics home games are on the weekends.

Games are played on a footprint similar to a hockey rink – and much smaller than the traditional soccer pitch. Game play includes the walls, giving the game more of a pinball feel than the outdoor game. And with only five players a side plus a goalie, it is a faster, offense-oriented league.

For additional information on the Tropics, visit fltropics.com or our website, VisitCentralFlorida.org.

Lakeland Magic

Detroit Tigers Spring Training

Chambers & VISITOR INFORMATION

Auburndale Chamber of Commerce - Auburndale

2701 Lake Myrtle Park Rd., FL 33823 863-967-3400

Bartow Chamber of Commerce - Bartow

510 N. Broadway Ave., FL 33830 863-533-7125

Central Florida Visitor Information Center – Davenport 101 Adventure Court, FL 33837 800-828-7655

Fort Meade Chamber of Commerce Fort Meade 107 W. Broadway St., FL 33841 863-285-8253

Frostproof Chamber of Commerce - Frostproof 11 E. Wall St., FL 33843 863-635-9112

Greater Mulberry Chamber of Commerce - Mulberry 705 N. Church Ave., FL 33860 863-425-4414

Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce - Winter Haven

401 Ave. B N.W., FL 33881 863-293-2138 • 800-828-7655

Lakeland Chamber of Commerce - Lakeland

35 Lake Morton Dr., FL 33802 863-688-8551 x223

Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce & EDC - Lake Wales 340 W. Central Ave., FL 33853 863-676-3445

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Visitor Kiosk - Winter Haven

Located near entrance of attraction ticket gate and LEGOLAND Hotel.

Northeast Polk Chamber of Commerce - Haines City 35610 US-27, FL 33844 863-422-3751

RP Funding Center Visitor Lounge - Lakeland

701 W. Lime St., FL 33815

Transportation

Getting Here

Bartow Executive Airport - Bartow

Lake Wales Municipal Airport - Lake Wales

bartow-airport.com

cityoflakewales.com

5993 Airport Blvd., FL 33830 863-533-1195

Brown’s Seaplane Base - Winter Haven

450 S. Airport Rd., FL 33859 863-678-0080

South Lakeland Airport - Mulberry

Winter Haven Municipal Airport - Winter Haven 2073 US-92, FL 33881 863-298-4551

mywinterhaven.com/airport

2704 US-92, FL 33881 863-956-2243

7500 Coronet Rd., FL 33860 863-701-0000

Orlando International Airport - Orlando

Lakeland Linder International Airport - Lakeland

Westgate River Ranch Resort Airport - River Ranch

orlandoairports.net

lakelandairport.com

WGRiverRanch.com

brownsseaplane.com

3900 Don Emerson Dr., FL 33811 863-834-3298

74 Vacation Guide

southlakelandairpark.com

3200 River Ranch Blvd., FL 33867 863-692-1321

1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd., FL 32827 407-825-2001

Tampa International Airport - Tampa

4100 George J Bean Pkwy., FL 33607 813-870-8700 tampaairport.com

2701 Lake Myrtle Park Rd. Auburndale, FL 33823

Visitor Information Center 101 Adventure Court Davenport, FL 33837 Harborside

VisitCentralFlorida.org

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID LAKELAND, FL PERMIT #1235