Winter Haven Magazine 2024

Winter Haven Magazine

2024

Your family’s choice for care close to home

AdventHealth is honored to be a trusted name in health care for Polk County. With a connected network of hospitals, emergency rooms, outpatient services, and physicians, we’re here with the expertise you want and the whole-person care you deserve, close to home.

AdventHealth Winter Haven ER Coming Soon in Summer 2024*

For more information call or visit: Lake Wales: Heart of Florida: 863-676-1433 863-422-4971 AHLakeWales.com AHHeartofFlorida.com

*AdventHealth Winter Haven ER is a department of AdventHealth Heart of Florida. It is not an urgent care center. Its services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates.

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Need help with childcare expenses?

Affordable childcare and high quality early learning for eligible families.

School Readiness Program Benefits

∙ Affordable, high quality early ∙ Recognize your role as learning services

∙ Prepare your child to start school, ready to learn

∙ Customized assistance with childcare listings

your child’s first teacher

∙ Continue to work or go to school

∙ Opportunity for financial independence

Today’s VPK graduates are tomorrow’s future.

FREE Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) Program for 4-Year-Olds.

Two Options

• 540 hours — full school year program

• 300 hours —

Summer-only program

To register, you will need

• Proof of the child’s age (birth certificate)

• Proof of Florida residency (e.g. utility bill, driver’s license, etc.)

APPLY ONLINE AT ELCPOLK.ORG OR CALL 863-577-2450 Sponsorship by the Early Learning Coalition of Polk County and the State of Florida, Division of Early Learning.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome to Winter Haven . . . . . . . 6 Home to LEGOLAND® . . . . . . . . . 10 Premier Family Destination . . . . . . 12 Things to Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Downtown is Our Stage . . . . . . . . 18 Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Dining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Lakeside Lifestyle . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Great Outdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Relocation Services . . . . . . . . . . 30 Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Business Community . . . . . . . . . . 32 Winter Haven Chamber . . . . . . . . 35 Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Animal Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Health & Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Message From City Hall . . . . . . . . 47

ABOUT THE PUBLISHER This magazine is published by the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, a non-profit focused on improving and preserving Winter Haven’s business climate and quality of life. We are located at 401 Ave B NW in downtown Winter Haven, where we also house the Information Center Presented by Bond Clinic. Stop in to visit us Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., call us at 863-293-2138, find us at winterhavenchamber.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube @winterhavenchamber.

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WELCOME TO

WINTER HAVEN 6

Historically, Winter Haven has been just what the name implies – a respite for those seeking an alternative to the harsh northeast winters. While we continue to welcome winter visitors, Winter Haven has evolved into so much more – a true renaissance city. Our unique ecology and natural 24 canal-connected lakes offer an affordable lakeside lifestyle. As home to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park, Winter Haven has become a premier family-friendly destination. Embracing deep-running Florida roots, our city has a robust collaborative business and entrepreneurial community connected by a vibrant downtown. Winter Haven is the destination to live, work, eat, play, stay, and start your business.

With a population of 55,764 within the City of Winter Haven limits and equally as many residents in our unincorporated area, Winter Haven continues to rank as one of the fastest growing locales in the country. Growth, however, is not the only thing going for this community. Our award-winning focus on maintaining the quality of life, healthy lifestyles, and restoring our historic Downtown is a huge priority.

In fact, in the fall of 2019, Downtown Winter Haven was named the #1 Great Place in Florida by the American Planning Association. Additionally, the Lakeland - Winter Haven MSA is currently the fastest growing area in the state with a 4.27% increase in population last year. This is more than double the state’s 1.91% population growth.

Winter Haven is located at the center of Florida’s I-4 cooridor. This area spans from Tampa to Daytona generating $300 billion per year in economic activity, making it the 9th largest economy in the United States.

Winter Haven is directly between two metropolitan areas – Tampa and Orlando – and offers a short drive to either city’s amenities. Winter Haven offers a lower cost of living, less traffic, and a more cohesive community. Not a bedroom community by any means, we have economic opportunity built on small businesses, entrepreneurs, and large industry.

Florida is known as the Sunshine State, and Winter Haven is no exception. We experience a mild climate, blue skies, sunshine, and light breezes for the vast majority of the year.

Our location and weather are two of the most referenced reasons a business or resident relocated to our community.

IT’S ALL ABOUT

LOCATION 7

and are leased to and beautifully maintained by LEGOLAND®.

VISIT THE MUSEUM OF WINTER HAVEN HISTORY

HISTORY OF WINTER HAVEN Winter Havenites are incredibly proud of their rich agricultural and entrepreneurial history. Early residents dubbed the city the “City of 100 Lakes.” Realistically, we don’t have 100 lakes, but how could they have known without the ease of drone technology?

The first settlers arrived in Winter Haven in the 1860s. By 1885, the village was named by P.D. Eychleshimer. While many families lived in the vicinity - such as the Eycleshimers, Sykes, Jacksons, and Inmans - the first official residents of the village were F.A.K Harris and his wife Adele, who built the first commercial and residential structure downtown in 1885.

today to see the historical markers.

In 1936, a gregarious promoter named Dick Pope Sr. ushered in a new era of Florida tourism when he opened Cypress Gardens Botanical Gardens on Lake Eloise.

Pope brought intense publicity to Florida, Winter Haven, and his beloved park. He also cemented Winter Haven as the ‘water ski capital of the world’ when he introduced the ski shows as a main attraction at the park.

Cypress Gardens closed in 2009. The closure was short-lived when in October of 2011, Merlin Entertainments Group opened LEGOLAND® Florida Resort on the historic site. The Cypress Gardens botanical gardens remain today

Our famous chain of canalconnected lakes began construction in 1915 and completed in the early 1920s for recreation and to transport citrus crops. Citrus and other crops were the early economic mainstays.

Along with the Chain of Lakes, the 1920’s boom brought rapid growth throughout Florida.

In 1930, a 22-year-old George Jenkins opened the first Publix Food Store on 4th St. NW, followed by his “dream store” for Publix Super Markets on Central Avenue in 1940. You can visit these sites

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Winter Haven has a rich and captivating history, and the museum captures it’s highlights.

Learn about the origins of the chain of canal-connected lakes, explore Winter Haven’s citrus-based heritage, enjoy our tourism history from Florida’s first theme park “Cypress Gardens” to its renaissance as LEGOLAND Florida Resort®, and celebrate our distinction as the birthplace of Publix Supermarkets.

The museum is located in the historic Woman’s Club building on Pope Avenue at Lake Howard Drive. It is free to the public and anyone is invited to come explore.

Check their Facebook page for current hours of operation.

Tours for four or more people are available by appointment. Club and organization presentations are encouraged. Learn more by calling (863) 206-6855.

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HOME TO

LEGOLAND

®

Central Florida is a destination for families to experience the thrills and laughs of America’s most beloved theme parks, including one right here in Winter Haven! We are home to the most awesome theme park built just for kids – LEGOLAND® Florida Resort.

much more. If your children are a little older, they will love wandering through Miniland USA, where they will see LEGO® replicas of famous skylines and historical landmarks.

A trip to LEGOLAND® is guaranteed to be saturated with interactive experiences like nowhere else! With over 50 rides, a water park, interactive attractions, restaurants, and shops, all inspired by the popular LEGO® brand and characters, LEGOLAND® is tailormade for families with children ages 2 – 12.

Do they want a wilder adventure? Take them on one of the many “white knuckle” rides in the park, like NINJAGO®, where they can battle against the enemy and sharpen their ninja skills. They can also jump onto The Great LEGO® Race, a combination of virtual reality and LEGO® figures that gives riders a 360-degree view to enhance their coaster experience.

As Duplo Valley opens up to LEGO® figures and endless color, you can take your child into LEGOLAND’s® Florida Prepaid Schoolhouse. Inside the Schoolhouse doors are play structures, an interactive learning pad, LEGOLAND® building blocks, and so

In 2023, LEGOLAND® unveiled its newest attraction, Pirate River Quest. While it pays homage to the historical Cypress Gardens Canal Boat Ride, it is a completely authentic and reinvented ride for families to enjoy! Take to the lakes in the most LEGO® way

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hotels, LEGOLAND® offers ample opportunities for families to play and stay the LEGOLAND® way.

For its 10th anniversary, the park had a grand opening for The LEGOLAND® Story. “Here, LEGO® and LEGOLAND® history come to life with colorful, photo-worthy displays, an interactive mini-figure trading wall, and even an original ride vehicle from Cypress Gardens’ Triple Hurricane roller coaster. It also gives you the opportunity to build right next to LEGOLAND®’s own Master Builders,” said LEGOLAND® Managing Director, North America LEGOLAND Resorts, Rex Jackson of the new attraction which also features the LEGOLAND® Coffee Company.

LEGOLAND Florida® also announced two new attractions, LEGO® Ferrari Build & Race and SEA LIFE Florida Resort, making their way to the park in 2024.

LEGO® Ferrari will drive onto the scene in the spring with a one-of-a-kind build and race experience.

SEA LIFE Florida Resort will open in fall of 2024, giving visitors an immersive adventure under the sea.

Suffice to say, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is a perfect place to make the hub for your Central Florida vacation.

PEPPA PIG THEME PARK In 2022, Peppa Pig Theme Park opened it’s doors to little piggies around the world with a lineup of 12 new attractions and six new rides for the whole family. Kiddos can meet Peppa and her friends for a fairground adventure with free games for the family at Fun Fair or get (not so) messy at Muddy Puddles Splash Pad. Peppa pals can join Daddy Pig in his newly cleaned red car while watching out for Mr. Bull digging up the road on Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster and so much more!

as riders set sail on an adventurous treasure hunt to discover the Chain of Lakes.

For a more relaxing pace, LEGOLAND® also offers guests a beautiful glance into the park’s history as Florida’s first theme park when guests meander through the Cypress Gardens botanical gardens.

LEGOLAND® isn’t just a one-day adventure. This Florida amusement park is a place to put the family in ‘park’ and stay awhile. On the shores of Lake Dexter is the LEGOLAND® Beach Retreat, a bungalowstyle villa with all of the amenities of a built-for-kids accommodation. The LEGOLAND® hotel sits next to the park gates, giving guests convenient park access, as well as a kid-friendly hotel experience with LEGO® themed rooms just for them. The Pirate Island Hotel is open adjacent to the LEGOLAND® Hotel, which gives guests a fully themed pirate adventure. With three

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BOK TOWER GARDENS

Soaring 205 feet above the hillside, Bok Tower is the exquisite centerpiece that makes Bok Tower Gardens a majestic and soulnourishing paradise. The marble and coquina rock tower is home to a 60-bell carillon and surrounded by more than 700 acres of groves, flowers, meadows, endangered plants and protected lands.

Opening in 1929 as a gift to the American people from the Dutch immigrant Edward Bok, the tower still rings out every half hour and at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., when a carillonneur plays a concert of various musical selections. Bok Tower Gardens also includes a children’s garden and play area, an outdoor kitchen with an edible garden and paved paths for easier access for all visitors. They host hundreds of special events throughout the year, including Sunset and Symphony, Rootstock and Christmas at Pinewood. Pack a picnic or buy lunch at their delicious café on site. Dogs are now welcome to come into the gardens for an additional fee.

AVIATION

People don’t just flock to Winter Haven to dive into the lakes, they also come to fly high above them.

Winter Haven is internationally recognized for seaplane training, driven primarily through Jack Brown’s Seaplane Base at the Winter Haven Regional Airport.

training school. Students can recieve their pilot’s license in as little as six and a half months.

In 2024, just 30 minutes from Winter Haven, the Lakeland Linder International Airport will be offering flights with Avelo Airlines. This is a cost efficient airline, as well as a convenient way of travel for many people in Polk County and beyond.

Also located in Lakeland, Aerospace Center for Excellence hosts the world’s largest aviation conference, SUN ‘n FUN, where the community is invited to learn more about aviation, see planes up close and watch several air shows, including the Thunder Birds, appearances from war planes and more. 2024 will be the 50th anniversary of SUN ‘n FUN and will see over 200,000 people from all over the world in only six days. ACE not only presents SUN ‘n FUN, but has a long list of programming to encourage students to explore the aviation industry as a whole.

With flawless flying weather, 55 accessible lakes, and a regional airport, Winter Haven has all the essential amenities for pilots to travel to our city from all over the world.

Since its start in 1963, Jack Brown’s has trained over 25,000 pilots from all over the world. Because of the abundance of lakes and beautiful views, Winter Haven is a soughtafter location for seaplane and biplane training. The airport is also centrally located, making it a convenient place for pilots to land and refuel. In the coming years, the Winter Haven Airport will be home to the first fully remote air traffic control tower in the United States.

Also located at the Winter Haven Airport is Blue Line Aviation, an accelerated career pilot flight

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PROFESSIONAL &

PREMIER FAMILY

DESTINATION

AMATEUR SPORTS

Polk County is home to the AdventHealth Fieldhouse and Conference Center at Chain of Lakes Park. The fieldhouse includes six basketball courts, which can be converted into 12 volleyball courts or courts for wrestling, cheer and dance competitions, business expos, concerts or large banquets.

The facility also includes meeting rooms, a fitness facility, an indoor running track and upgrades to the existing Theatre Winter Haven and Ridge Art Association Gallery.

Just a few minutes away from the fieldhouse is Polk State College.

While Polk State College has an incredible basketball team, they also host an annual summer camp with Head Coach, Brandon Giles.

This is a great way for little ones to sharpen their skills on the court!

Everyone loves a little home team pride, right? In 2024, Winter Haven High School ranked number four in the state of top Florida boys basketball rankings.

In addition to basketball, Polk County has a long history of professional baseball. Lakeland is home to one of the longest standing relationships having hosted the Detroit Tigers spring training for over 88 years.

The Detroit Tigers sister team, The Lakeland Flying Tigers, also provides great baseball entertainment during the season at Joker Marchant Stadium.

Winter Haven has a very strong youth soccer association, baseball league, football league, swim team, and softball league. For

children with adaptive needs, the Special Olympics of Polk County offers a wide variety of sports activities and competitions.

SPLASHY ATTRACTIONS

Winter Haven has long been known as the water ski capital of the world. From the original water skiers at Cypress Gardens theme park to the numerous wakeboarding, flyboarding, and wake surfing instructors in the area, our community’s water sports legacy continues. On the third Saturday of every month, guests can watch that legacy up close nad personal as the Cypress Gardens Water Ski team shows off their skills on Lake Silver.

While in town, rent a boat at Marine Supply or take a guided tour of the Chain of Lakes with Living Water Boat Cruises. For those looking to burn a few calories while exploring, check out Paddleboard Winter Haven for an up-close look at the lakes. No boat? No problem. Polk County’s first water sports cable park is located in the neighboring city of Auburndale.

While you are there, you can also visit the Polk County Sports Hall of Fame.

BACK TO NATURE

Beyond the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, Winter Haven’s natural beauty and appeal can’t be understated. Protected trails and parks are located in every direction, allowing for opportunities to learn, explore, have a picnic, or even camp! Visit Circle B Bar Reserve for the chance to see bald eagles, hundreds of gators, turtles, birds, rabbits, and much more!

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Circle B is also home to the Nature Discovery Center, where families can learn about the animal and plant species indigenous to our part of Florida. Polk County also boasts an extensive trail network for hiking and biking.

THINGS TO DO

Art & Theatre

Polk Museum of Art (863) 688-7743 polkmuseumofart.org Ridge Art Association, Inc. (863) 291-5661 ridgeart.org

Fantasy of Flight (Seasonal) (863) 984-3500 fantasyofflight.com Florida Children’s Museum (863) 687-3869 explorefcm.org/

The Historic Ritz Theatre (863) 937-1414 ritzwinterhaven.com/

Incredibowl Entertainment (863) 294-3295 incredibowlentertainment.com/ winter-haven/

Theatre Winter Haven (863) 294-7469 theatrewinterhaven.com

LEGOLAND Florida Resort (877) 350-5346 legoland.com/florida/

Attractions

Peppa Pig Theme Park (888) 690-5346 peppapigthemepark.com/florida

Aerospace Center for Excellence/ SUN ‘n FUN (863) 644-2431 aceedu.org Bok Tower Gardens (863) 676-1408 boktowergardens.org Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (813) 884-4FUN buschgardens.com/tampa Circle B Bar Reserve (863) 668-4673 polknature.com/explore/circle-bbar-reserve Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team 863-557-3770 cypressgardensskiteam.com/

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Seaworld Orlando (407) 545-5550 seaworld.com/orlando Universal Orlando Resort (407) 363-8000 universalorlando.com Walt Disney World Resort (407) 939-2273 disneyworld.com Water Ski Hall of Fame (863) 324-2472 usa-wwf.org Winter Haven Farmers Market (863) 845-3155 winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

Winter Haven Food Tours, LLC (863) 288-0038 winterhavenfoodtours.com Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park (813) 935-8552 zootampa.org

Fitness & Health

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Winter Haven (863) 247-8002 graciewinterhaven.com Just Move Fitness (863) 291-4653 justmovewinterhaven.com Laws of Fitness Downtown (863) 875-3254 LawsofFitness.net The Balance Culture Winter Haven (863) 323-0831 thebalanceculture.com

Willowbrook Golf Course (863) 291-5899 willowbrook-golf.com/

Water Sport Rentals & Tours

Freedom Boat Club (863) 604-4935 info.freedomboatclub.com/dp/ winterhaven Living Water Boat Cruises (863) 268-0577 livingwatercruises.com Marine Supply Boat Rentals and Sales (863) 293-1156 marinesupplyboats.com Paddleboard Winter Haven (863) 845-5307 paddleboardwinterhaven.com

Golf

Country Club of Winter Haven (863) 324-6666 ccofwinterhaven.com Cypresswood Golf & Country Club (863) 324-6174 cypresswoodcc.com Streamsong Golf Resort (855) 549-8586 streamsongresort.com

Pennoni takes pride in serving Winter Haven for its engineering and surveying needs

PARTNERS FOR WHAT’S POSSIBLE www.pennoni.com | 15

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iTrip Vacations of Central Florida (813) 803-5633 floridalakes.itrip.com Balmoral Resort Florida (866) 584-5527 feltrimresorts.com/balmoral-resort

Hotels

Best Western Plus (863) 268-8001 bestwestern.com/ pluswinterhaveninnandsuites Courtyard by Marriott Winter Haven (863) 292-3000 marriott.com/hotels/travel/mcocwcourtyard-winter-haven/ Hampton Inn (863) 299-9251 hilton.com/en/hotels/whvflhx-hamptonwinter-haven/ Holiday Inn Express Lake Wales N Winter Haven (863) 949-4800 hiexlakewales.com Holiday Inn of Winter Haven (863) 292-2100 holidayinn.com/winterhavenfl Lake Roy Beach Inn & Suites (863) 324-6320 lakeroybeachinn.com

LEGOLAND® Beach Retreat (877) 350-5346 legoland.com/florida/places-to-stay/ beach-retreat/ LEGOLAND® Hotel (877) 350-5346 legoland.com/florida/places-to-stay/ legoland-hotel/ LEGOLAND® Pirate Island Hotel (877) 350-5346 legoland.com/florida/places-to-stay/ pirate-island-hotel/ Springhill Suites by Marriott (863) 413-1700 marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpaslspringhill-suites-lakeland/ Staybridge Suites Winter Haven Auburndale (863) 229-5145 staybridge.com/wnterhavenfl Streamsong Golf Resort (855) 549-8586 streamsongresort.com

RV Parks & Campgrounds Cypress Campground & RV Park (863) 324-7400

cypresscampground.com Royal Oaks Mobile Home & Travel Resort (863) 439-5954 royaloaksmhp.com The Outpost RV Resort & Tiny Home Community (863) 289-0104 theoutpostresort.com

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ACCOMODATIONS

Homestay Vacation Rentals

DOWNTOWN IS OUR STAGE Quality of life is essential. We know you want opportunities to live more, drive less, and make memories. Look no further than Winter Haven. We have the smalltown heart you’re looking for with big-city amenities. Our downtown core, named the #1 Great Place in Florida 2019 by the American Planning Association of Florida, is walkable, has over 15 different dining options, a weekly farmers market, numerous destinations for live music, locally brewed beer, professional water ski shows, plentiful parks and recreational activities and local coffee shops.

Oh, did we mention our downtown is sandwiched between two popular lakes, one of which has a dock for your boat or seaplane?

Yeah, we’re that cool.

Memories are not only created in the outdoors of our walkable downtown. We are also a place of varied arts and cultural experiences from locally-owned artisan restaurants, retail, a restored downtown business district, and the revival of locallygrown music at Gram Parson’s Derry Down and the historic Ritz Theatre. And we can’t forget Florida’s best community theater, Theatre Winter Haven.

Small businesses are the foundation of the Winter Haven economy and are a significant presence in the downtown core.

Our lovely downtown boasts endless shopping opportunities, including antique shops, clothing stores, as well as niche markets such as Carlton Music Center, Andy Thornal Company (Outdoor, Clothing, Skiing, etc.), and so much more.

We use the phrase “Downtown is Our Stage” because it truly is a platform for our community to celebrate our culture, heritage, and ingenuity. Keep reading to learn why Downtown is our stage for music, art, local favorites, events, and so much more!

FOR LOCAL FAVORITES

One of the best ways to visit a community is to hang out where the locals do. Downtown is the heart of the Winter Haven community. It is our stage for delicious food, fantastic music, innovative businesses, unique shopping, recreation, local

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favorites, culture, and arts. Some residents joke that it is our very own “Epcot World Showcase” in terms of dining options. Winter Haven has a little bit of everything from Italian cuisine, southern BBQ, locallyowned coffee shops, Thai food, sushi, Japanese-inspired menus, American favorites, Mexican, bakeries, healthy smoothies, and much more.

Aptly described as Winter Haven’s backyard party, Grove Roots Brewing Co. is Winter Haven’s first and only craft brewery. Grove Roots’ theme pays homage to our history rooted in the citrus industry but with a modern twist. Whether you are a craft beer aficionado or someone that just likes live music, delectable food trucks, trivia nights, craft business markets, and

a safe space for family members of all ages to enjoy – Grove Roots is a great stop on your visit to our community. Don’t forget to stop by our other local watering holes, including local, but out of this world wine bar, Obscure Wine, and a destination to listen to live music and have great drinks at The Social Cocktail Lounge or Union Taproom.

FOR ART

One of the highlights of a trip downtown is the modern murals peeking through the alleyways and sides of buildings. Some of these are from local artists, and others were commissioned by internationally recognized artists.

They are not your grandmother’s murals! Our downtown canvas is a favorite for family and

engagement photo sessions.

The City of Winter Haven’s Culture Art Advisory committee commissioned local artists to paint all the electrical boxes in downtown Winter Haven. Ridge Art Association and the Polk Museum of Art are also great spots for those who prefer indoor artistic experiences.

Our community theatre, Theatre Winter Haven, is Florida’s most award-winning community theatre and continues to enrich the lives of residents and visitors with its talented actors, experienced staff, and exceptional productions.

Annually, they transport you to the streets of Broadway with musicals, plays, and special performances.

They also offer programming that includes a 55+ acting troupe,

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a children’s theatre academy, dance classes, a community choir, and a community band! In 2023, they opened the Normal & Linda Small Stage, an additional stage for 199 seats.

The Historic Ritz Theatre brings additional entertainment downtown with live shows, movie and cocktail nights, and more throughout the year. Polk State College also stages many excellent performances and music productions, along with studentcreated visual arts showcased throughout the year. They will be opening their newly renovated theatre on the Winter Haven campus in fall 2024.

FOR EVENTS

Downtown Winter Haven is the perfect destination for events with three main parks, Virginia Miller, Central and South Central. While all three parks are fantastic spots for events, South Central is the newest addition. South Central Park is located between 5th Street SW and 4th Street SW, with a grassy area surrounded by beautiful brick pavers, swinging benches, nighttime lighting features, and ample parking. An interactive information kiosk located in the park assists guests in enjoying our walkable downtown. Our events, festivals, art show, farmer’s markets, and family events have dramatically enhanced with this new park!

Main Street Winter Haven presents many of our downtown events such as Oktoberfest, Ladies Night, Craft Beer Crawl, Starlight Nights, Wine, Chocolate & Cheese, and Carols in the Park. Annually, the Chamber of Commerce presents CommunityFest and Taste of Winter Haven. CommunityFest is a FREE family festival with games, food, and entertainment. Taste of Winter Haven is an evening event that allows guests to taste the local fare and craft beer and wine.

Winter Haven is truly a center for community events, thriving fine arts, and diverse culture.

New in 2024 is First Friday. First Friday was created by Destroyer Media & Marketing as a way for the community to support local businesses and experience our authentic downtown every first Friday of the month from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

FOR LIVING MORE, DRIVING LESS

Walkability is a crucial component to a successful downtown.

Walkability from your door to your business, your door to your dinner, and your door to your entertainment is even better.

Downtown developers are

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focusing on creating a livework-play community. Over the past 5 years, over 150 residential units have been added to the downtown core, including over 100 units at RainDance that opened in Spring 2023. 400 additional units are planned for development over the next 5 years. In addition to new construction, developers are focusing on revitalizing the surrounding downtown neighborhoods, including the Downtown Lake Howard Oaks District and the Lake Martha Neighborhood. Entrepreneurs are bolstering livability by opening a 24-hour gym, women’s fitness studio, and coffee shops. For entrepreneurs who work remotely, memberships to The Lodge, a coworking space, are available.

The City of Winter Haven has made sizeable investments in the downtown core, including rails-to-trails bike and running paths, sidewalk cafes on Central Avenue, the Winter Haven Tennis Center and renovated Senior Recreation Center. A skate park and new amphitheater on Lake Silver, and additional renovations to the Martin Luther King Jr. Park on the shores of Lake Silver. Not to mention the new dog park and the revitalization of Joyce B. Davis Park.

Featured at the heart of downtown will be Bowen Yard, a new food hall that will feature delicious new restaurants set to open in 2024.

again giving young musicians an opportunity to hone their craft. Many of our downtown restaurants and bars also host live music nightly and host special musical concerts and festivals. No matter where you choose to be exposed to music, arts, and culture, Winter Haven has many venues from which to choose.

Downtown businesses that routinely host live music:

• Fire Restaurant • Gram Parsons Derry Down • Grove Roots Brewing Co. • Harborside • Haven Coffee Roasters • Honeycomb Bread Bakers • The Social Cocktail Lounge • Union Taproom • Tanner’s Lakeside • Winter Haven Farmers Market

The Lake Howard Dock, just one block from the downtown core, features boat slips, floating docks suitable for seaplane docking, a fishing pier, and relaxing benches.

FOR MUSIC

Winter Haven’s musical history boasts hometown artists like Jim Stafford and Gram Parsons, and its present-day also includes young artists making their mark.

From open mic nights to concerts, Gram Parson’s Derry Down gives everyone a chance to be a part of Winter Haven’s musical soul.

Once a teen nightclub in the 1960s, this restored venue is once

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SHOPPING THE FLORIDA ROOM WINTER HAVEN PICTURED BELOW

Beauty

Cutting Edge Hair Salon (863) 299-6537 facebook.com/hairsalon. cuttingedge Florida Dermatology & Skin Cancer Centers (863) 293-2147 fldscc.com JP’s Body Rejuvenation Spa LLC (863) 258-6145 jpsbodyrejuvenation.com KayMae Salon & Spa (863) 956-7070 kaymae-salon-spa.business.site/ Lisa Cleaves Therapeutic Skin Care (863) 307-0664 lisacleaves.com Skinfinity Tattoo Company, Inc (863) 401-8288 skinfinitytattoocompany.com

Water Towers Farmers Market (855) 631-3276 watertowerfarmersmarket.com/ Zocalo Fish Market & Grill (863) 353-2220 zocalofishmarket.com

Marine

Marine Supply Boat Rentals and Sales (863) 293-1156 marinesupplyboats.com Salt Strong, LLC (855) 888-6494 saltstrong.com/

Retail

Amy’s Gifts and Party Planning (863) 875-1500 shop.amyspartystore.com/ Andy Thornal Co (863) 299-9999 andythornal.com

Spa Haven (863) 514-0667 www.spa-haven.com

Apricot Lane Boutique (863) 207-2350 apricotlaneboutique.com/store/ winterhaven/

Talk of the Town Nails & Co (863) 294-4666 facebook.com/profile. php?id=100051290901113

Badcock Home Furniture & More of Winter Haven (863) 294-7749 badcock.com

Wax Haven LLC (863) 280-3939 thewaxhaven.com

Bellies-2-Babies LLC (863) 662-5034 bellies-2-babies.com

Grocery

Carlton Music Center (863) 294-4216 carltonmusic.com

ARKH Liquor #2 (863) 292-0401 facebook.com/Arkhliquor2/ Publix Super Market at Southeast Plaza Shopping Center (863) 291-0312 publix.com/locations/1204-southeastplaza-shopping-center Publix Super Market at Winter Haven Square (863) 324-1182 publix.com/locations/488-winterhaven-square Publix Super Market at Northgate (863) 299-8000 publix.com/locations/836-publix-atnorthgate

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Davidson of Dundee (863) 439-1698 davidsonofdundee.com Eagle Ridge Mall (863) 676-2300 lweagleridgemall.com Four Purls Yarn Shop (863) 662-8288 fourpurls.com/ Friends of the Winter Haven Public Library, Inc (863) 292-0540 fol.mywinterhaven.com/

George L. Tyler Office Supply (863) 686-1799 gltoffice.com

The Bike Shop of Winter Haven (863) 299-9907 bikeshopwh.com

Golden Petal Designs 863-293-1900 goldenpetaldesigns.com

The Florida Room of Winter Haven (863) 326-3573 thefloridaroomwh.com/

Griner’s Jewelers, Inc (863) 293-0151 grinersjewelers.com

The Treasured Olive (863) 294-6457 thetreasuredolive.com

Haven Local Shop (813) 943-2922 facebook.com/HavenLocalShop/

The Village Sampler (863) 875-5150 facebook.com/TheVillageSampler/

Quality Uniform Solutions (863) 709-6468 Qualityuniformsolutions.com

Top Buttons (863) 220-2464 topbuttons.org

Seven Anchors (863) 333-9651 facebook.com/p/Seven-AnchorsCo-100085401649939/

Water Tower Farmers Market (855) 631-3276 watertowerfarmersmarket.com

Staples, Inc. (863) 401-9661 staples.com Ten-86 Outfitters ten86outfitters.com

Winter Haven Apparel winnerhaven.com Winter Haven Farmers Market (863) 288-0038 winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

Automotive

Bartow Ford (800) 533-0425 bartowford.com Chevrolet Center (863) 294-7371 chevroletcenter.com Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram FIAT of Winter Haven (863) 299-1243 dodgeofwinterhaven.net/ Dyer Kia (863) 430-3846 dyerkialakewales.com Hill Nissan (863) 299-2161 hillnissan.com Jarrett Gordon Ford Lincoln of Winter Haven (863) 294-3571 jarrettgordonfordwinterhaven.com Red Hoagland Hyundai, Inc. (863) 377-6999 redhoagland.com Winter Haven Honda 863-508-2400 winterhavenhonda.com

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Adler’s (863) 875-6615 adlersburgers.com/

Glory Days Grill (863) 496-6122 glorydaysgrill.com

Longhorn Steakhouse (863) 295-7740 longhornsteakhouse.com

Agape Agora (863) 370-7037 agapeagora.com

Gourmet Goodies Bake Shop (863) 318-1400 ggcupcake.com

Arabellas Ristorante (863) 293-1797 arabellas.us

Grove Roots Brewing Company LLC (863) 291-0700 groveroots.com

Louise’s Cafe (863) 875-5590 facebook.com/ LouiseCafeWinterHaven/

Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub (863) 293-9464 beefobradys.com Cam’s Catering Company, Inc. (863) 298-8062 camscatering.com Carrabba’s Italian Grill (863) 293-6635 carrabbas.com Chick-fil-A (863) 299-2697 chick-fil-a.com/winterhaven Culver’s (863) 268-2831 culversmenu.com Cuppa Eden (863) 875-3336 facebook.com/CuppaEden Delectable Delights (863) 268-4105 instagram.com/ delectabledelights_winterhaven/ Duke’s Brewhouse Winter Haven, Inc. (863) 500-7200 dukesbrewhouse.com Dunkin Donuts & Baskin Robbins of Winter Haven (863) 297-9100 facebook.com/

Low and Slow Smokehouse (919) 578-6479 lowandslowsmokehouse.com/

Harborside (863) 293-7070 harborsidefl.com

Lucille’s American Cafe (863) 875-5005 lucillescafe.com

Haven Coffee Roasters (863) 251-9619 havencoffeeroaster.com

McDonald’s (863) 293-1445 mcdonalds.com

Honeycomb Bread Bakers (863) 662-5513 honeycombbread.com/

Mediterranean Fresh Grill, Inc. (833) 633-4745 mediterraneanfreshgrill.com

Hotshots Downtown Sports Bar & Grill (863) 268-4247 hotshotsnet.com/

Mr. Chillz Philly Water Ice, LLC (215) 966-9086 mrchillz215.com

InnerG Cafe (689) 253-7315 innergcafe.com

Obscure Wine Company (863) 268-6555 obscurewine.com Old Man Frank’s (863) 294-9179 oldmanfranks.com

Jazzy’s Diner (863) 656-2449 jazzysdiner.com Jimmy Johns Winter Haven, Store #4363 (863) 888-3500 jimmyjohns.com/ Kairos Nutrition (352) 988-3161 facebook.com/kairos.nutrition24 Kick Yo Butt BBQ (863) 595-6633 brackshack.com/

Elite Catering Company 1 (866) 606-0314 elitecateringcompanyllc.com

Lake Wales Dairy Queen (863) 949-4816 lakewalesdq.com/

Fire Restaurant (863) 875-5544 thefirerestaurant.com

Lola’s X-streem Ice Kreme (863) 268-2335 facebook.com/p/LoLas-XstreemIce-Kreme-100068655625110/

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Our Noire Kitchen LLC 786-282-7296 linktr.ee/OurNoireKitchen Ovation Bistro & Bar (863) 656-1972 ovationbistro.com Pelican’s Snoballs (863) 875-7408 pelicanssnoballs.com Richard’s Fine Coffees (863) 291-3082 richardsfinecoffees.com San Diego’s Mexican Grill (863) 268-6515 sandiegomexicangrille.com/

Smokin Jim’s Barbeque (863) 965-0230 smokinjimsbarbecue.com/ SoCe Market (315) 323-3852 facebook.com/SoCeMarket/

Zaxbys (863) 299-7200 zaxbys.com Zaxbys Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 875-9499 zaxbys.com Zocalo Fish Market & Grill (863) 353-2220 zocalofishmarket.com

Southside Package & Lounge, Inc. (863) 683-4703 facebook.com/pages/SouthsideBar/ Sweet Indulgence Cookies & Treats (863) 207-2977 facebook.com/ SIcookiesandtreats/ Tanners Lakeside Restaurant & Bar (863) 662-5948 tannerslakeside.com TLC Catering (863) 533-6483 terrielobbcatering.com The Catering Co. of Central Florida (863) 207-7057 thecateringcompanyofcentralfl. com/ The Crooked Bass Grill & Tavern (863) 589-5887 crookedbass.com The Krazy Greek (863) 875-2753 thekrazygreek.com/ The Social Cocktail Lounge (863) 229-7453 facebook.com/thesocialwh/ Tinsley Family Concessions, Inc (863) 299-7177 tfcfamily.com Tsukiyomi Sushi Bar & Grill (863) 293-2395 tsukiyomisushi.com/home.html Union Taproom, LLC (863) 268-4921 uniontaproomWH.com

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DINING

Schack’s Bar-B-Q (863) 324-1537 facebook.com/profile. php?id=100069975677452

Being lakeside is not just a location – it’s a lifestyle here in Winter Haven. With 24 canal-connected lakes, 55 lakes that touch the City of Winter Haven borders, and 554 lakes in Polk County, there is pretty much a lake everywhere you look.

You can travel from one side of Winter Haven to the other without ever leaving your boat. Canal connectivity means countless hours of water skiing, boating, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, tubing, flyboarding, and wakeboarding.

skiers. Today, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort carries on that tradition with several LEGO® themed shows per day on Lake Eloise.

Since 1922, water skiers have been leaving their mark on Winter Haven history for all to see. In 1936, when Dick Pope opened Cypress Gardens theme park, one of the main attractions was the show

In 2022, Winter Haven was home to the International Water Ski Show Tournament, where Team USA took home the win. Teams, athletes and spectators came from all over the world to stay and compete in

In 2012, Mark Voisard, a former show skier for Cypress Gardens, started the Cypress Gardens Water Ski team to help carry on Winter Haven’s legacy of the sport. Today, this troupe of athletes performs a free show every third Saturday on Lake Silver in downtown Winter Haven.

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Winter Haven.

If you want to slow down from the fast-paced water recreation, you can take peaceful tours of the lakes with Living Water Boat Cruises. Rue and Sharlene Denton have endless knowledge about the history, wildlife, and plant life that inhabit our lakes. They offer various tour options that are perfect for visitors and residents. You can also rent a boat from Marine Supply of Winter Haven on Lake May. The lakeside lifestyle doesn’t stop at water recreation. Winter Haven offers several waterfront restaurants with seamless views of our beautiful orange, purple, and red sunset skies. We have 91 miles of shoreline in Winter Haven, some

LAKESIDE

LIFESTYLE

developed as residential living and commercial properties, with plenty of public spaces on the lakes too.

The Lake Howard Walking Trail starts on West Central Avenue and Lake Howard Drive and goes to Avenue G NW and Lake Howard Drive. Whether you want to take a stroll, train for a 5K, or hop on your bike, this is a great trail to add to your route. Lakes Cannon, Shipp, Hartridge, and Maude all have parks on them, and some also have playgrounds.

Many neighborhoods also have private or public boat ramps for residents who don’t live directly on the lakes. There are 1,400 lakefront parcels to choose from in our community! It truly is an inland coastal playground. Whether you

For the ultimate lakeside lifestyle at home, check with our local realtors for the latest listings.

Lakeside homes can range from the mid-100’s to over $1 million, depending on location and size.

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decide to dive right into the water or relax on the shores, it’s not hard to dip into the lakeside lifestyle in Winter Haven.

THE GREAT

OUTDOORS Whether you are a resident or visitor, Winter Haven provides everyone with a chance to experience the great outdoors.

Our city offers more than 13 miles of trails, as well as numerous parks for your children to get out and get active. Here is a list of local trails and parks where you and your family can experience our beautiful, sunny weather and clear skies.

TRAILS

If a leisurely stroll is more your pace, Winter Haven has plenty of trails for you. Winter Haven was recently recognized as a Trail Town City by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Greenways and Trails. It is currenlty one of only 13 cities with this designation.

CENTRAL PARK

Central Park is at the heart of our downtown core. You can enjoy strolling alongside our downtown businesses with views of handpainted electrical boxes, murals and a beautiful fountain.

CHAIN OF LAKES DOWNTOWN TRAILHEAD PARK For kids, this park is double the fun!

It has a large playground and a splash pad. Kids can enjoy running off energy on the playground and head over to the splash pad to cool off. There are also covered picnic areas for families to enjoy!

KIWANIS PARK

Nestled along the banks of Lake Martha, this park houses two playgrounds, lakeside picnic areas, and a dock for fishing and sightseeing.

LAKE MAUDE PARK

Lake Maude Park features a Nature Park on the banks of Lake Maude with picnic areas and trails with lush vegetation. Across the street is the Recreation Park, which features a playground, football and recreational fields.

LAKE SHIPP PARK Popular Trails Include: Lake Hartridge Nature Park [1/3 Mile] Lake Maude Park [.9 miles] Lake Howard Trail [1.5 miles] Chain of Lakes Trail [3.6 miles]

This park features a playground, lakeside picnic areas, a large boat ramp, and a dock for fishing and sightseeing.

LAKE HOWARD DOCK

For people who love fishing, boating, skiing, kayaking, seaplane flying, or just catching a sunset, Lake Howard Dock is the perfect place to perch yourself for access to the Chain of Lakes.

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MARTIN LUTHER KING JR PARK This park is home to many local events and the Cypress Gardens Water Ski team, where every third Saturday of the month, they host a FREE ski show on Lake Silver. Martin Luther King Jr. Park also includes a skate park and amphitheater.

POCKET PARK

New to southeast Winter Haven, this pocket park offers something for everyone: a playground for the kiddos and plenty of room for your dogs to stretch their legs in the city’s first dog park.

ROTARY PARK

SOUTH CENTRAL PARK

SIMMERS-YOUNG PARK

WINTER HAVEN TENNIS CENTER

Rotary Park has a playground, outdoor pavilion, basketball court, and sand volleyball court. This park is perfect for hosting large parties with wide-open spaces and plenty to do.

Simmers-Young Park is a great place for your kids and dogs to run!

It has 200 acres of land with play areas, picnic tables, access to the lakeshore, and fields for playing soccer.

Located in downtown Winter Haven, South Central Park comes complete with swinging benches, nighttime lighting features, an information kiosk, and ample parking.

The City Tennis Center offers 8 HarTru clay, 1 hard, and 4 pickleball courts. In addition to clay courts, it includes a pro shop, an elevated shaded observation deck, outdoor shaded tables, and expanded parking.

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WINTER HAVEN SKATE PARK

This 17,500 square foot well-rounded facility can accommodate various disciplines and levels of users. The park is split between a large flow bowl and a long, linear street course. The street course consists of two main levels that have been carved into the natural topography of the area overlooking Lake Silver.

LAKE ELBERT TRAIL

This new trail that will stretch all the way around the lake is estimated to open in 2025.

RELOCATION GUIDE

Apartment/Condo Rentals Briarcrest at Winter Haven (863) 269-7078 robbinspropertyllc.com

Carlton Arms of Winter Haven (863) 875-1700 www.carltonarmsofwinterhaven. com Carrerou Enterprises, LLC (863) 294-2384 carrerouenterprises.com

Southern Homes of Polk County (863) 687-2700 mysouthernhome.com

Realtors

Associate Realty & Investments, Inc. (863) 618-4000 chrissijasso.com Barbara Taylor, LLC (863) 604-6256 coldwellbanker.com

Oakley Rhinehart Cassidy, LLC (863) 324-3698

Brian Reeves, Watson Realty Corp (863) 899-1986 briansreeves.com

Silver Properties of WH, LLC (863) 510-7912 silverpropertieswh.com/

Brokers Realty of Central FL (863) 294-6773 thebutlerteam.com

The Carlton at Lake Dexter (863) 302-9977 thecarltonatlakedexter.com

Century 21 Watson & Myers (863) 324-1000 watsonmyers.c21. com/#recentralgroup.com

Westside Lakeshore Club, LLC (863) 875-3137 lakeshoreclubwh.com WGC Rentals (704) 200-0319 Winter Haven Housing Authority (863) 294-7369 winterhavenhousing.com

New Home Builders Adams Homes (863) 619-8120 adamshomes.com

Chain of Lakes Realty, Inc. (863) 287-4679 chainoflakesrealty.com Coldwell Banker Realty (863) 294-7541 coldwellbanker.com/offices/290se-cypress-gardens-blvd-winterhaven-fl-33880 Crosby & Associates, Inc. (863) 293-5600 crosbydirt.com

Boyer Building Corp (863) 984-3996 boyerbuildingcorp.com/

Dawn Van Meter, Century 21 Watson & Myers Realty (863) 287-7013 dawnvanmeter.com

Built by Wanters, Inc. (863) 287-4876 builtbywaters.com/about-us

John Wood Realty, Inc. (863) 324-9663 johnwoodrealty.com

D R Horton (407) 850-5200 drhorton.com/Florida/CentralFlorida#

Joshua Johnson - Keller Williams Smart 1 (863) 206-3835 joshuajohnson.kw.com/

Maronda Homes Inc of FL (866) 617-3803 marondahomes.com

Judy B. Cleaves Properties, Inc. (863) 299-5878 jbcleaves.com

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Kathy Alexander - Realtor, CENTURY 21 Watson & Myers Realty (863) 557-4411 century21.com/agent/kathy. alexander@century21.com Keller Williams Realty Smart 1 (863) 508-3000 lifeatkwsmart1.com/ Kevin Tison, Broker / Associate Realtor - LPT Realty (863) 206-5755 CentralFloridaProperty.com Larry Montanus, Advisor at SVN Saunders Ralston Dantzler Real Estate (863) 812-4670 saundersrealestate.com Lisa Anne Kleine, Realtor, Red Bird Realty of Central FL (863) 660-6787 Lockhart & Associates, Inc., Realtors (863) 293-1234 lockhartonline.com NextHome | Norris & Company Realty (863) 875-5583 norrisandcompanyrealty.com Rockstar Elite Group brokered by EXP Realty (689) 777-1978 rockstarelitegroup.com Star Realty of Winter Haven, Inc (863) 581-1338 StarRealtyofWH.org The K Team Real Estate Services, LLC (863) 604-6220 Yourkteam.com The Property Advisers (863) 651-5691 thepropertyadvisers.com

Turner Properties of CFI (863) 291-1895 turnerpropertiescfi.com

CONTACTS

Village Realty of Winter Haven (863) 299-6767 villagerealtyrental.com

COURTHOUSE/COUNTY CLERK (863) 534-4000 polkcountyclerk.net

Title & Appraisal Services

PROPERTY APPRAISERS (863) 534-4777 polkpa.org

Celebration Title Group (407) 801-9776 celebrationtitlegroup.com Executive Title of Central Florida, Inc. (863) 294-3633 exectitleagent.com/ Integrity First Title (863) 294-0604 integrityfirsttitle.com/ Real Estate Title Services, Inc (863) 299-6942 realestatetitlefl.com/ Ridge Security Title, Inc. (863) 419-8485 ridgetitle.com Winningham, Inc. (863) 268-5914 polkappraisers.com/

Moving & Junk Removal Companies Move My Junk, LLC (863) 401-4467 movemyjunkllc.com

Organized Haven (863) 268-4041 organizedhaven.com P.L.E. Services LLC (863) 618-8291 plehauling.com/ Two Men and a Truck (863) 646-6683 twomen.com

Town and Country Real Estate of Winter Haven (863) 293-1141 townandcountry.net

EMERGENCY 911

SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT (863) 298-6200 polksheriff.org VOTER REGISTRATION (863) 534-5888 polkelections.com CITY OF WINTER HAVEN (863) 291-5600 mywinterhaven.com PARKS & RECREATION (863) 291-5656 mywinterhaven.com WINTER HAVEN POLICE (863) 401-2256 whpd.mywinterhaven.com WINTER HAVEN SENIOR CENTER (863) 291-5870 PUBLIC LIBRARY (863) 291-5880 whpl.mywinterhaven.com WINTER HAVEN MUNICIPAL AIRPORT (863) 298-4551 mywinterhaven.com WINTER HAVEN AREA TRANSIT (BUS) (863) 765-5287 ridecitrus.com BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU (407) 621-3300 centralfloridabbb.org CAREERSOURCE POLK (863) 508-1100 careersourcepolk.com SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE (877) 457-1739 ssa.gov WINTER HAVEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (863) 293-2138 winterhavenchamber.com

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Winter Haven’s approach to business is an unusually collaborative one, incorporating pro-growth government policies, strategic partnerships, highcapacity IT infrastructure, and flexible workforce development opportunities throughout the greater Winter Haven area.

Cultivating a thriving business community through collaboration is at the heart of what we do in Winter Haven. Many executives that relocate to the area say it’s what sets us apart.

Our collaborative spirit makes Winter Haven a welcoming destination for the young entrepreneurs looking for the perfect place to grow their business or the well-established business owner looking to develop close partnerships and collaborative connections.

“The spirit of the Winter Haven business community and the opportunity to build relationships with other business owners play a significant role in the survivability of business in the community.

The opportunities to thrive in the good times and bad are possible with producing reliable results for those we work and live within our area,” said Mike Potthast, owner of Central Avenue photography studio, Potthast Studios. “I have been a Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce member since my first days in business, and the organization has provided the necessary resources to succeed.

The opportunities for exposure to other business leaders and business owners in the community have been significant in the survival of my business in good and bad years. The Chamber’s website and email communications are always current and provide information to latest business social opportunities or featuring other members through their podcast series.”

Winter Haven has experienced a high rate of growth over the last decade. Our location is a primary driver of that growth, which

includes easy access to routes of trade, a history as a logistics and distribution hub, the availability of land, position between two major metro markets, a workforce of 9 million people within 100 miles, lower cost of living compared to surrounding metro markets, and of course the warmth and sunshine.

Here are some businesses that can help you start a business, grow a business, market your business and give you the tools to join us in collaborative business partnerships that make our community a great place to work!

• Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce • Central Florida Development Council • Central Florida SCORE • Main Street Winter Haven

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• Small Business Development Center • Winter Haven Economic Development Council If you own a business in Winter Haven and haven’t joined the Winter Haven Chamber, visit our website to learn how Chamber Membership can help you grow your business! We are excited to help you acquire the connections and tools you need to succeed on your business journey.

TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS

Winter Haven’s location at the center of the state makes it a perfect place for the transfer of goods and services. Polk County has a long history as a warehousing

BUSINESS

COMMUNITY economy through access to the Florida ports.

Winter Haven is also home to its own regional general aviation airport. Several businesses are located on the airport grounds for aircraft maintenance and training, with more plans to build-out the site for additional aviation-related businesses.

DIVERSE ECONOMY

and logistics hub with access to Interstate 4, Highway 27, and Highway 60, all of which traverse the state in various directions. This makes it easy for freight to make its way to seaports on both the east and west coast and two major international airports in Tampa and Orlando. In 2017, our neighboring airport in Lakeland opened a customs center and can accept international shipments. Winter Haven is home to CSX’s Central Florida Intermodal Logistics Center.

The technologically advanced intermodal center makes Winter Haven one of the main hubs of product distribution by rail.

This addition opens numerous opportunities for businesses looking to expand their markets to the 18 million residents and 80 million visitors within 4-hours of Winter Haven, as well as the global

The economy of Winter Haven has greatly diversified over the past several decades. In fact, in 2020, the Winter Haven- Lakeland MSA was named the most diverse economy in Florida. Agribusiness, particularly the citrus industry, was the main economic driver for most of the 20th century.

However, economic development efforts directed at diversifying the economy began in earnest during the 1980s. Today’s economy has dominant sectors, including healthcare, technology, tourism, professional and financial services, education, agribusiness, and as mentioned, distribution and logistics.

The considerable fiber-optic infrastructure in downtown Winter Haven has led to the growth of a technology sector that employs more than 500 people. From software and blogging platform development to internet security and secure inland data storage, downtown Winter Haven hosts this rapidly developing segment.

In 2018, the Governor designated six Winter Haven areas as Opportunity Zones, created by

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the Federal Tax Cuts and Job Act of 2017. Opportunity Zones are a new tool that provides incentives for investments in low-income communities across the country.

THE SECRET SAUCE

The most crucial factor in Winter Haven’s growth is the businessfriendly climate, combined with the cooperation and synergy of our organizations working to support business sustainability and growth.

The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce and the Winter Haven Economic Development Council are two cornerstones working to champion efforts to expand local business and recruit new opportunities to Winter Haven. Our economic development pace is strong. With projects of all sizes and scales planned for Winter Haven, we are working closely with all levels of government.

Private investment follows public investment, and we are blessed to have a City with the foresight to understand that. In recent years, the City has completed several projects, including; the 7th Street complete street project, the airport runway rehabilitation project, the Lake Howard Dock, the iconic AdventHealth Fieldhouse and Conference Center at Chain of Lakes Park, Martin Luther King Jr Park, City Skate Park, Lake Maude Recreation Park, Lake Conine Wetland Restoration, and MLK Boulevard reconstruction, classroom units at the Winter Haven Airport as part of the new Central Florida Aerospace Winter Haven Campus,

BUSINESS RESOURCES CENTRAL FLORIDA DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL Sean Malott, President/CEO (863) 937-4430 cfdc.org CENTRAL FLORIDA SCORE (863) 284-5607 centralflorida.score.org CITY OF WINTER HAVEN Eric Labbe, Director of Economic Opportunity & Community Investment (863) 291-5600 mywinterhaven.com WINTER HAVEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Sara Beth Wyatt, President/CEO (863) 293-2138 winterhavenchamber.com MAIN STREET WINTER HAVEN Anita Strang, Executive Director (863) 295-9422 mainstreetwh.com COMMUNITY AND SMALL BUSINESS ASSISTANCE (863) 534-5915 polk-county.net

Rotary Park playground and restroom improvements, the first downtown hotel in decades, and the completion of the 4th Street Market Piazza and Streetscape in addition to needed utility and sidewalk infrastructure projects.

In 2024/2025, the Winter Haven Rec will undergo renovations and the Lake Elbert Trail is expected to come online.

The Chamber of Commerce also works closely with Main Street Winter Haven to support its mission to develop and preserve the economic, cultural, and historic qualities that make downtown the heart of our community.

Small business is our community’s foundation, and we are incredibly proud of that. At the Chamber, we work closely with the city to advocate for our small businesses and ensure our business-friendly climate remains. We also partner with the Community and Small Business Assistance Center, Central Florida SCORE, and the Small Business Development Center to ensure you have the resources you need. Each Spring, these

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER (863) 678-4182 x227 sbdctampabay.org WINTER HAVEN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL Bruce Lyon, President (863) 837-5280 whedc.com

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organizations come together to host Cityworks (X)po Florida, an idea-sharing conference focused on developing communities in thoughtful, creative, and sustainable ways.

Together, Winter Haven stands ready to empower local businesses and remove barriers to success.

WINTER HAVEN

CHAMBER

Gaining access to a thriving business community isn’t hard in Winter Haven. The key is finding organizations, like the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, who will give you the resources, connections and professional development opportunities every business professional needs!

The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce serves as the hub for all information relating to Winter Haven - both for business and community. The Chamber has more than 750 members with nearly 2,000 designated representatives that represent member investors.

While the Chamber focuses on many facets of business and advocacy, below are some main goals of the organization: • Create connections for business growth and network expansion • Support small businesses through marketing and

• •

programming Advocate for a healthy and prospering business community Market Winter Haven as the best place to play, stay, work, learn and live

The Winter Haven Chamber also has a 501(c)(3), the Winter Haven Chamber Foundation, Inc. that supports economic development, education and beautification efforts. Its programs include Leadership Winter Haven, Leadership Winter Haven Alumni, Youth Leadership Winter Haven, the Endeavor Winter Haven Young Professionals group, Endeavor Serves, Economic Summit, partnerships with the Public Education Partnership (PEP), partner of the Polk Emerging Leaders Awards and various other leadership and professional development opportunities.

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If you are looking for a resource to level up your business, look no further. The Winter Haven Chamber is committed to advancing commerce and community in a fun, future-focused way!

To learn more about joining the Winter Haven Chamber, visit winterhavenchamber.com.

EDUCATION

Winter Haven has a variety of options for your family no matter what stage of life or education development. Polk County Public Schools is the 7th largest school district in Florida with more than 170 schools and a diverse student body that exceeds 117,000.

Middle School. Both are the first schools in Polk County to offer this curriculum. Winter Haven High School yields an impressive Cambridge diploma rate of 92%.

PEP has been an integral part of the successes of our schools. They continue to work on the greatest challenges affecting Winter Haven public schools through commuity partnerships, colllabortion and listening to the needs of school faculty, staff and students.

PRE K-12

The Winter Haven area has numerous public elementary schools, three middle schools, two high schools and several magnet, choice and charter public schools. Polk County Public Schools boasts over 100 career academies, which focus on careers from veteranarian medicine to marketing to robotics and more. These academies offer students the opportunity to learn about specific fields while in middle and high school and offer small learning communities supported by local subject matter experts on an advisory committee.

“I

We are also privledged to have premier private schools that meet the needs of many of our families as well as strong home schooling networks and a Montessori pre-school and Pre K-8th grade school.

The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce launched an Educational Outcomes initiative in 2010 to determine ways the community can become involved in the public school system and help improve the educational outcomes of our students. This ground breaking community activism resulted in a call-to-action for citizens passionate about improving educational outcomes for children. As a direct result, the Winter Haven Public Education Partnership (PEP) was formed, comprising of teachers, educators, business leaders, elected officials and citizens.

Since then, they have opened an after-school tutoring center in Northeast Winter Haven, a Career Connetion mentoring program and launched the Cambridge Academy at Winter Haven High School and Denison

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HIGHER EDUCATION The plethora of options for your child’s education doesn’t stop after high school. Polk County has many wonderful colleg campuses that offer a variety of different focuses of study. Listed below are our Chamber Member Polk County colleges and universities.

Southern Technical College

Polk State College

Ridge Technical College

Polk State College has multiple campuses in Polk County and offers Bachelor of Applied Science, Bachelor of Science, Associate in Arts, and Associate in Science degrees and other certifications.

Southern Technical College has locations in Auburndale, Brandon, Fort Myers, Orlando, Tampa, Sanford, and Port Charlotte. Students can expect to recieve exceptional training for jobs in the technical and medical field.

Ridge Technical College offers a vairety of different career programs such as Automotive Service Technology, Commercial Vehicle Driving, Construction Design, Cosmetology Patient Care Technician and many others.

Florida Polytechnic University

Located in Lakeland, Florida Polytechnic University was recognized as the Top 10 Public Engineering Program with a Ph.D. by U.S. News & World Report.

This is Florida’s only all-STEM public univeristy, offering undergraduate and graduate studies.

Southeastern University

Southeastern University is also located in Lakeland with a focus on helping students find their divine design. This Christian university offers over 100 degree programs with areas of study in ministry, aviation, business, education, nursing, and much more.

Webber International University

Webber University is a private university located in Babson Park, only a 30 minute drive from Winter Haven. Not only do they have a long list of various degrees offered on-campus, they also offer online programming, including Masters degrees in criminal justice, accounting, sports business management and instructional design.

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EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Higher Education

Florida Polytechnic University (863) 874-8462 floridapoly.edu Polk State College (863) 297-1000 polk.edu

Hartridge Academy (863) 956-4434 hartridgeacademy.com Inwood Elementary School (863) 291-5369 inwood.polkschoolsfl.com

Southeastern University (863) 667-5098 seu.edu

Jewett Middle Academy (863) 291-5320 jewettmiddleacademy.polkschoolsfl. com

Webber International University (863) 638-1431 webber.edu

Jewett School of the Arts (863) 291-5373 jewettsota.polkschoolsfl.com/

PreK - 12

John Snively Elementary (863) 291-5325 snively.polkschoolsfl.com

Achievement Academy (863) 683-6504 achievementacademy.com/ Chain of Lakes Elementary (863) 326-5388 chainoflakes.polkschoolsfl.com/ Cypress Junction Montessori (863_ 259-1490 cypressjunction.org Denison Middle (863) 291-5353 denison.polkschoolsfl.com Discovery Academy of Lake Alfred (863) 295-5955 discoveryacademy.org Eagle Lake Elementary (863) 291-5357 eaglelake.polkschoolsfl.com Elbert Elementary (863) 291-5364 elbert.polkschoolsfl.com Fred G. Garner Academy (863) 965-5455 garneracademy.polkschoolsfl.com/ Garden Grove Elementary (863) 291-5396 gardengrove.polkschoolsl.com Harrison School for the Arts (863) 499-2855 harrisonarts.com

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Lake Alfred Polytech Academy (863) 295-5988 lakealfredpolytech.polkschools.com Lake Region High School (863) 297-3099 lakeregionhigh.polkschoolsfl.com Lake Shipp Elementary (863) 291-5384 lakeshipp.polkschoolsfl.com Language & Literacy Academy (863) 268-2903 weexcelinreading.org/ New Beginnings High School (863) 298-5666 newbhs.net Pinewood Elementary (863) 298-7977 pinewood.polkschoolsfl.com Frank E. Brigham Academy (863) 291-5300 brighamacademy.polkschoolsfl.com/ Roosevelt Academy (863) 678-4252 rooseveltacademy.polkschoolsfl.com South Pointe Elementary (863) 317-8317 southpointe.polkschoolsfl.com Wahneta Elementary (863) 291-5392 wahneta.polkschoolsfl.com

Westwood Middle (863) 965-5484 westwood.polkschoolsfl.com

Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County (863) 686-1719 bgcpolk.org/

Polk Education Foundation (863) 534-0519 polkeducationfoundation.org/home

Winter Haven High School (863) 291-5330 winterhavenhigh.polkschools. fl.com

Early Learning Coalition of Polk County (863) 733-9064 elcpolk.org

Progressive Learning Center of Winter Haven (863) 224-6566 progressivelearningcenter.org

Private Schools

All Saints Academy (863) 293-5980 allsaintsacademy.com Avengers Christian Academy (877) 674-5920 avengerschristianacademy.com Cypress Academy Preschool (863) 845-5099 cypressacademypreschool.com Grace Lutheran School (863) 293-9744 glwh.org Hope Creative School (863) 324-6377 hopecreativeschool.org

Florida Children’s Museum (863) 687-3869 explorefcm.org Girl Scouts of West Central Florida (813) 281-4475 gswcf.org Girls Inc. (863) 967-2874 girlsincwinterhaven.org Junior Achievement of Polk County (863) 412-7009 polk.ja.org/ Pace Center for Girls, Polk (863) 688-5596 pacecenter.org/locations/polk

Oasis Christian Academy (863) 293-0930 ocalions.org/ Valor Christian Leadership Academy (863) 512-4270 vcla-polk.com Winter Haven Christian School (863) 294-4135 whcsonline.org Winter Haven Montessori School (863) 268-8208 winterhavenmontessori.com Wishing Wells Academy LLC (863) 618-6055 facebook.com/profile.

Educational Resources Aerospace Center for Excellence (863) 644-2431 aceedu.org Big Brothers Big Sisiters of Tampa Bay (863) 682-5191 bbbstampabay.org/

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Public Education Partnership of Winter Haven (863) 662-3941 whpep.org Snapology of Lakeland (863) 888-2442 snapology.com/location/lakeland SOAR Education (863) 604-3860 soareducation.com/ United Way of Central Florida (863) 648-1500 uwcf.org Youth Driven by Purpose, Inc. (863) 398-3173 ydponline.com

ANIMAL SERVICES

Animal Services

Humane Society of Polk County, Inc. (863) 324-5227 humanesocietyofpolkcounty.org Orchid Springs Animal Hospital (863) 324-6964 osahvets.com Paw Haven Animal Hospital (863) 293-1428 pawhavenvet.com Paw Printz, Inc. (863) 268-8183 pawprintzofwh.com/ SPCA Florida (863) 646-7722 spcaflorida.org/

Bark Park at Veterinary Healthcare Associates Winter Haven Dog Park at Mary Holland Park Bartow Cook Park Dog Park Lakeland Diogi Dog Park Lakeland Dog Leg Woods Dog Park Lakeland Harmony Dog Park Lake Wales K9 Courtyard Dog Park Winter Haven

Veterinary Healthcare Associates, Inc. (863) 324-3340 vhavets.com

Lake Crago Dog Park Lakeland

Dog Parks

Simmers - Young Dog Park Auburndale/Winter Haven

Auburndale Dog Park at Lake Myrtle Park Auburndale

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Poinciana Community Park Kissimmee

Winter Haven Pocket Park Winter Haven

LOCAL

HEALTHCARE

ADVENTHEALTH

In 2019, AdventHealth merged with Chamber members Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center and Lake Wales Medical Center.

AdventHealth was founded in 1908 by pioneering Seventh-day Adventists who believed in wholeperson health by healing the body, mind, and spirit. AdventHealth has grown into one of the largest non-profit hospitals in the country.

AdventHealth operates nearly 100 hospitals, emergency rooms and hundreds of care centers in nearly a dozen states, making it one of the largest faith-based healthcare systems in the United States. AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division encompasses more than 20 hospitals and emergency rooms in the counties surrounding metro Orlando: Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Polk, Volusia, and Flagler. The Central Florida Division’s care network also includes more than 30 CentraCare urgent-care centers, including Winter Haven’s CentraCare location. In addition to the hospitals and urgent care centers, AdventHealth has also invested in their physician group in Winter Haven, opening an office on 1st Street in the downtown medical core. Recently, AdventHealth announced that they will be

expanding their healthcare network by planning for a four-story hospital and emergency room along Cypress Gardens Boulevard in Winter Haven. The 42-acre property will be developed as a full medical campus which includes a 192-bed hospital with emergency department and medical offices with ancillary facilities. Phase 1 will open summer 2024.

BAYCARE MEDICAL GROUP/WINTER HAVEN HOSPITAL

Winter Haven Hospital joined the BayCare network of hospitals in 2013 to better address changes in healthcare delivery. Over the last four years, Baycare has invested almost $150 million in facilities to upgrade the Winter Haven Women’s Hospital, Cassidy Cancer Center, imaging equipment, and a new $51 million emergency department. In 2020 they also welcomed their first class of residents to the Florida State College of Medicine Family Medical Residency Program at Winter Haven Hospital. Those physicians round at the hospital and see patients at the new Winter Haven Family Health Center. This will increase access to primary care in our area and, at the

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same time, will introduce new physicians to life in our community and hopefully help create a succession plan for providers in our area. Located in the heart of Downtown and the centerpiece of a strong medical sector, Winter Haven Hospital currently has over 500 beds and 300+ board-certified physicians. These physicians work in every specialty, including centers of excellence such as the Bostick Heart Center, Breast Imaging Center, Cassidy Cancer Center, Winter Haven Women’s Hospital, six primary care centers, and a nationally recognized stroke center – to name a few.

LAKELAND REGIONAL

About 30-minutes from Winter Haven is Lakeland Regional, one of the largest hospitals in Florida.

Lakeland Regional specializes in pediatrics, behavioral health and houses a level two trauma center.

They also have three urgent care locations and 11 locations for primary care offerings. In 2023, they opened their brand new, state of the art, Harrell Family Center for Behavioral Wellness, designed for both in-patient and out-patient treatment.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Dentistry & Oral Surgery

Affordable Dentures & Implants, Winter Haven FL (863) 291-8161 affordabledentures.com/locations/ fl/winter-haven Bright Smiles of Winter Haven (863) 293-0636 brightsmilesofwinterhaven.com Butz, George W. III, DDS (863) 299-7974 drbutz.com/ Dietrich Kelso Orthodontics (863) 644-0430 dkosmiles.com Dr. Viet Ho Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry (863) 294-4484 drvietho.com KianS Dental Studio (863) 875-4395 kiansdentalstudio.com Scott Orthodontics (863) 299-1261 scottsmiles.com Steven C. McNutt, DDS, PA (863) 294-6565 facebook.com/Steven-C-McNuttDDS-172540636442323 Winter Haven Family & Cosmetic Dentistry (863) 293-1108 winterhavenfamilydentistry.com/ Winter Haven Oral Surgery (863) 294-7648 whomsimplants.com

Eye Care

Advanced Eye Care Associates (863) 294-5457 advancedeyecarefl.com/ Center for Retina and Macular Disease (863) 297-5400 crmd.net Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, PA (863) 294-3504 eyesfl.com

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Salomon Eye Care (863) 401-4200 salomoneyecare.com/

Hospice

Good Shepherd Hospice, Inc. (863) 682-0027 chaptershealth.org Vitas Healthcare (863) 583-7100 vitas.com

Hospitals

AdventHealth Heart of Florida (863) 422-4971 adventhealth.com/hospital/ adventhealth-heart-florida Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Lakeland (863) 279-1600 encompasshealth.com/locations/ lakelandrehab Lakeland Regional Health (863) 284-5000 mylrh.org/ Winter Haven Hospital (863) 293-1121 winterhavenhospital.org

Medical Equipment 3B Medical, Inc. (863) 226-6285 3bproducts.com

QualiMed Respiratory & Mobility, Inc. (863) 293-3066 qualimedservices.com

Medical Spas

Eternal Youth Aesthetics, LLC (863) 412-2057 discovereternalyouth.com Florida Dermatology & Skin Cancer Centers (863) 293-2147 fldscc.com JP’s Body Rejuvenation Spa LLC (863) 258-6145 jpsbodyrejuvenation.com Lisa Cleaves Therapeutic Skin Care (863) 307-0664 lisacleaves.com

Skinfinity Therapeutics (863) 401-8288 skinfinitytherapeutics.com/ Ultra Cryo & Recovery (863) 221-4337 ultracryorecovery.com

Mental Health Counseling

BayCare Center for Behavioral Health (863) 291-3611 baycare.org Grace Hope Counseling of Florida (863) 662-4191 gracecounselingserviceswh.com Heart for Winter Haven Center for Well-Being (863) 291-6270 heart4wh.org/c4wb Pathway Counseling Services, LLC (305) 615-5113 pathwaycounselingservice.com Peace River Center (863) 248-3311 peacerivercenter.org Piece of Zen (863) 651-7969 apieceofzen.com Restoring You laurenbretz.com Tri-County Human Services, Inc. (863) 709-9392 tchsonline.org Winter Haven Integrated Behavioral Health (866) 234-8534 cfhc.org/location/wh-integratedbehavioral-health/

Outpatient Surgical Centers

Day Surgery Center (863) 293-8471 winterhavendaysurgerycenter.com Winter Haven Ambulatory Surgical Center (863) 291-4000 winterhavenasc.com

Physicians/Specialists

A.T. Radiology, P.A. (863) 419-8832 atradiology.cc/t-radiology-winterhaven/ AdventHealth Medical Group Internal Medicine at Winter Haven (863) 595-4130 adventhealth.com BayCare Medical Group Primary Care baycare.org/doctors Beltone Hearing Aid Center (863) 294-8353 beltone.com Bond Clinic, P.A. (863) 293-3577 bondclinic.com Central Florida Health Care, Inc. (863) 292-4280 cfhconline.org Cypress Chiropractic and Wellness (863) 324-0000 mywinterhavenchiro.com

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Florida Dermatology & Skin Cancer Centers (863) 293-2147 fldscc.com Lakeland Regional Health Pediatrics Winter Haven (863) 284-5000 mylrh.org/pediatrics/ Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine (863) 606-1552 lvim.net Lakeside Dermatology (863) 293-7546 lakesidedermatology.com Millennium Physician Group (863) 288-0943 millenniumphysician.com Newberry Clinic PA (863) 293-3893 chirowinterhaven.com Polk Therapy (863) 291-8644 polktherapy.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Releve Sports Medicine (863) 401-4401 relevesportsmedicine.com Smith Chiropractic (863) 293-8836 Drryanbriggs.com The Barranco Clinic (863) 299-1251 barrancoclinic.com Vein Health Clinics (877) 817-8346 veinhealthclinics.com Winter Haven Audiology (863) 594-1978 winterhavenaudiology.com Winter Haven Kidney Care Center (863) 292-6089 arcdialysis.com Winter Haven Obstetrics & Gynecology (863) 299-1107 winterhavenobgyn.com

Urgent Care Clinics

AdventHealth Centra Care Winter Haven (863) 325-8185 centracare.adventhealth.com/ urgent-care/winter-haven

Senior Services

Adult Advocate Alliance (863) 875-4809 adultadvocatealliance.com/ Assisting Hands Home Care (863) 877-3992 assistinghands.com/polkcounty Astoria Senior Living (863) 318-5000 astoriaseniorretirement.com ComForCare Home Care - Winter Haven / NW Tampa (863) 268-4163 comforcare.com/florida/ winterhaven Comfort Keepers (863) 701-9200 comfortkeepers.com Episcopal Catholic Apartments (863) 299-4481 liveatepiscopalcatholic.com Family Extended Care of Winter Haven (863) 324-2212 familyextendedcare.org/ Granny Nannies (863) 299-1100 grannynannies.com

BayCare Urgent Care (863) 299-2420 baycareurgentcare.org

Home Instead Senior Care (863) 294-9141 homeinstead.com/333

Bond Clinic Urgent Care (863) 293-3577 bondclinic.com/urgent-careemergency-room

Lake Ashton (863) 324-5457 lakeashton.com/

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Lake Howard Heights (863) 293-3171 lakehowardheights.com Lake Miriam Health and Rehabilitation Center (863) 293-1989 lakemariamhrc.com/ Lakeview Tower Apartments (863) 293-6014 lakeviewtowerapts.com Life Care Center of Winter Haven (863) 969-5610 lifecarecenterofwinterhaven.com Palm Garden of Winter Haven (863) 293-3100 palmgardenofwinterhaven.com/ Spring Haven Senior Living (863)293-0072 springhavenseniorliving.com/ Spring Lake Rehabilitation Center (863) 294-3055 springlakerehab.com T.J. Smith and D. Goodrich Center (ALF) (863) 291-4884 The Club at Haines City (863) 422-5204 innovationsl.com/

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ROOFING • GUTTERS •

The Club at Lake Wales (863) 679-8246 innovationsl.com/

Your Home’s Best Friend Call or Scan for a free inspection!

863-800-9835 Independently owned and operated. Services may not be available in all areas. ©2023 Mighty Dog Roofing®. All rights reserved.

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LIC#CCC1333785

WORSHIP

Beymer Memorial UMC (863) 294-3186 beymer.org

Heartland Church (863) 299-7797 heartchurch.org

Bridge Church (803) 536-4458 bridgewh.com

Holy Cross Episcopal Church (863) 324-4021 holycrosswinterhaven.com

CenterPoint Community Church (863) 324-7915 CenterPointChurch.org

Kairos Church (863) 216-8896 kairos.church

First Church of the Nazarene (863) 293-0690 whnaz.org

Lakeside Church (863) 225-1615 lakesidechurchwh.com/

First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven (863) 294-3121 FirstPresWH.org

Redeemer Church (863) 298-9849 redeemerwinterhaven.org

Garden Grove Church (863) 324-7880 gardengrovechurch.com

St. Matthew Catholic Church (863) 324-3040 saintmcc.com

Grace Lutheran Church (863) 293-8447 glwh.org

The Salvation Army of East Polk County (863) 294-7493 salvationarmywinterhaven.org

Haven Worship Center (863) 318-0701 whwc.org

Youth For Christ of Polk County (863) 325-9220 yfcofpolk.org

BIBLE-BASED

CURRICULUM PRE-K4 – 12 TH GRADE

FULLY ACCREDITED Graduates qualify for up to $48,000 in scholarships from Warner University

www.whcsonline.org 46

MESSAGE FROM CITY HALL RESOURCES POST OFFICES 111 W. Central Ave (863) 299-7824 1401 1st St N (863) 293-5370 More than 70,000 people call this community home, over 53,000 of whom live inside the City limits, taking advantage of its year-round recreation, climate, and central location.

With a history in citrus, lakes, and Americana rock & roll, the Winter Haven experience is a chorus of modern lifestyle possibilities in harmony with our roots. Winter Haven is where affordable lake living is a reality, and water play is a requirement. It’s a place where there’s a concert on every corner and family excitement in every park. And let’s not forget about Winter Haven’s hometown connection to family-friendly LEGOLAND® Florida Resort just around the corner from the City core.

The City stretches over 40 square miles, eight of which take the form of sparkling, fun-filled lakes. Winter Haven is known as the Chain of Lakes City with two separate chains of lakes connected by an extensive canal system. With 50 lakes inside the City limits, 22 boat ramps, 14 public docks, and 30 waterfront parks, there is a multitude of fresh-water opportunities for both residents and visitors.

A complete team of City staff are committed to enriching the lifestyle of our residents and visitors through exceptional service. Our ultimate goal is to be the best City through the relentless pursuit of excellence.

We encourage you to visit one of our many events, public facilities, parks, and trails and explore the

many opportunities Winter Haven has to offer.

The City functions under a commission manager form of local government. The City Commission consists of five members, elected at-large, who hold office for four years. Commissioners in office for more than nine months are eligible to serve as Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem, and are elected by the City Commission. While the City Commission acts as the legislative body of the City, the day-to-day operations of the City are directed by the City Manager.

ELECTRIC Tampa Electric Company (TECO) (863) 299-0800 tampaelectric.com Duke Energy 1-800-700-8744 duke-energy.com GAS Florida Public Utilities 1-800-427-7712 fpuc.com TELEPHONE & CABLE Spectrum (877) 463-0677 spectrum.com

We invite you to attend our commission meetings held on the second and fourth Monday of each month in City Hall, as well as become involved in one of the many City committees. Our goal is to listen, learn, and improve through citizen engagement.

Beginning in 2023, we will stream our City Commission meetings via YouTube. See the City’s website for details.

WATER City of Winter Haven (863) 291-5678 mywinterhaven.com

Winter Haven continues to experience steady, quality growth as it transforms into a vibrant and extraordinary community, embracing the values and needs of its residents. Partnerships and a cooperative spirit make Winter Haven an exceptional destination for new businesses and entrepreneurs looking to relocate.

Our dedicated staff looks forward to serving its residents, businesses, and visitors as we all enjoy Winter Haven’s special lifestyle. We encourage you to make yourself at home.

PUBLIC TRANSIT Citrus Connection (855) 765-5287 www.ridecitrus.com

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REFUSE COLLECTION City of Winter Haven (863) 291-5756 mywinterhaven.com Polk County (863) 284-4319 polk-county.net

SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE 1395 Havendale Blvd NW (877) 457-1739 DRIVER’S LICENSE (863) 534-4700 TAG AGENCY (863) 293-5551

Where world-class medical experts meet care with empathy.

That’s the BayCare effect.

It’s a powerful effect when medical excellence is combined with empathy. It means you never have to compromise on getting compassionate care. At BayCare’s Winter Haven Hospital, you and your family can feel confident that you’re in the right place. From receiving expert treatment to getting compassionate care at every visit—it’s all right here. You can expect clinical expertise, combined with the use of advanced technologies, delivered by a team that treats you like family. That’s the BayCare effect.

Learn more: WinterHavenHospital.org