Lakeland / Winter Haven Vacation Guide

Lakeland is a cultural center in Central Florida full of interesting highlights. Located in the downtown area, Hollis Garden is a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Mirror. The garden has a curated collection of native flora, complete with fountains, a butterfly garden, and a koi pond. If you’re interested in art, the Polk Museum of Art is the perfect spot for you. The museum features pieces from renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali, as well as local artists. And last but not least, Nineteen61 offers a tasty culinary experience along Main Street’s Munn Park. This restaurant is a top pick for anyone looking for unique Latin-inspired dishes. These are just a few of the many exciting sights and things to do in Lakeland.

Winter Haven may be a small town, but it definitely packs a punch when it comes to entertainment options. LEGOLAND Florida Resort promises a fun time for both kids and adults with its impressive LEGO-themed attractions and rides. Bowling enthusiasts will love Incredibowl Entertainment, which offers a variety of fun bowling and arcade games along with delicious food and drinks. Nearby, nature lovers can escape the crowds by visiting the tranquil and picturesque Bok Tower Gardens. With these awesome things to do, Winter Haven is the perfect destination for families looking for a great time!

For some fun and adventures within a short drive of the Lakeland/Winter Haven area, there are a few highlights nearby. Immerse yourself in the history of aviation and admire vintage planes and memorabilia at the Florida Air Museum. Then, head over to Dinosaur World and travel back in time to the Mesozoic Era where you can explore over 200 life-sized dinosaur sculptures and even participate in interactive exhibits. Finally, experience a true wild adventure with a unique tour led by an expert guide at Safari Wilderness, where you’ll encounter exotic animals and learn about their conservation efforts. These attractions are perfect for families and are sure to make your trip to the area an unforgettable one!

Navigating Lakeland and Winter Haven has never been easier thanks to the variety of transportation options available. If you prefer the convenience of driving your own vehicle, feel free to explore the area with your car or consider renting one. Those who want to sit back and relax can opt for rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, which offer affordable and reliable transportation. If you’re looking for an even more budget-friendly option, the Citrus Connection buses provide an extensive network of routes throughout Polk County.

The Squeeze is a fun electric cart option offered in Downtown Lakeland and Lake Wales. Another fun way to explore the area is by bike or scooter rental. For those who prefer to sit back and relax, Amtrak is a great mode of transport with stations conveniently located in both Lakeland and Winter Haven, connecting travelers to Orlando and Tampa. These stations will soon host Brightline high-speed rail, set to arrive in late 2026, providing an even more streamlined option for area travel. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these transportation options make it easy to get around and fully experience all that Lakeland and Winter Haven have to offer.