Lakeland, FL is definitely one of those places that people overlook, but there’s actually a lot to do here! I’ve lived here for the past 6 years and there are so many little local spots that I think are worth checking out. Downtown Lakeland is great for walking around, grabbing food, getting coffee, and enjoying the lakes. Lake Morton is especially pretty, and you’ll see the famous swans everywhere.
For food, some of my favorites/recommendations are Nineteen61, Harry’s Seafood, and Red Door Lakeland. For something more casual, The Joinery is a good option. Bonnet Springs Park is also one of the best places to go, especially with kids or if you just want somewhere nice to walk around. Circle B Bar Reserve is another local favorite if you like nature and seeing wildlife.
Lakeland is also really convenient because you’re right between Orlando and Tampa, so you can easily make a day trip out of either. It’s generally much more laid-back than Orlando, and you don’t have to deal with as much tourist traffic. There are definitely areas I wouldn’t recommend walking around late at night, but overall I think Lakeland is a pretty chill place to live and visit.
Cost can vary depending on where you stay/eat, but there are plenty of affordable local options. I’d definitely recommend exploring downtown, checking out the different lakes, trying local restaurants, and looking for events happening around town. Lakeland has grown A LOT over the years, but it still has that small-town feel in certain areas.
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Lakeland, FL is definitely one of those places that people overlook, but there’s actually a lot to do here! I’ve lived here for the past 6 years and there are so many little local spots that I think are worth checking out. Downtown Lakeland is great for walking around, grabbing food, getting coffee, and enjoying the lakes. Lake Morton is especially pretty, and you’ll see the famous swans everywhere.
For food, some of my favorites/recommendations are Nineteen61, Harry’s Seafood, and Red Door Lakeland. For something more casual, The Joinery is a good option. Bonnet Springs Park is also one of the best places to go, especially with kids or if you just want somewhere nice to walk around. Circle B Bar Reserve is another local favorite if you like nature and seeing wildlife.
Lakeland is also really convenient because you’re right between Orlando and Tampa, so you can easily make a day trip out of either. It’s generally much more laid-back than Orlando, and you don’t have to deal with as much tourist traffic. There are definitely areas I wouldn’t recommend walking around late at night, but overall I think Lakeland is a pretty chill place to live and visit.
Cost can vary depending on where you stay/eat, but there are plenty of affordable local options. I’d definitely recommend exploring downtown, checking out the different lakes, trying local restaurants, and looking for events happening around town. Lakeland has grown A LOT over the years, but it still has that small-town feel in certain areas.