Lake Mirror
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Our Lakeland Community

Whether you’re a thrill seeker, an outdoor enthusiast, a sports fanatic or history buff, there’s no shortage of activities to be found in the Lakeland area.

Lakes

Nestled in Lakeland, Florida Poly is conveniently located along Interstate 4 (I-4) between Tampa and Orlando. With a population of about 115,000 residents, Lakeland combines small-town charm with big-city amenities.

Known for its scenic beauty, the city features lakes like Hollingsworth, Mirror, and Morton, offering a picturesque backdrop for activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking.

Lakeland - One of the Best Places to Live and Work

#1
Fastest Growing City in the U.S.    - Bloomberg
 
#5 
Safest Place to Live - U.S. News
 
#29
Most Affordable U.S. Cities for Home Buyers - visualcapitalist.com
 

 

Living in Lakeland

Lakeland enjoys warm, sunny weather for most of the year, making outdoor activities and sports a year-round option. There are also a variety of activities available that offer something for everyone.
hollis gardens

Parks and Recreation

Explore Lakeland's many parks and recreation gems: Bonnet Springs Park for lakeside tranquility, Circle B Bar Reserve for untamed wilderness, and Hollis Gardens for botanical beauty. Barnett Family Park offers family-friendly fun, while Common Ground fosters community connections. Each space provides a unique outdoor experience in Lakeland's haven.
Detroit Tigers Spring Training

Sports

For sports fans, Lakeland's Joker Marchant Stadium is famous as the spring training home of the Detroit Tigers and the Lakeland Flying Tigers, drawing baseball fans from across the country.

Bok Tower Gardens

Theme Parks and Attractions

Experience Polk County's top attractions: LEGOLAND Florida Resort for boundless creativity, Safari Wilderness for a unique safari adventure, Sun 'n Fun for aviation thrills, and Bok Tower Gardens for a tranquil retreat amid lush landscapes. Each destination offers a distinct and memorable experience, making Polk County a must-visit for the many attractions.

sushi

Culinary Delights

Explore Lakeland's unique culinary scene at Texas Cattle Company, Nineteen 61, and Harry's Seafood Bar & Grill. Enjoy fresh and vibrant flavors at Fresco's, or opt for a cozy meal at Bay Street Bistro. For coffee lovers, Concord Coffee and Black & Brew await with expertly crafted brews. Delight in innovative cuisine at The Joinery and savor Southern-inspired dishes at Cob & Penn. Lakeland's culinary offerings promise a delightful journey for every palate.

Munn Park

Shopping

Shop in style in Lakeland, where the Downtown Farmers Market every Saturday, where local vendors offer fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a lively atmosphere. Lakeside Village presents a modern shopping haven with a mix of upscale stores, dining, and entertainment. Explore Downtown Lakeland and the historic charm of Munn Park Historic District, where boutique shops line the streets, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary finds. 

Polk Theatre

Arts and Culture

Experience Lakeland's vibrant arts and culture with the Lakeland Community Theatre's and Polk Theatre's captivating performances, the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra's enchanting melodies, and the Polk Museum of Art's diverse visual expressions. In Lakeland, creativity thrives, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences.

classroom

Schools

If you have children, Polk County Public Schools has many school options for your family with 150 school sites including magnet and choice schoolsIBCambridge AICEfine arts, and career academies. There are also several great private schools including Santa Fe Catholic High School, Lakeland Christian School, Victory Christian Academy, and All Saints Academy

Things to Do in Central Florida

Lakeland serves as a central hub for exploring the best that Central Florida has to offer. Residents enjoy convenient access to an array of entertainment, theme parks, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. With easy access to highways and a myriad of destinations just a short drive away, life in Lakeland is a perpetual invitation to explore the treasures of the Sunshine State.

Orlando, FL (1 Hour Drive East)

Tampa, FL (1 Hour Drive West) 

Enjoy Florida's Amazing Beaches

Beaches

Whether you're looking for a short drive or willing to journey further, living in Lakeland provides easy access to some of the most amazing beaches in the world. 

West Coast

  • 1.5 Hour Drive: St. Petersburg Beach, Clearwater Beach, John’s Pass, Fort Desoto Beach, Longboat Key, Anna Maria Beach, and Sarasota/Bradenton Beach
  • 2.5 Hour Drive: Naples Beach , Fort Myers Beach, Cape Coral Beach, Boca Grande

East Coast

  • 2 Hour Drive: Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach
  • 2.5 Hour Drive: Melbourne Beach, Vero Beach, Sebastian Beach

Other Must See Florida Beaches: 

  • The Florida Keys and Key West
  • Destin
  • Pensacola 
  • South Beach Miami
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach
  • Panama City Beach
  • St. Augustine Beach
  • Flagler Beach 
  • Captiva Island
  • Siesta Key

More Great Resources to Learn About All Florida Has to Offer

  • visitcentralflorida.org: Discover all that Central Florida’s Polk County has to offer, including family-friendly attractions, wildlife, nightlife, museums and more.
  • visitflorida.com: VISIT FLORIDA, the state's official tourism marketing corporation, serves as Florida's official source for travel planning to visitors across the globe. 
  • LAL Today: LAL Today newsletter is your daily dose of all things Lakeland. Stay in the know with this informative and engaging newsletter that delivers curated local news, events, and insights right to your inbox. From noteworthy community updates to the latest happenings, LAL Today keeps you connected and informed about the vibrant pulse of Lakeland.