A Guide To Lakeland, Florida - My Dumpster Service

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Lakeland, Florida, known for its beautiful lakes and eclectic community, offers a one-of-a-kind blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. Whether you’re planning a visit or considering moving here, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to know.

Exploring Lakeland’s Natural Beauty

The Lakes

Where else would we start?

Lakeland is appropriately named for its many lakes, with over 38 named lakes within the city limits!

Lake Mirror: Arguably the most popular, this lake is located in downtown Lakeland, and features a historic promenade, Hollis Garden, and the Frances Langford Promenade. It’s a popular spot for walking, events, and enjoying scenic views.
Lake Hollingsworth: Known for its 3-mile walking and biking path, it’s perfect for those who enjoy exercising outdoors. The lake is also a favorite spot for birdwatching and boating.
Lake Morton: Famous for its swans and waterfowl, Lake Morton offers a picturesque setting for walking and relaxing. It’s also home to the annual Swan Roundup, where the city’s swans are counted and checked.
Lake Parker: The largest lake in Lakeland, offering a range of recreational activities including fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Lake Parker Park provides sports fields, picnic areas, and a boat ramp.
Lake Bonny: A popular spot for water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding. The surrounding Lake Bonny Park offers trails, sports fields, and picnic areas.
Lake Gibson: Known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for largemouth bass. It’s a peaceful lake surrounded by residential areas and small parks.
Lake Hunter: Offers scenic views and a peaceful environment, with walking paths and spots for fishing and birdwatching. The lake is surrounded by residential neighborhoods and local parks.
Lake Crago: Recently developed to include the Lake Crago Outdoor Recreation Complex, offering kayaking, fishing, and outdoor education programs.
Lake Wire: Located near downtown, Lake Wire provides a tranquil spot for walking and relaxing, with paths that offer views of the city skyline.
Lake Beulah: Close to the RP Funding Center, Lake Beulah is a small but charming lake perfect for a quick stroll or a relaxing afternoon by the water.

Parks and Recreation

Lakeland features a ton of parks and recreational facilities that are enjoyed by residents as well as visitors. A few of the best include:

Hollis Garden: A 1.2-acre botanical garden located within Lake Mirror Park, featuring over 10,000 flowers, ornamental shrubs, and native trees. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and enjoying beautiful landscapes.
Circle B Bar Reserve: A 1,267-acre nature reserve offering extensive hiking trails, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. It’s known for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, oak hammocks, and marshes.
Common Ground Park: An inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities, featuring imaginative play areas and accessible equipment. It’s a favorite spot for families.
Lake Parker Park: This park offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, sports fields, and picnic areas. It’s set along the shores of Lake Parker, providing beautiful water views.
Loyce E. Harpe Park: Known for its mountain biking trails, this park also offers softball fields, dog parks, and fishing areas. It’s a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Holloway Park: A 362-acre nature park with trails for walking, running, and mountain biking. It also hosts cross-country events and is a popular spot for local runners.
Peterson Park: Located along Lake Hollingsworth, Peterson Park offers sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It’s a scenic spot for family outings and recreational activities.
Munn Park: The central park in downtown Lakeland, known for its historic significance and well-maintained gardens. It’s often used for community events and festivals.
Barnett Family Park: Situated near Lake Mirror, this park features playgrounds, splash pads, and picnic areas, making it a popular spot for families with young children.
Bonnet Springs Park: A new addition to Lakeland’s park system, Bonnet Springs Park is a massive urban park with planned features including botanical gardens, playgrounds, walking trails, and educational facilities.
Christina Park: Offers sports facilities, including tennis courts and baseball fields, as well as a playground and walking trails. It’s a great spot for both active recreation and relaxation.
Gandy Pool & Aquatic Center: Features an outdoor swimming pool, a splash pad for children, and various aquatic programs. It’s ideal for cooling off and enjoying water activities during the hot Florida summers.

Cultural and Historical Highlights

Museums and Arts

Lakeland has a thriving arts and culture scene, featuring several local mainstays.

Polk Museum of Art: Affiliated with Florida Southern College, this museum offers diverse art collections and exhibits.
Florida Southern College: Home to the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, it’s a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
Explorations V Children’s Museum: A hands-on museum designed to inspire creativity and learning in children through interactive exhibits and activities.
The Lakeland Community Theatre: A local theater company that produces a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and educational programs for all ages.

Historical Sites

For history buffs, the city’s amazing history is preserved in numerous historical sites:

Munn Park Historic District: The heart of beautiful downtown, featuring historic buildings and the Confederate Memorial.
The Lakeland History Room: Located in the Lakeland Public Library, it offers a vast collection of historical documents and artifacts.
Polk Theatre: A beautifully restored 1920s movie palace that now hosts films, concerts, and other live performances, reflecting the city’s cultural history.
Frances Langford Promenade: Located at Lake Mirror, this historic promenade and amphitheater area is a significant landmark with scenic views and historical significance.

Education and Community

Schools and Colleges

Lakeland offers plenty of quality education options in the form of public and private schools along with higher education options.

- Public Schools: Served by Polk County Public Schools, including high-rated schools like Lakeland Senior High School and George Jenkins High School.
- Higher Education: Home to Florida Southern College and a campus of Polk State College.
- Southeastern University: A private Christian liberal arts university offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
- Keiser University – Lakeland Campus: Provides career-focused education with a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- All Saints Academy: A private, college-preparatory school serving pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs.
- Trinity Catholic School: Offers a faith-based education for students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, emphasizing both academic excellence and character development.

Community and Lifestyle

Lakeland is known for its friendly community and high quality of life:

Community Events: Annual events like the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo and the Lakeland Christmas Parade help foster a “family” feeling.
Housing Market: The median home price in Lakeland is around $230,000, making it an affordable option for families and retirees. This is rare in the current Florida landscape.
Lake Mirror Promenade: A popular spot for locals, offering walking paths, beautiful views, and regular community events and festivals. This is a great meet-up location for friends..
Downtown Lakeland: Vibrant and historic, downtown Lakeland features unique boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and a bustling farmer’s market.
Lakeside Village: A lifestyle center offering shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a hub for social activity.
The Lakeland Center: A multi-purpose venue that hosts concerts, sporting events, and conventions, serving as a cultural and entertainment focal point for the community. There are NO bad seats here!

Economic Landscape

Major Employers

Lakeland’s economy is booming; some of the biggest employers are:

Publix Super Markets

Overview: Headquartered in Lakeland, Publix is one of the largest employee-owned supermarket chains in the United States. It is a significant employer in the region, with thousands of jobs in various capacities including retail, logistics, and corporate roles.

Lakeland Regional Health

Overview: Lakeland Regional Health is a major healthcare provider offering extensive medical services including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. It operates the largest hospital in the area, the Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center.

GEICO

Overview: The GEICO regional office in Lakeland provides a wide range of insurance services and employs a large number of customer service representatives, claims adjusters, and administrative staff.

The Mosaic Company

Overview: Mosaic is a leading producer of concentrated phosphate and potash crop nutrients, with smajor operations in the Lakeland area. The company is involved in mining and processing activities.

Southeastern University

Overview: This private Christian university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, contributing to the educational and professional development of Lakeland residents. The school also provides a variety of jobs to residents from administration to adjuncts to support services.

Florida Southern College

Overview: Known for its distinctive Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, Florida Southern College is a prominent liberal arts college in Lakeland that employs hundreds of people.

Transportation and Accessibility

Road and Rail

Lakeland is well-connected to the outside world, making transportation convenient for residents and visitors:

Highways: Interstate 4 and the Polk Parkway provide easy access to Tampa and Orlando.
Rail: The Lakeland Amtrak Station offers passenger rail service connecting to major cities.

Public Transportation

Public transportation options include:

Citrus Connection: Offers bus services throughout Lakeland and Polk County.
Lakeland Linder International Airport: Provides domestic and international flights, enhancing connectivity.

Shopping and Dining

Shopping

Lakeland has a variety of shopping options to suit all tastes:

Lakeside Village: A popular shopping center with retail stores, dining options, and a movie theater. It’s a one-stop destination for fashion, electronics, and entertainment.
Downtown Lakeland: Features unique boutiques, antique shops, and the Lakeland Farmers Market. It’s perfect for those seeking unique and local finds.
Lakeland Square Mall: Offers a wide range of national retailers, dining options, and entertainment venues. It’s a traditional mall experience with something for everyone.
The Shoppes of Lakeland: Home to a variety of stores including Target, Ross, and Bed Bath & Beyond. It’s a convenient location for everyday shopping needs.
Merchant’s Walk: Features popular stores such as Publix and PetSmart, along with various dining options. It’s a go-to spot for grocery shopping and quick bites.
Southgate Shopping Center: Known for its iconic arch, this shopping center offers a mix of local and national retailers, including Publix and TJ Maxx.
Wedgewood Commons: A shopping center that includes stores like Publix, Five Below, and Bealls Outlet, providing a range of shopping options.
Highland City Town Center: Features a variety of stores and services, making it a convenient spot for shopping and errands.
The Grove Park Shopping Center: Offers a selection of retail stores and restaurants, catering to various shopping needs.
Lake Miriam Square: Includes popular retailers like Publix and various specialty shops, providing a convenient shopping experience for locals.

Dining

Lakeland’s dining scene is very diverse, offering a range of choices to satisfy any picky eater:

Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille: Known for its New Orleans-inspired menu, offering dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and po’ boys in a vibrant atmosphere.
Palace Pizza: A local favorite for Italian cuisine and pizza, known for its family-friendly environment and delicious menu options.
Red Door Lakeland: An upscale restaurant offering a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The Poor Porker: A quirky and unique food truck and café offering beignets, coffee, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro: Offers a variety of coffee drinks, sandwiches, and salads in a cozy and welcoming setting.
Nineteen61: A fine dining restaurant that blends modern Latin cuisine with Southern influences, providing a sophisticated dining experience.
Texas Cattle Company: Famous for its steaks and barbecue, offering a hearty menu in a rustic, Western-themed environment.
Manny’s Original Chophouse: A popular spot for steaks, chops, and American fare, known for its generous portions and friendly service.
Mister Fish: A local institution offering classic fish and chips, seafood platters, and sandwiches in a casual setting.
Lakeland Brewing Company: Offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site, along with a menu of pub-style food and outdoor seating with lake views.
Grillsmith: A contemporary American restaurant featuring a diverse menu with grilled specialties, salads, and signature cocktails.
Cob & Pen: A gastropub located in a historic home, offering a wide selection of craft beers, cocktails, and an eclectic menu.
Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant: Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, offering a variety of traditional dishes in a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
LoveBird Almost Famous Chicken: Specializes in Southern-style fried chicken, offering a menu of comfort food favorites with a modern twist.
Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar: Features Southern-inspired dishes with a modern flair, along with a wide selection of craft cocktails and live music events.

Healthcare and Wellness

Medical Facilities

Lakeland is popular with seniors as it provides easy access to high-quality healthcare services:

Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center: The largest hospital in the area, offering comprehensive medical services including emergency care, surgery, cardiology, oncology, and maternity services. It’s known for its state-of-the-art facilities and highly skilled medical staff.
Watson Clinic: A multi-specialty clinic with several locations throughout Lakeland, providing a wide range of medical services including primary care, specialized care, imaging, and laboratory services. It is one of the most established healthcare providers in the region.
BayCare Health System: Offers a variety of healthcare services through its network of hospitals and outpatient facilities, including urgent care, imaging, and surgical centers. BayCare facilities are known for their patient-centered care and advanced medical technology.
Lakeland VA Clinic: Provides healthcare services to veterans, including primary care, mental health services, and specialty care. The clinic is part of the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System and serves the veteran community in the Lakeland area.
Gessler Clinic: Located in nearby Winter Haven, it offers a wide range of medical services including family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, and various specialties. Gessler Clinic is known for its comprehensive approach to patient care.
Bond Clinic: Another multi-specialty clinic located in nearby Winter Haven, offering services in family medicine, orthopedics, cardiology, and more. It provides convenient access to a variety of healthcare needs under one roof.
Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center: Located in Haines City, it provides emergency care, surgical services, and specialized medical treatments. It serves the greater Lakeland area with a focus on quality and compassionate care.
Central Florida Health Care: A network of community health centers offering primary care, dental services, and behavioral health services. These centers are dedicated to providing accessible healthcare to all residents, regardless of their ability to pay.
Pediatrics of Lakeland: Specializes in providing comprehensive medical care for children from birth through adolescence, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, and treatment of illnesses and injuries.
Lakeland Surgical & Diagnostic Center: Offers a range of outpatient surgical procedures and diagnostic services, providing patients with high-quality care in a convenient and efficient setting.
Lakeland Regional Health: A comprehensive healthcare provider offering a wide range of services.
Watson Clinic: Offers specialized care in various medical fields.

Health Clubs

For individuals who focus on health and fitness, Lakeland offers several very good options.

YMCA of West Central Florida: Provides a wide range of fitness programs, swimming pools, sports leagues, and community activities. The YMCA is known for its inclusive environment and variety of classes catering to all fitness levels.
Lakeland Athletic Club: A modern gym equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, offering group fitness classes, personal training, and wellness programs. The club also features amenities such as a sauna and a swimming pool.
Just Move Athletic Club: Offers a comprehensive fitness experience with group classes, personal training, and a range of cardio and strength training equipment. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and supportive community.
Planet Fitness: A well-known national chain offering affordable gym memberships, extensive cardio and strength training equipment, and a welcoming, non-intimidating environment.
Anytime Fitness: A 24/7 gym providing members with convenient access to fitness equipment and personal training services. It’s perfect for those with busy schedules who need flexible workout times.
CrossFit Lakeland: Specializes in high-intensity functional fitness training, offering classes and personal coaching to help members achieve their fitness goals. The community aspect of CrossFit provides strong support and motivation.
Elite Health and Fitness: A full-service fitness center offering group exercise classes, personal training, and specialized fitness programs. The center is known for its personalized approach to fitness and wellness.
Orange Theory Fitness: A unique fitness studio offering heart rate-based interval training in a group setting. The workouts are designed to maximize calorie burn and improve overall fitness.
Yoga Pointe: A dedicated yoga studio offering a variety of yoga classes for all skill levels, including Vinyasa, Hatha, and Restorative yoga. Yoga Pointe emphasizes holistic wellness and stress reduction.
Flow Fitness Boutique: A boutique fitness studio offering specialized classes such as Pilates, barre, and dance-based workouts. It’s known for its intimate class sizes and personalized instruction.
Fit Niche: Specializes in running and fitness, offering group runs, training programs, and personalized coaching. The facility also provides gait analysis and custom shoe fittings to enhance running performance.

Real Estate Market

Housing Trends

Lakeland’s real estate market is dynamic and growing:

Median Home Price: Approximately $230,000, reflecting a competitive and affordable market which is difficult to find in Florida.
Popular Neighborhoods: Areas like South Lake Morton and Grasslands are highly sought after by families.

Conclusion

Lakeland, Florida, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, perfect temperatures, and an exciting, friendly atmosphere.. With its affordable living, strong economy, and variety of amenities, it’s no wonder that Lakeland is a hot destination for visitors and residents alike right now.

Whether you’re exploring its lakes, enjoying its cultural offerings, or taking advantage of its economic opportunities, Lakeland has something for everyone.

We hope you enjoyed our Guide To Lakeland, Florida! We love living here and wanted to share our experiences.

This guide was provided by My Dumpster Service.