Things to Do In Lakeland, FL
Lakeland is the most populous city in Polk County, Florida. It is located along Interstate 4 east of Tampa. The city has a population of 112,641 people according to the 2020 U.S. Census Bureau report. History comes alive in Lakeland's legendary downtown Historic and Antiques district. Come visit the antiques dealers, specialty shops, art galleries, museums, restaurants and pubs, right in the heart of downtown Lakeland.
Sports: The Lakeland Center has also played host to many hockey teams, including the Lakeland Ice Warriors, Lakeland Prowlers, and Lakeland Loggerheads. The Lakeland Blue Ducks of the United States Basketball League had a squad here as well. The Lakeland Derby Dames, Lakeland's only roller derby league, were based at Sun 'n Fun; however, the club was terminated in November 2015. The Lakeland Center also hosts the state basketball championships of the Florida High School Athletic Association.
Restaurants: On Saturday mornings, stop by Born & Bread Bakehouse for a fresh baked cruffin, breakfast bun, or slice of cake. Concord Coffee, Hillcrest Coffee, Mitchell's Coffee House, and Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro all provide coffee. Diners at Nineteen61 or Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille may see the action downtown. Brew Hub, Cob & Pen, Craft + Kitchen, Swan Brewing, and Red Door Lakeland all offer craft beer. Local favorites include Café Zuppina, Cafe Roti, Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille, and Abuelos Mexican Restaurant. Pressed Books and Coffee, an indie bookshop and coffeeshop in the Downtown District, is one of our favorite new eateries.
Top Attractions in Lakeland: Watch a film at the historic Polk Theatre. The Polk Museum of Art, Explorations V Children's Museum, and Florida Air Museum are also worth a visit. Load up the car and head to the Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre for a first-run movie. Visit the nostalgically furnished refreshment facility, which features photographs of vintage drive-in theaters. Stroll down the Frances Langford Promenade and into Hollis Garden, a botanic garden with patterned flower beds, public art, and fountains set in a neo-classical architectural environment. Attend a performance at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland Community Theatre, or the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra. During the Thursday Squared Dishes Truck Rally, you may sample food.