Central Florida is a destination filled with sunshine, nature, and adventure. Winter Haven, Lakeland, Lake Wales, and Bartow are four cities that offer an array of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly fun, this area has something for everyone. Here’s the top things to do in the cities of Central Florida.
Winter Haven
LEGOLAND Florida Resort
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a popular family-friendly theme park that offers over 50 rides, shows, and attractions. The park features more than 10 themed areas, including LEGO City, DUPLO Valley, and MINILAND USA, where visitors can marvel at LEGO replicas of famous landmarks. LEGOLAND Florida Resort also has a water park and an on-site hotel, making it a great destination for a multi-day trip.
Peppa Pig Theme Park
Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida is a new addition to Winter Haven’s list of family-friendly attractions. The theme park features rides, shows, and interactive experiences that are based on the popular children’s TV show. Visitors can meet Peppa Pig and her family, ride on Grandpa Pig’s Train, and explore Peppa’s Treehouse. This theme park is perfect for children ages 0-6 as their first theme park experience!
Living Water Boat Cruise
Living Water Boat Cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful Chain of Lakes in Winter Haven. The boat tour takes visitors through a series of interconnected lakes, including Lake Eloise, Lake Roy, and Lake Summit. Visitors can spot wildlife, including alligators, ospreys, and bald eagles, and learn about the history of the area. Enjoy a lunch or dinner cruise, ending your tour at Harborside restaurant or catch the LEGOLAND Brickbeard’s Watersport Stunt Show during certain tour times.
Lakeland
Florida Children’s Museum
The Florida Children’s Museum is a fun and educational destination for families with young children. The museum offers interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning and imaginative play. Visitors can explore the museum’s various zones, including City Play, Design Park, and the Watermelon Seeds.
Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture
Florida Southern College in Lakeland is home to the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world. The college’s campus features 13 buildings that were designed by the famous architect, including the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel and the Usonian House. Visitors can take a guided tour of the campus to learn about Wright’s design principles and his vision for the campus.
Circle B Bar Reserve
The Circle B Bar Reserve is a nature preserve that spans over 1,200 acres and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, otters, and various bird species. The park features over 20 miles of trails, which wind through marshes, wetlands, and oak hammocks. Visitors can also take a guided tour to learn more about the park’s wildlife and ecosystem.
Polk Museum of Art
The Polk Museum of Art is a cultural gem in Lakeland, featuring a diverse collection of artwork from around the world. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by contemporary artists.
Lake Wales
Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens is a stunning 250-acre garden that offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The gardens feature a 205-foot-tall Singing Tower, which houses one of the world’s finest carillons, as well as meandering pathways, water features, and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can also explore the on-site museum, which showcases the history of the gardens and the tower.
Spook Hill
Learn about the Legend of Spook Hill and experience your car defying gravity right in Lake Wales, FL. The historic gravity hill is also the only known magnetic hill in the state of Florida. In April of 2019, Spook Hill was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Westgate River Ranch
Westgate River Ranch is a unique accommodation and attraction that offers visitors the chance to experience the Old West. The ranch features a variety of activities, including horseback riding, airboat rides, archery, and a rodeo. Visitors can also stay overnight in a luxe teepee or glamping site.
Bartow
Polk County History Center
The Polk County History Center is housed in a historic courthouse building and features exhibits that showcase the region’s rich history. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts from the area’s Native American tribes, displays on the citrus industry, and exhibits on the county’s role in the Civil War. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the courthouse, which was built in 1909.
Wonder House
The Wonder House is a unique and historic home located in Bartow. It was designed and built in 1926 by Conrad Schuck, a local builder and designer who was inspired by the architecture of the Mayan civilization. The Wonder House was originally built as a private residence but has since been converted into a museum. Visitors can tour the house and see its unique design features, which include ornate carvings, colorful tiles, and a central courtyard. The museum also features exhibits on the history of the house and the city of Bartow.
The Wonder House is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in architecture or history. Its unique design and rich history make it a fascinating destination for visitors to Bartow.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or family-friendly fun, the cities in Central Florida have something for everyone. Looking for more to do while you’re in town? Follow us on Instagram or check out our Things To Do page!
