Support Your Favorite Central Florida Businesses

By: Jessica Roberts

Traveling may be a bit more difficult in 2020, but we’ve put together a list of 5 ways you can support your favorite Central Florida businesses. Whether you’re missing our warm weather from Michigan or New York, missing our family-friendly attractions from Georgia, or missing your favorite shops and restaurants from right here in Polk County, there are ways you can help today.

Family of 3 in a safari vehicle looking at zebras at Safari Wilderness in Lakeland, FL

Safari Wilderness in Lakeland

1. Write a Positive Review

Take the time to leave 5-star reviews for your favorite Central Florida small businesses, hotels and attractions on TripAdvisor, Google, Yelp and Facebook. This only takes a few minutes and it will help these local businesses with future bookings.

2 women on paddleboards during tour with Paddleboard Winter Haven

Paddleboard Winter Haven

2. Buy a Gift Card

Invest in the future of small businesses. Buy a gift card now and use it during your next vacation.

2 females shopping for Lakeland themed t-shirts inside Scout & Tag in Lakeland, FL

Scout & Tag in Lakeland

3. Gift Shopping Online

Many of our small shops have published online stores. Buy for yourself, friends or family. It is never too early to shop for Mother’s Day, birthdays or Christmas.

2 people sitting a coffee bar, reading magazine. Drinks are on bar. At Concord Coffee in Lakeland, FL

Concord Coffee in Lakeland

4. Order Locally Roasted Coffee

Who doesn’t need coffee right now? Concord Coffee, Ethos Roasters (served at Hillcrest Coffee, N+1 Coffee, Market at Cafe Zuppina) and Patriot Coffee (served at Black & Brew) will ship their freshly roasted beans to your home. While you’re at it, go ahead and order a coffee subscription! We know you won’t regret it.

Front Page Brewing Co crowlers lined up under taps

Front Page Brewing Co. in Bartow

5. Order Takeout – Food or Beer

If you are local, order takeout! You may be tired of cooking, or you want to celebrate a family member’s birthday or your anniversary. Whatever the reason, our locally owned restaurants and breweries need you right now. Come up with a reason to indulge and place a to-go order.

Eating Local During COVID-19

We’re doing our best to share information about small businesses that need our help. If you’re looking for more ways to support your favorite Central Florida businesses, check out our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.

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