Lakeland has many can’t-miss things to see, do, and eat while visiting. The heart of the city’s downtown area offers the beautiful Lake Mirror Park, complete with a historic promenade, amphitheater, and pedestrian walkways. Peruse the antique dealers, specialty shops, art galleries, and museums in the walkable downtown Historic district.

The best things to do near Lakeland include:

• View the works of Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, plus ever-changing exhibits at the Polk Museum of Art
• See gators, ospreys, eagles, and more at the historic Circle B Bar Reserve
• Experience more of Florida’s wilderness with a tour of Safari Wilderness Ranch
• Take a guided bike tour with BeFly Bikes through the area’s downtown and business district
• Relax by the calm waters of Lake Parker, one of the area’s most beloved lakes

From beautiful landscapes to cultural must-sees, Lakeland is an underrated tourist destination to visit year round. With its tranquil atmosphere, nature lovers will flock to one of the many lakes and parks. The famous promenade at Lake Mirror is the the crown jewel of the historic downtown Lakeland area. The 1.2-acre botanical garden at Hollis Garden that boasts several fountains and hundreds of flowers.

Some of the popular attractions near Lakeland include:

• Learn about the area’s wildlife at Polk’s Nature Discovery on the Circle B Bar Reserve
• Admire the iconic Polk Theater which was built during the golden age prior to World War II
• Experience the educational and interactive environment at Common Ground Park
• Stroll the promenade at Lake Mirror, a proud list spot on the National Register of Historic places since 1983
• Wander the butterfly trail at Hollis Garden, where it’s good luck if a butterfly lands on you

Summer is in full swing, which means plenty of daily activities to experience in Lakeland right now. From daring in-flight adventures at the Aerospace Discovery Center to historic city walking tours, as well as numerous happy hours around town, you’ll be busy from morning until late at night.

Exciting activities near Lakeland include:

• Flight enthusiasts can’t miss the SUN n’ FUN Fly-in at the Aerospace Discovery Center
• Learn about the city’s history on the Lake Mirror Historic Tour
• Head to the Cob & Pen for their daily happy hour deals
• Cheer for the a local team at the RP Funding Center, formally known as The Lakeland Center
• Another underrated happy hour in Lakeland is Winners Circle on the south side of town

Lakeland’s nightlife is buzzing with breweries, wine bars, plus plenty of venues to experience a live show or music. There are also a plethora of delicious restaurants ranging from Puerto Rican food, seafood, classic American, and BBQ. Most don’t require a reservation and all range in price from low to gourmet. Treat yourself to a nice dinner and then experience entertainment from comedy, to art gallery parties, theater productions, and of course, live music.

Nighttime activities near Lakeland include:

• Bar hop through downtown starting at Fresco’s Bakery and Bistro for dinner and a full bar
• See a play at the historic Polk Theater
• Sample craft beer at local favorites Chop Shop, Molly’s, and Linksters
• Sip on wine with a beautiful view of Lake Mirror at The Terrace
• Laugh yourself out of your chair with a stand-up comedy show at Winners Club Sports Bar & Grill

Summer is the perfect time for kids to explore new and old favorites in Lakeland. Most are inexpensive, even free, activities and places to go that you can also enjoy. From indoor fun at the Family Fun Center to exploring Oponay Farm, there are numerous things to do with kids that will leave the whole family happy.

Family-friendly things to do near Lakeland include:

• Play a game of mini-golf or laser tag at the Family Fun Center
• Take an art class at Art Centric (for adults, it’s BYOB)
• Pick fresh blueberries and peaches at Oponay Farms
• Use your five senses at the Explorations V Children’s Museum
• Climb up into a jet plane and learn all about flying at the Florida Air Museum

With so much stimulation all around us–work, social lives, and the overall responsibilities that come with adulthood, it’s important to dedicate time to self-care and relaxing. And while Lakeland is well-known for its various outdoor activities, there are plenty of indoor things to do as well.

Here are a few ideas for Lakeland things to do indoors:

• Paint a piece of pottery while sipping soothing tea at Picassoz Art Cafe and Tea Largo
• Indulge your love for antique shopping at the Wildwood Antique Mall of Lakeland
• Pamper yourself with a pedicure at Lee Spa Nails or facial at Skin and Tonic
• Hone your yoga practice at Satya Life Yoga
• Indulge your sweet tooth with a piece of Dulce de Leche cheesecake at Abuelo’s Mexican Food Embassy

Lakeland wouldn’t be the amazing city it is without it’s abundant lakes all around the city. The area is also lucky to have accompanying outdoor activities to satisfy your active side and keep you in nature. And if you want to be outside without the commitment of an all-day hike, hop on a bike tour and explore that way.

Other active things to see in Lakeland include:

• Head out to Off the Wall Adventure for paintball, scuba diving, plus so much more.
• Take a bike tour of Lakeland with the town’s bike share program
• Fish for trout and bass on the clear waters of Lake Morton
• Grab your clubs and head to the Cleveland Heights Golf Course
• Learn how to shoot a bow and arrow at Dossey Creek Archery