Things To Do
in Avon Park
Avon Park is a small, friendly city in central Florida known for its quiet, lakeside character and historic downtown. It serves as a regional hub for agriculture, retirement communities, and outdoor recreation. The town acts as a convenient base for exploring Highlands County attractions like parks, small farms, and nearby Sebring.
Visitors will find a relaxed pace of life, local diners, and easy access to waterways and nature preserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Avon Park and check into your cozy accommodations. Take some time to rest and acclimate to the serene surroundings. A leisurely breakfast at a local café will kickstart your adventure.
Explore the historic downtown area, discovering charming boutiques and unique shops. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant, enjoying some local cuisine. Spend the afternoon at Avon Park's famous Bok Tower Gardens, marveling at the stunning landscape and peaceful atmosphere.
Dine at a traditional Southern restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. After dinner, take a quiet stroll through the nearby Lake Verona Park, watching the sunset reflect off the water. Wind down your day with a nightcap at a local bar.
Begin your day with an early morning hike at the Sebring International Raceway trails, where you can enjoy fresh air and wildlife. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy amidst nature. The tranquil environment will energize you for the day ahead.
Visit the nearby Lake Istokpoga, where you can engage in fishing or rent a kayak. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lakeside, soaking in the peaceful vibes of the water. If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife roaming near the shore.
Head back to Avon Park and enjoy dinner at a lakeside grill, where you can feast on freshly caught fish. As night falls, take a relaxing boat ride on the lake under the soothing light of the moon. End the night with stargazing; the clear skies of Florida offer excellent views of constellations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (bar) | $4-7 |
| 🚗Short taxi/ride-share | $10-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, small-town atmosphere with friendly locals
- Good access to lakes, parks and outdoor recreation
- Lower costs compared with bigger Florida cities
- Close to Sebring raceway and regional attractions
- Limited nightlife and fine dining within town limits
- Public transportation is minimal—a car is recommended
- Fewer specialized services and entertainment options than larger cities
- Hot, humid summers and hurricane season risks
Places to Visit in Avon Park
Visit one of these nice places.
Late 19th–early 20th-century buildings, murals and classic storefronts make for atmospheric street photography and golden-hour shots.
Small lakes around Avon Park provide calm water reflections, shorebirds and tranquil sunrise scenes.
Ancient live oaks, boardwalks, and shaded trails offer moody forest and wildlife photography opportunities.
When races or track days are on, expect dynamic motorsport photography—fast cars, pit activity, and enthusiastic crowds.
Food in Avon Park
Avon Park Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Southern staple commonly served with hush puppies and coleslaw; you'll find it at local diners and seafood spots.
Must-Try!
Popular in central Florida — roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard on pressed bread; available at Cuban cafes and delis.
Desserts that showcase Florida citrus; available at bakeries, diners, and some restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets and roadside stands sell seasonal citrus, honey, vegetables, and occasional prepared foods like empanadas or tamales—great for sampling local produce.
Seasonal events and community fairs sometimes feature food trucks and stalls offering barbecue, tacos, and desserts—check the town calendar for dates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents are generally polite and informal—use basic courtesy, greet shopkeepers, and expect friendly small-talk.
Many natural areas are adjacent to private land used for agriculture—stick to marked trails and ask permission before entering private property.
For tours, guided trips or restaurant reservations, be on time—small businesses may have limited seating and schedules.
Safety
Tipping in Avon Park
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. tipping applies: 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per bag for bellhops, and $2–5 for housekeeping per night if you want to tip. Rideshare apps include tipping options; tipping casual counter service is appreciated but not expected.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; small diners and farmers markets may prefer cash. ATMs are available but can be sparse—plan ahead for cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid and rainy—afternoon thunderstorms are common. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, insect repellent and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Temperatures begin to ease but hurricane season runs through November—stay aware of forecasts and have flexible plans during storm threats.
Mild and pleasant daytime temperatures with cooler nights—perfect for outdoor activities and birdwatching; pack a light jacket for evenings.
Comfortable temperatures, wildflowers and active outdoor events—ideal time for hiking, fishing and visiting farmers markets.
Avon Park at Night
Hiking in Avon Park
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
About a short drive from Avon Park, this park offers boardwalks, shaded trails, ancient oak hammocks and diverse birdlife—great for easy to moderate hikes.
Trails and natural areas along the Lake Wales Ridge feature scrub habitat and unique flora—good for short hikes and nature study.
Smaller preserves and park trails close to town provide short walking loops, picnic areas and opportunities for wildlife viewing without long drives.
Airports
How to reach Avon Park by plane.
Small regional airport about 15–25 minutes away—useful for private planes and some charter services; commercial service is limited.
Major international airport approximately 90–120 minutes by car—best option for most domestic and international flights.
Another major airport about 90–120 minutes away, convenient for western and southern access to central Florida.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant retired population is attracted to the area’s affordability, mild winters and golf/recreation opportunities.
Local families—many employed in service industries, agriculture, education and healthcare—form the backbone of the community.
A notable Hispanic population contributes culturally and economically; Spanish is commonly heard in shops and restaurants.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
With Sebring International Raceway nearby, auto racing is a regional highlight that draws fans for major events and amateur track days.
Freshwater fishing is very popular among locals and visitors for bass and panfish.
Golf is widely enjoyed in the area, with public and private courses catering to residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Avon Park.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than in larger cities—look for salads, vegetable sides, grilled cheese or egg-based dishes at diners; many restaurants will adapt plates if you ask.
Vegan choices are sparse; bring snacks or plan ahead. Larger nearby towns have more options. Many chefs can modify dishes to remove dairy or meat upon request.
Ask servers about preparation—gluten-free bread and salads are usually available, but cross-contamination is possible in smaller kitchens.