Bartow

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to the Bartow Historic District, where you can stroll down Main Street and admire the beautiful architecture of the late 19th-century buildings. Stop by the Polk County Historical Museum to learn about the area's rich history through engaging exhibits. Don’t forget to grab a cup of coffee at a local café to fuel your morning explorations.

After lunch at a charming bistro, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Mosaic Park, where you can enjoy the vibrant gardens and tranquil lake. Spend some time at the Bartow Civic Center, which often hosts local art shows and community events. If you're in the mood, rent a bike and explore the picturesque trails around the area.

As the sun sets, head to the nearby Lake Kissimmee State Park for a scenic evening. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy by the lakeshore while watching the sunset illuminate the sky in hues of orange and pink. End your day with a peaceful stroll along the water, listening to the sounds of nature.

Begin your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Circle B Bar Reserve, where diverse wildlife awaits. Explore the trails and keep an eye out for alligators, birds, and other native creatures while soaking in the serene natural beauty. Bring binoculars for an up-close view of the avifauna that thrives in this wetland ecosystem.

After your morning adventure, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas within the reserve. Spend the afternoon exploring more of the trails or take part in a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna from a knowledgeable ranger. Capture stunning photographs of the landscape and its inhabitants.

Return to Bartow and unwind with dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Southern cuisine. Savor traditional dishes while reflecting on the day's wildlife encounters. If you’re up for it, consider joining a local evening event or concert in downtown Bartow for some entertainment.

Spend your morning at the Bartow Art Guild, where you can appreciate local art and perhaps join a workshop to unleash your own creativity. Engage with local artists and learn about their inspirations while exploring various mediums and styles. Afterward, visit the nearby Bartow Public Library for a quiet moment with a good book.

For lunch, head to a nearby eatery that features local artists' work on display. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Polk Theatre, a beautifully preserved historic venue that often showcases film screenings and live performances. Take a guided tour to learn about the theater's storied past and architectural significance.

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that hosts live music, adding a vibrant atmosphere to your meal. Savor the local flavors while listening to talented musicians perform. Wrap up your artistic day with a stroll through downtown Bartow, where you can admire the illuminated storefronts and art installations.

Kick off your day with a visit to the stunning Bok Tower Gardens, where lush landscapes and the iconic Singing Tower await. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful gardens, filled with colorful blooms and serene walking paths. Don’t miss the chance to hear the carillon music wafting through the air as you wander.

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a delightful lunch at the gardens' café, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Then, take a guided tour that delves into the history of Bok Tower and its creator, Edward Bok, while learning about the gardens' design and ecology. Spend the afternoon snapping photos of the stunning flora and fauna.

As the day winds down, head back to Bartow and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local eatery. Reflect on the beauty of the gardens and the melodies of the carillon while savoring your meal. Consider taking a leisurely evening stroll through one of Bartow's parks to conclude a fulfilling day.

Start your morning at the Bartow Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Interact with friendly vendors and sample some of the best local flavors while supporting the community. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the market stalls featuring homemade pastries and coffee.

After exploring the market, head to a local cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Floridian dishes. Spend the afternoon honing your culinary skills while enjoying the company of fellow food enthusiasts. At the end of the class, sit down to savor the delicious meal you’ve created.

For dinner, visit a well-known local restaurant that showcases Bartow's unique culinary scene. Enjoy a multi-course meal that highlights local ingredients and flavors, prepared by talented chefs. End the evening with a dessert from a nearby bakery, perhaps sampling a slice of key lime pie or a traditional Southern pecan pie.

Begin your day with a round of golf at the Bartow Golf Course, known for its scenic views and well-maintained greens. Enjoy the fresh morning air as you tee off and take in the tranquil surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, it’s a great way to start your day.

After your game, grab lunch at the clubhouse, where you can swap stories with fellow golfers. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the course or head to one of Bartow's spas for a rejuvenating massage or treatment. Take some time to unwind and recharge before the evening activities begin.

For dinner, choose a cozy steakhouse in Bartow, where you can enjoy a hearty meal in a warm atmosphere. As you dine, discuss your day’s adventures and plan for the next day's explorations. Wind down with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the friendly ambiance.

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at a family-friendly café before heading to Bartow's beautiful parks. Spend the morning at the Bartow Community Park, where children can enjoy playgrounds while adults can relax or partake in recreational activities. Bring a frisbee or a ball for some fun family games in the fresh air.

After a morning of fun, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the park or head to a nearby restaurant known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Lake Parker, where you can rent paddle boats or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront. The kids will love exploring nature while parents can relax and soak in the views.

As the sun sets, gather at a local pizzeria for dinner, where the whole family can enjoy delicious, customizable pizzas. Afterward, take a stroll through the park to enjoy the evening breeze and perhaps spot some wildlife. Finish the day with ice cream from a local shop, making it a sweet end to a fun family day.

Start your day with a guided tour of some of Bartow's historical landmarks, including the Old Bartow Courthouse and the McLeod House. Learn about the town's storied past while exploring the architecture and historical significance of these buildings. After the tour, enjoy a light brunch at a nearby café with a vintage charm.

In the afternoon, visit the historic L.B. Brown House, where you can dive deeper into the local history and the life of one of Bartow's prominent figures. Engage with docents who can share fascinating stories and anecdotes about the house and its former inhabitants. Spend some time in the surrounding gardens, reflecting on the area's heritage.

As night falls, prepare for an evening ghost tour that promises to unveil Bartow's haunted history. Walk through the dimly lit streets while listening to spine-chilling tales of the past and the spirits that may still linger. Conclude the night with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant where you can share your ghostly experiences with fellow tour participants.

If your visit coincides with a local festival, start your day early to explore the bustling stalls and activities. Enjoy breakfast at one of the vendor booths, sampling local specialties and baked goods. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere filled with music, art, and community spirit.

Continue to explore the festival's offerings, which may include live performances, art displays, and interactive workshops. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts while enjoying the cultural showcases. Take a break for lunch at a food truck or vendor, trying out different cuisines from the area.

As the festival winds down, find a prime spot to watch the evening's main event, whether it’s a concert, parade, or fireworks display. Join the crowd in celebrating the local culture and community spirit. After the festivities, gather with friends or family for a relaxed dinner at a nearby restaurant, reminiscing about the day’s experiences.