Lakeland

Day Trips

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the quaint Black & Brew Coffee House, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Hollis Garden, enjoying the vibrant flowers and serene water features. As you explore, be sure to capture the stunning architecture of the surrounding historic buildings.

Visit the Polk Museum of Art to immerse yourself in a diverse collection of contemporary and classic art pieces. Afterward, grab a light lunch at the nearby Red Door Wine Market, known for its artisanal sandwiches and fine wines. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Munn Park, where you can relax under the shade of oak trees and watch local artists at work.

As the sun sets, head to the historic downtown area for dinner at the acclaimed The Terrace Grille, offering stunning views of Lake Mirror. After your meal, take a leisurely walk around Lake Mirror Park, where the reflection of the lights on the water creates a magical atmosphere. End your evening with a nightcap at a local brewery, enjoying the lively atmosphere and perhaps some live music.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the popular IHOP, where pancakes and omelets will fuel your adventure. Head to the nearby Circle B Bar Reserve, a beautiful nature preserve where you can spot alligators, eagles, and a variety of other wildlife. Take a guided nature walk or explore the trails on your own, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch at the reserve, surrounded by lush landscapes and the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or hiking the trails, taking in the serene environment and stunning views of the wetlands. Don’t forget your camera, as this location provides endless opportunities for capturing the local wildlife and scenery.

As the day winds down, head back into town for dinner at the family-friendly El Sabor Latino, where you can indulge in authentic Latin cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll around Lake Parker, where the sunset casts beautiful hues over the water. End your evening with a visit to the local ice cream shop, enjoying a sweet treat while reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Begin your day with breakfast at the cozy Café Zupas, where fresh ingredients and unique flavors come together in a delightful menu. Next, visit the Polk Museum of Art, where you can explore both permanent and rotating exhibits showcasing a wide range of artistic styles. Take your time to appreciate the works of local and international artists, and perhaps join a guided tour to gain deeper insights.

For lunch, head to the downtown area and enjoy a meal at the trendy The Poor Porker, known for its gourmet food truck offerings. After lunch, immerse yourself in the Lakeland Community Theatre, where you can catch a matinee performance or even take a backstage tour. The vibrant arts scene in Lakeland is a perfect way to spend your afternoon, connecting with local talent.

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at the elegant Nineteen61, where you can savor a blend of Latin and Southern cuisine in a refined setting. After dinner, attend a live performance at the historic Polk Theatre, where you can enjoy everything from classic films to live music. Conclude your cultural day with a nightcap at a local wine bar, soaking in the artistic atmosphere around you.

Kick off your day with a family-friendly breakfast at Denny's, where you can fuel up with hearty meals before a day of fun. After breakfast, make your way to the nearby Legoland Florida Resort, which features a fantastic water park. Get ready for thrilling water slides and wave pools, perfect for both kids and adults alike.

Enjoy a packed lunch at the waterpark, taking a break to recharge before diving back into the attractions. Spend the afternoon exploring more of the park, enjoying rides, and participating in water activities that promise fun and laughter. Don’t forget to take breaks in the shade and hydrate to keep your energy up!

As the park starts to wind down, head to the nearby Old Town for dinner at one of the many casual eateries, where you can choose from a variety of cuisines. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the shopping area, where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts. Wrap up your day with a relaxing evening at your hotel, reminiscing about the exciting adventures you experienced at the waterpark.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Nook, where you can indulge in their famous French toast or hearty omelets. After breakfast, take some time to relax at Lake Mirror Park, enjoying the views and perhaps taking a short walk around the lake. This peaceful morning will set the tone for an exciting day ahead.

For lunch, visit the newly opened Craft Beer Cellar, where you can sample local craft beers paired with gourmet sandwiches. Spend the afternoon visiting a few local breweries, such as Lakeland Brewing Company, where you can take a tour and learn about the brewing process. Enjoy tastings of unique flavors and styles, making sure to take notes on your favorites.

As the day comes to a close, gather with friends at a local beer garden for dinner, where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and great food. After dinner, attend a brewery event or live music performance to experience the vibrant local nightlife. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a speakeasy-style bar, savoring the craft cocktails and the lively ambiance.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Café at the Park, known for its fresh ingredients and welcoming atmosphere. After breakfast, head to the beautiful Fort Fraser Trail, where you can walk or bike along the scenic path surrounded by nature. This trail offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and spot some local wildlife.

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots along the trail, taking in the Florida sunshine and fresh air. Spend the afternoon exploring the various parks in the area, such as the picturesque Lake Mirror Park or the expansive Bonnet Springs Park, featuring walking trails and art installations. Be sure to take photographs and enjoy the beauty of Lakeland’s natural surroundings.

As the sun sets, head back into town for dinner at the trendy Urban Bites, where you can enjoy a farm-to-table experience. Afterward, take a walk around downtown Lakeland, admiring the unique shops and vibrant street art. End your day with a visit to a local café for dessert, indulging in a sweet treat while reflecting on your outdoor adventures.

Kick off your day with a delightful breakfast at the local favorite, The Breakfast Club, where you can enjoy classic breakfast dishes with a twist. After your meal, head to the Lakeside Village, a charming shopping area filled with boutique shops and well-known brands. Spend your morning browsing through unique stores, discovering local artisans, and finding one-of-a-kind gifts.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at the stylish Grillsmith, known for its fresh seafood and vibrant ambiance. Afterward, continue your shopping spree, exploring the various shops and perhaps catching a local art exhibit at a nearby gallery. Make sure to take breaks at outdoor seating areas, soaking in the Florida sun and lively atmosphere.

As evening approaches, choose from a variety of dining options in the Lakeside Village, from casual eateries to fine dining. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the village, where you can discover seasonal decorations and local events. End your day with a visit to a nearby dessert shop, indulging in sweet treats to cap off your shopping and dining experience.

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at First Watch, known for its healthy options and vibrant dishes. After breakfast, head to the RP Funding Center to catch a local sports event or go for a morning swim at the nearby swimming pool. This energetic start will get you pumped for a day filled with activities.

For lunch, grab a bite at the local favorite, The Red Elephant Pizza and Grill, where you can enjoy delicious pizza and sandwiches. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Common Grounds Park, where you can engage in recreational activities like frisbee, soccer, or simply relax under a tree. Consider renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the waters of Lake Parker for an added adventure.

As the sun begins to set, head to a lively sports bar for dinner, where you can catch up on the day’s games while enjoying a hearty meal. After dinner, consider attending a local sporting event to cheer on the home team and soak up the enthusiastic atmosphere. Conclude your action-packed day with a nightcap at a local bar, celebrating your love for sports and recreation.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the local family-friendly diner, where pancakes and eggs are served up with a smile. After breakfast, make your way to the nearby Safari Wilderness, where you can embark on a guided tour to see exotic animals in a natural setting. Get ready for an unforgettable morning of animal encounters and education.

Enjoy a packed lunch at the safari, where you can take a break and appreciate the beautiful surroundings. Spend the afternoon participating in interactive animal experiences or exploring the various exhibits that the safari has to offer. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to capture the memories of your family adventure.

As your day comes to a close, head back to Lakeland for dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, where everyone can find something they love on the menu. After dinner, take a stroll through a nearby park, allowing the kids to run around and play. End your family fun day with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, sharing your favorite moments from the day.