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LAKELAND • WINTER HAVEN

Are you ready to explore Central Florida?Looking for fun? Central Florida’s Polk County has you covered. A wide array of things to do and see, including attractions, local restaurants, nature parks and hiking trails, boutique shops and museums.

Central Florida’s Polk County is conveniently located between Orlando and Tampa, and an easy drive to Central Florida attractions and the Gulf and Atlantic beaches. Polk County offers something for everyone, including Florida’s newest attractions, LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Safari Wilderness; and some of Florida’s most historic; including Bok Tower Gardens, Westgate River Ranch Resort (the Southeast’s largest dude ranch), and Frank Lloyd Wright’s 13 structures at Florida Southern College. With 554 fresh water lakes, the area offers great fishing, adventurous airboat eco tours and exciting water sports. Wonderful parks, preserves and trails captivate visitors with Polk County’s natural beauty.

Let’s explore Central Florida.

Don’t forget to book a stay . Stay connected through Facebook for all of our events

The Real Florida Magic is here in Central Florida, a region of 17 charming communities, including Lakeland and Winter Haven, that are filled with natural beauty and surprising discoveries. From historic gems, extraordinary attractions and thrilling theme parks to epic outdoor adventures, a vacation here feels worlds away, yet is still close to Orlando.

Plan A Trip

SEE & DO

From incredible outdoor adventures to legendary attractions, there’s always something magical to discover.

  • Arts & Culture

    couple viewing piece of art at polk museum of art

  • Attractions

    Kids on the great lego race ride at LEGOLAND florida

  • Family Fun

    Children feeding llama at Safari Wilderness

  • Gardens & Parks

    Carillon Tower at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales

  • Nature & Hiking

    Hiking Trail, Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, FL

  • U-Pick, Farm & Food Tours

    Soft serve ice cream, orange and tangerine juice, pecans, oranges and strawberries at Ridge Island Groves. Florida Citrus Makes a Great Christmas Gift
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EVENTS

Looking for even more magical experiences? Check out our upcoming featured events for 2025.

  • Nov

    07

    First Friday
    Lakeland First Friday

    Downtown shops and restaurants will be open late. Don’t miss the Makers Market, featuring local…

    See Details
  • Nov

    08

    Rodeo at Westgate River Ranch
    Saturday Night Rodeo

    Yee-haw! 8 seconds may not seem like a long time, but when you're watching a…

    See Details
  • Nov

    14

    Polk County History Center Festival of Wreaths
    Festival of Wreaths at Polk County History Center

    Wreaths will be on display from Nov. 14 until Dec. 11 during the 15th Annual…

    See Details
  • Nov

    14

    Downtown Lake Wales in the evening
    Lake Wales Live

    The Lake Wales live series ignites Downtown Lake Wales. Performances by the Lake Wales Jazz…

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  • Nov

    15

    Just another beautiful day at the Polk County History Center.????️????: Polk County History Center in Bartow, FL????: @pangpond_ntk
    Polk County History Center Architectural Tour

    Explore the Polk County History Center during a family friendly architectural tour and learn more…

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LEARN & DISCOVER

  • Dining out for Thanksgiving in Central Florida
    Dining Out for Thanksgiving in Central Florida

    November ushers in the holidays with the anticipation of family, fun, and food! Along with traditional and unique Thanksgiving vacation...

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  • Spooky Experiences in Central Florida
    Top 5 Spooky Experiences in Central Florida

    Central Florida is known for its sunny skies, beautiful lakes, theme parks, and vibrant culinary scene, but did you know...

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  • Road and sign explaining history of Spook Hill in Lake Wales, FL
    The Legend of Spook Hill

    Lake Wales is known for its citrus groves, charming downtown, and iconic Singing Tower; however, the “Crown Jewel of the...

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  • Carillon Tower at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales
    Fall into the Gardens

    Visit Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales and let your imagination take flight this fall. The Central Florida attraction is...

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  • Halloween Events and Fall Festivals
    Halloween Events and Fall Festivals in Polk County

    Happy Fall, y’all! Summer has passed and cooler temperatures have arrived so get outside and enjoy some popular fall festivals...

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  • Girl and mom eating ice cream at Camp Margaritaville
    Chill Out in Polk County: Ice Cream Shops You Must Try

    It’s time to chill out from the Central Florida heat! We’ve got the scoop on Polk County’s coolest ice cream...

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DEALS & PASSES

From colorful murals to mouthwatering BBQ and refreshing craft brews, our free Visit Central Florida Passes help you experience the best of Polk County like a local.

  • Mural Magic Pass
    Mural Magic Pass

    Explore the art that brings our communities to life. Visit stunning murals across the county, snap photos, check in, and earn rewards along the way.

    Explore the Mural Magic Pass
  • Adventure On Tap: Central Florida Beer Pass
    Adventure On Tap: Central Florida Beer Pass

    Discover local breweries and sip your way through Polk County. Enjoy exclusive discounts and earn prizes when you check in.

    Get the Beer Pass
  • Fire & Flavor BBQ Pass
    Fire & Flavor BBQ Pass

    Follow the scent of smoky perfection and taste your way through Polk County’s best BBQ joints while saving along the way.

    Explore the BBQ Trail
  • Sunshine Savings Pass
    Sunshine Savings Pass

    Enjoy exclusive deals and discounts from local attractions, restaurants, and shops — perfect for exploring more for less!

    See All Savings
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