Florida Map Lake Wales
Introduction
Located in central Florida, Lake Wales is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Lake Wales has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Lake Wales and its surroundings.
Top Attractions
Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens is a must-visit attraction in Lake Wales. This 250-acre garden is home to a 205-foot-tall Singing Tower, which houses a carillon with 60 bells that chime every half-hour. The gardens are beautifully landscaped with a variety of plants, flowers, and trees, including azaleas, camellias, magnolias, and palms. You can also explore the Pinewood Estate, a 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion that dates back to the 1930s.
Spook Hill
Spook Hill is a mysterious phenomenon that has puzzled visitors for years. The legend has it that if you put your car in neutral at the bottom of the hill, it will roll uphill. While the scientific explanation is that it’s an optical illusion, it’s still a fun attraction to check out.
Lake Kissimmee State Park
Lake Kissimmee State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. You can also take a boat tour and spot alligators, ospreys, and bald eagles.
Hidden Gems
Chalet Suzanne
Chalet Suzanne is a unique dining experience that you won’t find anywhere else. This restaurant is located in an old citrus packinghouse and offers a five-course meal that includes their famous soup, which has been served to presidents and astronauts.
Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park
If you’re looking for a secluded getaway, head to Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park. This park is a hidden gem that offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. You can also rent a cabin and enjoy a peaceful retreat.
The Depot Museum
The Depot Museum is a small museum that showcases the history of Lake Wales. The museum is located in the historic Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Depot and features exhibits on the pioneer days, the citrus industry, and the railroad.
Food Scene
The Scrambled Egg
The Scrambled Egg is a popular breakfast spot in Lake Wales. This family-owned restaurant serves up delicious omelets, pancakes, and biscuits and gravy. They also have a lunch menu that includes sandwiches and salads.
The Lake Wales Farmer’s Market
The Lake Wales Farmer’s Market is held every Saturday and offers a variety of local produce, baked goods, and crafts. You can also grab a bite to eat from one of the food vendors and enjoy live music.
The Blue Door Coffee Shop
The Blue Door Coffee Shop is a cozy cafรฉ that serves up delicious coffee, tea, and pastries. They also have a selection of sandwiches and salads for lunch.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Things to Do
There are plenty of free things to do in Lake Wales, including visiting the Bok Tower Gardens on the first Sunday of the month, exploring the Depot Museum, and hiking in the Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park.
Happy Hour Specials
Many restaurants and bars in Lake Wales offer happy hour specials, which is a great way to save money on drinks and appetizers. Check out the Lake Wales Main Street website for a list of participating restaurants.
Picnic in the Park
Pack a picnic and head to one of the many parks in Lake Wales. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without spending a lot of money.
Outdoor Adventures
Biking Trails
Lake Wales has several biking trails, including the Fort Fraser Trail, which is a 7.75-mile trail that runs from downtown Bartow to Polk City. The trail offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside and is perfect for a leisurely ride.
Fishing
Lake Wales is home to several lakes and rivers that offer great fishing opportunities. Lake Kissimmee, Lake Weohyakapka, and the Kissimmee River are all popular spots for bass fishing.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Lake Wales. You can rent a kayak and explore the Kissimmee River or Lake Wales Ridge State Forest.
Family-Friendly Activities
LEGOLAND Florida Resort
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a theme park that is perfect for families with young children. The park has over 50 rides, shows, and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and a LEGO-themed hotel.
Safari Wilderness
Safari Wilderness is a wildlife preserve that offers tours on safari vehicles. You can see a variety of animals, including zebras, camels, and antelopes, up close and personal.
Walt Disney World Resort
While not technically in Lake Wales, the Walt Disney World Resort is only a short drive away and offers endless entertainment for the whole family. From Magic Kingdom to Epcot, there is something for everyone.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Ridge Island Groves
Ridge Island Groves is a family-owned citrus grove that offers tours and tastings. You can learn about the history of the grove and sample fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Hollis Garden
Hollis Garden is a hidden gem located in nearby Lakeland. This botanical garden features over 10,000 plants, water features, and a butterfly garden.
Polk County History Center
The Polk County History Center is located in the historic courthouse in downtown Bartow and offers exhibits on the history of the area. You can also take a tour of the courthouse, which was built in 1909.
Natural Wonders
Crooked Lake
Crooked Lake is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by cypress trees and offers great fishing and boating opportunities.
Avon Park Bombing Range
The Avon Park Bombing Range is a unique natural wonder that is also used for military training. The range is home to several endangered species, including the Florida scrub jay and the red-cockaded woodpecker.
Highlands Hammock State Park
Highlands Hammock State Park is located just south of Lake Wales and offers hiking trails, camping, and a scenic drive. The park is home to several species of wildlife, including alligators, deer, and bobcats.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Brass Tap
The Brass Tap is a popular bar in Lakeland that offers over 300 craft beers and live music on the weekends.
The Poor Porker
The Poor Porker is a quirky cafรฉ in Lakeland that serves up beignets, coffee, and craft cocktails. They also have live music and events throughout the week.
The Socialite
The Socialite is a trendy bar in downtown Winter Haven that offers craft cocktails and a rooftop lounge with views of the surrounding area.
Local Markets
The Lake Wales Farmer’s Market
The Lake Wales Farmer’s Market is a great place to find local produce, baked goods, and crafts. The market is held every Saturday in downtown Lake Wales.
The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market
The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market is held every Saturday and offers a variety of local produce, meat, and dairy products. You can also find handmade crafts and live music.
The Winter Haven Farmers Market
The Winter Haven Farmers Market is held every Saturday and offers a variety of local produce, jams, and jellies. You can also find handmade crafts and jewelry.
Beaches and Mountains
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is located on the Gulf of Mexico and is only a short drive from Lake Wales. The beach offers white sand, crystal-clear water, and plenty of water activities, including parasailing and jet skiing.
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