Best Things to do in Lakeland | Must-see attractions 2025

Hollis Garden

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

702 E Orange St

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Hollis Garden is a lakefront botanical garden in Lakeland, featuring neoclassical architecture, scenic fountains, and diverse plant varieties.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

Polk Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

800 E Palmetto St (Michigan Ave.)

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Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland, FL, features global art from pre-Columbian to contemporary, with free entry and rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Aerospace Discovery at the Florida Air Museum at Sun 'n Fun

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4175 Medulla Rd

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Aerospace Discovery at Florida Air Museum is the official aviation education center in Florida, featuring historical aircraft and interactive exhibits.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.

General admission is $14; discounts available on certain exhibits.

Wildwood Antique Mall of Lakeland

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Mall

3530 US Highway 98 N Just East of Lowe's and Chuckee Cheese

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Wildwood Antique Mall of Lakeland features 44,000 sq. ft. of antiques and collectibles from over 275 unique dealers in Lakeland, Florida.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free to enter. Purchases from vendors are separate.

Saddle Creek Park

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

3716 Morgan Combee Rd

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Saddle Creek Park in Lakeland, Florida, offers recreational opportunities with trails, a playground, and picnic areas amidst lush nature and scenic landscapes.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a fee.

Lake Bonny Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

800 US 98 South

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Lake Bonny Park in Lakeland, FL, offers outdoor activities with a lake, playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas for families and visitors.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free. Some special events may have fees.

Lake Parker Park

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

910 E Granada Street

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Lake Parker Park spans 100 acres in Lakeland, Florida, featuring native vegetation, picnic pavilions, trails, a playground, and recreational sports facilities.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free.

Munn Park

Open 24 hours

Park

201 E Main St

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Munn Park is a historical green space in Lakeland, Florida, featuring large trees, fountains, a memorial, and ample benches for relaxation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Barnett Family Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

730 E Orange St

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Barnett Family Park in Lakeland features a children's splash pad, playground, labyrinth, and picnic areas, ideal for families and outdoor activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Frances Langford Promenade

Open 24 hours

Park

Frances Langford Promenade

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Frances Langford Promenade in Lakeland, United States, offers a scenic walking path along the lake, featuring gardens and recreational areas.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Westside Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

1800 Oakhill St

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Westside Park in Lakeland features sports fields, a playground, and a picnic pavilion, ideal for families and outdoor activities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No ticket required for park access.

Dobbins Park

7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Park

514 Ariana St

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Dobbins Park in Lakeland, Florida, is a 10-acre park offering a playground, picnic tables, benches, and a bike-repair station for outdoor enjoyment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Polk Theatre

4:00 PM–11:00 PM

Theater

139 S Florida Ave

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Polk Theatre is a historic movie theater in Lakeland, Florida, known for its vintage architecture and cultural significance in the community.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

General admission: $10. Discounts for students and seniors available.

Arts on the Park Inc

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Gallery

115 N Kentucky Ave

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Arts on the Park Inc in Lakeland offers a vibrant venue for arts education, exhibitions, and cultural experiences. Engage in community arts programs and workshops year-round.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some workshops may require a fee.

Lakeland Linder Regional Airport

Open 24 hours

Airport

3900 Don Emerson Dr

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Lakeland Linder Regional Airport serves the city of Lakeland, Florida, offering general aviation services and a variety of flight-related amenities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for general access. Specific events may charge a fee.

Southeastern University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

1000 Longfellow Blvd (N Crystal Lake Dr.)

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Southeastern University, a private institution in Lakeland, Florida, offers a Christian-centered education with a focus on leadership and service.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for campus visits. Some events may require registration fees.

Big Cypress Golf Club

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

Big Cypress Blvd

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Big Cypress Golf Club in Lakeland offers an 18-hole course designed for various skill levels, surrounded by lush nature and featuring challenging layouts.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

$35 for adults; $20 for juniors. Membership discounts available.

Bramble Ridge Golf Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

2505 Bramble Ridge Dr

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Bramble Ridge Golf Course, located in Lakeland, is a 18-hole championship course designed for all skill levels, featuring natural landscapes and wildlife.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Varies. Standard fees for 18 holes range from $30 to $50 depending on the day and time.

Cleveland Heights Golf Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

2900 Buckingham Ave

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Cleveland Heights Golf Course in Lakeland, USA features 18 holes of challenging play amidst serene landscapes and well-maintained greens.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Daily green fees: $30. Discounts available for seniors and juniors.

Gator Creek Reserve

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Nature reserve

9725 US Hwy 98 N

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Gator Creek Reserve in Lakeland is a serene nature preserve, offering visitors scenic trails, wildlife viewing, and educational opportunities about local ecosystems.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require a small fee.

Shoppes of Lakeland

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

4019 US Highway 98 N

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Shoppes of Lakeland features popular retail stores, dining options, and a vibrant atmosphere. Located in Lakeland, Florida, it attracts shoppers and diners alike.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No entry fee required for shopping and dining.

Lakeland Baptist Temple

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

34024 Roberts Rd

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Lakeland Baptist Temple is a community-focused Baptist church in Lakeland, United States, offering worship services and various ministries.

Duration: 1-2 hours for services and activities.

Free. Services and events do not require a ticket, though donations are welcomed.

Plantation Square

Open 24 hours

Mall

Lakeland

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Plantation Square in Lakeland, US features lush landscapes, historic architecture, and a vibrant community atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Cleveland Heights Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Lakeland

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Cleveland Heights Baptist Church in Lakeland, USA, serves as a historic place of worship with unique architecture, community events, and outreach programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events.

College Heights United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Lakeland

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College Heights United Methodist Church in Lakeland, FL, offers a supportive community, worship services, and various programs for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have fees.

Grace City Church

7:00 PM–9:00 PM

Church

1736 New Jersey Rd

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Grace City Church in Lakeland, USA, offers a welcoming community for worship, services, and outreach initiatives, emphasizing faith and fellowship.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for special events and programs.

Lakewood Park United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Florida

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Lakewood Park United Methodist Church in Lakeland provides spiritual services, community outreach, and engaging events for all ages in a welcoming environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Iglesia Primera Bautista de Salvacion

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

906 Savannah Ave

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Iglesia Primera Bautista de Salvacion in Lakeland offers worship services and community outreach, embodying a strong sense of faith and cultural pride.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are encouraged for community events.

South Florida Ave Church Or Christ

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

South Florida Ave

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South Florida Ave Church Of Christ in Lakeland, Florida, is a welcoming place of worship known for its community involvement and rich biblical teachings.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours for services and socializing.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Scott-Lake Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Scott Lake Rd

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Scott-Lake Baptist Church in Lakeland, USA, offers a rich history and community-focused activities, making it a vital part of local culture since its founding in 1960.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community services and events.

Webster Memorial Baptist Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

Florida

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Webster Memorial Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida, offers a historic place of worship and community events, established in 1916 with notable architecture.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Gibsonia Baptist Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

Gib Gallaway

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Gibsonia Baptist Church in Lakeland, United States, is known for its community services and engaging worship experiences.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special programs and events.

Gapway Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1705 N Combee Rd

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Gapway Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida, is a historic place of worship founded in 1910, known for its community engagement and supportive environment.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for services and engagement activities.

Free admission for all services and events.

Presbyterian Church in the Highlands

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1010 Lake Miriam Dr (Cleveland Heights)

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Presbyterian Church in the Highlands offers a welcoming environment in Lakeland, US, featuring historic architecture and a vibrant community.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require a donation or ticket.

Medulla Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

3930 Old Road 37

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Medulla Baptist Church in Lakeland, United States, features traditional architecture and a welcoming community. It serves as both a worship site and a historical landmark.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and events.

Annie Pfeiffer Chapel

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Florida Southern College (Johnson Ave)

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Annie Pfeiffer Chapel in Lakeland, Florida, was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1941 and stands as a significant example of his Usonian architecture.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and events.

Shoregate United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

30500 Bayridge Blvd (at E 305th St)

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Shoregate United Methodist Church in Lakeland, United States, serves the community with a rich history and architectural beauty, emphasizing service and worship in a welcoming environment.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations for community programs are welcomed.

First Baptist Church of Willowick

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

31433 Vine St

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First Baptist Church of Willowick is a historic place of worship in Lakeland, United States, known for its welcoming community and traditional services.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for services and events.

Free. Donations are encouraged during services and events.

Saint Mary Magdalene Catholic Parish

10:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

32114 Vine St

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Saint Mary Magdalene Catholic Parish in Lakeland, US, offers a spiritual retreat with traditional architecture and community-focused services.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free.

Highland City Town Center

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

Hwy 98 @ Clubhouse Rd

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Highland City Town Center in Lakeland features shops, restaurants, and community spaces for social interactions and local events, making it a hub for locals and visitors alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. All events and access to shops are complimentary.

Booker T Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Amusement Park

Lakeland

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Booker T Park in Lakeland, USA offers a serene environment with walking trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities, making it a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some programs may have registration fees.

Lakeside Village Fountain

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Fountain

Lakeland

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Lakeside Village Fountain in Lakeland features a vibrant fountain surrounded by shops and restaurants, serving as a hub for community events and gatherings.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No charges apply for general entry, though special events may incur fees.

FDOT Bartow Ops Surplus Pen

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Hwy 60

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FDOT Bartow Ops Surplus Pen is a facility in Lakeland, FL, managing surplus property for the Florida Department of Transportation since 2012.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Access is available to state and local government entities.

Griffin Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

3225 Kathleen Rd (Knight Station)

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Griffin Baptist Church in Lakeland, US, emphasizes community service and faith with its welcoming environment, making it a key place for worship and gatherings.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may request donations.

Bethany Free Will Baptist Church

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Lakeland

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Bethany Free Will Baptist Church in Lakeland, United States, serves as a welcoming community hub with a rich history and a focus on faith and service.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for various church activities.

Friendship Full Gospel Baptist Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Lakeland

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Friendship Full Gospel Baptist Church in Lakeland, USA, is a vibrant community church known for its engaging services, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome during services.

Lake Gibson Church Of The Nazarene

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Lakeland

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Lake Gibson Church Of The Nazarene, located in Lakeland, FL, is a vibrant community church known for its welcoming atmosphere and active involvement in local services and outreach.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged for specific outreach programs.

christ community christian center church

6:00 PM–9:00 PM

Church

704 N Brunnell Pkwy

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Christ Community Christian Center Church in Lakeland engages the local community through worship services, outreach programs, and educational events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed but not required.

Life Source Community Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

919 S Combee Rd

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Life Source Community Church in Lakeland, Florida, offers a welcoming environment and diverse services catering to community engagement and spiritual growth.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support community programs.

mt tabor baptist church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Florida

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Mt. Tabor Baptist Church in Lakeland, United States is a historic church founded in 1871, offering community events and spiritual guidance.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.