That’s more than 70% of Florida’s high tech industry. It’s also halfway between Tampa and Orlando, which makes the region’s theme parks weekend destinations. With the downtown commanding stunning views of city lakes, Lakeland has the gentility of a Southern city and the vibe of an urban lifestyle. It’s a convenient and affordable place to live, close to the campuses of the University of Central Florida and Florida Southern College, which makes it easy to meet other young adults with similar interests.
Some of Florida’s best beaches are located within an hour’s drive of Lakeland. Whether you prefer the calm, warm waters and white sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, or surfing the waves of the Atlantic, you’re never far from a day in paradise.
In addition, Lakeland offers plenty of water-based activities, including fresh-water fishing, skiing, airboat rides and kayaking around its many lakes and connected waterways.
Lakeland is a city that thrives on history and community involvement. Along its Main Street and intersecting roads, Lakeland is comprised of well-known restaurants, local shops, historic venues and coffee house hotspots.
Every month, Downtown Lakeland hosts its First Friday event, showcasing free entertainment, live music and activities from local establishments. The downtown area also hosts a weekly Farmers Curb Market, offering organically grown groceries, freshly ground coffee and tea, retail and food from local venues.
In 1966, the city of Lakeland established Joker Marchant Stadium as the official Spring Training facility for the Detroit Tigers.
Lakeland is home to the Florida Air Museum and the nonprofit, aviation-centered organization called Sun n’ Fun. Each year, Sun n’ Fun hosts one of the nation’s largest airshows and fly-ins.
Boating, paddleboarding and kayaking are also popular at these sites and at Lake Hollingsworth and Banana Lake.
