Explore The Best Of Polk County With Our Comprehensive Travel Guide
Located in the heart of Florida, Polk County is a hidden gem that offers a wealth of attractions, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Polk County has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey of discovery to explore 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 Polk County.
Top Attractions
Polk County is home to some of the most popular attractions in Florida. The Legoland Florida Resort is a must-visit attraction for families, featuring thrilling rides, interactive experiences, and Lego-themed shows. The Bok Tower Gardens is another popular attraction, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, tranquil gardens, and a soaring carillon tower.
Hidden Gems
Polk County is also home to several hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. The Circle B Bar Reserve is a nature lover’s paradise, featuring scenic hiking trails, picturesque lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. The Ridge Island Groves is another hidden gem, offering visitors a chance to pick their own fresh oranges and grapefruits.
Food Scene
Polk County’s food scene is a melting pot of flavors, reflecting the diverse cultural influences in the region. The Cuban Sandwich Factory serves up delicious Cuban sandwiches, while the Fat Jack’s Deli & Pub is a favorite spot for burgers and craft beers. For a taste of Southern comfort food, head to the Magnolia Building in Lakeland.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Polk County offers plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers. The Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland offers free admission, while the Lake Wales History Museum offers affordable guided tours of the historic downtown area. The Hollis Garden in Lakeland is another free attraction, featuring stunning botanical gardens and water features.
Outdoor Adventures
Polk County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its diverse landscapes and abundant natural resources. The Peace River is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, while the Lake Kissimmee State Park offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping. The Colt Creek State Park is another outdoor destination, featuring scenic trails and a playground for kids.
Historical Landmarks
Polk County is rich in history, with several landmarks and sites of historical significance. The Polk County History Center in Bartow is a great place to learn about the region’s past, while the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Florida Southern College in Lakeland is a marvel of architectural design. The Fort Meade Historical Museum is another must-visit attraction for history buffs.
Family-Friendly Activities
Polk County is a great place for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that cater to all ages. The Safari Wilderness Ranch in Lakeland offers a unique safari experience, where visitors can see exotic animals up close. The Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Museum in Lakeland is a hit with aviation enthusiasts, while the Explorations V Children’s Museum in Lakeland is a fun and interactive museum for kids.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Polk County has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. The Ridge Scenic Highway is a picturesque drive that takes you through rolling hills and citrus groves, while the Fantasy of Flight museum in Polk City offers a unique collection of vintage aircraft. The Spook Hill in Lake Wales is a quirky and mysterious attraction that defies gravity.
Natural Wonders
Polk County is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders, from serene lakes to majestic forests. The Lake Wales Ridge State Forest is a great place for hiking and birdwatching, while the Crooked Lake Prairie and the Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland is a popular spot for jogging and biking.
Vibrant Nightlife
Polk County may not be known for its nightlife, but it still has plenty to offer for night owls. The Lakeland Brewing Company is a popular spot for craft beers and live music, while the Polk Theatre in Lakeland is a historic venue for movies and concerts. The Haines City Ribs on the Ridge BBQ Festival is a fun and lively event that takes place every January.
Local Markets
Polk County is home to several local markets that offer fresh produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. The Downtown Lakeland Farmers Market is a popular destination for foodies, with its wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables. The Winter Haven Farmers Market is another great option, offering a range of organic produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
While Polk County may not have any beaches or mountains of its own, it’s still within easy driving distance of some of Florida’s best natural attractions. The Gulf Coast beaches are just a short drive away, while the Blue Ridge Mountains are a popular destination for hiking and camping.
Cultural Immersion
Polk County is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Native American, Spanish, and African American traditions. The Polk County African American Museum in Bartow celebrates the region’s African American heritage, while the Historic Bok Sanctuary in Lake Wales offers a glimpse into the state’s Spanish colonial past. The Native American Heritage Trail in Polk County is a fascinating journey through the region’s Native American history and culture.
Art and Music Scene
Polk County has a vibrant art and music scene, with several galleries and venues that showcase local talent. The Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland features a wide range of contemporary and classical art, while the Harrison School for the Arts is a renowned performing arts school that puts on regular shows and concerts. The Lakeland Center is the region’s premier venue for concerts and live events.
Walking Tours
Polk County’s historic downtown areas are perfect for leisurely walking tours, offering a chance to soak in the region’s rich history and architecture. The Lake Wales Downtown Historic District is a charming area with a variety of shops and restaurants, while the Historic Downtown Winter Haven is a lively area with plenty of entertainment options. The Bartow Downtown Historic District is another must-visit area, with its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture.
Architectural Marvels
Polk County is home to several architectural marvels that are worth a visit. The Florida Southern College in Lakeland is a masterpiece of Frank Lloyd Wright’s design, with 12 buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Polk County Courthouse in Bartow is another impressive structure, with its neoclassical design and towering dome. The Lake Wales Tower is a unique structure that offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
Historical Sites
Polk County is a treasure trove of historical sites and landmarks, from the prehistoric times to the present day. The Mulberry Phosphate Museum in Mulberry is a fascinating museum that explores the region’s phosphate mining history, while the Homeland Heritage Park in Homeland offers a glimpse into the area’s pioneer days. The Polk County Historical Museum in Bartow is another must-visit attraction for history buffs.
Biking Routes
Polk County’s scenic landscapes and mild climate make it a great destination for biking enthusiasts. The Fort Fraser Trail is a popular biking route that takes you through scenic woodlands and past historic sites, while the Van Fleet Trail is a 29-mile trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding areas. The Lake-to-Lake Trail is another great option, connecting several of the region’s lakes.
Wellness Retreats
Polk County is a great place for a wellness retreat, with several spas, yoga studios, and health centers that offer a range of services. The Four Paws Day Spa in Winter Haven offers pet grooming services and yoga classes, while the True Nature Holistics in Lakeland offers acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicine. The Streamsong Resort in Bowling Green is a luxurious spa and golf resort that offers a range of wellness treatments.
Adventure Sports
Polk County offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports, from ziplining to skydiving. The Lakeland Zipline Adventure is a thrilling zipline course that takes you through scenic forests and over glistening lakes, while the Skydive Florida in Lake Wales offers an unforgettable skydiving experience. The Xtreme Jump Trampoline Park in Auburndale is a fun and exhilarating attraction for kids and adults alike.
Polk County is a destination that offers a wealth of experiences and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Florida.