11 Fun Things to Do in Lakeland, Florida
This post contains affiliate links which means that I will make a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking on any of them, at no extra cost to you.
Looking for a city full of charm, natural beauty, and all the fun vibes? There are so many fun things to do in Lakeland, whether you’re a local, a visitor, or just cruising through! Tucked in Polk County, this gem is famous for its 38 stunning lakes and a perfect mix of cozy small-town feels with a trendy twist.
Similar to Dunedin, Florida, Lakeland is another Florida gem that I feel doesn’t quite get the hype that it deserves. It’s one of my absolute favorite day trips from Tampa, but even if you’re coming from farther away, trust me—Lakeland has plenty to keep you entertained. Think outdoor adventures, quirky shops, and food so good you’ll be planning your next visit before you even leave! Let’s dive into all the fun!
Check out my Reel for how to spend the perfect day in Lakeland!
Fun Things to Do in Lakeland
1. Lake Mirror Park
Looking for a spot in Lakeland that’s equal parts serene and stunning? Lake Mirror Park is calling your name! Nestled right in the heart of downtown, this park has it all—beautiful walking trails, historic charm, and some seriously gorgeous views.
The lake itself is the star of the show, perfect for a relaxing stroll where you can soak up the scenery and maybe even spot some feathered friends hanging out. Feeling snacky? Pack a picnic and enjoy the lush grassy areas!
And don’t miss Hollis Garden! This jaw-dropping botanical escape along the Frances Langford Promenade features more than 10,000 flowers and shrubs, shady trees, and a grand staircase straight out of a fairy tale. This Tampa Bay botanical garden is the perfect spot for a dreamy walk or an Instagram-worthy snap!
2. Lake Hollingsworth
Lake Hollingsworth is a dreamy 350-acre escape just southeast of downtown Lakeland, and trust me, it’s a vibe. Whether you’re into walking, biking, or just soaking up some natural beauty, this spot has your name written all over it. Keep your eyes peeled for some wildlife magic—osprey, egrets, and other local critters love calling this place home!
Feeling adventurous? The lake is perfect for a day on the water. Bring your own kayak or paddleboard, or rent one from a local outfitter. If chill vibes are more your speed, grab a blanket and set up the ultimate picnic with waterfront views.
3. Go Ax Throwing
Ax-Caliber is the perfect place to try ax throwing, explore a virtual gun range, and enjoy great food—all under one roof. It’s one of the most exciting things to do in Lakeland, whether for a group outing, birthday celebration, or casual date night.
I was nervous I’d totally miss the target (okay, I did at first), but thanks to our instructor, I was landing solid throws in no time. Prices start at $25 per person, and packages include an hour of ax throwing with expert guidance.
Don’t miss their “Glow n Throw” nights, where neon axes meet blacklight for a glow-in-the-dark twist. And when you’re done showing off your skills, stick around for delicious food and drinks from their full menu!
4. Experience Some Amazing Lakeland Restaurants
No matter what time of day you’re visiting, there are plenty of amazing restaurants in Lakeland to choose from! For breakfast, Good Thyme is a must-try—get the chicken biscuit, trust me. For lunch or dinner, Nineteen61 has a delicious menu that never disappoints, and Cob and Pen’s southern comfort food is perfect for a laid-back meal (plus, make sure you ask about the interesting history behind it!).
Can’t decide where to go? No worries! The Joinery is a food hall with something for everyone, much like Sparkman Wharf or Armature Works. Perfect for when you just can’t pick!
5. Check Out the Bar Scene
Lakeland’s bar scene is definitely worth exploring, especially if you’re over 21 and ready for a good time! You’ll find a handful of fun spots scattered throughout downtown, perfect for bar hopping. Here are a few local faves:
- Rec Room— A family-friendly arcade until 9 PM, this bar turns 21+ after that and gets lively with games like Guitar Hero, skeeball, and vintage arcade classics. And the drinks are as creative as the games!
- Revival Bar— If you’re into craft cocktails, this is the place to be! Revival Bar offers everything from a full Old Fashioned menu to seasonal drink specials. Plus, their happy hour with $4 wines and $7 cocktails will make your wallet happy too!
- Federal Bar— With a chic exterior and a lively warehouse vibe inside, Federal Bar is known for its high-energy atmosphere. On the night we visited, the whole bar was belting out “Sweet Caroline”—talk about a good time!
- Lakeland Loft— For something a little more laid-back, this glamorous spot features live jazz every weekend.
6. Go Brewery Hopping
If you’re a craft beer lover, exploring Lakeland’s brewery scene is naturally one of the best things to do in Lakeland! Brew Hub is the perfect place to kick off your brewery-hopping adventure. This brew-tiful spot not only brews and packages its own craft beers, but it also has a tasting room where you can sip on drafts, wine, canned cocktails, hard seltzer, and cider. And if hunger strikes, you’ll likely find a food truck parked nearby!
Next up, head to Swan Craft Brewing and Taproom in downtown Lakeland. This place is all about fun vibes with live events, food trucks, and a whopping 30 taps—including 2 nitro lines. If you want to switch things up, don’t miss the Swan Brewing South location, where you can sample from 16 taps.
7. Circle B Bar Reserve
If you’re craving some outdoor adventure, Circle B Bar Reserve is the perfect escape. Located just north of Lakeland, this 1,267-acre wildlife sanctuary is packed with fun and wildlife galore.
With 12 miles of hiking trails to explore, plus awesome bird-watching opportunities, you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained (and maybe a few wildlife encounters—hello, alligators and otters!). If you’re up for some adventure, grab a kayak or fishing pole, or simply enjoy the views with a pontoon ride.
And if you’re craving some extra knowledge, the Visitor Center offers cool guided walks and educational programs!
8. Silver Moon Drive-In Theater
Ready for a throwback movie night? The Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre is where the fun’s at! For over 70 years, this iconic spot has been delivering that old-school, car-parked-under-the-stars movie magic. It’s one of the few drive-in theaters in Tampa Bay, so you definitely need to check it out. With two screens showing first-run movies and double features every night, there’s always something new and exciting to watch!
You may want to get there early to snag the perfect spot! Arrive an hour before showtime on Fridays and Saturdays, or 30 minutes before during the week to get settled in. Tickets are super affordable, with prices starting at just $7 for adults and free entry for kiddos under 4.
And don’t even get me started on the snack bar… it’s got all your classic drive-in faves like popcorn, candy, and hot dogs to keep you munching all night long!
9. Polk Theater
Step into a piece of history at the Polk Theater, a true art deco gem right in downtown Lakeland! Since the 1930s, this stunning Spanish-Mediterranean venue has been entertaining locals and visitors alike, making it a must-visit spot on your list of things to do in Lakeland. With its vintage charm and beautiful design, it’s like stepping back in time—while still catching incredible live performances today!
From classical music to stand-up comedy, the Polk Theatre offers a variety of shows for all tastes. Tickets typically range from $20-$50, with discounts available for students, seniors, and military personnel. Plus, keep an eye out for special events like movie screenings and open mic nights. The Polk Theatre has also hosted a variety of famous acts such as Ray Charles and Johnny Cash. You never know who you might catch on stage at this classic venue!
10. Do a Self-Guided Mural Tour
Lakeland is bursting with color and creativity, and the murals here are perfect for snapping those Insta-worthy shots! Whether you’re after a casual selfie or a picture-perfect scene, this town has the backdrops you didn’t know you needed.
You can’t miss The Color Wall at Haus 820 — it’s like walking into a rainbow! This vibrant mural is perfect for a fun pop of color in your feed. But don’t stop there — there are murals galore throughout Lakeland, each one more unique and photo-ready than the last. Time to go mural-hunting and add a splash of Lakeland’s artsy charm to your pics!
11. Check Out a Market
Lakeland is home to some amazing outdoor markets and events, making weekends extra fun! The Downtown Farmers Curb Market on Saturdays has everything from fresh produce to local art, jewelry, and delicious food.
If you’re in town on the first Friday of the month, don’t miss the First Friday event, where downtown comes alive with car shows, a market of crafters, and over 60 vendors. Each month features a new theme, so there’s always something fresh to explore!
Are you ready to experience the best things to do in Lakeland, Florida?!
No matter what you’re in the mood for, there are plenty of fun things to do in Lakeland waiting for you! From outdoor adventures to unique restaurants and quirky activities, this charming city is full of surprises. Whether you’re here for the day or the weekend, you’ll have plenty of exciting things to fill up your Lakeland itinerary.
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:
Things to do in Anna Maria Island
Best Anna Maria Island restaurants
Best Florida spring break destinations
I had never even heard of Lakeland before! It sounds like a great place to explore for a day. I especially love the sound of Lake Hollingsworth. It would be fun to spend a day there relaxing, picnicing and paddleboarding.
Lakeland seems like a really fun place to visit. I’ve always wanted to try axe throwing, I don’t imagine I would be very good though!
Haha! I thought the same thing, but the teachers worked magic on my skills lol
This is a great list of things to do in Lakeland. I’ll have to check out the Circle B Bar Reserve next time I’m in Florida. I’ve never heard of it, but it sounds fun.
My sister lives in Tampa. I will be sure to send this blog to her!
I keep hearing about Lakeland lately. I love to visit FL, but have not been here yet. Added to bucket list!
My parents used to live in Polk City so we visited Lakeland often. I particularly like the interesting statues around the lake. I never knew there were so many things to do in Lakeland. This guide enlightened me on so many new things to do.
Lakeland is the jewel of I4, home of Publix and one of the fastest growing city in FL per FORBES, Lakeland is the perfect place for real estate investing.