Top reasons to visit Lakeland
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Lakeland boasts a variety of activities suitable for families, ensuring fun for all ages.
- Beautiful Lakes and Parks: Enjoy tranquil outdoor spaces perfect for picnics, fishing, and relaxation.
- Vibrant Downtown: Explore charming shops and engage with friendly locals in the bustling heart of the city.
- Exciting Entertainment Options: Experience live events at the Lakeland Centre, including theatre performances and sporting events.
- Diverse Accommodation Choices: Lakeland offers a range of hotels and resorts to cater to all types of travellers.
Find great hotels in and around Lakeland
Discover a range of hotel accommodations in Lakeland, Florida, designed to cater to families, business travellers, and pet owners alike. Whether you seek a resort experience or a comfortable hotel, Lakeland offers delightful options including the Terrace Hotel and various suites. Enjoy a memorable vacation with amenities that ensure a relaxing stay for all types of visitors.
- Extended Stay America Select Suites - Lakeland: Nestled in the heart of Lakeland, this budget-friendly accommodation is ideal for adventurous travellers seeking a pet-friendly experience. Guests can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, swimming, fishing, and hiking, all available nearby. The property welcomes pets, allowing you to bring your furry friends along (with certain restrictions). Enjoy comfortable lodging that caters to your adventurous spirit while providing essential amenities for a delightful stay.
- Extended Stay America Select Suites - Tampa - Northeast: Located approximately 40km from Lakeland, this budget-friendly hotel is well-suited for those looking for adventure without compromising on comfort. The property offers a range of recreational activities nearby, including swimming, hiking, and kayaking. With a welcoming pet policy, pets are allowed on the premises with a small fee, making it a great option for animal lovers. This accommodation combines convenience with a focus on outdoor pursuits, making it a solid choice for your stay.
- Uptown Suites Extended Stay Tampa FL – Riverview: Situated about 42km from Lakeland, this budget-friendly hotel caters to both business travellers and pet owners. With a focus on comfort and practicality, the property allows pets (with specific conditions) and offers a conducive environment for work and relaxation. Though a bit further from Lakeland, it provides essential amenities and invites guests to enjoy the local attractions while ensuring a pleasant stay for those travelling with dogs.
Where to stay near Lakeland
For a delightful escape, Lakeland, Florida, offers an array of family-friendly attractions and outdoor adventures. Stroll through the vibrant downtown Lakeland, where the heart of the city buzzes with friendly locals and charming shops. Enjoy the fresh air at nearby parks and lakes, perfect for relaxation or excursions. With its inviting atmosphere and central Florida location, Lakeland is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region while indulging in memorable experiences for all ages.
- Winter Haven: Situated approximately 21km from Lakeland, Winter Haven is a vibrant city known for its outdoor adventure and family-friendly experiences. The city sees a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peak travel times occurring from March to April and again in September. Visitors flock to Winter Haven for its renowned amusement parks, beautiful resorts, and bustling shopping areas. Notable attractions include a popular theme park and a film studio, as well as nearby beaches that offer a perfect setting for relaxation and recreation amidst nature.
- Eloise: Also located around 21km from Lakeland, the quaint village of Eloise invites visitors seeking a charming retreat. The travel experience here is consistently pleasant, with peak months in March, July, and December. Eloise is ideal for families and those in search of outdoor adventures, featuring access to resorts, amusement parks, and recreational areas. Its local charm is highlighted by a nearby theme park and the picturesque bay, making Eloise a delightful spot to unwind and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
- Plant City: Just 18km from Lakeland, Plant City is a bustling city that offers a mix of outdoor fun and entertainment-themed activities. With a moderate travel season peaking from January to March, Plant City attracts families eager to explore its vibrant attractions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying resorts, amusement parks, and shopping mall centres. Highlights include a lively theme park and a charming neighbourhood, as well as access to the nearby bay, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
Things to do near Lakeland
Shopping
In Lakeland, visit the Lakeside Village, an outdoor shopping centre featuring a mix of shops, dining, and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Polk Park Mall, located about 24km away, which offers a wide range of retail options and amenities.
Recreation
The Peace River Centre offers a tranquil environment for meditation and yoga classes, promoting mindfulness and relaxation. Nearby, Lake Parker Park features scenic walking paths and picnic areas, ideal for unwinding amidst nature’s beauty and enjoying leisurely outdoor activities with family and friends.
Adventure
East Bay Raceway Park, located 47km from Lakeland, offers thrilling motor racing experiences. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with sports enthusiasts, making it a dynamic destination for those seeking excitement.
Nightlife
Visit the Red Door Wine Market for a relaxed evening with a selection of fine wines and cheese. For a lively atmosphere, head to the Lakeland Beer Company, where you can enjoy craft brews and occasional live music that showcases local artists.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lakeland
To save money on your trip to Lakeland, visit during the off-peak months of September to November when accommodation prices drop. Enjoy free activities at locations like The Circle B Bar Reserve and Lake Mirror. To navigate the city affordably, consider using public transport options such as buses. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates and utilise Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels, potentially combining your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Look out for exclusive deals, free nights, and travel rewards to maximise your budget.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Lakeland are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Lakeland is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Lakeland is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your selections by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Lakeland hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Lakeland
Lakeland, Florida, is an ideal destination for families and those seeking outdoor entertainment. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including urban parks, an aviation museum, and beautiful lakes. Those looking for a blend of city experience and outdoor activities will find plenty to enjoy. Additionally, the Lakeland Centre offers optional events and activities to enhance your visit, ensuring a memorable holiday for everyone.
- Florida Southern College: Known for its stunning architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Florida Southern College offers a unique blend of education and culture. Visitors can stroll through its picturesque campus, appreciating the harmonious integration of nature and design, making it a serene environment for reflection.
- Lake Hollingsworth: This beautiful lake presents an idyllic spot for outdoor activities, from leisurely walks along the scenic shoreline to romantic picnics on the beach. The tranquil waters and lush surroundings create a calming atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
- Hollis Gardens: A delightful botanical garden featuring vibrant flora and serene pathways, Hollis Gardens is ideal for families and couples alike. The enchanting landscape provides a peaceful escape, where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying quality time together.
Best time to go to Lakeland
The best time to visit Lakeland is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Lakeland
Reaching Lakeland, Florida, is convenient with several major airports nearby. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is situated 77km away, with upscale hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes and Rosen Shingle Creek, both 13km from the airport, offering various transportation services. Tampa International Airport (TPA) is closer at 58km, featuring luxurious options such as The Tampa EDITION and JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, both 10km from the airport. For those considering Melbourne International Airport (MLB), it lies 130km away, with quality accommodations like DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront, just 6km from the airport.