Lakeland, Florida, is a vibrant city that offers many activities for visitors and residents alike. From exploring natural beauty to immersing yourself in local culture, there’s something for everyone in Lakeland. Here are 53 of the best activities to enjoy while visiting this charming Florida city.

Visit Hollis Garden

Hollis Garden is a stunning botanical garden featuring beautiful landscaping, fountains, and sculptures. Take a peaceful stroll through the grounds or enjoy the seasonal blooms.

Explore Lake Mirror Park

Lake Mirror Park offers scenic walking paths, stunning views, and historic architecture. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists who enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, and panoramic photo opportunities.

Discover Circle B Bar Reserve

Nature lovers will appreciate Circle B Bar Reserve, a wildlife refuge home to many native species. Explore the trails and spot birds, alligators, and other wildlife.

Tour the Polk Museum of Art

The Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College offers diverse art exhibitions, from contemporary to classical works. It’s an excellent place for those looking to enrich their cultural experience.

Attend a Detroit Tigers Spring Training Game

Lakeland is home to the Detroit Tigers’ spring training. Catch a game at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium and enjoy the excitement of live baseball.

Enjoy a Swan Boat Ride on Lake Morton

Lake Morton is known for its beautiful swans, and you can rent a swan boat to paddle around the lake. This is a relaxing and fun activity for all ages.

Visit Common Ground Playground

Common Ground Playground is an inclusive play area for children of all abilities. It’s an excellent spot for families with young kids looking for a fun afternoon outdoors.

Explore the Florida Air Museum

Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy the Florida Air Museum, which features a range of aircraft and aviation exhibits and highlights Florida’s rich history in flight.

Walk Through Munn Park Historic District

Located in downtown Lakeland, Munn Park Historic District offers shops, restaurants, and beautiful historic buildings. It’s an excellent area for a stroll.

See a Show at the Lakeland Community Theatre

Enjoy live performances at the Lakeland Community Theatre. From plays to musicals, there’s always something entertaining to watch.

Wander Around Lake Hollingsworth

Lake Hollingsworth is a popular destination for walking, jogging, and biking. The scenic 2.7-mile path offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding wildlife.

Visit Safari Wilderness Ranch

For a unique outdoor experience, head to Safari Wilderness Ranch, where you can see exotic animals up close. Guided tours are available, and you can even feed some animals.

Explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture at Florida Southern College

Florida Southern College is home to the world’s most extensive Frank Lloyd Wright architecture collection. Take a guided tour of the campus to see these iconic buildings.

Attend the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo

One of the most significant aviation events in the world, the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo, is held annually in Lakeland. It features air shows, exhibits, and activities for all ages.

Shop at Lakeland Downtown Farmers’ Curb Market

The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts. It’s a great spot to pick up unique gifts or enjoy fresh food from local vendors.

Explore the Historic Polk Theatre

The historic Polk Theatre is a beautifully restored venue that hosts films, concerts, and live performances. It’s a cultural landmark and a great place to catch a show.

Kayak on the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes

If you enjoy water activities, rent a kayak and paddle through the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to explore the area.

Visit Explorations V Children’s Museum

Explorations V Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits and interactive learning experiences for kids. It’s an excellent family-friendly activity.

Tour the Watson Clinic Art Gallery

The Watson Clinic Art Gallery showcases rotating exhibitions of local and regional artists. It’s a hidden gem for art lovers looking to discover new talent.

Explore the Joker Marchant Stadium

Beyond hosting spring training games, Joker Marchant Stadium offers tours and events throughout the year. It’s a fun spot for baseball enthusiasts.

Enjoy a Walk at Saddle Creek Park

Saddle Creek Park offers fishing, walking trails, and wildlife viewing. It’s an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy Lakeland’s natural beauty.

Learn at the Lakeland History & Culture Center

Dive into Lakeland’s rich history and cultural heritage at this engaging center. Exhibits cover everything from the city’s early settlers to modern developments.

Ride a Bike on the Fort Fraser Trail

The Fort Fraser Trail is a 7.75-mile paved path with beautiful scenery and a quiet place to bike, walk, or jog.

Try Escape Room Lakeland

For an exciting and challenging experience, try Escape Room Lakeland. Work with a group to solve puzzles and escape-themed rooms in a race against time.

Visit the Spring Obsession Garden Show

The Spring Obsession Garden Show annually features vendors selling plants, garden décor, and handmade crafts. It’s perfect for gardening enthusiasts.

Walk Around Bonnet Springs Park

Bonnet Springs Park is a large urban park with walking trails, playgrounds, and scenic lakes. It’s an ideal location for families or anyone looking to spend time outdoors.

Relax at Barnett Family Park

Barnett Family Park is a small but lovely park with a splash pad, playground, and picnic area. It’s a nice spot to relax with young children.

Explore the Detroit Tigers Minor League Team

When spring training is over, catch a game by the Lakeland Flying Tigers, the minor league affiliate of the Detroit Tigers.

Experience the Mayfaire at the by-the-Lake Art Festival.

Mayfair by the Lake is an annual art festival held on the shores of Lake Morton. It features works from local and regional artists.

Attend First Friday Lakeland

On the first Friday of every month, Lakeland hosts a downtown street festival with food, music, and art. First Friday is a great way to experience the local culture.

Enjoy a Sunset Picnic at Lake Gibson

Pack a picnic and head to Lake Gibson for a peaceful evening by the water. The sunsets here are spectacular.

Attend the Annual Swan Derby

Lakeland’s Swan Derby is a fun, family-friendly event where locals race swan-shaped paddleboats on Lake Mirror. It’s a quirky and enjoyable tradition.

Visit the City of Auburndale Museum

Just outside Lakeland, the City of Auburndale Museum offers exhibits on the area’s history. It’s a small but informative spot.

Shop at the Lakeside Village Mall

For some retail therapy, visit the Lakeside Village Mall, offering a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Take a Scenic Flight Over Lakeland

Take a scenic flight over Lakeland to see the city from a new perspective. Several companies offer tours that provide breathtaking views of the area.

Attend the Lakeland Zine Fest

The Lakeland Zine Fest celebrates independent publishing and creativity. You can browse zines and art from local creatives at this unique annual event.

Participate in a Lakeland Magic Basketball Game

Catch a Lakeland Magic game, the local NBA G League team. These games are affordable and fun for the whole family.

Explore the Tenoroc Fish Management Area

Tenoroc offers some of the best freshwater fishing in the region. It’s also an excellent spot for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Visit the Florida Children’s Theatre

Take your kids to a performance at the Florida Children’s Theatre, which offers shows for young audiences.

Experience a Historic Train Ride at the Florida Railroad Museum

A short drive from Lakeland, the Florida Railroad Museum offers historic train rides through the scenic countryside.

Enjoy a Day at Lake Crago Park

Lake Crago Park features boat ramps, fishing docks, and walking trails. It’s a peaceful spot to spend a day outdoors.

Visit the Antiques & Collectibles Mall

For those who love antique shopping, this mall offers a wide selection of vintage items, furniture, and unique finds.

Watch a Movie at Silver Moon Drive-In

Step back in time with a movie at the Silver Moon Drive-In. This classic drive-in theater offers double features and a fun retro experience.

Explore the Lake Myrtle Sports Complex

If you’re into sports, head to the Lake Myrtle Sports Complex to catch a soccer, baseball, or softball game.

Attend the Winter Haven Theatre

Outside Lakeland, the Winter Haven Theatre offers excellent community performances, from musicals to dramas.

Enjoy Live Music at Union Hall

Union Hall is a local venue that hosts live music events. It offers an excellent atmosphere for enjoying local bands and national acts.

Play Disc Golf at Loyce E. Harpe Park

Loyce E. Harpe Park offers a well-maintained disc golf course, perfect for players of all skill levels.

Attend the Annual PigFest BBQ Competition

Lakeland’s Annual PigFest is a fun and delicious BBQ competition featuring some of the area’s best pitmasters.

Go Horseback Riding at Colt Creek State Park

Colt Creek State Park offers guided horseback riding tours through scenic trails, a unique way to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Enjoy a Meal at Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille is a local favorite. It offers delicious seafood dishes in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Visit the Se7en Wetlands Park

The Se7en Wetlands Park is a peaceful nature preserve featuring hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Take a Ghost Tour of Historic Lakeland

Learn about Lakeland’s spooky side with a guided ghost tour. You will hear stories of haunted buildings and eerie encounters.

Try Ice Skating at The Lakeland Ice Arena

For a fun and fantastic activity, head to the Lakeland Ice Arena, where you can enjoy ice skating year-round. Lakeland, FL, has diverse activities catering to all interests and ages. From exploring natural beauty to attending vibrant festivals, there’s always something exciting to do in this dynamic city.