Explore Lakeland's Downtown
Lakeland is centrally located between Tampa and Orlando in Polk County, nestled among picturesque lakes. Locals love flocking to downtown's Munn Park to see Lakeland's famous swans paddling around the lakefront fountain. Downtown Lakeland offers boutiques, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Start your downtown visit at the historic Polk Theatre, opened in 1928. This grand venue hosts concerts, comedy shows, and classic movie screenings. Then browse the exhibits at the Polk Museum of Art, home to over 3,000 works. When hunger strikes, refuel with a stacked deli sandwich at Brooklyn Subs or grab Mexican fare at Red Door Lakeland. Don't miss Lakeland's charming Main Street, filled with indie shops!
Polk Theatre Address: 121 South Florida Avenue Lakeland, FL 33801 Phone: (863) 682-7553
Tour Florida Southern College
Florida Southern College is a liberal arts school known for its jaw-dropping collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. The campus holds the largest single-site collection of Wright's designs in the world, with 13 buildings constructed between 1938 and 1958. Must-see Wright designs include the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel with its soaring spire, the Thad Buckner Administration Building topped with an observation tower, and the Esplanades, 1.5 miles of covered walkways with uniquely patterned blocks. Guided tours provide fascinating insight into Wright's creations, and you can pick up Wright-themed souvenirs at the Sharp Family Tourism and Education Center. Don't miss strolling through the lush Bill and Mary Ann McDonald Carillon Garden, home to the world's second-largest carillon bell structure.
Florida Southern College Address: 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland, FL 33801 Phone: (863) 680-4111
Hike Through Circle B Bar Reserve
Managed by Polk County, the Circle B Bar Reserve encompasses 1,267 acres of stunning Florida wetlands and wildlife. The reserve offers 7 miles of hiking trails that wind through marshes, oak hammocks, and lush greenery. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, bald eagles, bobcats, and over 200 species of birds as you traverse the trails. The lucky might spot a Florida black bear or Sherman's fox squirrel. You can hike the full Lake Hancock Loop Trail or take the half-mile Heron Trail through wet prairies for excellent bird watching. Don't miss the on-site nature center, where you can learn about the reserve through exhibits and join ranger-led activities. You'll also find picnic areas dotting the shores of Lake Hancock if you want to make a day out of your visit. Remember to pack bug spray!
Circle B Bar Reserve Address: 4399 Winter Lake Rd, Lakeland, FL 33803 Phone: (863) 668-4673
Sunset Kayaking on Lake Hollingsworth
Ringed by lush greenery and charming cottages, Lakeland's Lake Hollingsworth provides a peaceful outdoor escape right in the city center. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Lakeland Watersports and spend a relaxing afternoon coasting across the glassy lake. Time your Lake Hollingsworth visit for late afternoon so you can catch a sunset reflecting over the water. Keep your eyes open for turtles sunbathing on logs and herons wading through the shallows. Cruise by the Lake Mirror Promenade to see swans and gorgeous fountains.
Tee Off at Cleveland Heights Golf Course
Since 1926, Cleveland Heights Golf Course has been a beloved fixture in Lakeland. This municipal 18-hole course offers a challenging round of golf amidst natural wetlands and towering pines. You'll also find a full bar and grill to refuel at after you play a round. Another excellent option is the 9-hole Lone Palm Golf Club, offering a more relaxed experience with just 5 par-3s and 4 par-4s. Lone Palm's peaceful setting and friendly staff keep golfers coming back. Juniors under 17 golf for free when with a paying adult! No clubs? No problem. Both Cleveland Heights and Lone Palm rent clubs for men and women so you can play even if you're just passing through Lakeland. Just don't forget your sunscreen!
Cleveland Heights Golf Course Address: 2900 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33803 Phone: (863) 834-2377
See the Animals at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Though not technically in Lakeland, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is less than an hour's drive west and home to thrill rides, live shows, and over 12,000 animals. This Africa-themed amusement park provides a full day of family fun. Kids will love riding the Scorpion roller coaster and cooling off at Stanleyville's water play area. Animal lovers can get up close on the Serengeti Safari tour and hand-feed giraffes at the Serengeti Outlook restaurant. Don't miss thrilling live shows like Turn It Up! Iceploration. And be sure to catch the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival from March to May for delicious bites and beverages from around the world. Price4Limo can provide easy group transportation from Lakeland to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for your family, school, church, or team outing.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Address: 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612 Phone: (888) 800-5447
Tour Florida Air Museum
Located at the Sun n' Fun Expo Campus near Lakeland Linder International Airport, the Florida Air Museum houses a fascinating collection of aircraft and exhibits. Aviation enthusiasts of all ages will marvel at the museum's vintage planes on display, like the iconic Ford Tri-Motor 5-AT-B "Tin Goose" from 1928. Interact with immersive exhibits covering topics like Amelia Earhart's daring aviation accomplishments and the Tuskegee Airmen's heroic feats. Children can climb aboard the museum's 1959 Eastern Airlines cockpit for a hands-on learning experience. Guided tours provide intriguing insights behind restorations. Don't miss the museum store filled with aviation-themed gifts and apparel.
Florida Air Museum Address: 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland, FL 33811 Phone: (863) 644-2431
Expert Tips for Visiting Lakeland
Book Your Bus Rental Far in Advance
If you're planning a trip to Lakeland during peak spring break or summer vacation season, we recommend reserving your charter bus at least 6 months ahead when possible. Demand for transportation rentals can be high when school is out, so don't delay!
Travel Early to Avoid Traffic
Since Lakeland is so close to Orlando's theme parks, traffic on I-4 can get congested, especially on weekends. Leaving early in the morning helps you avoid some of the worst backups. Having a charter bus rental means you don't have to stress if you do hit occasional traffic.
Request Special Amenities Like WiFi
Consider asking for charter bus amenities like WiFi and power outlets. That way, passengers can stream music, watch movies, and stay charged on longer rides between Lakeland attractions. You can also request a bus with an onboard restroom for convenience.
Look Into Multi-Day Bus Rentals
Given how many things there are to do around Lakeland, you may want to explore over a few days rather than cramming it all into one hectic day. Booking your charter bus as a multi-day rental saves you money compared to single day rentals.
Book Your Lakeland Charter Bus Rental
Take the stress out of coordinating group transportation in Lakeland by booking a charter bus rental with Price4Limo. Our team is available 24/7 at 866-265-5479 to provide a free quote and help select the perfect bus rental for your upcoming trip. Whether you need a minibus for a downtown brewery tour or a full coach bus to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, we've got you covered!
