Lakeland

Representing a perfect combination of new age lifestyle and old world charm, Lakeland is a destination for all those who value good things in life. This city of Florida is chockfull of natural and man-made attractions that invite visitors from all over United States. This is a vibrant and delightful community that stores many surprises for its visitors. It serves as one of the major tourism centers of the region and offers great southern hospitality. But there is much more to Lakeland experience, some of that we will try to highlight here. Located in Polk County, Lakeland is a principal city of the Lakeland-Winter Haven, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. With an estimated population of above ninety-three thousand, the city enjoys economic stability and provides world-class amenities to its residents. Its central location in the state of Florida and proximity with major metropolitan centers make it a busy city in terms of business activity and population growth.

Lakeland is located along Interstate 4 and provides access to Orlando and Tampa in less than an hour. The city boosts of excellent communication links and Lakeland Linder Regional Airport serves as the gateway to many big cities. Lakeland's economy is diversified among many fields of which services, light manufacturing, distribution and corporate centers are quite prominent. Spreading over the vast 28,000 acres, the city contains 38 named while several other unnamed lakes. The lakes vary in sizes and there are both small sized lakes like Lake Blanton and Lake Horney, and large ones like Lake Parker. Besides this, there are several bodies of water or unnatural lakes that are created by filling water into abandoned phosphate mine pits.

The eclectic city life of today's Lakeland is a result of its glorious past. This area is said to be settled somewhere in the 1870s. One of the major early settlers was a resident of Louisville, Kentucky, Abraham Munn, who purchased 80 acres of land in 1882. By 1884, the area began to prosper as the result of development of rail links. Abraham platted the land for the town and after rejecting many names, the city was finally incorporated as Lakeland on January 1, 1885. What followed next was a story of growth and success that continues even today. The city of Lakeland offers an eclectic mix of 21st century lifestyle and historic character. Some of Florida's significant structures are located here that are also listed on National Register of Historic Places. Park Trammell Building, New Florida Hotel, Terrace Hotel, Promenade of Lake Mirror, Polk Museum of Art and Polk Theatre are some of these.

Exploring fun offerings of this cheerful city is an experience worth remembering. There are several family attractions where every member of the family can spend good time. Of course, the charm of Lakeland is incomplete without the beautiful lakes and there are plenty of these. Our particular pick is Lake Eloise that borders Cypress Gardens, the best picnic attraction of the city. A 223-acre family facility, this park features year-round ice skating activities, a butterfly conservatory, animals' acrobatic acts, botanical gardens and world's longest running water ski shows. If you want to get know how about the world of aviation, the head towards Lakeland's premier facility the Sun ?n Fun Museum. Here, you can explore a great variety of home-built and sports aircraft. Similarly, the V Children's Museum is great learning place for the kids. There are several other museums, famous libraries and galleries that make sure busy schedule for those who want to learn about different things.

If you are not a museum type, then explore Lakeland's amazing shopping and dining scene. The city offers a variety of eateries, restaurants and cafes that provide perfect dining experience. For drinking, you can opt for your favorite local bar and indulge in the drink of your choice. Also check out for city's colorful nightlife that can be enjoyed by visiting downtown, the night clubs and major entertainment centers. When it comes to entertainment, the Lakeland Center stands out as the topmost live events venue of the city. This state-of-the-art sports and convention complex is the best place to catch local and international artists, blockbuster musicals, live shows and sporting events. The 75 year old renovated landmark Polk Theatre still shines bright for its unmatched atmospheric theater entertainment and classic movies routine.

Another point of fame for Lakeland is that it has been serving as the spring home of the Detroit Tigers since 1934. They play at Joker Marchant Stadium that will soon be renovated to meet growing requirements. The city also presents USA International Speedway and fully-facilitated family YMCA. Its Municipal Golf Course, with scenic views and quality offerings, attracts many golfers. The city also offers riding and hiking trails and world-class Bass fishing experience. The vibrancy of Lakeland can be further explored by becoming a part of its major events. Sun'n Fun EAA Fly-In is Florida's largest convention that attracts almost 300,000 visitors to this city. Mayfaire-by-the Lake is popular annual art festival while Orange Cup Regatta Hydroplane races and Lake Mirror Classic car show are among the highly anticipated events. If you want to enjoy the event of your choice, then grab your Lakeland Tickets and explore Central Florida's best-kept secret.