With a population of 114,404 people as of 2024, Lakeland is the 4th fastest-growing place in the USA.
Thousands of people moved to Florida during 2020-2024 because of Governor DeSantis, and how FREE Florida was as compared to other states during the Covid time period. They were escaping government overreach and lockdowns. This was the MAIN ATTRACTION for our newcomers.
Lakelanders are encouraged to STAY FREE and ENJOY EVERYTHING LAKELAND HAS TO OFFER!
Lakeland’s other attraction to the newcomers is LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Nestled between Orlando & Tampa, and just a short drive to Disney World, Busch Gardens, Bok Tower, Sea World, and Universal Studios. Also, you can be at any beach in 1.5 – 2 hours depending on traffic.
YOU DON’T NEED TO LEAVE LAKELAND TO HAVE FUN!
Lakeland has a small-town feel, where neighbors know one another and people often run into friends while out shopping or dining.
Lakeland is home to the largest on-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world at Florida Southern College. The campus is home to 13 remarkable Wright structures, including the previously unbuilt Usonian Faculty House; Wright’s largest water feature, the stunning Water Dome; and the iconic Annie Pfeiffer Chapel.
Circle B Bar Reserve is also a part of Lakeland for the outdoor adventurer. 1,300 acres with numerous trails, with the most popular trail being Alligator Alley Trail.
Lakeland is home to LOCALLY OWNED restaurants and coffee shops.
*Born & Bread Bakehouse, Concord Coffee, Hillcrest Coffee, Mitchell’s Coffee House or Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro.
*Nineteen61, Brew Hub, Cob & Pen, Craft + Kitchen, Swan Brewing, Dissent Craft Brewing Company, Café Zuppina, Nineteen61, Texas Cattle Company, Frescos, Scarpa’s Italian Restaurant, Mega Mercado Mexican Restaurant & Tienda, and Tapatio’s Mexican Restaurant, Palace Pizza Downtown.
Dixieland has opened several new boutiques and antique shops like
Dixieland Relics.
Downtown Lakeland has much to offer! Locally owned shops that are one of a kind and absolute treasures!
*Top Buttons, Lloyd’s Antiques, Take Heart, Scout & Tag, Stationary Loft, Amelia Paige Boutique, Pura Vie, Tennessee Jane Boutique, Icon Clothing Shop, The Curated Collective, Thom Downs’ Antiques Inc, The Wax & The Needle, & Jesse Carl Vinyl.
For the Lakeland Pet Lovers, visit Fromm family.
https://frommfamily.com/pet-stores/FL/Lakeland
Looking for entertainment and activities in Lakeland?
See a movie at the historic Polk Theatre or pile into your car and enjoy a first-run movie at the Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre.
Enjoy the Saturday morning Downtown Farmers Market and First Friday events.
See a show at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland Community Theatre, Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, and Harrison School for the Arts.
Interested in taking a walk or riding your bike in Lakeland? Lake Mirror is a wonderful walking lake downtown. Lake Hollingsworth is great for biking, running, and walking. Bonnet Springs is the newest outdoor venue that is loved by all!
